Experience Holiday Magic in Victoria, BC

There’s no better way to start the holiday season than with a quick winter getaway to Victoria, British Columbia, a city that shines brightest when decorated with festive lights, cozy charm and holiday spirit. With Kenmore Air’s 45-minute trip from Seattle to Victoria’s Inner Harbour, you’ll save the time-consuming drive or ferry ride and arrive right in the center of the city. No cars, no stress, just stunning views and instant holiday magic from the moment your seaplane lands.

After landing directly in the picturesque Inner Harbour, everything you need is within walking distance. Victoria is one of the most walkable cities in the Pacific Northwest, and during the holidays, the streets are transformed into a winter wonderland, full of shining lights, beautiful architecture and whimsical gardens.

Afternoon Tea at the Empress

In the center of the Inner Harbour, only a 5-minute walk from the seaplane dock, is the historic Fairmont Empress hotel. Often referred to as “Canada’s Castle on the Coast”, The Empress overlooks the harbor and is an one of the most notable landmarks of the Victoria skyline. Inside, the world-famous Tea at the Empress offers one of the city’s most beloved traditions, a cozy yet elegant afternoon indulgence that’s been captivating guests since 1908.

Served in the hotel’s elegant Lobby Lounge, the tea experience has served guests since 1908, welcoming royalty, celebrities, and travelers from around the world. The experience features some of the finest luxury teas available that have been ethically sourced from the top 10% of producers and is unavailable in stores. The signature Empress Blend, crafted exclusively for the hotel, is a rich, aromatic combination of premium teas from around the world, offering a flavor as timeless as the setting itself. Each tiered tray showcases fresh, locally inspired treats from buttery scones with in-house strawberry jam to honey and lavender harvested from the hotel’s own rooftop garden. Elegant yet inviting, Tea at the Empress is a quintessential Victoria experience, and reservations are open to all, not just hotel guests.

Festive Cocktails at Q Bar

Before you go, make a stop at Q Bar, located adjacent to the Tea room inside the Empress, for a specialty cocktail that perfectly captures the holiday season. Named one of Canada’s 50 Best Bars, Q Bar’s menu of festive cocktails as well as elegant mocktails for non-drinkers. With live music nightly and a warm, twinkling ambiance, it’s the perfect way to toast the season.

Strolling & Shopping in Downtown Victoria

Downtown shops in Victoria BC. Photo by Destination BC and Tanya Goehring.

Once you’ve finished your tea and treats, bundle up for a walk around downtown Victoria. Head to Lower Johnson Street for locally owned boutiques and storefronts. Grab a perfectly brewed cup at Hey Happy Coffee or a signature box of chocolates from the iconic Roger’s Chocolates. Pop over to Market Square which offers artisan goods, handmade jewelry, and cozy winter wear, perfect for thoughtful gifts that capture the spirit of Victoria.

Festival of Trees at The Bay Centre

While you’re downtown, don’t miss the Festival of Trees Victoria at The Bay Centre. This free, family-friendly event transforms the mall’s courtyard into an indoor forest of dazzling Christmas trees, each decorated by local businesses and organizations to celebrate community and creativity. Visitors can vote for their favorite tree, with all proceeds supporting BC Children’s Hospital.

Habitat Victoria 17th Annual Gingerbread Showcase

Another festive must-see is the Gingerbread Showcase, hosted by Habitat Victoria at the Hotel Grand Pacific from November 21 to January 4. Back for its 17th year, this event brings the community together to create and display incredible gingerbread creations, all in support of affordable housing for local families. Visitors of all ages can stroll through the exhibit, admire the creative designs, vote for their favorites, and make a donation. Bakers from all skill levels spend hours crafting imaginative and detailed gingerbread pieces, competing in categories like Best First Impression, Most Creative, and People’s Choice. It’s a sweet and heartwarming way to celebrate the season while supporting a good cause.

Butchart Gardens Magic of Christmas

Christmas Lights. Photo Provided by The Butchart Gardens

A visit to Victoria during the holidays wouldn’t be complete without experiencing The Butchart Gardens’ Magic of Christmas, a beloved annual tradition that transforms the world-famous gardens into a glowing winter wonderland. From December 1 through January 6, visitors can wander through more than a million twinkling lights and enjoy the charming displays inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas.

Between 5:00pm-9:00pm, you can enjoy the sounds of the holidays from the traditional carolers and festive brass band. In between songs, warm up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and a gingerbread cookie by the fire at The Coffee Shop, or indulge in a cozy sit-down meal at The Dining Room Restaurant, located in Jennie Butchart’s former home. You also have the opportunity to lace up your ice skates and skate across the outdoor ice rink beneath strings of sparkling lights and experience a real Canadian winter experience. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or someone special, The Butchart Gardens’ Magic of Christmas is an unforgettable way to celebrate the holidays, blending nature’s quiet beauty with the joyful spirit of the season.

Victoria is the perfect holiday getaway for a quick 48-hour escape. From the luxury of Tea at the Empress and festive cocktails at Q Bar to strolling downtown for last-minute gifts, and enjoying seasonal celebrations at Butchart Gardens and the Gingerbread Showcase, there’s something for everyone. With Kenmore Air’s short 45-minute flight from Seattle, the holiday magic of Victoria is just a plane ride away, making it easy to create unforgettable memories this holiday season.