Christmas in Victoria B.C. at the Fairmont Empress & Beyond
Christmas in Victoria, B.C., is a magical experience. The city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, seasonal events, and charming traditions. The world-renowned flower displays at The Butchart Gardens become a dazzling display of lights, while the iconic Fairmont Empress turns into a winter wonderland filled with charm and intrigue.
A holiday visit to Victoria offers endless memories, from seasonal events to can’t-miss holiday activities.
Plus, traveling from Seattle to Victoria is just a 45-minute scenic flight. Depart from Lake Washington or Lake Union and arrive at the Victoria Harbour Airport. It’s centrally located, giving easy access to the best Victoria activities this winter.
Top Holiday Events in Victoria B.C.
Sip & Shop at Bard & Banker
Discover a carefully curated selection of local vendors while sipping cocktails at historic Bard & Banker on Wednesday, November 13th, from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Originally a bank, the building first opened in 1885. Remnants of the nearly 140-year-old building remain, creating a stunning ambiance perfect for celebrating the season.
Gingerbread Showcase
The 16th annual Gingerbread Showcase will be held at Hotel Grand Pacific from November 22, 2024 through January 5th, 2025. An iconic Victoria holiday tradition, professional and home bakers spend hundreds of hours creating edible art as they vie for six different awards. Their impressive displays attract more than 20,000 visitors — all of whom are encouraged to donate to Habitat for Humanity. Profits from the event support the nonprofit’s mission to help local families with affordable homeownership.
Oak Bay Christmas Festival
Known as the ‘Christmas Festival Light Up,’ the Oak Bay Christmas Festival is a fun, family-friendly event. Street games, craft stations, and various entertainment will kick off at 2 PM on Sunday, November 24th. Roasted chestnuts will be available, and if you have a letter for Santa, be sure to stop by the Santa Letter Station. Santa will arrive in an Oak Bay Fire Truck at 5:00 PM! This event is particularly fun if you stay at the nearby Oak Bay Beach Hotel.
Santa Claus Parade
The 42nd annual Santa Claus Parade will make its way through the downtown core of Victoria starting at 5:00 PM on Saturday, November 30, 2024. The parade will begin at Government and Belleville. It will feature decorated floats, music, and entertainment. This family-friendly affair is always a beloved tradition.
Best Victoria Activities to Enjoy this Winter
Meet Me Under the Mistletoe
Have someone you’d like to share a kiss or heartfelt expression of love with? You won’t want to miss the Fairmont Empress’ Meet Me Under the Mistletoe display. This outdoor experience is a magical canopy of mistletoe and twinkling white lights.
Don’t forget your camera. This is one winter kiss you will want to capture!
Kids at the Castle
Make your holiday trip extra memorable for your littles when you stay at the Fairmont Empress. Kids are treated to a special activity book with scavenger hunts! They will delight in exploring the twinking gardens. And for those who need a little bit of time off your feet, opt for a movie night and order in-room dining snacks. As a bonus, at all Fairmont hotels, kids five and under eat free from the children’s menu! (Kids 6-12 eat half-price from the regular menus.)
Magic of Christmas at The Butchart Gardens
During the winter holidays, The Butchart Gardens transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of twinkling lights known as the ‘Magic of Christmas.’ More than 300,000 lights illuminate the gardens, creating a festive and enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through themed displays, including the Twelve Days of Christmas, while enjoying music from traditional carolers or the festive brass band.
Discover Victoria’s Charm with a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Victoria with a private, guided horse-drawn carriage tour. Since 1978, Victoria Carriage Tours has offered unique and intimate journeys through the city’s heart and beyond. As you travel through downtown and its surrounding areas, you’ll hear captivating stories about Victoria’s past, present, and future — while being treated to the brilliant holiday displays throughout the city.
Christmas at Craigdarroch Castle
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Craigdarroch Castle with a festive self-guided tour. Throughout December, the castle is beautifully adorned with Christmas decor, offering a unique and enchanting atmosphere. Enjoy special evening musical performances featuring Celtic tunes and holiday classics, making your visit to this historic site even more memorable.
Take in the Holiday Lights Displays
Downtown Victoria becomes a festive display of lights and seasonal decor during the holidays — not the least of which are the elegantly decorated British Columbia Parliament Buildings.
Make S’Mores on the Festive Veranda at the Fairmont Empress
Enjoy stunning views of the Inner Harbour from the cozy comfort of the Veranda at the Fairmont Empress, where you can toast marshmallows by the fire and indulge in seasonal hot drinks. Treat yourself to the finest cheese or chocolate fondue, all while staying warm with outdoor heaters and soft blankets for extra coziness.
Wander Through the Lights of Wonder
November 30 through December 31, 2024 — explore Victoria’s largest, free outdoor light display at Centennial Square. This themed lights exhibit includes four interactive light tunnels and a 40-foot festive tree. A rotating selection of live entertainment will be performed. (Artists are currently TBD.)
Winter Fest at the Royal BC Museum
Winter Fest at the Royal BC Museum is a joyful celebration that combines history and holiday cheer in an immersive experience. Visitors can explore captivating exhibits, enhanced with seasonal decorations and unique programming that highlights winter traditions from British Columbia’s past.
The museum offers activities for all ages, including crafts, storytelling, and performances that bring the season’s magic to life. With the museum’s rich historical backdrop, Winter Fest provides a perfect blend of education and holiday fun, making it an ideal destination for families and history enthusiasts.
Shop for the Perfect Gifts
With an outstanding walkability score and plenty of cozy eateries to pause and recharge, you’ll enjoy the hunt for gifts this season just as much as the joy of giving them. The shops here are a mix of cozy and chic, with historic bookstores, unique shoe shops, quaint consignment stores, and more!
Raise a Toast
Take a moment to toast the season at one of Victoria’s best cocktail bars. The city’s swanky cocktail scene is filled with award-winning cocktail programs that offer seasonally-inspired menus filled with flavor.
