BC Day 2025 Festivals and Events on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s BC Day Secrets

August long weekends are special in British Columbia, but BC Day brings a unique flavour—it’s a celebration of our province’s spirit, history, and vibrant community life. On Monday, August 4, 2025, communities all over Vancouver Island will come alive with festivals, concerts, outdoor adventures, and family fun. Stick around to discover the top events, insider tips for travellers, and why this day means so much to both locals and visitors.

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What Is BC Day—and Why Celebrate It?

BC Day is a statutory holiday honouring British Columbia’s rich heritage. Started in 1974, it celebrates the province’s founding (July 20, 1871) with a day of gratitude, unity, and cultural celebration. It’s a time to pause, reflect on BC’s diverse communities—and experience the best of what the island offers—from arts and music to nature and local cuisine.

BC Day 2025 Overview

Date & Time	Holiday	What to Expect
Monday, August 4, 2025	Statutory holiday	Island‑wide celebrations, special community programming, vibrant events

Date & Time

Holiday

What to Expect

Monday, August 4, 2025

Statutory holiday

Island‑wide celebrations, special community programming, vibrant events

Expect public transport alterations, event crowds, and local businesses adjusting hours.

Tip: plan ahead—book accommodation and check schedules.

Disclaimer

Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

Top Festivals & Events on Vancouver Island for BC Day 2025

Comox Nautical Days Festival (Comox Marina Park)

When: August 2–4, 2025 (BC Day long weekend)

Where: Comox Marina Park

Why visit: Free, family-friendly event featuring a lively BC Day parade, vintage car show, artisan markets (over 100 booths), children’s rides and crafts, tasty food trucks, live music, waterfront fireworks (“Festival of Lights”), and the classic 4‑Miler foot race on August 4 at 9 AM—Canada’s oldest continuously held race on Vancouver Island.

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Symphony SPLASH! (Victoria Inner Harbour)

When: Saturday & Sunday, August 2–3, 2025 (BC Day long weekend)
Where: Floating barge stage in Victoria’s Inner Harbour
Why Visit: A two-day free orchestral extravaganza celebrating the Victoria Symphony’s 85th anniversary. Expect afternoon sets by Celeigh Cardinal & Shawnee Kish with the National Youth Orchestra of Canada, evening Latin‑jazz concerts with Sal Ferreras & Adonis Puentes on Saturday, followed by traditional pops and fireworks finale Sunday night.
What Makes It Great: Four barge concerts, community stages, family zones, food vendors, and a stunning fireworks show closing out BC Day weekend.
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Mount Washington BC Day 2025 Celebration (Mount Washington Alpine Resort)

When: August 1–4, 2025 (BC Day long weekend), daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Where: Mount Washington Alpine Resort, near Courtenay, Vancouver Island
Why Go: Escape the summer heat at higher elevation and enjoy a range of mountain-based festivities for all ages—including downhill bike races, sightseeing chairlift rides, zipline specials, and retail sales. Highlights include the Mount Washington Open Classic DH race on August 3 and 2-for-1 Scenic Chair tickets for sightseeing access on BC Day, August 4.
Read More about BC Day 2025 at Mount Washington!

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