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Vanislander / Festivals and Events / Labour Day

Labour Day 2025

Weekend Events on Vancouver Island

As the golden hues of summer begin to fade, Vancouver Island gears up for a spectacular farewell. From August 30 to September 1, 2025, the island transforms into a vibrant tapestry of music, culture, and community spirit. Whether you're a local looking to celebrate or a traveller seeking unforgettable experiences, this Labour Day Weekend promises to deliver. But what exactly awaits you? Dive into our curated guide to discover the must-attend festivals and events that will make this long weekend truly memorable.

Event Overview

Dates: Saturday, August 30 – Monday, September 1, 2025
Location: Various venues across Vancouver Island
Ideal For: Families, culture enthusiasts, foodies, and outdoor adventurers

2025 Must-Attend Labour Day Weekend Events on Vancouver Island

Victoria Labour Day Picnic

When: Monday, September 1, 2025, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: Memorial Park, 1230 Esquimalt Rd, Victoria, BC
About: Hosted by the Victoria Labour Council, the Victoria Labour Day Picnic is a cherished community event that celebrates the contributions and achievements of workers. This family-friendly gathering features live music, engaging activities for children, and a variety of food options. It's an opportunity to connect with fellow community members, learn about local labour initiatives, and enjoy a relaxing day in the park. Whether you're a union member or simply interested in supporting workers' rights, this picnic offers a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Bring a blanket or chair, and join in the festivities that highlight the strength and solidarity of the working community.
Read more about Victoria Labour Day Picnic

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Victoria Classic Boat Festival

When: August 29 – 31, 2025
Where: Victoria’s Inner Harbour, BC
About: Now in its 46th year, the Victoria Classic Boat Festival is a cherished maritime tradition that brings together over 80 classic vessels, including elegant sailboats, sturdy workboats, and luxurious cruisers. Hosted by the Maritime Museum of British Columbia, the festival offers visitors a chance to step aboard these beautifully restored boats and learn about their rich histories. In addition to boat tours, the festival features live music, marine art displays, and the Yacht Dogs Café, providing a full day of entertainment for maritime enthusiasts and families alike.
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Saanich Fair

When: August 30 – September 1, 2025
Where: Saanich Fairgrounds, Saanichton, BC
About: The Saanich Fair is a beloved annual event that celebrates the agricultural heritage of the region. This family-friendly fair features a variety of attractions, including livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and live entertainment. One of the highlights of the 2025 fair is a performance by Canadian rock band The Trews on August 31 at 8 PM on the Saddleback Stage. The fairgrounds are also home to a variety of food vendors, offering everything from classic fair treats to local delicacies. Whether you're interested in the competitions, the concerts, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, the Saanich Fair offers a quintessential end-of-summer experience.
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Port Alberni Salmon Festival & Derby

When: August 29 – September 1, 2025
Where: Tyee Landing, Port Alberni, BC
About: The Port Alberni Salmon Festival & Derby is a four-day celebration of the region's deep connection to salmon and its coastal culture. The centerpiece of the event is the renowned Salmon Derby, a three-day fishing competition where anglers vie for the grand prize of $15,000 for the largest salmon caught during the event. Daily cash prizes are also awarded, along with hidden draws to keep the excitement flowing. Beyond the fishing competition, the festival offers live music, kids' activities, and the legendary Kiwanis salmon dinner, making it a must-attend event for families and fishing enthusiasts.
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Clayoquot Salmon Festival

When: August 29 – September 1, 2025
Where: Village Green, Tofino, BC
About: The Clayoquot Salmon Festival is a community-driven event that celebrates the vital role of salmon in the local ecosystem and Indigenous cultures. Organized by Friends of Clayoquot Sound, the festival features a variety of events and activities centered around themes of protection, education, and celebration. Attendees can enjoy cultural performances, educational workshops, and community gatherings that highlight the importance of salmon conservation. The festival provides a platform for both locals and visitors to engage with the region's rich cultural heritage and environmental stewardship efforts.
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Victoria Fringe Festival

When: August 20 – 31, 2025
Where: Various venues across downtown Victoria, BC
About: The Victoria Fringe Festival is a cornerstone of Victoria's cultural scene, celebrating its 39th year in 2025. Over 12 days, the city transforms into a vibrant hub for performing arts, featuring a diverse lineup of over 150 performances from 35 local, national, and international artists. The festival showcases a wide array of genres, including theatre, comedy, dance, spoken word, and family-friendly shows, ensuring there's something for everyone. Performances take place across nine different venues, including five traditional stages and four unconventional spaces, offering audiences a unique and immersive experience.
Read more about Victoria Fringe Festival

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Bach in Love at Goward House

When: Saturday, August 30, 2025, with access to the grounds beginning at 2:00 PM, and the concert at 2:30 PM.
Where: Goward House, 2495 Arbutus Road, Cadboro Bay (Saanich), Vancouver Island, BC
About:
Step into a tranquil garden at Goward House and immerse yourself in a heartfelt celebration of love and baroque elegance. Presented by Victoria Baroque, this intimate outdoor concert features soprano Jennifer Turner, accompanied by period instrumentalists, performing a beautiful repertoire—including love songs from Bach’s Notebook for Anna Magdalena, arias from his beloved Wedding Cantata, and expressive works by Henry Purcell. The concert promises to be a soul-stirring capstone to your summer, best enjoyed with a blanket or lawn chair as the music drifts through the greenery.
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Your Adventure Starts with Vancouver Island Tours

Port Renfrew Bottom Fishing Tour

Guided Fishing Adventure Tour on Port Renfrew Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Port Renfrew
from 1,475
3 days and 2 nights
Port Renfrew Bottom Fishing Tour

Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

5-Day Tour from Victoria to Tofino with Nanaimo
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,100
6 days and 5 nights
Vancouver Island Getaway Tour

Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

Explore Inner Harbour & Catch Inshore Fish
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,000
2 days and one night
Victoria Kayak Fishing Adventure Tour

5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Coastal Wonders & Wildlife Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 700
5 days and 4 nights
5-Day Vancouver Island Tour Package

Vancouver Island Wildlife watching Tour

Explore Whales, Bears & Coastal Rainforests
Group
Victoria
Tofino
from 750
3 nights and 4 days
Vancouver Island Wildlife watching  Tour

Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

Fly-Fishing Paradise on the Gold River
Group
Campbell River
Gold River BC
from 1,400
1 day
Fly Fishing Tour on Vancouver Island

7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

Your 7-Day Wildlife Watching Escape
Group
Victoria
Vancouver Island
from 2,310
7 days and 6 nights
7-Day Vancouver Island Wildlife Watching Adventure Tour

3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Salish Sea Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Adventure
Group
Victoria
from 550
3 days and 2 nights
3 Day Wildlife Tracking & Whale Watching Tour

Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

5-Day Black Bear Tracking Adventure on Vancouver Island
Group
Nanaimo
Nanaimo
from 1,135
5 days and 4 nights
Black Bear Tracking & Salmon Run Adventure Tour

Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

Wildlife, Beaches & Coastal Adventure
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,813
7 days and 6 nights
Ultimate 7-Day Vancouver Island Escape Tour

A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

Your three Day Victoria Whale Watching Getaway on Vancouver Island
Group
Victoria
Victoria
from 1,138
3 days and 2 night
 A 3 Day Whale Watching Tour On Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

One-Day Chinook Salmon & Halibut Adventure Tour
Group
Victoria
Sooke
from 1,140
2 days and one night
Vancouver Island Fishing Charters Tour

Ultimate Vancouver Island Wildlife Experience

6-day Black Bear Wildlife Adventure Tour
Group
Nanaimo
Vancouver Island
from 1,950
6 days and 5 nights
Ultimate Vancouver Island Wildlife Experience

4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Pacific Rim & Clayoquot Sound Adventure
Group
Nanaimo
Tofino
from 1,897
4 days and 3 nights
4-Day Wildlife Watching on Vancouver Island

Sea Lions & Eagles Adventure

Experience an Unforgettable Half-Day Adventure in the Heart of Fanny Bay
Group
Nanaimo
from 2,850
1 day
Sea Lions & Eagles Adventure
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.

Tips for Visitors

Accommodation

Book early, as these events attract visitors from across the region.

Transportation

Consider public transit or carpooling to avoid parking hassles.

Weather

Pack layers; coastal weather can be unpredictable.

Tickets

Some events may require advance tickets; check event websites for details.

Embrace the spirit of community and culture this Labour Day Weekend on Vancouver Island. Whether you're sailing through history, enjoying a theatrical performance, or indulging in local cuisine, these festivals promise unforgettable experiences. Plan your visit today and make the most of this vibrant long weekend!

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Nila Abasian

2025 August 20
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Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 August 20

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