Victoria Day 2025 on Vancouver Island: Events & Planning Guide

On Monday, May 19, 2025, communities across the island will come alive with vibrant parades, lively festivals, thrilling races, cultural showcases, and unforgettable waterfront performances. Whether you're exploring historic traditions, chasing outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up the festive spirit, there's a perfect event waiting for you. Dive into our top picks to make the most of your long weekend!

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• Date & Time: May 19, 2025 at 9:00 AM
• Location: Douglas & Finlayson to Douglas & Courtney, Downtown Victoria
• Features:
✓ Free admission for spectators
✓ Cultural showcase with over 100 floats and marching bands
✓ Broadcast live on CHEK TV by the Greater Victoria Festival Society
• Tips:
✓ Arrive by 8:00 AM to secure curbside seating—road closures begin early.
✓ Best viewing spot near the Legislature for parade commentary and photo ops.

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• Date & Time: May 19, 2025 at 8:30 AM (bib pick-up 7:30–8:15 AM)
• Location: Summit & Douglas to City Hall, Victoria
• Features:
✓ Charitable cause, proceeds support Parkinson Wellness Projects
✓ Inclusive route—wheelchairs and strollers welcome
✓Finisher medals for top participants
• Tips:
✓ Pre-register online to guarantee your bib and avoid on-site delays.
✓ Bring a water bottle and dress in layers—morning temperatures can be cool.

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• Date & Time: May 17–18, 2025 (8:00 AM–7:00 PM)
• Location: Topaz Park, Victoria
• Features:
✓ Historic competition, North America’s longest-running Highland Games
✓ Heavy events (caber toss, hammer throw) and pipe-band performances
✓ Tartan Parade kicks off festivities (pre-event on May 10 at Centennial Square)
• Tips:
✓ Purchase early-bird tickets online or at Strathcona Hotel Liquor Store for savings.
✓ Sample local whiskies and ciders at the Clan tents.

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• Date & Time: May 18–20, 2025 (9:00 AM–10:00 PM)
• Location: Village of Cumberland (Dunsmuir Avenue & Village Park)
• Features:
✓ Community festival with Artisan Market Days and garage sales
✓ Kids’ Soap Box Derby and youth May Pole dance
✓ Live music and beer garden in Village Park
• Tips:
✓ Use free shuttle from Cumberland Commons to avoid street closures.
✓ Bring cash for market vendors and pancake breakfasts.

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• Date & Time: May 15–18, 2025; Thu–Fri 3 PM–11 PM, Sat 12 PM–11 PM, Sun 12 PM–8 PM
• Location: 1040 Marwood Ave, Langford
• Features:
✓ Free grounds admission all weekend
✓ Carnival Midway rides by West Coast Amusements
✓ Heritage exhibits including antique farm equipment and blacksmith demos
• Tips:
✓ Pre-purchase ride wristbands online for CAD 40/day (vs. CAD 50 at gate).
✓ Park by donation on Highway 14 and take bus #54/55 to Marwood & Sooke.

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• Date & Time: May 16, 2025 at 8:00 PM
• Location: Victoria Conference Centre, 720 Douglas St
• Features:
✓ Headliner Nathan Macintosh—featured on The Tonight Show & Conan
✓ One-night-only event to kick off the long weekend
• Tips:
✓ Recommended for ages 16+; not suited for young children.
✓ Buy tickets in advance at gardencityimprov.com/shows.

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• Date & Time: May 11, 18, 19, 25, 2025 at 2:00 PM
• Location: Ship Point, Inner Harbour, Victoria
• Features:
✓ Iconic “pickle boats” perform synchronized choreography
✓ Scenic harbour backdrop—a Victoria tradition since 1990
• Tips:
✓ Combine with a “Harbour Tour + Ballet” ferry package for prime views.
✓ Check tide and wind forecasts; wear layers for waterfront breezes.

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• Date & Time: Daily, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
• Location: 675 Belleville St, Victoria
• Features:
✓ Odysseys & Migration (Apr 18, 2025 – May 3, 2026) tracing global Chinese migration
✓ Wildlife Photographer of the Year award-winning nature photography
✓ Interactive galleries showcasing Indigenous languages and local history
• Tips:
✓ Reserve timed-entry tickets online to minimize wait times on the holiday.
✓ Check for special “Live at Lunch” talks on May 21–22.

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• Date & Time:
✓ Day: Apr 1–May 29, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
✓ Night: May 30–31, until 11:00 PM
• Location: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay
• Features:
✓ 55 acres of themed floral gardens in peak spring bloom
✓ Evening light show transforming the gardens after dusk
• Tips:
✓ Arrive 1–2 hours before sunset to enjoy both daylight and Night Illuminations.
✓ Shuttle bus available from Victoria for CAD 10 return.

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• Date & Time:
✓ Shuttle weekends May 10–Jun 22; daily May 23–Sep 1
✓ SkyWalk hours 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
• Location: Malahat Summit; shuttle departs Capital City Station & Empress Hotel
• Features:
✓ 600 m elevated forest walkway and 32 m spiral slide
✓ 360° observation tower with panoramic Gulf Islands views
✓ Complimentary shuttle for Victoria-based visitors
• Tips:
✓ Book timed-entry slots online to secure your preferred arrival.
✓ Wear sturdy shoes for the forest trails and tower climb.

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• Date & Time: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
• Location: 1461 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay
• Features:
✓ Indoor tropical rainforest with 70 butterfly species
✓ Exotic fauna including flamingos, poison dart frogs, and tropical birds
✓ Annual pass discounts for repeat visits
• Tips:
✓ Combine with a Butchart Gardens visit on the same day using BC Transit #75.
✓ Visit early morning for peak butterfly activity.

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• Date & Time: May 19, 2025 at approximately 10:00 PM
• Location: Beacon Hill Park waterfront, Dallas Road
• Features:
✓ Free fireworks show lighting up the night sky over the strait
✓ Scenic park setting with ocean vistas and children’s farm nearby
• Tips:
✓ Arrive by 9:00 PM to grab a spot on the grass; bring blankets and snacks.
✓ Transit #75 stops near the park—ideal to avoid parking challenges.

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Make the most of your Victoria Day weekend on Vancouver Island—whether you're joining lively parades, exploring outdoor wonders, or simply soaking in the island's vibrant atmosphere.

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