26th Annual Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival

Experience the Rhythm

Prepare to uncover a musical celebration that fuses pulsating ska beats, deep reggae grooves, and eclectic world-beat rhythms against the breathtaking backdrop of Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Something extraordinary is brewing this summer—five days of free and ticketed showcases, surprise acts, and community spirit that will redefine your festival expectations. Keep reading to reveal every detail you need to plan the trip of a lifetime to Vancouver Island’s most anticipated musical gathering.
Embark on five days of vibrant performances and island exploration: from the free Kick-Off Party at Ship Point on June 18th to headline nights at the Victoria Curling Club June 20th–21st, the 26th Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival brings together world-class talent, local artisans, and adventurous travellers alike.

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Event Overview

Date & Time

• Wednesday, June 18, 2025: Free Kick-Off Party at Ship Point (Inner Harbour), 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Thursday, June 19, 2025: Multiple free daytime showcases at Ship Point; full schedule TBA on official site
• Friday, June 20, 2025: Headliner night at Victoria Curling Club, doors at 7:30 PM; featuring Propagandhi and special guests
• Saturday, June 21, 2025: Victoria Curling Club late-night session, 7:30 PM – 2:00 AM, $49.95 – $65
• Sunday, June 22, 2025: Closing community jams and farewell gatherings around Ship Point (details to follow)

Venues

• Ship Point, Inner Harbour: Iconic waterfront setting for free daytime concerts, food trucks, artisan markets, and pop-up workshops
• Victoria Curling Club: Intimate, licensed evening shows featuring headline acts and late-night dance sessions

Lineup Highlights

This year’s eclectic roster spans ska, reggae, punk, hip-hop, dub, Latin, and more, headlined by:
• Propagandhi (Melodic hardcore legends from Winnipeg)
• The Pharcyde (Groundbreaking hip-hop icons)
• Jakobs Castle (High-energy ska-punk from California) Also featuring genre-crossing artists such as DUB FX, Sister Nancy, Long Beach Dub Allstars, Save Ferris, and Marlon Asher.

Tickets & Passes

• Individual Show Tickets: Available for Curling Club evenings (prices vary; see June 20th & 21st shows)
• Full Festival Passes: Best value for dedicated fans; limited quantities
• On-Sale Date: Friday, February 28, 2025 at 10:00 AM (PST) via TicketWeb

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Planning Your Visit

Where to Stay

Victoria offers a spectrum of accommodations—from boutique heritage inns in Old Town to modern waterfront hotels. Book early to secure central locations within walking distance of Ship Point and easy transit to the Curling Club.

Getting There & Around

• Air: Victoria International Airport (YYJ) connects with major Canadian hubs; a 30-minute drive into downtown.
• Ferry: BC Ferries sail from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay; shuttle buses and rideshares link to downtown in under an hour.
• Local Transit: BC Transit’s RapidBus and Inner Harbour shuttle loops keep you moving between festival sites and city attractions.

Festival Essentials

• What to Pack: Light rain gear (coastal weather can shift), comfortable shoes for waterfront strolls, sunscreen, refillable water bottle, and your festival wristband.
• On-Site Amenities: Food trucks, local craft vendors, merch booths, and first-aid stations will be available at Ship Point. Licensed bar service and coat check at the Curling Club.
• Accessibility: Both venues offer accessible viewing areas and washrooms. Contact festival organizers for specific accommodations.

Beyond the Beats

While in Victoria, explore:

Butchart Gardens

World-renowned floral displays just north of the city.

Inner Harbour

Iconic landmarks like the Empress Hotel and BC Legislature.

Outdoor Adventures

Kayaking, whale-watching tours, and oceanfront bike paths.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there age restrictions?

Can I volunteer?

What if it rains?

Ready to Dive In?

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival—where community, culture, and rhythm unite on Vancouver Island’s stunning coastline. Mark your calendar for Friday, February 28, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST—that’s when individual show tickets go on sale via TicketWeb. For full festival pass information and all the details, head to the official website: victoriaskafest.ca

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