The city of Victoria BC shines brighter than ever during the Christmas season! Twinkling lights reflect across the Victoria Harbour, carollers fill the air with music, and historic streets glow beneath festive decorations. Set against the rugged beauty of Canada’s west coast, the capital of British Columbia transforms into a winter wonderland that’s as elegant as it is welcoming.
Whether you’re visiting with the whole family or planning a quiet getaway for two, Victoria offers the perfect mix of festive events, cozy ambiance, and old-world charm. Featuring beautifully appointed holiday homes throughout Greater Victoria, Sooke, and the Cowichan Valley, you’ll find your perfect home base with us!
2025 Christmas Events in Victoria
Victoria’s holiday spirit comes to life every December with world-famous gardens, historic castles, and oceanfront hotels hosting unforgettable celebrations.
The Magic of Christmas at The Butchart Gardens
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Dates: December 1st to January 6th
Location: The Butchart Gardens, Brentwood Bay
Cost: Purchase tickets here!
Family Friendly: Yes
Ambiance: Canadian winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights
The Butchart Gardens’ Magic of Christmas is a true highlight of the season! Wander through dazzling Christmas lights, enjoy the beloved Twelve Days of Christmas displays, and listen to carollers as festive music drifts through the air. Hot chocolate, holiday treats, and the warmth of the lights create an enchanting Christmas display that has become one of Canada’s most cherished seasonal traditions.
Lights of Wonder at Centennial Square
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Dates: November 29th to December 31st
Location: Centennial Square, downtown Victoria
Cost: Free
Family Friendly: Yes
Downtown Victoria lights up with one of the city’s most dazzling holiday events! Lights of Wonder fills Centennial Square with glowing tunnels, illuminated sculptures, and live entertainment. It’s a joyful, family-friendly celebration that brings the community together in the heart of the city.
Festival of Trees at The Bay Centre
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Dates: November 14th to December 31st
Location: The Bay Centre, downtown Victoria
Cost: Free, with donations supporting BC Children’s Hospital
Family Friendly: Yes
For more than 30 years, the Festival of Trees has filled The Bay Centre with the glow of hundreds of uniquely decorated Christmas trees. Sponsored by local businesses and organizations, each display helps raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital. The event’s holiday lights and festive ambiance capture the true Christmas spirit, while supporting Canadian families and children across British Columbia.
Christmas at Craigdarroch Castle
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Dates: December 1st to 31st
Location: Craigdarroch Castle, Rockland Avenue
Ambiance: Victorian elegance and timeless charm
Family Friendly: Yes
The grand halls of Craigdarroch Castle are transformed into a Victorian Christmas dream. Guests can take a guided tour through rooms filled with period decorations and vintage holiday cheer. Highlights include special events such as A Christmas Carol and live music performances that fill this historic landmark with warmth and tradition.
Christmas Carriage Rides through Downtown Victoria
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Dates: December 1st to 31st
Location: Inner Harbour and Government Street
Family Friendly: Yes
Experience the magic of downtown Victoria from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage! Cozy up under blankets as you pass the Parliament Buildings, Market Square, and Bastion Square, all lit up for the season. The glow of the Christmas lights and the rhythmic sound of hooves on cobblestone streets create an atmosphere of holiday nostalgia you won’t find anywhere else!
The Gingerbread Showcase at the Hotel Grand Pacific
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Dates: November 21st to January 4th
Location: Hotel Grand Pacific, Victoria Harbour
Cost: Free, donations encouraged for Habitat for Humanity
Family Friendly: Yes
The annual Gingerbread Showcase is a must-see for visitors of all ages! Artists and bakers display elaborate edible creations in the lobby of the Hotel Grand Pacific, each themed around holiday joy and community. Located near the Victoria Harbour, it’s a perfect stop for families exploring nearby light displays or enjoying a warm drink after a day of holiday shopping!
The Veranda & Dining Bubbles at the Fairmont Empress
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Dates: open all winter
Location: Fairmont Empress Hotel, downtown Victoria
Family Friendly: Yes
Ambiance: Iconic, elegant, and filled with holiday cheer
One of Victoria’s most photographed landmarks, the Fairmont Empress is a hub of holiday magic each year. Guests can relax on The Veranda with mulled wine or cocoa beside the fire pits, taking in views of the Victoria Harbour and Parliament Buildings. Across the street, LURE Restaurant offers intimate dining bubbles that let guests enjoy fine dining under a canopy of holiday lights.
Seasonal Exhibits at the Royal BC Museum
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Dates: TBD
Location: Royal BC Museum, downtown Victoria
Family Friendly: Yes
All year, the Royal BC Museum tells the story of British Columbia’s culture and heritage and offers new exhibits, exciting events and more! But during the Christmas season, the Museum adds festive displays and events celebrating Canadian traditions. Exhibits often feature local art, winter-themed installations, and family programs that highlight the province’s diverse communities!
The Nutcracker at the Royal Theatre
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Dates: December 28th to 30th
Location: Royal Theatre, downtown Victoria
Family Friendly: Yes
A timeless performance for the whole family, The Nutcracker enchants audiences with its graceful choreography and beloved score. This classic ballet brings the Christmas spirit to life and remains a must-see for anyone visiting Victoria during this festive time of year.
Christmas at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel
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Dates: December 7th to January 1st
Location: Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Victoria BC
Family Friendly: Yes
Ambiance: Oceanfront elegance on the west coast
At the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, the Christmas season shines in true west coast style. Families can enjoy Breakfast with Santa on December 7th, complete with festive brunch, cookie decorating, and photos with Santa Claus. Guests spending the holidays can take part in Jingle Mingle on Christmas Eve, while the Christmas Day Brunch and New Year’s Day Brunch offer spectacular dining experiences with live music and panoramic ocean views. It’s a celebration filled with holiday cheer and lasting memories for the whole family!
Packing for Your Christmas Getaway
To make the most of your Vancouver Island getaway, think comfort, warmth, and effortless style! Victoria’s coastal weather is mild compared to the rest of Canada, but rain and cool evenings are part of the charm. Locals favour a polished, outdoorsy look that feels practical yet relaxed. Layers, waterproof fabrics, and clothes that can transition easily from an afternoon walk to a casual dinner are always a good choice.
What to Pack:
- Waterproof boots or weather-resistant shoes for exploring light displays and markets
- A cozy sweater or fleece to layer under a rain jacket or parka
- Scarf, gloves, and toque that are lightweight but warm
- A casual outfit for dinners or concerts such as jeans, boots, and a knit or collared top
- Reusable tote for holiday shopping or the market
- Packable umbrella
Victoria isn’t about high heels or formalwear, it’s all about comfort with a touch of coastal polish. Bring clothes that make you feel good and weather-ready, and you’ll fit right in!
More Things to Do at Christmas in Victoria!
Beyond the marquee events, Victoria offers endless opportunities to soak in the Christmas spirit!
Stroll the Inner Harbour: Enjoy Christmas lights reflecting on the water and the Parliament Buildings lit up against the night sky.
Afternoon Tea at the Empress Hotel: Savour classic treats and tea in a beautifully decorated setting.
Explore Market Square: Shop for handcrafted gifts, listen to carollers, and take in the city’s historic charm.
Warm up with hot chocolate: Local cafés serve seasonal drinks perfect for chilly evenings.
Join a guided tour: Discover the city’s Victorian architecture and festive displays on foot or by carriage.
Beyond Victoria: Island Festivities Worth the Drive
Extend your trip beyond downtown Victoria to experience the charm of Vancouver Island!
Langford Station Winter Village Market: A lively outdoor holiday market filled with handmade gifts and lights.
Deck the Halls at the Cowichan Exhibition Grounds: Local artisans, music, and Christmas displays for the whole family.
Bastion Lighting: Light up the waterfront and enjoy community carols.
Qualicum WinterFest: Celebrate the season with markets, Santa visits, and seaside light displays.
Christmas Delicacies & Traditions on Vancouver Island
The Christmas season on Vancouver Island is all about flavour and tradition!
Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress: A beloved Canadian ritual that transforms into a festive experience during the holidays.
Local bakeries and cafés: Sample shortbread, stollen, gingerbread, and butter tarts made fresh by Island bakers.
Sea Cider’s mulled cider and local spirits: Perfect for warming up after exploring the holiday lights.
Holiday brunch menus: Enjoy coastal flavours and Canadian classics at restaurants across Greater Victoria.
These culinary experiences highlight the warmth, craftsmanship, and community spirit that make this time of year so special.
How to Get to Victoria, BC
From the Mainland: Take BC Ferries from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay, about a 1.5-hour journey followed by a scenic 30-minute drive to downtown Victoria.
From the United States: Board the Victoria Clipper from Seattle or the Black Ball Coho Ferry from Port Angeles. Both routes deliver visitors directly into the heart of the Inner Harbour.
By Air: Fly into Victoria International Airport (YYJ), just 30 minutes from downtown. Travellers from farther afield can connect through Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
Once you arrive, your Vancouver Island vacation rental will be waiting, perfectly located for exploring the city’s Christmas lights, guided tours, and festive ambiance!
Get Ready for a Magical Christmas in Victoria!
The Christmas season in Victoria BC is an experience that blends timeless elegance with joyful celebration. From The Butchart Gardens’ glowing light displays to the Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s oceanfront brunches, festive events fill the city with warmth and wonder.
Book your stay with EMR Vacation Rentals and discover why this west coast destination captures the true spirit of Christmas in Canada: beautiful, welcoming, and unforgettable!
Victoria doesn’t have a bus or train that connects directly to Vancouver, but it does have a very scenic ferry system.