Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city sparkles during the holiday season. These festive (and family-friendly) things do in Victoria, B.C. at Christmas will help you start planning the most memorable celebrations.
Experience the Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens
During the holiday season, visit the Butchart Garden’s Magic of Christmas event and wander through the colourful Twelve Days of Christmas displays.
The Magic of Christmas runs from December 1, 2025, to January 6, 2026. Dress for the outdoors and plan to spend at least a few hours at The Butchart Gardens. There are restaurants for a meal or snack and a cozy cafe serving hot chocolate and gingerbread.
There is a lot to see at The Butchart Gardens during the Magic of Christmas, so bring a stroller if you have a young child.
The Magic of Christmas Hours and Admission Cost
Between December 1, 2025, and January 6, 2026, The Magic of Christmas light display is on from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with carollers and musicians performing between 5 pm and 9 pm. Butchart Gardens will be closed on Christmas Day. You can purchase timed entrance tickets on the Butchart Gardens website.
See the Festival of Trees at Victoria’s Bay Centre
Get into the spirit (and shop for holiday gifts) at Victoria’s Bay Centre shopping mall. Here you can wander amongst Christmas Trees decorated to raise money for BC Children’s Hospital. After viewing all of the unique Christmas trees, cast a vote for your favourite.
Festival of Trees Hours and Admission
The Festival of Trees runs from November 14, 2025, to December 31, 2025, and is open during Victoria’s Bay Centre hours of operation.Ā Admission is free, and you can vote for your favourite tree. Donations to BC Children’s Hospital are welcome.
Watch the Santa Claus Light Parade
A holiday tradition for many, the Santa Claus Parade happens on November 29, 2025, at 5:30 pm. The parade begins at the corner of Bellville Street and Government Street and will follow a new route in 2025. View the Santa Claus Parade route map here.
Christmas at the Fairmont Empress
Known as Canada’s Castle on the Coast, the harbour-front Fairmont Empress hotel celebrates Christmas in spectacular style with glittering holiday decor, sparkling lights, and numerous festive events. In addition to holiday dinners, you can visit the Fairmont for holiday drinks on the Veranda, Afternoon Tea reimagined for the holiday season and festive cocktails in Q Bar. Read about Christmas at the Empress here.
Travel Tips – Festive Things do Do in Victoria, B.C. at Christmas
- Be sure to make a ferry reservation well in advance of your departure date if you are travelling to and from Victoria, B.C., during Christmas and throughout the holiday season.
- Read this post for more local tips on where to eat, drink, and shop in Victoria, B.C.
- Beaches are a year-round destination in Victoria, B.C. Here are a few of our favorite places to walk alongside the Pacific Ocean.
Have you spent Christmas in Victoria, B.C.? What are your favourite festive things to do to celebrate the holiday season?
