10 things to do in Victoria this June
June is here with big energy in Conde Nast Traveller’s reader voted #1 Small City in the World, Victoria, BC. With vibrant festivals, immersive cultural experiences, and endless opportunities to enjoy nature’s beauty, the city promises an experience unlike anything else. Let Victoria’s charm, energy, and welcoming spirit make this June your most memorable vacation yet.
National Indigenous Peoples Month & National Indigenous Peoples Day
June is National Indigenous Peoples Month—a meaningful time to honour the stories, achievements, and resilience of Indigenous Peoples in Victoria, BC, located on the traditional territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən-speaking peoples, now known as the Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations. The lək̓ʷəŋən Peoples have stewarded these lands and waters since time immemorial, and your visit is a wonderful opportunity to learn about their culture and support their incredible businesses.
Discover Indigenous culture in Victoria by taking a self-guided tour of traditional lək̓ʷəŋən sites and the iconic Seven Signs of the lək̓ʷəŋən. Enjoy a local favourite, the bannock burger, at the Songhees Food Truck. Shop for art, jewelry, and gifts from Indigenous artists from across Canada and beyond at Aunty Collective. Immerse yourself in Indigenous culture and language at the Royal BC Museum, marvel at the world’s largest totem pole in Beacon Hill Park, and experience Métis heritage at the harbour-side Point Ellice House Museum & Gardens.
You can also join the city’s vibrant celebrations for National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21 at Royal Roads University, featuring a welcome ceremony, lək̓ʷəŋən traditional dancers, a canoe landing, children’s crafts, games, a vendor market, and more.
Father's Day
What days are the strongest? Saturday and Sunday. The rest are weekdays. So, it’s only fitting that Father’s Day falls on Sunday, June 15th, to celebrate dad-strength in all its glory. Grab your dad, or any and every father figure in your life, and head to Victoria, BC for an unforgettable weekend of fun. With Victoria’s blend of adventure, discovery, and classic dad-approved experiences, there’s something for every dad. Take to the waves with whale watching or a kayaking tour with Ocean River Sports, or channel Dad’s inner fisherman on a guided fishing charter in the pristine waters of the coast, with KingSize Adventures. Enjoy award-winning local craft beer at Victoria’s breweries, challenge Dad to a round of golf at one of the city’s scenic courses or explore aviation history together at the BC Aviation Museum. With so many hands-on and outdoor experiences, Victoria is the perfect place to make this Father’s Day unforgettable.
Children’s Garden Gnome Hunt at The Butchart Gardens
At The Butchart Gardens—a 55-acre National Historic Site and one of the Top 10 Gardens in the World—10 cheeky gnomes have escaped The Seed & Gift Store and are hiding among the lush blooms. From June 13–15th, children under 17 can grab a map and set off on the whimsical Children’s Garden Gnome Hunt to find all the sneaky gnomes scattered through this 120-year-old paradise. Mark each gnome on your map and return it to the Visitor Information Centre for a special gift and a story to remember. Discover the magic of The Butchart Gardens while joining this enchanting adventure!
TD International Jazz Festival
Victoria moves to a groove all its own as the TD International Jazz Fest brings its infectious energy with rhythms, heart, and some seriously quirky charisma, June 20-29th. This beloved festival is a dazzling mash-up of world-class jazz, community spirit, and unexpected performances in original venues that make you feel right at home. Local legends share the stage with international stars, inviting everyone to join the party and connect through music. It’s where Victoria’s warm days and cool vibes collide, all set to toe-tapping, head-bopping beats.
BC Crab Fest
Get your bibs, gather your crew (even though it’s okay to be a little shellfish), and head down to Ship Point on June 29th from 11am-7pm for BC Crab Fest, an authentic BC-style crab boil! Feast on sustainably harvested BC Dungeness crab—plus mussels or clams, local shrimp or prawns, all smothered in butter (if you choose)—and packed into a bucket. Live music, family zone fun, and a true community vibe cast the perfect net for a West Coast maritime feast. Cast off hunger and reel in good times—reserve your crab bucket and choose your pickup time before they’re all snapped up!
Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival
Catch the rhythm of summer at the Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival, running June 18-22nd at venues across the city—with main stage action at Ship Point on the stunning Inner Harbour. Headliners Propagandhi and The Pharcyde will ignite the stage, joined by a vibrant mix of local and international artists. Choose from individual show tickets or take the plunge with a VIP Full Fest experience for special access to every show and chill VIP Lounges. Let the grooves roll in on the harbour breeze—secure your tickets and join the fun!
Photo credit: RMS Media
Oak Bay Tea Party
The Oak Bay Tea Party returns to Willows Beach from June 6-8th, inviting families to enjoy amusement rides, a floating teacup race, and the whimsical Oak Bay Tea Party Parade that winds through Oak Bay’s streets on June 7. Tuck into a Baron of Beef grilled right on the beach, join the Kids Craft zone for free arts, crafts, and sandcastle building, plus don’t miss the beloved pancake breakfast from 8AM-11AM on June 7th and 8th. This all-ages classic pairs seaside fun with quirky traditions and tasty eats, creating a weekend overflowing with local charm. Enjoy individual ticket options for select amusements or savour the full festival experience for a memorable Oak Bay escape.
World Oceans Day
Celebrate World Oceans Day in Victoria, Sunday, June 8th, where our iconic Inner Harbour meets the wild beauty of the Salish Sea. Whether you’re a kayaking or paddleboarding enthusiast, or eager to try whale watching tours, Victoria is an outdoor lover’s aquatic paradise. Explore our pristine beaches and sparkling lakes for endless shoreline adventures and nature escapes. Dive into the spirit of World Oceans Day and experience the water like never before, in Victoria!
Fern Fest
Celebrate 28 years of art, music, and community at Fern Fest, happening June 13-14th in the vibrant heart of Fernwood. This free, all-ages event packs the neighbourhood with live music, performers, food, beer, theatre arts, artists, and a magical lineup that includes a kid’s zone, face painting, artisan market, games, and walking tours. Discover the energy and creativity that make Fern Fest a much-loved tradition for families and locals alike. Don’t miss your chance to experience the spirit of Fernwood at one of Victoria’s most eclectic festivals!
Photo credit: Don Craig Photography
BC Trails Day
It’s easy to see why Victoria was named one of the Top 10 Most Walkable Cities in the World by Skyscanner, because in Victoria, city life meets wild beauty with easy access to nature right from your doorstep—especially on BC Trails Day, Saturday, June 7th. Wander along the coastal Dallas Road trail, tackle the Irvine Trail up PKOLS (formerly Mount Douglas) Regional Park, or circumnavigate the picturesque loop at Thetis Lake Regional Park. Show your love for the outdoors by leaving no trace, keeping dogs leashed, and giving local wildlife plenty of space. Greater Victoria’s exceptional trail network is your gateway to the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island!
Bonus: TEDxVictoria: Ripples
TEDxVictoria 2025 returns to Victoria, BC, on June 10th at McPherson Playhouse with the inspiring theme "Ripples," exploring how every action—big or small—creates meaningful change. This year’s event will feature thought-provoking speakers who challenge perspectives and ignite waves of transformation in Victoria and around the world. Join community leaders, businesses, and passionate individuals as TEDxVictoria becomes a hub for bold ideas and shared discovery. Experience how one decision can spark countless positive ripples, making TEDxVictoria a must-attend event for anyone seeking inspiration and connection in Victoria.
Victoria is synonymous with exploration. A coastal city embedded in a stunning natural landscape, the southern-most part of Vancouver Island is a masterful infusion of culture, nature, and culinary delights. From iconic tours to uncharted adventures, Greater Victoria has so much to discover.
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