Things to do this Victoria this September
September is a wonderful time to experience Victoria as the region transitions from summer into fall. Harvest celebrations, cultural festivals, family-friendly fairs, and culinary events fill the calendar, while warm days and beautiful scenery make it an ideal season to explore Greater Victoria. From waterfront traditions and community celebrations to local food experiences and live entertainment, September offers countless opportunities to discover the people, places, and flavours that make Victoria so special. Here are some of the top events and experiences happening this month.
Festivals & Cultural Celebrations | Family-Friendly Events
Music & Entertainment | Culinary & Food Events
Published August 6th, 2026
Festivals & Cultural Celebrations
South Island Powwow (September 30)
The annual South Island Powwow is an opportunity to recognize Survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation. Join Indigenous communities from across the region and beyond at the South Island Powwow, a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and community. Held at Royal Athletic Park, this free event invites visitors to experience traditional drumming, singing, dancing, regalia, and cultural sharing in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
The South Island Powwow offers an opportunity to learn about Indigenous traditions while supporting cultural preservation and community connection. Throughout the day, guests can witness performances, browse vendors, and experience the rich Indigenous traditions that continue to thrive. Held on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the event encourages reflection, learning, and respect.
25th Annual Victoria Greek Fest (September 4-7)
Experience the warmth of Greek hospitality at the 25th Annual Victoria Greek Fest. This popular community celebration invites visitors to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, traditional music, lively dancing, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the weekend. Savour classic dishes such as souvlaki, spanakopita, and baklava while taking in vibrant performances and cultural demonstrations. Exhibits, community traditions, and storytelling provide an engaging opportunity to experience the rich heritage that continues to shape Greek culture today. Rich flavours, spirited entertainment, and a strong sense of community come together for a memorable celebration of Greek culture.
Esquimalt Lantern Festival (September 18)
Experience an evening of community, artistry, and light at the Esquimalt Lantern Festival. As night falls, this free community event transforms the park with community-crafted lanterns, music by local musicians, large-scale puppets, and interactive art installations. Wander among glowing displays, engage with immersive artistic experiences, and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere that brings neighbours and attendees together. The festival celebrates connection, imagination, and the transition into the fall season while creating a memorable visual spectacle for all ages. With glowing displays and vibrant community spirit, the event offers a unique celebration of art, light, and community in Greater Victoria.
Metchosin Fall Witches Market (September 19-20)
Embrace the enchantment of the harvest season at the Metchosin Fall Witches Market. This unique seasonal market features local artisans, makers, creators, and vendors offering handcrafted goods, artwork, home décor, wellness products, and more. Nestled in the rural community of Metchosin, the market celebrates artisan culture, community, and the arrival of the fall season. Browse a variety of distinctive products, support local businesses, and enjoy an atmosphere inspired by folklore, mystery, and harvest traditions.
Lagoon Arts & Culture Festival (September 11-12)
Immerse yourself in creativity, community, and culture at the Lagoon Arts & Culture Festival in Colwood. Held at the Goldfinch Arts Centre, this family-friendly festival brings together live music and performances, an Indigenous showcase, artisan vendors, interactive activities, art exhibits, food trucks, and more. Visitors can explore local talent, discover unique handcrafted goods, and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere that highlights the vibrant arts and cultural community of the Westshore. With activities and entertainment taking place throughout the weekend, the festival offers plenty of opportunities to connect with artists, performers, and fellow community members. Rain or shine, it's a memorable showcase of creativity and culture in Greater Victoria.
Family-Friendly Events
Classic Boat Festival (September 4-6)
Step aboard a celebration of maritime heritage at the Classic Boat Festival. Held along Victoria's picturesque Inner Harbour, this annual event showcases an impressive collection of beautifully restored wooden vessels, vintage boats, and historic watercraft from across the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can stroll the docks, meet passionate boat owners, learn about maritime history, and admire exceptional craftsmanship up close. The festival also features family-friendly activities, live entertainment, educational displays, and the popular Sail Race, where participating vessels take to the water in a showcase of maritime tradition and skill. Admission is by a suggested $5 donation. Against the backdrop of the Inner Harbour, the festival combines maritime history, craftsmanship, and waterfront culture in one of Victoria's most scenic settings.
158th Annual Saanich Fair (September 5-7)
Celebrate one of Vancouver Island's longest-running traditions at the 158th Annual Saanich Fair. This beloved community event brings together agriculture, entertainment, food, and family fun for an exciting weekend in Saanichton. Guests can explore livestock exhibits, agricultural competitions, midway rides, live entertainment, local vendors, and hands-on activities for all ages. New this year, the fair will also feature a pancake breakfast and interactive photo booth. From watching prize-winning animals to enjoying classic fair treats and discovering local makers, there's something around every corner. Showcasing the region's rich farming heritage and strong community spirit, the Saanich Fair remains a favourite fall tradition for visitors and locals alike.
Little Fernwood Harvest Fun Fair (September 12)
Celebrate the changing season at the Little Fernwood Harvest Fun Fair, a charming neighbourhood event that highlights community, creativity, and local harvest traditions. Families can enjoy activities, games, entertainment, local vendors, and seasonal experiences in a welcoming community setting. The fair brings neighbours together while showcasing local artists, makers, and organizations that contribute to Fernwood's unique character. Browse handcrafted goods, enjoy live performances, and take part in family-friendly activities throughout the day. Filled with small-town charm and community spirit, it's a wonderful way to experience one of Victoria's most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Music & Entertainment
Victoria Fringe Festival (August 26-September 6)
Celebrate 40 years of creativity at the Victoria Fringe Festival, one of the city's most beloved annual arts events. For 12 days, theatres and venues throughout downtown Victoria come alive with an eclectic lineup of independent performances, including theatre, comedy, dance, spoken word, musicals, and more. Known for showcasing bold, original, and unexpected productions, the festival brings together emerging artists and seasoned performers from across Canada and beyond. From thought-provoking theatre and laugh-out-loud comedy to dance, spoken word, and musicals, there's something happening around every corner during this city-wide celebration of the performing arts.
The Price Is Right Live (September 30)
Come on down! The Price Is Right Live™ brings the excitement of the iconic television game show to Victoria for an interactive evening of fun, surprises, and audience participation. Hosted at the Royal Theatre, eligible audience members have the chance to hear their names called and step on stage to play fan-favourite games like Plinko™, Cliffhangers™, The Big Wheel™, and the Showcase. Prizes may include appliances, dream vacations, and perhaps even a brand-new car! With all the excitement and energy of the beloved television classic, this live stage production offers plenty of laughs, memorable moments, and opportunities to test your luck in front of a cheering crowd.
Culinary & Food Events
Merridale 8th Annual Cider Harvest Festival (September 27)
Raise a glass to Vancouver Island's harvest season at Merridale's 8th Annual Cider Harvest Festival. Held at the picturesque orchard and cidery in Cobble Hill, this popular event celebrates local cider, food, music, and community. Enjoy tastings, live entertainment, orchard experiences, and delicious seasonal offerings while learning more about cider-making and local agriculture. Surrounded by beautiful countryside and apple orchards at their seasonal best, the festival offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for cider enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike. It's a perfect way to celebrate autumn and the region's rich agricultural heritage.
Esquimalt Ribfest (September 11-13)
Bring your appetite to Esquimalt Ribfest, one of Greater Victoria's most anticipated culinary events of the year. This family-friendly festival features award-winning Ribbers serving up mouth-watering barbecue, alongside live music, local vendors, beverages, and entertainment throughout the weekend. From smoked meats and classic barbecue favourites to festival treats and refreshing beverages, there's no shortage of flavours to enjoy while soaking up the energetic community atmosphere. Beyond the food, Ribfest supports local charitable initiatives and brings people together for a weekend of great flavours and good company. It's the perfect opportunity to savour late-summer sunshine and some of the best barbecue around.
Flavour Trails (All month long)
Discover the flavours of Greater Victoria with Flavour Trails, a self-guided agritourism experience that invites visitors to explore the farms, orchards, vineyards, cideries, breweries, markets, and culinary destinations that define the region's food culture. From the rolling countryside of the Saanich Peninsula to the Southern Gulf Islands and Westshore communities, Flavour Trails offers opportunities to meet the makers, producers, and chefs who bring the region's food culture to life, sample seasonal ingredients, and experience its rich agricultural heritage. Discover farm stands, cideries, wineries, markets, and culinary experiences while exploring the people, places, and flavours that make Greater Victoria a unique food destination.
Canada's Great Kitchen Party Victoria 2026 (September 29)
Celebrate Canadian food, drink, sport, and music at Canada's Great Kitchen Party Victoria 2026. Marking its 20th anniversary, this nationally recognized event brings together some of Victoria's top culinary talent for an evening of exceptional food, beverages, and entertainment at Oak Bay Beach Hotel. Guests can sample signature dishes inspired by local ingredients, paired with Canadian wines, craft beers, and spirits, while chefs compete for the opportunity to represent Victoria at the Canada's Great Kitchen Party national finals in Ottawa later this year. The evening will also feature a special performance by Canadian music icon Tom Cochrane. Combining celebration, philanthropy, and outstanding hospitality, the evening offers a memorable showcase of Canadian culinary talent, culture, and community.
Harvest Table at Brentwood Bay Resort (September 18)
Experience the flavours of the season at Harvest Table at Brentwood Bay Resort. This special culinary experience brings guests together for an unforgettable farm-to-table dining event highlighting the finest ingredients from Vancouver Island producers, growers, and artisans. Set against the scenic waterfront setting of Brentwood Bay, diners can enjoy thoughtfully crafted dishes that showcase the abundance of the region's harvest season. Featuring locally sourced ingredients and expertly prepared menus, the event offers a memorable opportunity to connect with the people and flavours behind Vancouver Island's thriving food scene.
Brewery & The Beast (September 27)
Food lovers won't want to miss Brewery & The Beast, one of Canada's premier outdoor culinary events. Bringing together top chefs, restaurants, beverage producers, and food artisans, the festival showcases bold flavours, live-fire cooking, and exceptional culinary creativity. Guests can sample unlimited dishes, enjoy locally crafted beverages, and connect with some of the region's most talented culinary professionals. Known for its energetic atmosphere and commitment to celebrating local food culture, Brewery & The Beast delivers a unique dining experience unlike any other. It's an unforgettable celebration of Vancouver Island's vibrant food and beverage scene.
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