4 Must-do festivals in Victoria:
Stunning sunsets, local beers and warm starry nights. What’s missing from this picture? Live music, of course! Victoria’s biggest festivals reflect a city that is both vibrant and diverse and gives everyone a chance to come together and celebrate. Here are four happening this summer which offer a touch of elegance, loads of fun and a lifetime of memories. Come join the party.
TD Victoria International JazzFest
Taking place over ten days, the TD Victoria International JazzFest celebrates jazz, blues, and world music from all over Canada and the globe. And impressively, it’s coming up on in its 35th year. This festival takes place in venues all over town, which means it’s a great opportunity to get out and explore the different corners of our city. Catch some tunes at places like Centennial Square, Hotel Grand Pacific and Chateau Victoria.
The Phillips Backyard Weekender
Ever heard of a backyard big enough for a festival? Well, Phillips Brewing in Victoria has got one! Ok, it might technically be a parking lot by day, but either way, they’re putting it to good use over three nights this July when the Backyard Weekender returns for its fourth year with the city and the brewery as one heck of a backdrop.
The best part: Phillips Brewing is super close to downtown, and you can buy a ticket for just the one night. This makes it the perfect end to your day’s adventures. Make sure to save room to sample the offerings from some of Victoria’s top food trucks too.
Check out the lineup here.
Symphony Splash!
Symphony Splash makes the most of Victoria’s mild summer evenings and vibrant Inner Harbour. Set atop a floating stage, it has become one of North America’s largest symphony events, with close to 40,000 people joining the spectacle every year. Guests can watch from dry land or paddle out for a closer look.
This year’s mix of classical and popular music will end with Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture and spectacular fireworks. Now that’s something you can’t do inside a concert hall!
The event is by donation and the suggested contribution is $5.
Rifflandia
Celebrating its eleventh anniversary this year, Rifflandia has evolved over the past decade to become Victoria’s end-of-summer party. There’s even a local beer rolled out every year by Phillips Brewing named after the well-loved festival.
Held over four nights in Victoria’s Rock Bay neighbourhood and venues around the city, the festival includes big name acts as well as up-and-coming performers from all over the world. Unlike other festivals synonymous with summer, this isn’t one where you’ll need to pitch a tent or go without showering. The festival is all about comfort and the perfect excuse to stay in a great local hotel. Check out our suggested places to stay and send off summer in style.
Find more festivals and events in and around Victoria below.
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