
Victoria Day Weekend
Celebrated every year on the last Monday before May 25, Victoria Day is a Canadian public holiday in honour of Queen Victoria’s birthday. For many, the date also informally marks the beginning of the summer season. This year, Victoria Day falls on Monday, May 18th.

Victoria Day Parade
The 126th Thrifty Foods Victoria Day Parade is the largest parade of the year in Victoria, and there is no better place to spend your Victoria Day holiday! Previous parades have attracted tens of thousands of spectators and featured approximately 150 entries—including Canadian and American marching bands, musical floats, cultural entries and festive clowns. This annual event is free and fun for the whole family. The fun begins at 9AM on Belleville and Government Street, before working its way through the city.
126th Anniversary Victoria Day Parade
Victoria Highland Games & Celtic Festival
The Victoria Day holiday weekend in Victoria is a great time to visit this spectacular city and the Games are one of the premier events to attend! Hope to see you at the Games! This year's event marks the 163rd year of the festival. The festivities run from May 16-17th at Topaz Park. Don't miss the Tartan Parade through downtown Victoria on May 9th.
Highlights of the Highland Games weekend included:
• Massed Bands at noon and 4pm on Saturday and Sunday
• Professional Celtic Music Bands
• International Heavy Events Championship
• Simon Fraser University Grade 1 Pipeband
• Canadian Invitational Drum Major Challenge
• Scottish Highland Dance and Irish Dance Feis
• Scottish Clans and Societies
• International HEMA Blade and Stick Fighting Tournament

Orchard Market at Junction Orchard & Cidery
Set among apple trees on Saturday, May 17 at Junction Orchard & Cidery, the Orchard Market invites visitors to spend a relaxed day discovering local flavours, handmade goods, and small‑batch finds in a laid‑back outdoor setting. This community‑focused market brings together a rotating lineup of Island growers, makers, and artisans, making it an easy stop for anyone looking to shop local while enjoying the orchard atmosphere. Pair your market stroll with a visit to the cidery for a refreshing pour, then settle in and soak up the rural charm just outside the city.
Orchard Market at Junction Orchard & Cidery
Gordy Dodd’s One World Multicultural Festival
Returning on May 16, this beloved multicultural celebration invites Victoria residents and visitors alike to come together for a lively showcase of culture, creativity, and community. Held in the heart of the city, the event highlights the traditions, stories, and talents of diverse cultures through music, dance, food, and art, creating an atmosphere that’s as welcoming as it is vibrant. Whether you’re stopping by to enjoy the performances, sample global flavours, or simply soak up the festive energy, this annual gathering is a joyful reminder of the many cultures that help shape Victoria.
One World Cultural Festival
Metchosin Spring Witches Market
Dust off your broomstick and wander into Metchosin’s Spring Witches Market on May 16 & 17, where makers, mystics, and magical minds gather to celebrate the season. This charming rural market invites visitors to browse an enchanting mix of handcrafted goods, art, and curiosities inspired by folklore, nature, and ritual. With a warm, community‑driven atmosphere and just a hint of spellbinding flair, the Spring Witches Market is a bewitching way to welcome spring—no incantations required.
Metchosin Spring Witches Market
Pacific NW Offshore International Yacht Race
The Pacific NW Offshore race hits a sweet spot for yacht racers. It is a true offshore experience that starts near Buoy 2 off the mouth of Oregon’s Columbia River (a stone’s throw from host city Ilwaco, WA), follows Washington’s Pacific coastline northward, rounds Cape Flattery to enter the Strait of Juan de Fuca, then blast down the Strait toward Race Passage to finish just outside the entrance to Victoria BC’s Harbour. The 50 yachts can be watched from the shoreline of Sheringham Point and south, and the Finish Line is just west of Brotchie Ledge – fabulous viewing from Ogden Point breakwater, up close to some of the most breathtaking sailing racers. Drop by and congratulate them on May 16 & 17.
Pacific NW Offshore International Yacht Race




