The holidays are truly the most wonderful time of the year here. Victoria becomes a magical winter wonderland during the yuletide season. That’s thanks to mild weather, an abundance of festive cheer including light displays, carriage rides, holiday shopping, and a full events calendar that offers something for everyone. Looking for some of the best holiday events in Victoria, BC? Read on for our favourite picks. 

Habitat for Humanity 13th Annual Gingerbread Showcase

The Parkside Hotel & Spa couldn’t be more proud to once again be the host of this year’s Gingerbread Showcase, running November 20 until January 2, 2022. The event is set to put some spectacular works of edible art — designed by the area’s most renowned bakers and culinary experts — on display here, and at three partner locations just steps from our front door. The theme of this year’s event is “The Future of Home,” which seeks to inspire all of us to think about how we can all make a smaller impact on the world, and a larger one on the lives of the less fortunate among us. Want to make it a true holiday getaway? Take a look at our Gingerbread Package! This special includes a stay in a one-bedroom suite, gingerbread cookies, hot chocolate and a donation to Habitat for Humanity! 

810 Humboldt St, Victoria BC V8V 5B1

The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens 

The always-beautiful Butchart Gardens become even more so during the holiday season. Thousands of lights festoon the festive foliage around the gardens, and are certain to twinkle and glow amid expected snowfall this year. Guests will enjoy spotting the sequential “12 Days of Christmas” displays scattered throughout the grounds, then warming up with a rich hot cocoa and sweet gingerbread around the fireplace at the Coffee Shop. The event will take place November 26 through January 6. 

800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8

A Taste of Victoria Tour 

As one of the city’s most popular attractions, the A Taste of Victoria tour has been taking guests around the city on a delicious journey of fine flavours (and the local history that inspired them) for more than five years. During the holidays, the tour truly takes on a tasteful twist — many of the stops on the tour update their menus to include seasonal favourites that aren’t available at other times of the year. So bring your sense of adventure, and a healthy appetite! 

1701 Douglas St #6, Victoria, BC V8W 0C1

Christmas at Craigdarroch Castle

There are few places in Victoria that are as — well, Victorian as Craigdarroch Castle. As stunning as “The Castle” is at all times of year, the holidays are when it truly comes alive with spectacular seasonal splendour. Castle tours will be available daily, bringing visitors through areas of the interior that have been decked out in gorgeous holiday finery. The gift shop will also be stocked with splendid holiday items, so be sure to bring your shopping list and stock up on treasures.

1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC V8S 3L5, Canada

The Bay Centre Festival of Trees

The annual Festival of Trees is back at The Bay Centre, and is bigger and better than ever. The common areas will be filled with oversized, one-of-a-kind, seasonally decorated trees, each more impressive than the last. In true holiday spirit, funds raised from the holiday display will benefit BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, dedicated to helping kids in need. Be sure to vote for your favourites among all of the beautiful botanical behemoths! 

1150 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V9A 6X5

Lights of Wonder — Centennial Square 

The city’s largest and brightest outdoor light display returns to downtown Victoria for holiday 2021. Guests are invited to stroll through the park, take in the sights, and also enjoy snacks, beverages, live entertainment, and much more. Admission is free, and visitors are welcome to attend from December 16 – 31. 

1 Centennial Square, Victoria, BC V8W 1P5