O Canada! The time of year has come to unreservedly show our national colors and revel in all things Canadian. Celebrate the nation’s 156th birthday with a relaxing waterfront picnic in the park, the resonant sounds of a local concert, a festive and colorful parade, and a great big slice of Canada Day cake. Dig into our local guide to celebrating Canada Day in Victoria to make sure you don’t missing out on any of the festivities!
Picnic at the Gorge
Deck out your bike with flags, follow the sounds of fire trucks, police cars and bagpipers to the intersection of Gorge and Tillicum and join in the Canada Day Family Parade as it makes its way to Craigflower-Kosapsom Park. Here you’ll find the annual Gorge Canada Day Picnic, where you can spend a relaxing day on the water.
Refuel with a delicious pancake breakfast or sweet and savory treats from the array of multicultural food vendors. Check out classic cars, play a game of street hockey, or cruise the waters in canoe. If you are need of some R&R, cozy up on a picnic blanket by the Gorge on Art stage to watch live performances, or stroll around the artisan market for unique clothing, jewelry, natural soaps and small-batch baked goods.
Festivities in Sooke
Dig out your kilt, grab your bagpipes and venture a little further from Victoria’s urban center for an authentic small-town Sooke Canada Day celebration with a little British flair. Good news for you late risers: the events don’t kick off until 1 p.m., with a parade led by the Sooke Pipes & Drums and local RCMP. The afternoon is filled with music, fair games, logger sports, a pie eating contest and, finally, fireworks in the field at the campground.
Raven Baroque Performance
For a truly unique way to celebrate Canada Day, head to the top of the stunning Mt. Tolmie for a free concert (admission by donation) by Raven Baroque, a Victoria-based 14-piece classic baroque music group. Dressed in 16th-century attire, the unplugged ensemble will treat you to the melodic sounds of violins, guitars, cello, bass and vocalists, making for a spectacular visual and auditory performance.
Live Music on the Lawn
Jam to scintillating tunes as the BC Legislature Lawns transform into a one-of-a-kind multicultural concert experience. With the stunning BC Legislative buildings providing a dramatic backdrop and the glistening waters of the Inner Harbour right behind you, this is a rare opportunity to catch some tunes in one of the most iconic locations in the city. Just be sure to show up early to ensure a good vantage point, the space usually fills up quickly!
Fireworks at the Inner Harbour
End your day with a bang when the sun goes down (at approximately 10:20 p.m.) by watching a vibrant fireworks light up the night sky over the serene waters of the Inner Harbour. Tune in to the Zone @ 91.3 or 100.3 The Q! for some sweet tunes to accompany the magnificent display.
Wave your flags, wear your maple leaf T-shirts and join in the festivities. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll be celebrating Canada Day in Victoria like a true local!
Clipper Recommends:
- Take a short and fun ride on Clipper the for an overnight trip to Victoria and celebrate Canada Day in this vibrant and charming city.
- Looking for fun ways to get around the city this summer? Check on the many unique transit options available in Victoria.
Feature Photo: Ruben Schade