Victoria Day weekend falls from May 16th to 18th this year, and Southern Vancouver Island is gearing up to celebrate. Whether you want to head out to a special event or just kick back and relax, there's no shortage of fun things to do around Victoria and the surrounding area during the holiday weekend.

Our real estate agents have prepared a list of activities they plan to take part in this Victoria Day weekend. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about all six of these exciting opportunities. 

6 Fun Victoria Day Activities for Your Long Weekend on Southern Vancouver Island

Attend the Victoria Day Parade 

Address: 501 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC V8V 

The 126th annual Victoria Day Parade is scheduled for the morning of May 18th, and you won't want to miss it. Proud to be one of the largest annual parades in Canada, this beloved local tradition is only getting bigger and better every year. This year's version has more than 150 participating organizations whose contributions include: 

• Decorated floats sponsored by local businesses and non-profits 
• Marching bands 
• Cultural groups 
• Clowns and jugglers 

Marchers will start at the intersection of Government and Belleville streets, right next to the BC Parliament buildings. They will then proceed down Government Street to Wharf Street, ending at the intersection of Wharf and Johnson. 

The parade begins at 9 a.m. and is expected to last around three hours. Stick around after it ends for even more live tunes, a bevy of food trucks, and a pop-up crafters' market full of handmade treats and trinkets. 

Visit the Luxton Spring Fair - Langford, BC

Address: Luxton Fairgrounds, 1040 Marwood Avenue, Langford, BC V9C 3C4 

The Luxton Spring Fair will be in town from May 14th to 17th at the Luxton Fairgrounds. This two-part event features:  

• An agricultural section with old farm equipment, a travelling museum, a blacksmith, and a vendors' market (open from noon to 6 p.m. every day with free admission) 
• A section with midway rides and carnival games (open starting at 3 p.m. on the 14th and 15th and at noon on the 16th and 17th - $40 for an unlimited ride wristband if purchased in advance or $50 at the door) 

This is a great place for families looking for a special holiday outing for their kids. Get the little ones a wristband and set them loose while you snack on fair food from the sidelines. 

Walk Through the Inner Harbour in Downtown Victoria 

Address: Inner-Harbour Pathway, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5 

Victoria's iconic Inner Harbour is always buzzing with activity, and that's never more true than on Victoria Day weekend. Walk down to this vibrant downtown area near our Victoria homes for sale to find: 

• Points of interest like the marina, the BC Parliament Buildings, and the Fairmont Empress Hotel 
• Buskers and street performers 
• Ship Point Market, a thriving marketplace where you'll find everything from handcrafted jewelry to one-of-a-kind furniture and home decor 
• Food vendors where you can grab a bite on your stroll 

Avoid visiting during peak hours (usually around mealtimes) if you don't like crowds. This part of the city will be packed with people all weekend. 

Spend Some Time at Island View Beach Regional Park 

Address: 3215 Island View Road, Saanichton, BC V8M 1W3 

Island View Beach Regional Park opens up for the summer on Victoria Day weekend, just in time to celebrate the occasion near our Central Saanich homes for sale. On top of its long stretches of sandy beach and stunning views of James Island from across the water, this park also offers: 

• A sprawling network of hiking trails to explore 
• Abundant birdwatching opportunities 
• Picnic benches and shelters where you can enjoy a holiday meal 
• Campgrounds with both beachside and forested camping sites 

You can hang out here for free if you don't plan to stay overnight. Campers pay $25 a night plus a flat fee of $10 per vehicle, regardless of how long they stay.  

Get a Taste of Scottish Culture at the Victoria Highland Games 

Address: 3100 Blanchard Street, Victoria, BC V8X 4A2 

Victoria's Highland Games & Celtic Festival technically starts on May 9th, but the best parts of the event will be in full swing on Victoria Day weekend. Visit Topaz Park on the 16th and 17th to see:  

• Drum and bagpipe performances  
• Concerts from Celtic-inspired musical groups like The Slieves and The Hounds of Cuchulain 
• Highland dance performances and competitions 
• Sports competitions featuring traditional Scottish events like the stone put and sheaf toss 
• Informational kiosks covering the history of various Scottish clans 
• A concession area and beer garden 
• Workshops on whiskey and wine tasting (extra fees apply) 

The games run from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on both days. Many of the events are scheduled for specific time slots, so check their website for details if you're interested in a specific offering. Festival tickets start at $20 for a one-day adult pass or $15 for a one-day pass for seniors and kids aged 13 to 17. Kids under 12 get in for free. 

Stock Up on Farm-Fresh Goodies at Junction Orchard and Cidery's Orchard Market 

Address: 273 Prospect Lake Road, Victoria, BC V9E 1J7

Junction Orchard and Cidery holds a monthly Orchard Market from March to December, and this month's market happens to fall on May 17th. More than a dozen vendors will be on the orchard's grounds selling: 

• Crisp, juicy fruits and vegetables grown right here in BC 
• Fresh-baked bread and treats from local bakeries
• Hot meals and snacks from neighborhood food trucks 
• Clothing, accessories, greeting cards, beauty products, and other wares made by talented local artisans  

The market will be open from noon to 6 p.m. and is free to enter. Why not stop by to get some high-quality groceries for a special Victoria Day dinner?  

Victoria Day Weekend FAQs for Southern Vancouver Island

What are the best free things to do in Victoria on Victoria Day weekend?

Many popular activities are free, including the Victoria Day Parade, exploring the Inner Harbour, visiting local markets, and spending time at parks like Island View Beach Regional Park.

When is the Victoria Day Parade in Victoria, BC?

The parade typically takes place on the Monday of Victoria Day weekend and starts in the morning, running through downtown Victoria along Government Street.

Are Victoria Day weekend events family-friendly?

Yes, most events, such as the Luxton Spring Fair, Highland Games, and local markets, offer activities that are ideal for families with children.

Do I need tickets for the Victoria Highland Games?

Yes, admission is required for the Highland Games, with single-day passes available. Some activities inside the event may have additional fees.

What outdoor activities are popular on Southern Vancouver Island during Victoria Day weekend?

Visitors often enjoy beach visits, hiking, cycling, and waterfront walks, especially at places like the Inner Harbour and Island View Beach Regional Park.

Make Every Day a Celebration in Victoria, BC 

Victoria Day weekend may only come once a year, but there's always something fun going on here in BC's capital city. It's time to embrace that exciting life you've been dreaming about. Contact us today to take a closer look at all of the beautiful Victoria homes we have on the market right now. Find one you love, and you'll feel like a local in no time.