The Butchart Gardens

Things to Do on Christmas & Boxing Day in Victoria

Celebrate the magic of Christmas and Boxing Day in Victoria with a mix of festive lights, outdoor adventures, delicious dining, and unique experiences. Whether you’re spending time with family, exploring nature, or enjoying holiday events, Victoria offers something special for everyone.

Visit The Butchart Gardens

Experience the enchanting beauty of The Butchart Gardens, a year-round treasure transformed into a holiday wonderland during the season. Though closed on Christmas Day, the gardens reopen on Boxing Day, with festive lights from 3 PM to 9 PM. Enjoy a magical evening stroll or a delicious meal at the Dining Room or Blue Poppy Restaurant (not on Christmas Day).

Admire Christmas Lights

Victoria dazzles with holiday light displays that bring the season to life. Explore the Lights of Wonder downtown daily until December 31st. The Ferris Wheel will not be running on December 25th. On December 26, enjoy outdoor games such as jenga and corn hole, ferris wheel, free photo booth, food and drinks by 420 Poutine House, Aerobic Geisha Coffee, and Poutine 66.

Visit the Christmas Tree Village at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre from 12:30 pm to 10 pm. Other highlights include the Bay Centre’s Festival of Trees (closed Dec 25), the illuminated Merridale courtyard, and Sidney’s twinkling town-wide decorations.

Do a Christmas Day Bird Count

Enjoy a peaceful Christmas morning with a bird count in Victoria’s scenic areas. Use a bird ID app to identify local species while exploring nature on a crisp walk. If you prefer to stay indoors, count the birds that visit your backyard feeder for a cozy alternative.

Pinocchio the Panto

Enjoy an afternoon of theatre with Pinocchio The Panto by the Peninsula Players on Boxing Day at 2 PM. Follow along as the wooden puppet Pinocchio learns to follow his conscience on his way to becoming a real child. Hosted at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney, it’s a delightful event for all ages.

Jack and the Beanstalk Laugh, Sing and Boo!!

Have lots of fun at this reimagined fairy tale that sees Jack sell Daisy the Cow for beans, which grow into a beanstalk. On Decemebr 26, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Go on a Sleigh Ride

Celebrate a timeless holiday tradition with a cozy horse-drawn sleigh ride. Snuggle under blankets, listen to the jingle of bells and take in the festive atmosphere with family and friends.

Christmas Brunch or Dinner

Savor the flavors of the season with a holiday meal at Victoria’s top restaurants. Options include the Fairmont Empress, Villa Eyrie, and The Courtney Room, offering dine-in or takeout menus to make your celebration delicious and memorable.

A few options:

Geocaching

Turn your holiday into a treasure hunt with geocaching. Use a GPS or mobile app to locate hidden caches throughout the city. This interactive, family-friendly activity combines adventure and mild exercise in Victoria’s scenic outdoors.

Enjoy a Walk or Picnic

Explore Victoria’s green spaces with a winter walk or picnic. Discover trails and pathways in regional and local parks, or enjoy a game-filled afternoon with your family. A simple walk can turn into a magical holiday memory in the beauty of nature.

25 Outdoor Activities & Adventures In and Around Victoria

Oak Bay Xmas Cup

Cheer on local teams at the Oak Bay Xmas Cup, a charity hockey tournament held on Boxing Day. With four teams competing for the cup, this event is a fun way to support a great cause and enjoy the festive spirit.

Step Into A Miniature World

Explore miniature displays of fairy tales, historic battles, and nursery rhymes at Miniature World. Open on Decemebr 26 from 10 AM to 6 PM, this charming attraction offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Closed on Dec 25.

Christmas at Haunted Manor

Try something different with a round of mini-golf at the Haunted Manor. This 15-hole immersive course features a spooky holiday twist, complete with a ghoul-filled storyline. Open Boxing Day from 12:00 PM to 10:15 PM, it’s perfect for a fun and quirky outing.

Explore Butterfly Gardens

Step into a lush tropical paradise at Butterfly Gardens, where thousands of butterflies fly among vibrant flowers and greenery. Open on Boxing Day from 10 AM to 5 PM, it’s a serene and magical escape from the winter chill.

Malahat SkyWalk

Celebrate the season with a visit to the Malahat SkyWalk, open on Boxing Day from 9 AM to 3:00 PM. Enjoy breathtaking views and make it a highlight of your holiday. Closed on Dec 25.

See a Movie

Relax with family and friends at your local theater on Christmas or Boxing Day. From holiday classics to the latest blockbusters, a movie outing is a cozy way to spend quality time together.

Plan a Trip to a Provincial Park

Escape to a nearby provincial park for outdoor winter fun like cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, or tobogganing. For a slower pace, enjoy a relaxing walk and take in the beauty of nature during the festive season.

With so many festive activities, your Christmas and Boxing Day in Victoria will be filled with joy, adventure, and lasting memories!