Vancouver
May Long Weekend Events & Activities in and around Victoria: May 17 – 20, 2019.
Victoria Day weekend events and activities in and around Victoria including free fun family & kids’ activities, live music, theatre & performing arts, sports and exhibitions.
You may like:
Folk ‘N Fiddle Festival – May 31 & June 1 @ Sydney
BC Seafood Fest – June 7-16th, 2019 @ Comox
I. Family & Kids Activities this weekend
121st Island Farms Victoria Day Parade
The Island Farms Victoria Day Parade is the largest parade of the year in Victoria, and there is no better place to spend your Victoria Day holiday! The parade will feature Canadian and American marching bands, community and commercial floats, cultural shows and festive clowns. Visit Celebration Square, located in Centennial Square after the parade for a free event fun for the whole family Details
Monday, May 20, 2019 | 9:00 AM
The parade starts at Mayfair Shopping Centre and continues along Douglas Street finishing at the intersection of Douglas and Humboldt Street.
Free
Canvas Family Fest
Bring your family to this FUN, FREE community event located at Veterans Memorial Park on the corner of Veterans Memorial and Goldstream Ave. Enjoy 3 amazing inflatables, more than 20 games and arts & crafts booths, prizes, live music by La Familia, face-painting, tea, lemonade, coffee, hamburgers and hot dogs. Details
Monday, May 20, 2019 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Veterans Memorial Park, Aldwynd Road, Victoria, BC
Free
Beacon Hill Children’s Farm
Enjoy farm animal experience in the city. The hands-on experience, particularly with the most popular feature that is the goat petting area, encourages children be compassionate toward living creatures. Our goal is to help children develop a respect for animals that will remain with them for life. Details
Daily | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Goat Stampede | 10:10 AM & 5:10 PM
Beacon Hill Children’s Farm, Circle Dr, Victoria, BC
By donation
Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival
This is one of the oldest festivals in North America and one of the very few 3 full day Highland Games. The festival regularly attracts around 25,000 people to the Topaz Park events each year. The celebration of Scottish and Celtic music, arts, and culture starts off with a Tartan Parade through downtown Victoria the Saturday before the Games weekend, and includes the tilted kilt pubcrawl, clan torchlight ceremony and a series of performing arts activities. Details
May 18 – 20, 2019
Topaz Park, Victoria, BC
3-day weekend Pass: Adult $30, Senior/Youth $24
1-day Pass: Adult $15, Senior/Youth $12
Luxton Spring Fair
Come for carnival midway rides, heritage museum, antique farm equipment and more. Details
May 17 – 20, 2019
Luxton Fair Grounds, 1040 Marwood Ave, Langford, BC
All Day Ride Wristbands $40.00 per day, Free Grounds Admission All Weekend
Family Movies
- Visit participating Cineplex theatres near you and watch a family favourite film each week for only $2.99. Family Favourites Saturdays at 11:00 AM
II. Live Music
You may like:
Summer Music Festivals in BC
Victoria Baroque: Mozart for May
Victoria Baroque celebrates May with effulgent chamber works by Mozart. Playing on instruments of the 18th century, Victoria Baroque brings listeners closer to the sound world of the period, embracing the transcendent melodies and effervescent energy of Mozart’s music. Details
Friday, May 17, 2019 | 7:30 PM
Church of St John the Divine, 1611 Quadra Street, Victoria, BC
General $28 | Senior $25 | Student/Child $5
Music at the Museum
Share the gift of music with the Langley Senior B Ukulele Ensemble as they visit the Royal BC Museum as part of their Annual Victoria Spring Tour. The Senior B Ensemble consists of 19 ensemble members; ranging from ages 10 to 15 years old. The Senior B Ensemble performs with their repertoire of folk and international music to pop and rock songs from the 1950’s through to the 1980’s. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Royal BC Museum, 675 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC
Free
Wonderment w/ Righteous Rainbows of Togetherness & Fanfare
Robed wizards of live techno, Righteous Rainbows of Togetherness are shedding their big beats honed in the festival circuit for a unique performance of ambient music in quadraphonic sound. This free all ages performance marks the launch of their forthcoming album Astrobiology, a dreamy floating journey through space and time. Also performing is Fanfare aka Cam Boyce, a unique solo act with looper pedal, violin, and guitar alongside deep, soulful vocals and fresh beatbox beats. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Greater Victoria Public Library, 735 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC
Free
DieMahler Ensemble
The DieMahler Ensemble specializes in masterful musical artistry, vibrancy, character, and very deep feeling, leaving no musical path unexplored.
Each concert in this beautiful series offers a different flavour of musical colours and textures, with varied repertoire, from virtuoso classical works to gorgeous light romantic works that explore the wide range of musical emotion and expression. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 2:30 PM
St Mary’s Church Oak Bay, 1701 Elgin Rd, Victoria, BC
Adult $25, Senior $22.50
Wonderment featuring KITE and CNOC:N:CONC
Open Space and the Garden City Electronic Music Society present a night of electronic music and multimedia performance art from KITE and CNOC:N:CONC. Details
Sunday, May 19, 2019 | 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Open Space, 510 Fort St, 2nd floor, Victoria, BC
Free
Paul Pigat and the Smoking Jackets
May 17 – 18, 2019 | 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Hermann’s Jazz Club, 753 View Street, Victoria, BC
$20/$15 Students
Saturday CanUS Dixieland Matinee
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Hermann’s Jazz Club, 753 View Street, Victoria, BC
$12
III. Theatre/Performing Arts
Victoria Academy of Ballet
This performance showcases the wonderful talent at Victoria Academy of Ballet and gives all students the opportunity to display their skills and progress learned over the course of the year. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM
McPherson Playhouse, #3 Centennial Square Victoria, Victoria, BC
Adult $30, Senior/Student $25
We are the Levinsons
Bema Productions presentS 2019 Mainstage production, the Canadian Premiere of “We Are The Levinsons” by Wendy Kout. The story details the phenomenon of the “sandwich generation” — adults caring for both children and aging parents — through the lens of one family’s momentous year. Details
May 9 to 23, 2019
Congregation Emanu-El Synagogue, 471 Richmond Street, Victoria, BC
$23 per person
The Best of Friends
This story follows the adventures of three older women trying to make a difference in the world. The central character, Dorothy, is recently retired, childless, thrice married and now single. She spends her days fighting to keep her modest home out of the hands of developers and indulging in her lifelong hobby of writing letters she never sends to famous people – most frequently, Omar Sharif. In the preparation and aftermath of Dorothy and her friends’ attempt to pull off a major fund-raising dinner, Wyatt explores with wit and insight the ups and downs of deep-rooted friendship. Details
April 30 – May 18, 2019
Theatre Inconnu, 1923 Fernwood Road (across the street from the Belfry Theatre)
$14 regular, $10 seniors (60+) /students/unwaged
Ballet Victoria’s “Alice in Wonderland”
Destrooper goes down the rabbit hole: “He has gone mad, entirely bonkers I’m afraid but he’ll tell you a secret. All the best people are!” Expect the unexpected for this brand new creation that will warm your heart and brighten your day, “Oh, ’tis love, ’tis love that makes the world go round!” Details
May 17 – 18, 2019
Friday | 7:30 PM
Saturday | 2:00 PM
Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC
Adult $30 – $82, Child $16 – $40.50, Military $18.25 – $63.50, Senior/Student $23,50 – $67.25
Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Nile
Kay Ridgeway has led a charmed life. Blessed with beauty, enormous wealth, and a new husband, she embarks on a honeymoon voyage down the Nile. Fatal circumstances await when the idyllic surroundings are shattered by a shocking and brutal murder. Under scrutiny is a multitude of memorable passengers, all with a reason to kill. The tension and claustrophobia builds, as a shocking and audacious conspiracy is laid bare. Details
May 16 – 19, 2019
Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, BC
Adults $18.90, Senior/Student $16.80
Chris D’Elia
Follow the Leader Tour. Details
Sunday, May 19, 2019 | 7:00 PM & 9:30 PM
Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC
Tickets starting at $45.75
IV. Sports/Games & Related Events
Pacific FC
vs. York9 FC. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 12:30 PM
Westhills Stadium, Victoria
$22.05 & up
Roller Derby Double Header! Villains & Brawlers
Join the Eves of Destruction for our 2019 home teams debut! Both the Margarita Villains and the Belles of the Brawl will be taking the track tonight, and they’re out for glory. First up, the Margarita Villains square off against the Harbour City Rollers, hailing from Nanaimo, then the Belles of the Brawl take on friendly rivals Squamish Women’s Roller Derby at 7:30 PM. Both of these visiting teams always bring their A game and we are looking forward to battling them on the track. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Archie Browning Sports Centre, 1151 Esquimalt Rd, Victoria, BC
$10 in advance | $15 at the door | Kids 10 and Under Free
Victoria Day Douglas Mile
On Monday, May 20th, our 1st Annual Victoria Day Douglas Mile will take place just prior to the start of the Island Farms Victoria Day Parade. Details
Monday May 20, 2019 | 8:55 AM – 9:20 AM
Downtown Victoria, Victoria, BC
The race will start at Douglas and Summit and will finish at City Hall. It will begin at 8:55 am, with the Parade starting at 9:00 am.
100% of the proceeds are going to the 21 partner charities of the GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon, the Victoria Festivals Society, and the Victoria Marathon Society. You can also donate more to each of the charities by adding to your registration fee.
V. Exhibitions, Festivals & Other Events
You may like:
A Spiral Skywalk Coming to Vancouver Island
Victoria Then & Now: Postcards From the Past
Join us for some time travel to scenes of Victoria long ago, revisited today. Local author and historian Nick Russell revisits the favourite sites and subjects of early Victoria as told through postcards. Details
Thursday, May 16, 2019 | 7:30 PM
Ross Bay Villa Historic House Museum, 1490 Fairfield Road, Victoria, BC
$10, Reserve
Maya: Rediscovering 3000 Years of History
Our image of Maya culture has changed radically in recent decades. New research shows that the Maya are one of the oldest civilizations on the American continent. During their heyday, they created a dense urban landscape in the tropical rainforest of Central America. Learn more about the development of the Maya from 1000 BCE until today and new research that has changed our understanding of Maya civilization.
Includes pre-opening access to Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises exhibition. Details
Thursday, May 16, 2019 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Royal BC Museum, 1490 Fairfield Road, Victoria, BC
$50 per person
International Museum Day
In celebration of International Museum Day, we are opening up the Gallery of Nature with admission by donation all day. We want to welcome everybody in the local community to participate in International Museum Day and enjoy a fun-filled Saturday with nature-inspired art. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Bateman Foundation Gallery of Nature, 470 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC
Free (by donation)
Sea Glass Jewelry Workshop
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
The Maritime Museum of BC, 634 Humboldt Street, Victoria, BC
$19.99 + GST per person; Register in advance; Ticket includes admission to the Maritime Museum of BC
Annual Historic Military Encampment
Stroll through the fort amidst marquee and bell tents representing various periods from the 1850s to the 1950s.
Historic re-enactors will bring to life stories from generations ago. Admire equipment, uniforms and motor vehicles from Canada’s military past. Details
May 17 – 19, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fort Rodd Hill & Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites, 603 Fort Rodd Hill Road, Victoria, BC
Regular admission – Adult $3.90, Senior $3.40, Youth free
Hometown Heroes
Join us to honour two local, living Second World War veterans who, as young adults, contributed to victory at sea during the Battle of the Atlantic.
This free public event will also be an opportunity to pay tribute to those who fought during D-Day and the Battle of Normandy 75 years ago. Also on hand will be Second World War era military vehicles with re-enactors, a Royal Canadian Navy patrol frigate, and a flyover by a vintage aircraft. Details
Friday, May 17, 2019 | 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
Fort Rodd Hill & Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites, 603 Fort Rodd Hill Road, Victoria, BC
Free
Harbour Ferry Water Ballet
When the harbour ferries were originally brought to Victoria in 1990, the Skippers were amazed at their maneuverability. Taking inspiration from the world famous RCMP Musical Ride, they set out to test their abilities by creating a synchronized performance. With no passengers on board, the Captains were able to push the their little boats to the limit, making them twirl around the water in and out of beautifully choreographed sequences. And so began the affectionately named Water Ballet. Details
May to September, 2019 | 10: 45 AM
May 19 – 20, 2019
Inner Harbour, Victoria, BC
Free
Field Guides for Listeners
Open Space artist-run centre presents Field Guides For Listeners, a collaboration between sound artist Jenni Schine and visual artist Jay White, which examines the relationship between art and science through studying the effects of salmon farming on the Pacific Coast of B.C. Details
Tuesday – Saturday, April 12 – May 31, 2019 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Open Space, 510 Fort St, 2nd floor, Victoria, BC
Admission is free / by donation
Scattered Artists 2019 Art Tour
Artists within the area bordered by Mt. Doug, Swan Lake, Blanshard, Hillside and Shelbourne” invite you to come and discover the many treasures they have created throughout the year. There are all sizes & styles of paintings, pottery & sculpture, stone & glass art, fiber art, gourd designs, vintage image restoration & jewellery as well as art cards & calendars – and some delightful surprises. We have 14 artists this year with only 4 venues to visit! Details
May 18 – 19, 2019 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Various Locations
Free, self-guided event
Other Events/Activities
- No Rules: Quilt Exhibit – April 2 – June 15, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM @ Sidney Museum | By Donation
- ŚXEL,ES / New Paintings – This ground-breaking exhibition looks at some of the boldest contemporary image-makers on the Northwest Coast. ŚXEL,ES – New Painting brings together a collection of Coast Salish and Northwest Coast artists who are pushing the boundary of expected themes and characters with bold and emphatic works. May 4 – June 8, 2019 @ Alcheringa Gallery | Free
- Sooke Country Market on Saturdays, May – October, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM @ Otter Point Road at Eustace Road, Sooke
- Moss Street Market on Saturdays, May – October, 2019 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM @ Moss St
- The James Bay Community Market on Saturdays, May 4- September 28, 2019 | 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM @ Corner of Menzies and Superior
- Tour the Ross Bay Villa Historic House Museum on Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 2:00 PM | $5
VI. Food Events & Nightlife Events
Kiwanis Gala Cocktail Fundraiser
Complimentary Signature Cocktail | Hot & Cold Appetizer Stations | Door Prizes | Games of Chance | Transportation – “Duncan – Chemainus return”. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Playbill Dining Room At the Chemainus Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd, Chemainus BC
Regular: $125 PP | Evening Wear or Business Attire
Lust Life Jazz Band plays The Hotel Grand Pacific
Enjoy a spring evening of great music, quality libations , and terrific food.
Join Lust Life Jazz Band for an evening of superb music in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere every Saturday in May. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
The Pacific Lounge at the Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville street, Victoria, BC
Free
Blue Grouse Estate Winery Summer Kick Off Party
Celebrate the season with music, food, frosѐ and our new vintages. Details
May 18 – 19, 2019 | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Blue Grouse Estate Winery, 2182 Lakeside Road, Duncan, BC
2000’s Dance Party
Throwback to your fav dance hits from the 2000’s: Nelly, Justin Timerlake, Beyonce, Outkast, Britney Spears, Missy Elliot, and Soulja Boy! This is a fundraiser for the VEC, a much needed space in our community. Give the VEC some. Details
Friday, May 17, 2019 | 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad Street, Victoria, BC
Free
Garden City Soul Club & the VEC present: For Dancers Only
This Victoria’s longest running vinyl only Soul and Funk night, and we are set for another fun night of dancin’ at the Victoria Event Centre! This is a floor fillin’, soul shakin’ DANCE PARTY!
We are constantly digging up new tracks for your dancing pleasure. We play Northern Soul rarities, Stax and Motown classics, Modern Soul bangers, and Funky floor fillers. 19+. Details
Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 9:00 PM
Victoria Event Centre, 1415 Broad Street, Victoria, BC
$10.00 at the door
Refugee Fundraiser: 2nd Korean Dinner & Cultural Celebration
This night of Korean food, music, dance, and art is a fundraiser to help the Kalmo Refugee Support Group reunite a Somali refugee family. Through a private sponsorship arrangement, the Kalmo Refugee Support Group is helping Marwo Abdi, a Somali woman living in Victoria, to bring her mother, brother and two cousins to Canada from a refugee camp in Uganda. Details
Sunday, May 19, 2019 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 924 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC
$15.00 – $72.00
We do try to make the listings as accurate as possible, but there may be typographical/oversight errors or events may be cancelled or postponed without any notice. Verify all details from concerned event Websites/officials.