May Long Weekend Events & Activities in Victoria
Friday, May 15– Monday, May 18, 2026
A go-to list of family activities and events taking place during May long weekend in Victoria.
I. Family & Kids Activities this weekend
Thrifty Foods 126th Anniversary Victoria Day Parade
The Thrifty Foods 126th Victoria Day Parade presented by CHEK TV on May 18, 2026 starting at 9am – Belleville and Government.
The Greater Victoria Festival Society will host a world class event showcasing our diverse cultures and celebrating with various community partners and out of town guests! Details
Monday, May 18, 2026 | 9:00 AM
Belleville and Government Street to Government and Chatham
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
Daily goat stampedes at 10:10 AM and 5:10 PM
Beacon Hill Children’s Farm, Circle Dr, Victoria
By donation
Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival
This is one of the oldest festivals in North America. 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 on Saturday, May 9 followed by the Tilted Kilt Pub Crawl on Wednesday, May 13, and the full weekend Highland Games at Topaz Park on Saturday and Sunday, May 16 and 17. Details
May 9 – 17, 2026
Topaz Park, Victoria
Free and ticketed events
Luxton Spring Fair
Come for carnival midway rides, heritage museum, antique farm equipment, and more. Details
May 14 – 17, 2026
Luxton Fair Grounds, 1040 Marwood Ave, Langford
Free Grounds Admission All Weekend
Mini Mariner Mornings – It’s a Pirate’s Life for me!
Ahoy! Join us this week for a swashbuckling good time! Come aboard and learn how to talk, dress, and move like a pirate! We’ll read about pirate manners, the code they live by, and make our very own hats!
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia, 744 Douglas Street, Victoria
Regular admission: Adult $10.00, Senior/Student $8.00, Youth $5.00, Child (under 12) – Free
II. Live Music
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Summer Music Festivals in BC
The Hip Experience
Dedicated to faithfully recreating the live sound and energy of The Tragically Hip. Hailing from Toronto, the band is led by frontman Derek Lathrop and features some of the city’s finest musicians, including Dave Deveaux on lead guitar and vocals, Ian B. Garcia on rhythm guitar and vocals, and Paul Whiteside on bass and backing vocals. Renowned for their meticulous attention to detail, The Hip Experience delivers note-for-note renditions of hits from every album in The Tragically Hip’s catalog, capturing the essence of the original performances while connecting with audiences through their own dynamic stage presence.
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 7:30 PM
McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square, Victoria
Tickets starting at $46.75
Choirburst
Podium is Canada’s national bilingual choral conference and festival, and the premier gathering for the country’s choral and group singing community. Presented by Choral Canada and the BC Choral Federation, this multi-day celebration brings together thousands of singers from across the country.
May 15 – 16, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Royal BC Museum – Clifford Carl Hall, 675 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC
Regular admission $11 – $18; Child (3-5) Free
III. Theatre/Performing Arts
The Gondoliers
The Gondoliers, or The King of Barataria, is a Savoy Opera, with music by Arthur Sullivan and libretto by W. S. Gilbert. It premiered at the Savoy Theatre in London on 7 December 1889 and ran for a very successful 554 performances (at that time the fifth longest-running piece of musical theatre in history), closing on 30 June 1891. This was the twelfth comic opera collaboration of fourteen between Gilbert and Sullivan.
May 16 – 17, 2026
Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, BC
$4.20 – $51.45
Abantu Comedy Meets Storytelling
Connect with each other through laughter and heartfelt stories during this one-night show with Nathan Hellner-Mestelman, Myles Anderson, Tori Jones and Thembie Moyo. Expect segments of stand-up comedy sharing the growing pains of a nerdy young adult to be woven with tales of the cultural shock that comes with dating in a new country. This show aims to bring joy through laughter and storytelling to share moments of relatable silliness in everyday scenarios through someone else’s shoes.
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 7:30 PM
Belfry Theatre, 1291 Gladstone Avenue, Victoria
$30 – $40
Casey and Diana
“Casey” is Casey House in Toronto—Canada’s first hospice for men dying of AIDS. “Diana” is Princess Diana—who visited Casey House in 1991—and changed the world’s attitude towards the disease. Thomas has spent five months in Casey House waiting to die. Now he’s hoping he’ll live long enough to meet the Princess he idolizes.
April 21 – May 17, 2026
Belfry Theatre, 1291 Gladstone Avenue, Victoria
$22.05 – $65.10
Alice in Wonderland
“Imagination is the only weapon in the war with reality.” Follow Alice down the rabbit hole and discover a whole new world of fantasy and frivolous fun. “We’re all mad here” mad for great dance! Set to a score by Benjamin Britten the choreography is playful and quirky with some unforgettable characters such as the Queen of Heart or the Mad Hatter and more.
May 15 – 16, 2026
Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street, Victoria
$18.50 – $100
The Comeuppance by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins
When a group of old classmates meet to pregame their twentieth high school reunion, everyone is nervous for the night ahead. As alcohol and pot help the self-declared “Multi-Ethnic Reject Group” let their guards down, they begin to reminisce about their teenage selves and reveal how their lives have unfolded since graduation. Did their friendships stand the test of time, or will they realize they don’t have as much in common as they thought they did? Brilliantly witty, theatrical, and moving, The Comeuppance focuses on millennials and their reckoning with the world they will soon inherit.
May 6 – 23, 2026
Paul Phillips Hall, 1923 Fernwood Road
$16 regular (adults), $12 seniors (60+) /students/unwaged
The Ladies Foursome
Get ready to laugh and cry on the green with Norm Foster’s uproarious comedy, The Ladies Foursome! Four friends tee off in a full round of golf the day after a friend’s funeral – revealing long-kept secrets, hilarious confessions, and pining for love near and far.
Age Recommendation: 16+.
April 17 – May 2 17, 2026
Chemainus Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd, Chemainus BC
$24 – $72
IV. Sports/Games & Related Events
Victoria Mile
It is the 126th running of the Parade and the Douglas Mile, now the Victoria Mile will be on Monday, May 18th, 2026.
Monday, May 18, 2026 | Start Time: 8:30AM
Downtown Victoria, Victoria, BC
Start on the west driveway of the Legislature, proceed up towards the steps and turn Left onto the upper driveway, turn Left on the east driveway towards Belleville, proceed onto Government to Humboldt, Left on Wharf, Right on Johnson, Left on Government to the finish line at Chatham.
Register
V. Exhibitions, Festivals & Other Events
Gordy Dodd’s One World Cultural Festival
This beloved multicultural celebration invites Victoria residents and visitors alike to come together for a lively showcase of culture, creativity, and community. Held in the heart of the city, the event highlights the traditions, stories, and talents of diverse cultures through music, dance, food, and art, creating an atmosphere that’s as welcoming as it is vibrant.
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 11 AM – 6 PM
Legislative Assembly of BC, 501 Belleville St., Victoria
Free
Critical Distance
Step into the world of Critical Distance, an immersive augmented reality experience that brings you face-to-face with a holographic orca pod. Journey alongside J-Pod, a group of 25 endangered Southern Resident orcas living in the Salish Sea off the coast of Vancouver Island.
Daily, January 23 – July 6, 2026 | 11 AM – 3 PM
Royal BC Museum, 675 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC
Regular admission $11 – $18; Child (3-5) 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 17 – 18, 2026 | 10:30 AM
Inner Harbour, Victoria, BC
Free
See Flowers at The Butchart Gardens
Located just outside the city, this magnificent garden is a delight to visit, no matter the age. Spend the day in this beautiful and relaxing atmosphere of this stunning natural area.The spring display showcases approximately 300,000 bulbs of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and more. Details
Daily | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay
Adult $41, Youth $20.50, Child $3.00, including tax
Abkhazi Garden Rhodo Rave
Enjoy the lush greenery and views at the Abkhazi Gardens. Have a light snack at the tea house and spend some time relaxing in this intimate garden.
From April 10 – May 20, celebrate Abkhazi Garden’s 80th year by visiting during the peak of its stunning rhododendron season. Stroll among century-old rhododendrons, magnolias, azaleas and other rare blooms. Rhodo Rave is the perfect moment to capture the beauty of the “Garden that Love Built”.
Daily | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Abkhazi Garden, 1964 Fairfield Road, Victoria
Admission is by a suggested donation of $10 per person
Sea Glass Jewelry Workshop
Join us to learn about the history and beauty of sea glass in this hands-on workshop. Design your very own stunning piece of jewelry using locally sourced sea glass. No experience necessary! You’ll leave with a unique and wearable work of art that captures the beauty of the sea.
Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia, 744 Douglas Street, Victoria
$29.99 + GST per person
Victoria Psychic Fair
The Victoria Psychic Fair brings you gifted psychics, intuitives, and spiritual readers from across Vancouver Island and beyond. Dive into the mysteries of your soul to discover more about your life purpose, love, relationships, guides, past lives, family, and well-being.
May 11 – 17, 2026
The Bay Centre, 1150 Douglas St, Victoria
El Shaddai
El Shaddai Victoria Chapter 22nd Anniversary. Celebration of Faith, Love & Unity
Sunday, May 17, 2026 | 10:00 AM
Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, BC
Pay-What-You-Can Fridays
Every Friday, we invite you to visit the museum and choose an admission price that works for you. This initiative is designed to ensure that everyone in our community can engage with our nautical stories, regardless of financial barriers.
Friday, May 15, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia, 744 Douglas Street, Victoria
Pay-What-You-Can
Visit Victoria Bug Zoo
Discover around 50 tropical bugs that include giant walking sticks, praying mantis, glow-in-the-dark scorpions, hairy tarantulas, and Canada’s largest ant colony. Details
Monday – Friday | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Victoria Bug Zoo, 631 Courtney Street, Victoria
Adult $18, Senior/Post Secondary Student $12, Youth Ages 5-17 $8, Child (4 and under) Free
Discover Nature Attractions
Victoria has many green spaces to explore. With a stunning harbour, dense forests, and historic buildings offering unforgettable views, there are many things to enjoy in this beautiful city.
You may also like: Outdoor Activities & Adventures In and Around Victoria
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Shop at the Victoria Public Market
Shop the local produce and wares from the Victoria Public Market! Shop flowers, decor, food, produce, and more. Details
Mondays – Saturdays | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sundays | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The Hudson, 6-1701 Douglas Street, Victoria
Getting Tiddley: Navy Uniforms from Cap to Boot
Step into the boots of a recruit and explore the evolution of the Royal Canadian Navy through the uniforms worn by those who served. From the iconic square rig to the high-tech safety gear of today, Getting Tiddley reveals how the navy uniform is a symbol of rank, a tool for survival, and a representation of Canada.
May 1–November 14, 2026
Daily | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
The Maritime Museum of British Columbia, 744 Douglas Street, Victoria
Regular admission: Adult $10.00, Senior/Student $8.00, Youth $5.00, Child (under 12) – Free
Explore Victoria Butterfly Gardens
See thousands of tropical butterflies f;y in a vibrant jungle at the Butterfly Gardens. You can also find poison dart frogs, flamingos, tropical ducks, tropical birds, tropical flowers, carnivorous plants, and fruits of the world. Details
Daily | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Victoria Butterfly Gardens, 1461 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay
Adult $20, Seniors (65+)/Students (with valid ID)/Youth $16, Children (5-12) – $9.50, Infants (0-4) Complimentary when accompanied by an adult (18+)
Go SUPing
Stand-up paddleboarding is a great activity for all ages. Explore stunning locations across Victoria, including Elk Lake, Beaver Lake, Thetis Lake, and the Gorge. SUP paddleboards are available to rent. Details
Visit Provincial Parks
Provincial Parks are great places to spend your day with nature. They offer many activities for a multi-day adventure that make the journey worthwhile. Enjoy hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing, birding, wildlife viewing, and more. Details
Wild Play
Enjoy zip-lining, log ladders, ziplines, axe throwing, rope swings, and much more at the WildPlay Elements Park. Details
Thursday – Monday | 10 AM – 6 PM
15-1767 Island Hwy, Victoria
Plan Your Summer Vacation
Explore BC this summer — 50+ Bucket List Ideas for a Summer Staycation in British Columbia
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.
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Very helpful, one stop centre for information....well done, a Happy Victoria day!