Victoria's Got a Lot Going On Right Now
Honestly, this is one of those weeks where you'll wish you'd booked an extra night. Thanksgiving just wrapped, but the city hasn't slowed down one bit. Here's the best of what's on — all guest-friendly, all worth your time.
🍂 Thanksgiving Long Weekend Round-Up
October 9–12
If you're still riding the long-weekend energy, Victoria Buzz rounded up 21 things to do over the Thanksgiving weekend — markets, live music, outdoor walks, you name it. And if you'd rather skip the cooking entirely this year, here's a handy guide to Thanksgiving dinner spots around town. No dishes. No regrets.
🎬 Victoria International Jewish Film Festival
October 13 (Tuesday)
Cinema fans, this one's for you. The Victoria International Jewish Film Festival is screening this week — a great excuse to spend a couple of hours with some genuinely good storytelling. Check their website for the current screening schedule and ticket info.
🎭 Devilish Burlesque & Drag Show
October 16 & 17
Two nights of seriously theatrical entertainment are coming to Victoria mid-month. This burlesque and drag show promises exactly the kind of night out you'll be talking about on the ferry home. Tickets and venue details on their site — book ahead, because these things sell out.
🏃 Royal Victoria Marathon — Road Closure Heads-Up
Sunday, October 12
If you're heading out on Sunday, good to know: major road closures are coming to Greater Victoria for the Royal Victoria Marathon. James Bay in particular will have limited access for a good chunk of the morning. Build in some extra time if you're walking or busing anywhere south of downtown — and hey, the marathon itself is a pretty great thing to cheer on from the sidelines.
🎨 New Indigenous Mural: *The Salish Sea Remembers*
Now Showing (Unveiled October 9)
This one's free, it's beautiful, and it's worth a detour. A stunning new Indigenous mural titled *The Salish Sea Remembers* was just unveiled beneath the Johnson Street Bridge. It's an easy walk from Ocean Island — pop by on your way along the waterfront and take a moment with it. Public art like this is part of what makes this city genuinely worth paying attention to.
🌸 Exotic Orchid & Rare Plant Sale
October (Check Dates)
Okay, this one's a bit niche — but thousands of exotic orchids and rare plants are up for sale in Victoria this October, and if you or someone you know is even a little bit plant-obsessed, this is genuinely exciting. Check the link for exact dates and location.
🎵 Live Music & Theatre All Week
October 7 onwards
Victoria's live scene is properly buzzing right now. Thursday's round-up had live music and theatre across the city, and earlier in the week there were free backyard concerts and a Psychic Fair if that's your vibe. Keep an eye on Victoria Buzz's daily round-ups — they're the quickest way to catch what's on any given night.
Not sure where to start? Pop by the Ocean Island front desk — we know what's worth your time this week, can help you sort out getting there, and may have discounts on local tours (whale watching with Orca Spirit, anyone?). We're happy to help you make the most of Victoria while you're here. 🐳
