Spending Christmas in Victoria, BC, is a magical experience. The Vancouver Island capital city dresses itself in festive lights and glimmering decorations. Downtown is a wonderland of 19th century storefronts, local carollers and Christmas activities.
Christmas City Tours
Warm up by taking a city tour to get acquainted with the capital. They run downtown through the dazzling light displays, within the unique neighbourhoods and to the Esquimault Dockyards, where a view of the lit up ships in port are displayed. John Adams of Discover the Past tells guests tales of ghosts, legends and supernatural Christmas. Lasting 90 minutes, no reservations are required and they run Saturdays at 7:30 pm plus December 27-31, 2007.
Known for its turn-of-the-century grand charm, the Fairmont hosts the Festival of Trees from November 20, 2007 to January 7, 2008. Dozens of trees are decorated with glorious garland and lights to celebrate the Christmas season. Not only is the display beautiful, but the hotel runs tours on Wednesdays at 10:30am and tea at 12:15pm. Reservations are recommended for the $49.00 CDN walk, $5.00 of which is donated to the Christmas Children's Hospital Fund. Call (250) 995-4688.
The Butchart Gardens
A must-see is the Butchart Gardens, awash in radiance during Christmastime. Thousands of lights are strung and seasonal entertainment is offered. Running until January, seeing the gardens during this season is different than at any other time. A bonus is the 50-person outdoor skating rink from December 1, 2007 to January 6, 2008.
Take a rest with a Horse-Drawn Carolling Tour. Sing songs while passing the city sights and experience the warm festivities that descend upon the city core during Christmastime.
Shopping
Get back out there with some gift shopping. There are stores that spotlight Christmas items all year long, while others bring out their exclusive displays during December and January. Check with the Victoria Tourist Office for craft fair dates and locations, as they also run throughout this time.
Heritage in the City
A step back in time is easy at the Helmcken House, Point Ellice, Carr House and the 1890s Craigdarroch Castle, which is in all its glory from December 2, 2007 to January 5, 2008. Victorian decorations and entertainment are available, as is a welcoming environment for families and those of all ages.
Getting to Victoria, BC
- By Air: Take a plane from throughout Canada and the United States and arrive at the Victoria International Airport, oOnly 30 minutes from downtown Victoria and five minutes from Sidney. There are daily flights from WestJet, Pacific Coastal Airlines, Harbour Air Seaplanes, Helijet International, Kenmore Air Seaplanes and West Coast Air. Prices vary from destination but an average flight from Calgary during the holiday season is $500.00 CDN, including taxes and surcharges.
- By Water: passenger and vehicle ferries connect Victoria to mainland British Columbia and Washington State. The views are breathtaking and the ferry terminal is located about 30 minutes from downtown Victoria. Try BC Ferry Services for journeys from $33.00 CDN from Vancouver to Victoria, one way, plus taxes.
More information on sample itineraries and assistance is available from Tourism Victoria.
Lori Henry - A travel writer, Lori flits between exploring the world with incessant curiosity and huddling over her laptop writing.
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