10 things to do in Victoria this June

Kick off your summer on the right foot with Greater Victoria’s festival season in full effect. From music and tea to markets and sports, June is jam-packed with activities for every type of traveller and explorer. Not sure where to begin? Get travel inspiration from a local and let your journey unfold one step at a time. Because when you’re on island time, there’s no rush.

1. Celebrate Father’s Day

This Father’s Day, treat dad to something special. From craft beer to sports & outdoor activities, we’ve got you covered with satisfying options for every dad.

• Breweries: Whistle Buoy, Swan’s Pub & Brewery, Swift Brewing, Phillips Brewing, Vancouver Island Brewing and many more options!
• Golf Courses: Cedar Hill Golf Course, Bear Mountain Golf & Tennis Resort, Highland Pacific Golf, Olympic View Golf Course and Henderson Park Golf Course.
• Fishing Charters: No Limit Charters, KingSize Adventures and 2 Reel Fishing Adventures.

2. TD Victoria International JazzFest

From June 21-30, let the soulful tunes of the TD Victoria Jazz Festival sweep you off your feet. Celebrating its 40^th year of the coolest music in town for hot summer nights, this week of performances is sure to impress. Visit jazzvictoria.ca for schedule, lineup and more.

3. Oak Bay Tea Party

Join in the fun of the annual Oak Bay Tea Party, an event in its 62^nd year. Hosted at Willows Beach from May 31 to June 2, this fan favourite event features carnival rides, live entertainment and delicious morsels. With something for everyone, it’s a great outing for families and solo travellers alike! Learn more at oakbayteaparty.com.

4. Visit Stonehenge at the Royal BC Museum

Stonehenge is the latest exhibit release at the Royal BC Museum, and you won’t want to miss it! Recently opened on May 10, the exhibition features more than 400 ancient artifacts, including never before seen burial belongings of the Stonehenge and Amesbury archers. With artifacts dating back over 4,500 years, history buffs will especially enjoy this trip to the always-spectacular museum.

5. Victoria Pride Festival

From June 27 to July 7, join us in celebrating love and diversity at the 2024 Victoria Pride Festival. Between the annual Pride Parade (11:00 AM on July 7) and Pride Festival in the Park—taking place at MacDonald Park from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM on Sunday, July 7—there’s so much happening including music, entertainment, and artisanal & food vendors. Learn more at victoriapridesociety.org.

6. Visit Local Markets

June is a fabulous time to visit Victoria’s bustling markets. From artisanal crafters at Bastion Square Public Market to food & beverages at the Victoria Public Market at the Hudson, you’ll find inspiration and delight around every corner. Wherever you’re visiting from, we’re confident that you’ll find a tasteful memento from one of these local vendors.

For more market options, be sure to check out the Esquimalt Farmer’s Market (Thursdays), the James Bay Market (Saturdays) and the Moss Street Market (Saturdays).

7. Bacon Beer & Bourbon Festival

Indulge your senses in the irresistible combination of smoky bacon, craft beer and bourbon at this flavour-packed festival. Taking place on June 22^nd at Starlight Stadium in Langford, foodies will not want to miss this event! Sample creative pork-forward creations and seasonal beers in a celebration that will make you want to step up your BBQ game.

8. Attend the Beachlands Victoria Open

Tee off your summer at the Beachlands Victoria Open from June 16-23, where golfers from across the world will converge on Victoria as part of the 2024 PGA Tour Americas season. Witness golf excellence in a mild, sunny climate and experience the excitement of this tournament now in its 41^st year. Learn more at thebeachlandsvictoriaopen.ca.

9. Celebrate FernFest

Join in the FREE fun at FernFest 2024—a celebration of arts, music and community in the ‘Funky Fernwood’ neighbourhood. This two-day festival—taking place from June 14-15—will have musical performances, great food and drinks, an artisan market, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with the community and celebrate the city’s creative spirit!

10. Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival

Get your groove on from June 19-23 at the Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival. Celebrating its 25^th year, this festival showcases an incredible lineup of artists from around the world. Enjoy moving performances against the stunning backdrop of Victoria’s Inner Harbour while checking out on-site art exhibits and workshops. Visit victoriaskafest.ca for tickets and more information.