From jazz to Shakespeare, from pottery workshops to whale-watching cruises, from sand sculpture competitions to trumpeter swan festivals... Choose your adventure - and don't forget your camera!

 

 

June 2012
Sun
Tue
1/1-
12/31
Chemainus Festival of Murals
Each year, hundreds of buses & thousands of visitors from all over the world travel to Vancouver Island British Columbia to take in this unique village with its rich historic past & its professional murals & numerous other attractions. It has since gained world-wide acclaim for the integrity & superb artistry of its huge depictions of the town's history with 41 outdoor murals plus carvings & statues. Our murals are a year-round event, so visit any time & enjoy!
Sun
Tue
1/1-
1/1
All Fun Swap and Shop
All Fun Swap and Shop is held at Western Speedway, 2207 Millstream Road in Langford, every Sunday, weather permitting, from 7:00am to 2:00pm. Contact 250-474-4546.
Sun
Tue
1/1-
1/1
Victoria Flea Market
The Victoria Flea Market is a year-round venue held every Sunday from 9am to 2pm, offering fun for the whole family. Up to 50 sellers indoors selling antiques and collectibles, quality designed arts & crafts, retro home furnishings, vintage clothes and textiles, ceramics, bakelite, art and junk from Victoria's glorious past, and recycled bargains. Leonardo DaVinci Hall, 195 Bay Street, corner Wilson Street. Plenty of free parking. Secure bike lock-up. www.victoriafleamarket.com
Wed
Wed
1/18-
6/27
Fencing (12 yrs+) Beginners
Learn techniques such as attacks, defence moves and footwork. Instruction foil and epee fencing will be covered. Participants will begin to develop precision, coordination, strategy and stamina while getting an excellent workout! All equipment is supplied. Instructors from the Victoria Fencing Club. Beginners Wed Jan 18-March 7, Mar 28-May 16, $56/8, May 23-Jun 27, 7:00-9:00pm. $42/6. Esquimalt Recreation Centre. victoriafencing.ca.
Wed
Wed
1/18-
6/27
Fencing (12 yrs+) - Intermediate
Learn techniques such as attacks, defence moves and footwork. Instruction foil and epee fencing will be covered. Participants will begin to develop precision, coordination, strategy and stamina while getting an excellent workout! All equipment is supplied. Instructors from the Victoria Fencing Club. Intermediate Wed Jan 18-March 7, Mar 28-May 16, $56/8, May 23-Jun 27, 7:00-10:00pm, $42/6. Esquimalt Recreation Centre. victoriafencing.ca.
Fri
Tue
1/27-
6/26
Mill Bay Garden Club Meetings
The Mill Bay Garden Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month from January 27, to June 26, 2012 at the Mill Bay Community Hall, 1001 Shawnigan Lake/Mill Bay Road. Doors open at 6:30pm and the meeting begins promptly at 7pm and ends at 9pm. We feature monthly guest speakers or presentations for added interest for our members. Membership is $10.00 annually per person. . Contact: 250-733-2633, www.millbaygardenclub.com.
Wed
Thu
2/29-
6/28
Buddhist Meditation
Happiness is a calm, clear and peaceful mind. Discover the power of meditation to feel less stressed; think more positively and creatively; and respond more openly towards others. Drop-in $10/class (evening) and $6.50/class (lunchtime). Classes lead by Sachi Tamura of the Bodhichitta Buddhist Centre. Wednesdays evenings 7:15-8:45pm, Lunchtime on Thursdays 12:10-12:55pm. $30/6. Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street, Victoria. www.esquimalt.ca
Wed
Wed
4/4-
9/19
Growing Food in the City Course - Victoria
Taking you one step closer to food security. Gaia College, Royal Roads University and Haliburton Farm in Victoria have teamed up to bring you a comprehensive and empowering Growing Food course. Starts April 4, 2012 at Haliburton Farm, 742 Haliburton Road, Victoria. www.gaiacollege.ca/announcing-a-new-partnership.html
Sun
Sun
4/8-
6/17
Introductory Paddle-Boarding
Open to 16 years+. Wed Apr 8, Wed Apr 22, Wed May 6, Wed May 20, Wed Jun 3, Wed Jun 17, 10am-1pm, $85/person. Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street, Victoria. www.esquimalt.ca
Fri
Sat
4/27-
6/2
Noises Off
It's chaos backstage at The Chemainus Theatre Festival with Michael Frayn's clever masterpiece, Noises Off. Clearly, things are not going well, as actors and crew trip over a tangle of love lines, missed cues, and lost hope. From April 27 to June 2, audiences can find out just how bad things get in the "funniest farce ever written". Ages 13+ due to coarse language. www.chemainustheatre.ca
Thu
Sun
5/17-
9/16
Dinosaurs: Ancient Fossils, New Discoveries
Royal BC Museum, Victoria: The blockbuster exhibition of the year! Imagine the thrill of discovering something new about a creature that lived millions of years ago. Since the first dinosaur fossil was identified almost 200 years ago, people have wondered how these fascinating animals lived, moved and behaved. Dinosaurs explores how paleontologists today use modern technologies, along with new discoveries and ideas, to investigate and reinterpret puzzling dinosaur mysteries, such as what they really looked like, how they moved and the hotly debated theories of why – or even whether – they became extinct. Our program schedule during Dinosaurs is jam-packed with events, presentations and hands-on activities. May 17 to September 16, 2012. Royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.
Tue
Sat
5/22-
8/25
CFB Esquimalt Navy Base - Free Tours
The rich history of Canada's west Coast naval base can be explored by the public through a free guided tour of CFB Esquimalt. Tours begin at Museum Square at CFB Esquimalt, and last about 90 minutes. Enter by Naden Gate, then follow the blue lines on the road surface or the signs with the letter 'M' that mark the way. Two-hour walking tours are also offered on Saturday mornings at 11am, starting at the main gate of HMC Dockyard at the end of Esquimalt Road. Call (250) 363-2595.www.navy.gc.ca/marpac/3/3-w_eng.asp?category=19
Fri
Mon
5/25-
6/4
Registration for Learn to Camp
Registration has begun for Parks Canada and MEC's popular Learn to Camp program. With equipment, food, and hands-on lessons provided, camping beginners can enjoy a group sleepover under the stars in Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. 604-666-8800.
Fri
Mon
5/25-
6/4
Registration for Learn to Camp
Registration has begun for Parks Canada and MEC's popular Learn to Camp program. With equipment, food, and hands-on lessons provided, camping beginners can enjoy a group sleepover under the stars in Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. 604-666-8800.
Sat
Tue
5/26-
6/26
Gardening with Native Plants
The native plants and flowers on Vancouver Island are rare and beautiful. Join Marian McCoy from the Garry Oak Ecosystems Recovery Team to learn how to incorporate native plants in your garden. Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre at Cannor Nursery is pleased to announce FREE Spring and Summer Workshops at our store: 4660 Elk Lake Drive, next to the Saanich Commonwealth Pool. Please be sure to sign up for the workshops by calling, emailing, or visiting the store. For more info: wildwoodoutdoorliving.com
Sat
Wed
5/26-
6/20
Kayaking Introductory Clinic
Sat May 26 1:30-4:30pm, Wed Jun 6, Wed Jun 20 5:30-8:30pm. $80/person. Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street, Victoria. www.esquimalt.ca
Mon
Mon
5/28-
6/25
Golf (co-ed) for Beginners
Learn the basics of golf or refresh your skills! Lessons will cover the fundamentals of the full golf swing, short game, purchasing of equipment, rules and etiquette. Equipment (clubs) are supplied if needed. Lessons are taught in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere by certified CPGA professionals. Mon May 28-Jun 25, 5:30-6:30pm, $115/5. Esquimalt Recreation Centre. www.esquimalt.ca.
Fri 6/1 Ebb & Flow: Sonny Assu + Rande Cook
Join us for a community event to celebrate Ebb & Flow. Friday, June 1 4:30 pm: talk by artist Rande Cook at the Nanaimo Art Gallery, VIU Campus; 6 pm: First Nations Feast & Celebration at Shq'apthut: Gathering Place. All are welcome. Admission is free. www.nanaimoartgallery.com.
Fri
Mon
6/1-
9/3
Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton
Royal BC Museum, Victoria: Celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee at the Royal BC Museum. This special five-section exhibition of nearly 100 portraits by royal photographer, Cecil Beaton (1904-80) depicts Elizabeth in her roles as princess, monarch and mother, and will include a number of rarely-seen photographs alongside extracts from Beaton’s personal diaries and letters. June 1 to September 3, 2012. Royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.
Fri
Sun
6/1-
6/3
Pender Harbour Blues Festival
Blues fans mark off the first weekend in June for the annual Pender Harbour Blues Festival. Enjoy a weekend full of the blues served up just the way you like it. Take in the fabulous free shows Saturday in Madeira Park. Dance the night away on Saturday night at the Pender Harbour Community Hall. Garden Bay Pub and Marina in Garden Bay on Pender Harbour. www.penderharbourbluesfestival.com
Fri
Sun
6/1-
6/3
Powell River Blues Festival
A stellar lineup of local talent as well as world-famous acts that will be sure to 'Rock The River' for 3 fun filled days this June. Last year's inaugural festival was such a great success. Powell River Blues Festival Society. Beach Gardens Resort and Marina. www.powellriverblues2012.com
Sat
Sun
6/2-
6/3
Oak Bay Tea Party, Victoria
Oak Bay Tea Party is held annually on the first Saturday and Sunday in June at Willows Park. Beginning with the Oak Bay Tea Party Parade from Windsor Park to Willows Park, the Tea Party is a weekend community celebration of entertainment, a midway set up at Willows Park, fireworks and much much more. All events are free. www.oakbayteaparty.com
Sat 6/2 Bonsai for Beginners
John Mitchell of Victoria Bonsai Club is leading a lecture on the ancient Japanese tradition. It’s ok if you are a newbie, this class is for beginners! Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre at Cannor Nursery is pleased to announce FREE Spring and Summer Workshops at our store: 4660 Elk Lake Drive, next to the Saanich Commonwealth Pool. Please be sure to sign up for the workshops by dropping by the Garden Centre, email, or phone.
Sat 6/2 Brentwood Bay Festival
Brentwood Bay Festival offers food vendors, market vendors, kids entertainment, fantastic live music and comedy acts, games, face painting, and more. Starts at 8am for the Pancake Breakfast, courtesy of the Central Saanich Lions Club and Parade at 10am. Located at Pioneer Park at Clarke and West Saanich Road.
Sat 6/2 Great Walk - Gold River to Tahsis
Participate in North America's Toughtest Pledge Walk in "Burning Boot" country to raise funds for your favourite charity or organization. Run or Walk 63.5km (40 miles) from Gold River to Tahsis on central Vancouver Island. Registration is required to compete, and food and beverages will be provided along the way. www.greatwalk.com
Sun 6/3 Fetch Patio BBQ Party!
Fetch Patio BBQ Party! Featuring live music by Smalltown Empire, BBQ Menu only $20, Beer & Cocktail Specials. Enjoy a social afternoon at the most spectacular patio on the West Coast! All Ages Welcome. Sunday, June 3, 12pm to 3pm at Fetch Restaurant & Patio, Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, 596 Marine Drive, Ucluelet. Contact: 250-726-4800, www.blackrockresort.com.
Sun 6/3 World Oceans Day
Celebrate World Oceans Day with us. Join us inside the Ocean Discovery Centre at 9811 Seaport Place in Sidney for discovery labs, special Oceans Day crafts and presentations, and a sneak peek at our upcoming summer exhibit. Outside on the Sidney waterfront, explore exhibitions by CRD, Parks Canada, and many other local environmental organizations. Enjoy musical entertainment, face painting, and much more. 11am to 3pm. Tel: (250) 665-7511, www.oceandiscovery.ca/oceansday
Sun 6/3 A Cappella Afternoon: City of Gardens Chorus
Experience this spectacular show of exquisite a cappella harmony, stunning choreography and dazzling costumes! 2:00pm at Nanoose Place, 2925 Northwest Bay Road, Nanoose Bay. Tickets: $20 includes refreshments. www.members.shaw.ca/sing/ Fundraiser towards International competition with top 32 Sweet Adelines choruses.
Sun 6/3 West Coast Ride to Live BBQ Lunch
West Coast Ride to Live for Prostate Cancer BBQ Lunch at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney. Sunday 3 June from 2:00pm to 3:30pm. Westcoast Motorcycle Ride to Live "Vancouver Island" raises awareness and provides funds for BC Prostate Cancer research. www.vi-ridetolive.ca
Sun 6/3 Oceans Day Festival
Oceans Day Festival at Esquimalt's Gorge Park. Activities include live music, crafts, food, face painting, canoe tours of the Gorge, touch tanks with local marine life, interpretive walks, and educational displays among other activities. June 3, 2012, 12pm to 3:30pm. esquimalt.ca/events/events06031201.aspx
Wed
Wed
6/6-
9/12
Chemainus Wednesday Market
ome to the Chemainus Wednesday Farmers Market. Each Wednesday from early June to early September the white market tents pop up in the parking lot of the Waterwheel Park in Chemainus. From 11 am to 4:30 pm this intimate little market provides a venue for the sale of local and regional farm produce, flowers, baking, sweets and crafts. What’s unique about the Chemainus Market is it supplements what is available in the local stores and invites you to explore the rest of this charming little town with its wonderful theater, cafes and many small shops. It is a great outing for the whole family. Park your car; it is all within walking distance, even to the beach!
Thu
Sun
6/7-
6/10
A Class Act - A Musical about Musicals
Pacific Christian School presents A Class Act. This Broadway musical celebrates the life and career of A Chorus Line lyricist Ed Kleban. 654 Agnes Street, victoria. Tickets and information call 250-479-4532.
Fri
Sun
6/8-
6/10
Buccaneer Days - Esquimalt
The Esquimalt Lion's will hold their traditional pancake breakfast at 7:30am to 11:30am at the Archie Browning Sports Centre. Events include a Rugby 7s Tournament, Buccaneer Days Parade along Esquimalt Road from Dominion Road to Constance Avenue, a plant sale, concession booths, arts and crafts table, children's races and events, and community dance. Buccaneer Days wraps up on Sunday with pony rides for the children and ever popular sky divers on Sunday. www.esquimaltbuccaneerdays.ca
Fri
Sun
6/8-
6/10
Operation Trackshoes
Operation Trackshoes is a provincial sports festival for people with mental disabilities. Athletes around BC compete in fun, recreational and competitive events at the University of Victoria. www.trackshoes.ca
Sat 6/9 Chili Cook-Off - West Shore
The Rotary Club of West Shore is holding its annual Chili Cook-Off. This dynamite event, promising fiery competition and fun, will be held on June 9 between 11am and 3pm at the Veteran’s Memorial Park in Langford.
Sat 6/9 Shake, Rattle 'n Roll
Join in the 20th Season Celebrations at the Chemainus Theatre Festival's fundraiser at the Chemainus Theatre Festival 9737 Chemainus Rd, Chemainus.
Sat 6/9 United Eclectic: A Summer Market Experience
United Eclectic is a new summer market experience that brings together local and emerging artists, designers, and musicians for a one-of-a-kind indie market experience. You're sure to find that unique something on a budget while feeling good about supporting local artisans who are just breaking into the Victoria arts scene. June 9th, 10am to 5pm at 626 Blanshard Street, Victoria. Admission $1 at door. www.unitedeclectic.com
Sat 6/9 Vermi Composting
Upgrade your composting through Vermi Composting. The local expert, Pamela “Greenthumbs”, will share how the little worms can produce first-rate soil for your garden! Wildwood Outdoor Living Centre at Cannor Nursery is pleased to announce FREE Spring and Summer Workshops at our store: 4660 Elk Lake Drive, next to the Saanich Commonwealth Pool. Please be sure to sign up for the workshops by dropping by the Garden Centre, calling, or emailing. start_year: 2012
Sun 6/10 Victoria UrbaCity Challenge
Take part in this strategic adventure race that puts your mind and body to the test as you race throughout downtown Victoria. Test your problem-solving, teamwork, and fitness while helping us raise money for The Prostate Centre.
Sun 6/10 Edge to Edge Marathon - Tofino to Ucluelet
Take on the challenge of the West Coast by running the official 42.2 km distance between Tofino & Ucluelet! The Edge to Edge Marathon, Half Marathon & Relay offers a unique opportunity to accomplish your running goals in a world-renowned location, well-known for its natural beauty. Enjoy a "perfectly" natural route as it follows an undulating course from Tofino, through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, finishing in the village of Ucluelet. www.edgetoedgemarathon.com
Thu
Sun
6/14-
6/17
June Sports - Alert Bay
Join us for the Annual June Sports with a First Nations Soccer Tournament, Salmon Prince & Princess Pageant, Parade, kids & adult races and more! www.alertbay.ca.
Fri
Sun
6/15-
6/17
Country Goes POP
Starlight Pops Choir presents "Country Goes POP". Victoria's favourite pops choir presents a roundup of country hits. Two concerts: June 15, 7:30 pm and June 17, 2:30 pm, St. Aidan's United Church, 3703 St. Aidan's Street, Victoria. Tickets $20 adults, $18 seniors and students, cash at door. www.starlightpopschoir.com.
Fri
Sun
6/15-
6/17
BC Family Fishing Weekend
All families are invited to come fish for trout in the stocked pond. Bring your rod and gear or borrow one from us. Some bait will be available and fish and game members will be on hand to clean your catch. Enjoy a hot dog and drink provided by our generous sponsor, Courtenay Thrifty Foods. This is a great way to spend Father's Day weekend with your family. Location: Courtenay and District Fish and Game Protective Association , 3780 Comox Logging Rd, Courtenay. www.bcfamilyfishing.com
Fri
Sat
6/15-
6/16
BC Shellfsh Festival
The biggest shellfish party on the West Coast, celebrated in the heart of Canada's oyster growing capital - the Comox Valley. Join us for multiple events including our extremely popular culinary demos hosted by some of BC's top chefs, live entertainment, competitions and of course, lots of fresh shellfish straight from the ocean to your plate. This two-day festival takes place the third weekend of June every year. Friday June 15 to Saturday June 16, 2012. 250-890-7561. www.bcshellfishfestival.ca.
Fri
Sat
6/15-
9/1
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor® Dreamcoat
Follow Joseph's journey from slavery to freedom as one of Egypt's most powerful men. Full of fabulous music, show-stopping dancing and raucous fun, hits include "Close Every Door", "Any Dream Will Do" and "Poor, Poor Joseph. Location: Chemainus Theatre.
Sat 6/16 Community Flower & Garden Show
Mill Bay Garden Club Presents The 65th Annual Community Flower & Garden Show. Includes over 70 classes with outstanding displays. Superior Silent Auction, Pancake Breakfast,Fabulous Strawberry Tea, Local Vendors selling plants & accessories, Master Gardeners, Mammoth Plant Sale. www.millbaygardenclub.com
Sat 6/16 BC Aviation Museum Parking Lot Sale
Big Parking Lot Sale at the BC Aviation Museum, 1910 Norseman Rd. (off Canora), Sidney. From 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.... Rain or Shine. Please no early birds. Lots for everyone.
Sat
Sun
6/16-
6/17
Victoria Triathlon and Family Walk
This tremendously popular, yet low-key, grassroots race is famous not only for its commemorative "Hoody" but also for its one loop swim course, beautiful ride through the Saanich Peninsula, and two-loop trail run around the scenic Elk Lake. www.triseries.ca/victoria/
Sat 6/16 Pacific Breeze
Pacific Peoples' Partnership presents 'Pacific Breeze' a South Pacific cultural event featuring the Pacific Poi Boys, Tradewinds and a Polynesian Dance group, Pearls of the South Pacific to raise funds supporting our indigenous partners in West Papua, Indonesia. For more info: www.pacificpeoplespartnership.org/
Sun 6/17 First Peoples' Festival
Celebrating National Aboriginal Day in the Capital. The First Peoples' Festival includes 100 drummers and dancers, and an Aboriginal Art & Crafts market. Spirit Square next to Victoria City Hall. Sunday 17 June, 2012, 11-5pm. Info: 250-213-7575.
Thu
Sat
6/21-
6/23
Tall Tree Music Festival
The Tall Tree Music Festival 2012 on Browns Mountain in Port Renfrew offers 3 days of music, art & culture. June 21-23, 2012. Tickets at Coastline Surf & Sport, Incite, and Popeyes in Victoria, The Munch Box in Youbou, and the Port Renfrew Rec Centre or online at www.talltreemusicfestival.com
Thu 6/21 National Aboriginal Day - Comox
K’ómoks First Nation and I-Hos Gallery are proudly presenting National Aboriginal Day, a fun-filled event for the whole family on Thursday, June 21, 3-7pm at 3310 Comox Road, Comox. Enjoy tasty food like sockeye salmon traditionally cooked on cedar sticks over an open fire. BBQ Buffalo Burger, bannock and more. Performances by Kumugwe dancers (Kwakwaka’wakw) and Tzinquaw Dancers (Coast Salish).
Fri
Sun
6/22-
7/1
Victoria International JazzFest
Victoria International JazzFest will present 95 performances by over 425 musicians on 13 stages at various Venues in Downtown Victoria. Ten hot days and nights of the coolest music in town. June 22 to July, 2012. www.jazzvictoria.ca
Fri
Sun
6/22-
6/24
Jump Ship - Freestyle Bike Contest
Jump Ship is an Invitational Dirt Jump Competition to be held in Victoria Harbour from 22 to 24 June, 2012. The world's best freeride mountain bike riders will compete on a huge barge moored in the Inner Harbour. World-famous rider and course builder Jordie Lunn has designed a course to challenge the FMB World Tour elite with massive jumps, drops and park features, all on a floating barge! Jumpship's setting will let spectators get in close to the riders and all the action. www.jumpshipcontest.com
Sat 6/23 Gorge on Art
Gorge on Art is a free community event featuring over 45 artists displaying their work along the scenic Gorge Waterway. View paintings, prints, photographs, ceramics, watercolours, pastels, carvings and textiles. Musical entertainment, food and refreshments. Gorge Waterway from 11am to 4pm. www.saanichsunfest.ca
Sat 6/23 Providence Farm Hoedown
Dust off yer boots, git yer tickets, and grab yer partner! It's Hoedown Time! That's right, the Providence Farm Hoedown is back this year, on Saturday June 23. This well-attended, fun-filled evening includes live music, a full-course country dinner, live and silent auction, and a real old fashioned barn dance, all in Wild West style. This is the main fundraiser for the 400-acre working organic farm in the Cowichan Valley dedicated to restoring the spirits of adults with mental and physical challenges. Contact: 250-746-4204, www.providence.bc.ca
Sat 6/23 Victoria Grand Fondo
The Victoria Grand Fondo will be held on 23 June 2012, starting at the Hotel Grand Pacific in Victoria. The 268-km cycle starts at 6:30am and ends at sunset. This event will help support the Go To It - The Wheelers' Teenage Competitive Cycling Travel Fund. www.victoriagranfondo.com
Fri
Sun
6/29-
7/1
Lighthouse Bluegrass Festival
The 2nd Annual Lighthouse Bluegrass Festival on the Canada Day long weekend. Beautiful grassy location at 280 Lions Way in Qualicum Bay in Lighthouse Country on the East Coast of Vancouver Island. Bluegrass bands from all over North America, camping and parking lot picking, all a 5-min walk from the beach. June 29 to July 1, 2012. One of 5 music festivals in 5 weeks on Vancouver Island (2 folk, 3 bluegrass). www.lighthousebluegrass.com
Sat
Sun
6/30-
7/1
Sidney Days
Sidney Days includes a canada Day Parade, Fireworks, Family Fun Fair, Build a Boat contest, Dog Show, Pancake Breakfast, Inflatable Castle, Face Painting, Petting Zooe, and Live Music. June 30th and July 1st.