There are lots of fall days in Victoria that are dry and colourful, perfect for getting out in the city or in nature and soak up the fresh ocean air and fall sunshine. Then, there are the days in the fall that are cold, dark and rainy that have you running for cover and craving cozy nights indoors. For these days, when your book and the couch isn’t tempting you, and your binge-worthy series doesn’t hit the spot, there are some really cool events happening around the South Island that will get you out, or in, and about!
Recurring Events
Orcas – Our Shared Future
until January 2022
Have you ever wanted to learn more about orcas? Now you can! Visit the Royal BC Museum, and learn more about these sophisticated, apex predators as you deep dive into the science and the stories about them. Find out about current ecological activism, ancient Indigenous beliefs and the popular culture that shapes our different understanding of these magnificent mammals.
Emily Carr: Seeing and Being Seen
until July 2022
The works of Emily Carr are a reflection of her love for Vancouver Island and her admiration of the First Nations people of the area, their villages and customs. What makes Carr’s paintings so timeless is her unique and captivating ability to not only paint what she saw, but also her ability to capture how she felt about the place she called home. This exhibit, at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, is split into two halves. One half dedicated to the paintings of Carr and the other, to her legacy, how her works and her interpretations of this Island have impacted artists and historians of varying backgrounds over the years and how, even today, her works continue to be of great importance.
Qw’an Qw’anakwal – To Come Together
until December 2021
Marking the 10th anniversary celebration of the Visiting Artist Program hosted by the Department of Anthropology at the University of Victoria, this exhibition at the University of Victoria Legacy Gallery features new works by twelve artists and their collaborators from Salish nations on Vancouver Island. These artists have participated in the Visiting Artist Program since 2010 and will exhibit their arts including knitting, wool and cedar weaving, carving, drawing, and painting.
Ungasittuq – Something that is Far Away
until December 2021
Ungasittuq – Something that is Far Away, is an exploration of distance, space, acceptance and pushing boundaries. The University of Victoria Legacy Art Galleries exhibition will showcase recent photographs by Barry Pottle that present a counterpoint and complement to sculpture, drawings, prints by Inuit artists to give a broader understanding of contemporary realities and experience. The exhibition aims to build a foundation for contemporary urban Inuit art photography within the broader, popular understanding of contemporary Inuit art.
Live Music
Live Music Saturdays at Merridale Cidery
November 6th, 13th & 20th 3pm-6pm
What a perfect way to spend a rainy day! Head to Merridale Cidery for some great food, delicious cider and great music!
- November 6th: Any McCormack will play all your favourites from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s – make sure you bring your appetite and dancing shoes!
- November 13th: The awesome cover band Arf the Dog will be joining the Merridale Cider gang with all the hits from the Rolling Stones, The Band, Neil Young, Tom Petty and the Wallflowers!
- November 20th: With a distinctly mellow, West Coast vibe, singer/songwriter Alle Bernardi will be serenading you with original songs, acoustic guitar and incredible vocals.
TD Jazzfest: The Fall Sessions
November 12th – 14th
For this entire weekend, the McPherson Playhouse will be filled with the sounds of great jazz. With live music performances and one free-to-attend morning workshop by critically-acclaimed jazz artists, this is a must for jazz fans. Featured artists include: Marc Atkinson Trio and Michael Kaeshammer, Alex Cuba Band plus Miguelito Valdes, Diamond Cafe, and Halie Loren. This is the perfect event for anyone staying downtown Victoria as the playhouse is only a few minutes walk away!
Victoria Chamber Orchestra Concert
November 26th 7:30pm
For over 25 years, the Victoria Chamber Orchestra has been bringing the breadth and magic of string orchestra repertoire to Victoria. This fall, the Victoria Chamber Orchestra, directed by Yariv Aloni is pleased to present a Baroque concert at First Metropolitan Church, which will include pieces from Albinoni, Vivaldi and Corelli.
Holiday Markets
Spectrum Music Program 3rd Annual Christmas Market
November 6th & 7th 10am-4pm
They’re back for a third year! Come out to Spectrum High School to get a jumpstart on Christmas shopping, souvenirs or just treat yourself to some local artisanal wares! Just make sure to enter the raffle and donate a few shekels, all the money raised goes directly to the Spectrum Music Program!
Indigenous Pop-Up Shop YYJ Christmas Market
November 7th 10am-3pm
Take a trip down to the Fernwood Community Association on the Lekwungen speaking Traditional Territory and support local Indigenous artists! Here you’ll find Indigenous art and beadwork, silverwork, cedar bark weaving, herbal botanicals, bannock, gemstone candles, artwork, stickers and prints, jewelry, herbal medicines and more!
The Silver Bells Silent Auction Winter Market
November 27th 9am-2pm
One of the most popular markets in Victoria is back! Head over to the Cook Street Village Activity Center and discover one of the best places to do your holiday shopping! By supporting local vendors, you can cut down on waste and give gifts that are made with love, right here in Victoria.
Food Events
Victoria Cheese and Meat Festival
November 27th 11am, 3pm and 7pm options
The long awaited return of the Cheese and Meat Festival is finally here! And it’s a perfect event for foodies in Victoria! Essentially, it’s a one-stop-shop (or taste) to allow attendees the opportunity to taste a large variety of local meats, cheeses, beverages and more! If you’d expect it on a charcuterie board, you’ll find it at this festival! “Our goal is to introduce guests to new products and exciting pairings that delight their taste buds.” – David Bain, Festival Founder
Victoria International Wine Festival
various events November 14th-20th
Have you ever wanted to learn more about wine in a fun, interactive setting? Then the Victoria International Wine Festival is for you. Featuring wines from all over the globe and showcasing different wine making techniques, you’ll have access to tastings, seminars, dinners and more! This is the perfect event for anyone staying downtown Victoria who can walk (carefully!) back afterward – simply purchase your tickets on the website and get ready for an evening to remember!
