April in Victoria, British Columbia is when spring temperatures rise, Easter long weekend is around the corner and it’s time to start planning your next month’s calendar! Whether you’re planning out long weekend plans, looking for something a little different to do or if you’re ready to get out there and make the most of the longer days and sunny skies, we’ve got you covered! Here are some of the best events around the city and some of the best things to do when you’re enjoying spring in Victoria!
Visit a Market
Esquimalt Farmers Market
opens April 1st
Every Thursday from April to November you can find the dedicated vendors of the Esquimalt Farmers Market (EFM) ready with their fresh produce, baked goods, preserves, handmade homeware and so much more. With friendly, helpful vendors who offer incredible, quality items, it’s no wonder that this little market is one of the fastest growing and most popular markets in the Victoria area. With an unshakable commitment to sustainability, a make-bake-or-grow policy, and an eye to community building by encouraging local suppliers – including backyard farmers – this innovative market has been a game-changer for solidifying, growing and supporting the Esquimalt community.
Moss Street Market
Summer Market: May – October, Saturdays at 10am – 2pm, Winter Market: November – April, Saturdays at 10am – 1pm
For 30 years, the Moss St Market has been a staple of the Fairfield community. Since its inception, this market has grown in size and popularity so that today, you can find over 50 farm vendors, artisans and food producers at this little community market. April is the last month for the winter markets and it’s the time where you can start seeing fresh produce appearing in among the many beautiful items handmade by local artisans.
Go to the Theatre
Don Giovanni
April 20th at 7:30pm, 22nd at 7:30pm, 24th at 2:30pm, 26th at 7:30pm at the Royal Theatre
Based on the legends of Don Juan, the fictional libertine and zealous seducer, this opera is a mix of comedy, romance, melodrama and of course, tragedy. With arresting performances, exquisite sets and sumptuous costumes, conductor Timothy Vernon and the Victoria Symphony Orchestra brings to life this dazzling and seductive opera by Mozart.
Ballet Hispanico
April 8th & 9th at 7:30 at the Royal Theatre
What better way to help Ballet Hispanico celebrate its 50th Anniversary than by getting tickets to Doña Perón, a beautiful exploration into the life of one of the most captivating characters in history. In this powerful performance, Eva “Evita” Perón’s struggles, victories, leadership and strength are celebrated with one of the biggest productions in the company’s history.
Learn Something New
Victoria Guitar Show
April 23rd from 10:30am – 5pm at the Victoria Conference Centre
If you’re someone who loves art, music and learning something new, the Victoria Guitar Show is for you! During the exhibition you’ll have a chance to meet some of the best local builders as well as meet luthiers from all across Canada! Discover the manufacturers of acoustic, electrics, basses, pedals, amps and so much more.
Our Living Languages
until May 30th from 12:00pm – 11:50pm at the RBCM
2022 marks the first year in the UNESCO Decade of Indigenous Languages, a ten year span that is focused on drawing global attention to the fact that many Indigenous languages are under threat of disappearing completely. To mitigate this critical issue, this travelling exhibit will showcase the Indigenous languages of BC to generate resources for the preservation and revitalization of this important aspect of Indigenous culture.
Take a road trip
East Sooke Park, Sooke Potholes and Jordan River
Whether you’re staying right in Sooke, in nearby Metchosin or right in the heart of downtown Victoria, this road trip is an excellent option if you want to get out and explore the stunning nature at the edge of the Pacific. East Sooke Park is a great place to hike, find little beaches and wander through pristine ecosystems. At Sooke Potholes, you’ll find meandering forest paths that lead you to stunning natural phenomena: deep, smooth sided pools that have formed over generations to create natural freshwater swimming pools. While spring might be too cold for some, if you’re brave, take a dip and then warm up in the car on your way to Jordan River. This unique spot is the location of a large estuary where the River Jordan meets the Pacific Ocean. Here, you can find some of the most incredible surfing on Vancouver Island, south of Tofino and it makes an ideal place to stop, have dinner on the beach and watch the sunset over the ocean.
Goldstream, Malahat Skywalk and Wine Tasting
During your stay in Victoria, Sidney or the Cowichan Valley, one of the best ways to spend a spring day is to head up-island. Stop in at Goldstream for a quick hike and marvel at the stunning forests, waterfalls and suspension bridge then continue north on the Malahat and visit the incredible Malahat Skywalk. One of the newest attractions on the South Island, this 32 m sightseeing lookout is a fun way to get a bird’s eye view of the Saanich Inlet and Peninsula, Mount Baker and Coast Mountains. After you descend on the slide, you can make your way to the Cowichan Valley, the wine country of Vancouver Island. Here, you can find numerous gorgeous vineyards to visit and award winning wines to try!
Englishman River Falls, Coombs & Craft Beer Tastings
Guests staying in Nanaimo, Parksville or in the Comox Valley will love this spring road trip! In the morning, head out to Englishman River Falls Park to see the river cascade over falls of all sizes and enjoy the peace and quiet of the riverside forest trails. When you’re done exploring this area, stop in a Coombs to browse the eclectic markets, pick up some fresh produce and unique grocery items and stop for a lunch at the beautiful Cuckoo Trattoria & Pizzeria where you can find fresh Italian inspired dishes in their bight, high ceilinged dining room. When you’re ready for the next stop, head into Naniamo and visit Cliffside Brewing and their neighbour, Wolf Brewing for some incredibly refreshing, local craft beer. If you’re really into the craft beer scene, there are craft brewery tours that you can book that will take you all over Nanaimo to taste test to your heart’s desire.
Shopping and Dining in Victoria
Maker’s Market Victoria
If you’re looking for some local items, this springtime market is a great option! This market is filled with vendors who offer unique creations for your garden, patio and home! Here, you can find vintage items, upcycled decor, farmhouse style goods, and fine art.
Easter Brunch at Aura
Easter brunch is a wonderful tradition and at Aura, located right downtown Victoria, you can take your yearly brunch game to a whole other level. In the spring, with so much fresh local ingredients on hand, the menu items are as colourful as the blooms that are bursting outside. Plus, with a spectacular view of the Inner Harbour from the window tables and covered patio, there may not be a better way to spend your afternoon.
High Tea at the Empress
Since 1908, the Empress Hotel has been serving this distinctly British tradition. With dainty and delicious finger sandwiches, lighter-than-air pastries and an impressive selection of fragrant tea options, high tea is a must while you’re in Victoria, especially in the spring!
