Guide
Holiday lights, Christmas markets and winter festivals 2026
Light displays, Christmas markets, parades and winter festivals on Vancouver Island. Dates, hours and which ones are for kids.
EnjoyHere editors
Light displays
The Butchart Gardens
December 1, 2026 – January 6, 2027
Gates 3:00–9:00 p.m. The gardens stay open until 10:00 p.m. Carollers and brass alternate every half hour from 5:00–9:00 p.m.
Adults 18+ $41.00. Youth 13–17 $20.50. Children 5–12 $5.00. Tax included.
Closed December 25. The Japanese and Mediterranean gardens are closed. Snowflake exchange and hot chocolate for children 12 and under. Open until 10:00 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, with no fireworks. The official light-up is December 1 at 6:00 p.m.
Festivals and parades
BC Parliament Buildings
November 27, 2026
3:00–6:30 p.m. Inside activities 3:00–5:30 p.m. Driveway lighting 6:00–6:30 p.m.
Free. No tickets.
Family-friendly activities and performances inside, then the driveway lighting outside.
Starts at Government and Belleville
November 28, 2026
5:30 p.m.
Free.
Supports the Mustard Seed. A food-bank team is at Government and Wharf at 5:00 p.m.
2026 Harbour Light Up
Lower Causeway and Ship Point Pier
December 3, 2026
5:00–8:00 p.m.
Free.
Family-friendly. Hot chocolate, cookies, an artisan market, live music, and Santa arriving by boat.
Thursday, every week
The shortlist, before the weekend starts
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