January invites you to embrace the new year with open arms and an open calendar. While the post-holiday month can often feel a bit sleepy, Victoria will be buzzing with a variety of events.

From the soaring sounds of Tina Turner's story at the Royal Theatre and intimate jazz sessions at Hermann's to forest adventures and comedy nights, there are plenty of ways to chase away the winter blues. 

Whether you're seeking an outdoor experience, world-class music, or simply a good laugh with friends, this month delivers countless ways to connect, create, and kick off 2026 with intention and joy.

Check out the full list of events below.

Coastal Forest Bathing at Malahat SkyWalk | January 1-31 

Start the year with a self-guided forest immersion experience high above the Salish Sea. Set your intentions as you stroll the elevated TreeWalk through coastal Arbutus and Douglas fir, ascend the Spiral Tower for summit reflections, and wander the Affirmation Trail. Includes complimentary hot tea from Queen Bee Farms and 20% off wellness items at the gift shop. Plan for approximately 90 minutes at your own pace. 9am-3pm. [Complimentary with admission]

20th Annual LEGO Brick Exhibit | Sidney Museum | January 1-31 (runs through April 6)

Celebrate two decades of the beloved LEGO Brick Exhibit, featuring impressive builds and a Community Creations display showcasing original creations from local builders. Special anniversary events planned throughout the run. [Admission applies]

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical | Royal Theatre | January 6-11 

The electrifying story of the Queen of Rock n' Roll comes to Victoria in this Pulitzer Prize-winning musical. Follow Tina Turner's inspiring journey of breaking barriers, set to her most beloved hits. Multiple performances throughout the week including matinees on January 10 and 11. [From $176.25]

Sing Together | Cordova Bay United Church | January 7 

Join this welcoming community singing event where all songs are taught by call and response—no experience needed. Sing songs of community, nature, joy, and hope in rounds, layers, and harmony. All voices welcome. Arrive 5-10 minutes early to connect before singing begins. 6:30-7:30pm. [Free]

Beer Club with Category 12 Brewing | Cask and Keg Liquor Store | January 8 

Sample small batch craft beer from Category 12 Brewing—who've been perfecting their brews locally for over ten years using Canadian equipment and local ingredients— for free. Registration required to avoid overcrowding. 6:30-7:45pm [Free]

The Owen Chow Quartet presents 'Feel-Good Music' | Hermann's Jazz Club | January 8 

Victoria-raised trumpeter Owen Chow returns from New York to showcase brand new original music alongside the songs that inspired his love of jazz. Joined by masterful improvisers Kelby MacNayr on drums, John Lee on bass, and Brent Jarvis on piano for an evening of exceptional improvisation. Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm. [$25 plus fees/tax]

Mean Bikini with Quit It! and Die Job | The Coda | January 8

Cumberland's queer hardcore skate punk band Mean Bikini returns to Victoria with Calgary's Quit It! on their release tour for "Through the Debris." Vancouver's viola-core band Die Job opens the night. Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm. [$15 advance, $25 at door]

Girls Night! | The Mint | January 9

An evening of stand-up comedy featuring some of Vancouver Island's best female comedians, headlined by Julya Van Der Sloot with Alex Forman and Carilynn Nicholson. Win prizes from Victoria's Foxy Box throughout the night. Presented by OK, DOPE and Foxy Box. Doors 7pm, show 8pm. [$25 single, $20 group (6+)]

LJ Mounteney | The Coda | January 9 

Soulful, bluesy vocals meet Canadian feel-good blues and roots music. LJ performs songs from her album Mama Danced with producer Jack Lavin on bass, vocals, and harp, plus a stellar team of Vancouver and Nanaimo musicians. Expect vocal and guitar-driven original and cover blues that delivers genuine optimism. Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm. [$20 advance, $25 at door]

Barrie Sorensen | Hermann’s Jazz Club | January 9 

After a decade as a sideman with Victoria's top musicians, Barrie Sorensen debuts as bandleader with an evening of modern original tunes spanning funk, jazz-rock, swing, and Latin grooves. Joined by Attila Fias on piano, Steve Grebanier on guitar, Ross MacDonald on bass, and Hans VerHoeven on drums for intense and energetic performances. Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm. [$30 plus fees/tax]

Mini Mariner Mornings: Ocean Orchestra | Maritime Museum of BC | January 10

Explore how music is everywhere, from objects in your home to the sounds of the sea. Move, dance, sing, and play, leaving with your own handmade musical instrument. Suitable for ages 3-8. Parents and guardians must remain at the museum. Drop-in anytime between 10-11am, with storytime at 10:15am. [Free with admission or membership]

Fabric Printmaking Workshop | Maritime Museum of BC | January 10 

Carve your own ocean-inspired linocut stamp and apply it to fabric in this hands-on workshop. Take home a 4×6" carved linoleum block and a printed cotton tea towel or tote bag. Bring additional fabric materials if desired—lighter colours and smooth fabrics like cotton, linen, or denim work best. Registration includes all supplies and 24-hour museum admission. 1:30-3:30pm. [$29.99-$49.99 plus GST]

Hecklers Presents: Arthur Simeon | Hecklers Bar and Grill | January 10  

Saturday night comedy featuring top comics from across Canada and beyond. Doors open at 5:30pm for the early show (be there by 6:30pm) and 9pm for the late show (be there by 9:30pm). 7pm and 10pm. [$22]

The Josh Warren Quintet | Hermann's Jazz Club | January 10 

Victoria-born bassist Josh Warren returns from Toronto with high-energy jazz spanning original material and songs by Kenny Garrett, John Scofield, and Pat Metheny. Joined by Roy Styffe on saxophones, Wes Carroll on guitar, Attila Fias on piano, and Alex Campbell on drums. 7pm. [$25 plus fees/tax]

Low Boys // Summer Babe // Hot Chicken Salad | The Coda | January 10  

A night of fierce indie rock featuring Low Boys' searing death blues, Hot Chicken Salad's heavy fuzz core with aggressive vocals, and Summer Babe's grunge riffage from Victoria's longest-running band. 6:30pm. [$15]

Phil Hanley | McPherson Playhouse | January 10  

NYC comedy scene regular and Instagram sensation (nearly 600K followers) brings his stand-up to Victoria. The Oshawa-born comedian has appeared on major late-night shows and self-released his special Ooh La La, which has over 2 million views on YouTube. Author of memoir Spellbound: My Life as a Dyslexic. Suitable for 16+. 7pm. [From $46] 

Chase Ward Trio | Hermann's Jazz Club | January 11

Toronto-based Victoria native Chase Ward returns with his dynamic trio featuring Simon Williams on piano and Josh Warren on bass. Fresh off creating his debut album Senary, the group blends jazz tradition with Latin, Afro-Cuban, and New Orleans influences for a night of spontaneity, groove, and expressive storytelling. 7pm.  [$25 plus fees/tax]

Video Game Music Jam Session 7 | The Coda | January 11 

Canada's first video game music jam returns! Musicians and gamers team up for live arrangements from favourite game soundtracks—Zelda, Final Fantasy, Mario Kart, Portal, and more. Grab your instrument and join, or just come to vibe. All ages welcome. 12:30-3:30pm. [$10 general admission, $5 musicians]

The Art of the Songwriter: Lonnie | The Coda | January 11 

Victoria songwriter Lonnie shares riveting stories and enjoyable songs from his catalogue of 250 registered works. His eclectic blues, roots, and Americana blend a Waits-ish growl with Springsteen delivery, and lyrical sensibilities crossing between Cohen and Dylan with Prine-like storytelling. 6:30-8:30pm. [$20]

Winter Moon at the Six Mile Pub | Six Mile Pub | January 12 | 

A relaxing craft night where you'll create a stunning Winter Moon on a round canvas using paint, epoxy resin, and sparkling fire glass. No experience needed with step-by-step instructions provided. Perfect for a cozy date night or solo creative evening. 6:30-8:30pm. [$55 plus PST, GST, and service fee]

Sea Star Winter/Spring Musical Classes | Mary Winspear Centre | January 13 

Mary Winspear and Sea Star Productions offer young performers (ages 10+) the chance to create a full production from start to finish. Rehearsals run Tuesdays from 5-7pm starting January 13th, with Sunday rehearsals beginning May 17th and performances planned for July. [Registration required]

The Don Leppard Jazz Orchestra | Hermann's Jazz Club | January 14 

Victoria's 17-piece big band swings through classics from Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Woody Herman, Benny Goodman, The Boss Brass, Buddy Rich, and Louie Bellson, plus original compositions and arrangements by band members. Carrying on the tradition of Don Leppard. 7pm. [$20 plus fees/tax]

Highland Park Dinner at Fathom | Hotel Grand Pacific | January 15 

An exclusive five-course whisky dinner crafted by Chef Landon Crawford, paired with Highland Park single-malt Scotch from the Orkney distillery founded in 1798. Guests will be guided through each pairing, finishing with a spectacular 25-year bioluminescent finale. 5-7pm. [$193.18]

Confabulation Presents: Dig In | The Coda | January 15 

A night of true stories told on stage without notes, props, or gimmicks. Co-hosts Carol-Lynne Michaels and Cassandra Togneri introduce six storytellers sharing tales inspired by the theme "Dig In"—expect stories of deep convictions, odd excavations, and covering your tracks. Live music 6:30pm, stories 7:30-9:45pm. [$25 general, $20 reduced admission]

The Sutcliffes: The Beatles' Legacy | Hermann’s Jazz Club | January 15

The energetic stage show that headlined Liverpool's International Beatle Week four times returns with an ambitious thematic multimedia staging of The Beatles' legendary catalogue. 7pm. [$30 plus fees/tax]

Belle Spirale Dance Projects: UNIVERSUS | McPherson Playhouse | January 16 

Eight powerful dancers explore themes of resilience, connection, and hope in this double bill of new contemporary works choreographed by Fernando Hernando Magadan and Chrystal Dance Prize winner Alexis Fletcher. Questioning humanity's ability to adapt and find purpose on a chaotic, changing planet. 7:30pm. [From $34]

Cafe Mexico Presents: Siete Misterios Mezcal | January 16  

Join Karina Mair of Siete Misterios for an engaging evening of cocktails, mezcal, and delicious cuisine. Includes a three-course family-style dinner, welcome cocktail, and a tasting mat of specialty expressions from Siete Misterios Mezcal. 6-8pm. [$107.83]

The Crowd Work Show | The Mint | January 16 

Nash Park and Alex Forman take the stage with zero material prepared for a 100% improvised stand-up comedy show. Armed only with microphones and their wits, they'll find the funny by talking to the crowd and navigating their surroundings. A rowdy, fun night of comedy. 8pm. [$25 single, $20 group (6+)]

Terriblething & Fembite | The Coda | January 16 

Victoria's four-piece Terriblething brings demented time signatures and terrible key shifts to their gentle pop punk roots. Joined by queer pop-rock-punk band Fembite, who blend Paramore and MCR energy with Olivia Rodrigo vulnerability, exploring identity, beauty standards, and heartbreak. 6:30pm. [$15]

Mini Mariner Mornings: Secrets of the Deep Sea | Maritime Museum of BC | January 17 

Journey into the ocean depths and learn about mysterious deep sea creatures. Activities include reading, joining a submarine crew, creating an ocean scene, and making your own lanternfish. Suitable for ages 3-8. Parents and guardians must remain at the museum. Drop-in anytime between 10-11am, with storytime at 10:15am. [Free with admission or membership]

Sea Glass Jewellery Workshop | Maritime Museum of BC | January 17

Learn about the history and beauty of sea glass while designing your own stunning piece of jewellery using locally sourced materials. No experience necessary—leave with a unique and wearable work of art that captures the beauty of the sea. 2-3:30pm.[$29.99 plus GST]

Hecklers Presents: Julia Hladkowicz | Hecklers Bar & Grill | January 17 

Saturday night comedy featuring top comics from across Canada and beyond. Doors open at 5:30pm for the early show (be there by 6:30pm) and 9pm for the late show (be there by 9:30pm). 7pm & 10pm. [$22]

Eagle Eyes | Royal Theatre | January 17 

Arguably the best Eagles tribute in North America captures lead and harmony vocals with breath-taking precision—all live, no pre-recorded tracks. Experience hits like Hotel California, Take It Easy, Life In The Fast Lane, and more from one of rock's most loved groups. Two showtimes available. Royal Theatre. 7:30pm. [$59.50]

David Vest: The Dawn of Rock and Roll | Hermann’s Jazz Club | January 17

David Vest presents music from Sun Records—the Memphis label that introduced Elvis, Johnny Cash, Howlin' Wolf, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison, and Jerry Lee Lewis. As a teenager, Vest learned these songs as they were released and has been actively creating rock and roll ever since. Joined by his red hot band featuring Tom Bowler on guitar, Ryan Tandy on bass, Damian Graham on drums, and Ryan Oliver on sax. 7pm. [$30 plus fees/tax]

Snowed In Comedy Tour | Royal Theatre | January 17 

Canada's biggest comedy tour returns for its 17th year with a powerhouse lineup: Dan Quinn (Just for Laughs winner), Paul Myrehaug (Great Canadian Laugh Off champion), Pete Zedlacher (six-time Canadian Comedian of the Year nominee), and Erica Sigurdson (Debaters regular). Critics call it "Better than the Just for Laughs Tour." 7:30pm. [$61.50]

Family Sundays: Tradition and Transformation | Art Gallery of Greater Victoria | January 18

Discover how everyday objects tell stories about their origins, makers, and cultural meanings. Take part in art activities inspired by the exhibition ਸ਼ੀਸ਼ੇ 'ਚ ਤਰੇੜ | sheeshe 'ch thareṛ | a crack in the mirror, including stitching on an embroidery wall, adding hand-coloured patches to a canvas bag, and painting marigolds. Apna Virsa Victoria dance academy provides an educational, interactive performance connecting to the exhibition. 2-4pm. [Free for visitors 25 and under, AGGV Members, Indigenous Peoples, and support workers; otherwise included with admission]

Island Song Winter Choir Concert | Mary Winspear Centre | January 18 

A non-auditioned women's pop choir celebrates Canada's rich musical heritage with "Glorious & Free: Celebrating Canada's Music!" Featuring in-house arrangements of homegrown songs from coast to coast to coast, showcasing Canadian talent as wide as a prairie sky and as majestic as a west coast forest. 3pm. [$25 adult, $15 youth 12 and under]

Stardew Valley: Festival of Seasons | Royal Theatre | January 18

An intimate, immersive concert featuring fresh arrangements of cherished songs from the Stardew Valley soundtrack, performed live by 11 musicians of the FILMharmonique Orchestra under conductor Francis Choinière. Curated by ConcernedApe, the musical journey travels through the four seasons of the valley, its festivals, and beloved characters. 3pm. [From $89.75]

David Santana: Our Favourite Tunes | Hermann’s Jazz Club | January 18 

An evening of soul-nourishing jazz featuring tunes by Peter Bernstein, Wes Montgomery, and Charlie Parker, along with new original compositions. Joined by Nick Peck on piano, Louis Rudner on bass, and John Lee on drums. Hermann's Jazz Club. 7pm. [$25 plus fees/tax]

Zombie Blizzard | McPherson Playhouse | January 18

An intimate collaboration between soprano Measha Brueggergosman-Lee, author Margaret Atwood, and composer Aaron Davis. Drawing from seven poems in Atwood's 2020 collection Dearly, this evocative project blends classical and jazz idioms to explore grief, gender, humour, and survival. Featuring Atwood's recorded recitations, a live jazz trio, and luminous vocal interpretations. Victoria premiere presented by Pacific Opera Victoria. 7:30pm. [From $35]

Emergency Preparedness Workshop | Victoria Fire Department Headquarters | January 21  

Learn how to prepare for emergencies, make a plan, get your emergency kit together, and connect with your community. Registration required—call 250-920-3373 or email emvic@victoria.ca if unable to register online. 6:30-8:30pm. [Free]

Louise Rose: Alone Together | Hermann’s Jazz Club | January 21 

Canadian living treasure Louise Rose is back with her popular solo jazz piano and vocal show. Livestream available by donation. 7pm. [$20 plus fees/tax]

I Don't Belong Here | Mary Winspear Centre | January 21

Stories and songs at the edge of forgetting. This poignant stage production explores life inside a dementia care facility through 15 vignettes and songs, bringing to life 22 distinct characters navigating shifting realities. Content warning: strong language, emotional trauma, and sexual references. Recommended for mature audiences. [$44]

Victoria Jazz Jam Session 7 | The Coda | January 21 

Victoria's premier monthly jazz jam returns with the Tom Vickery Trio as the house band. Musicians can bring their instruments and sign up to play along with jazz community members jamming out amazing standards. 6:30pm. [$10 general admission, $5 musicians]

Ray Gallon: Drop Me Off in Harlem | Hermann’s Jazz Club | January 22

Renowned NYC pianist Ray Gallon celebrates Harlem's rich musical legacy in support of his trio album with legendary bassist Ron Carter and drummer Lewis Nash. Rooted in bebop and blues, Gallon's expressive, swinging playing melds old and new into a fresh, original style. Joined by bassist Louis Rudner and drummer John Lee. 7pm. [$25 plus fees/tax]

The Fretless | Mary Winspear Centre | January 22 

This award-winning Canadian string quartet transforms fiddle tunes and folk melodies into intricate, high-energy arrangements. With two fiddles, a viola, and a cello, The Fretless produces a rich, multi-layered percussive sound that redefines contemporary folk music. Touring in support of their sixth album Glasswing. 7:30pm. [$40]

Fundraiser for U13 Grizzlies Hockey | Hecklers Bar & Grill | January 22

A night of laughs and drinks to fundraise for U13 Grizzlies Hockey. 8pm. [$25]

Improve Comedy Live | The Mint | January 23 

Some of the best comedy improv Victoria has to offer, featuring Entertainment Village and Adrienne Fish. Includes exclusive OK, DOPE happy hour deals. 8pm. [$25 single, $20 group (6+)]

Oliver Swain's BIG MACHINE & The Unfaithful Servants | Mary Winspear Centre | January 23 

BC's most exciting newgrass band delivers explosive instrumentals, compelling storytelling, and high-powered vocals. Touring in support of their sophomore record Fallen Angel, the quartet features virtuosic mandolin player Jesse Cobb, prolific songwriter Dylan Stone, fiddle prodigy Quin Etheridge-Pedden, and bassist Mark Johnson.7:30pm.  [$42.75]

Community Day: Swimming into the New Year! | Maritime Museum of BC | January 24 | 

Start the new year with curiosity, creativity, and community spirit. Admission by donation all day to explore the exhibit 1858: Black Routes, Black Roots. From 1:30-4pm, drop in for a hands-on craft session making beaded fish inspired by coastal waters. Family-friendly activity for all ages. 9:30am-4:30pm. [By donation]

Mini Mariner Mornings: Bird is the Word | Maritime Museum of BC | January 24 

Learn all about local birds—marine birds, migratory birds, and more! Check out bird watching tools from the museum collection and make your own pair of binoculars to spot birds in your neighbourhood. Suitable for ages 3-8. Parents and guardians must remain at the museum. Drop-in anytime between 10-11am, with storytime at 10:15am.  [Free with admission or membership]

Hecklers Presents: Adrienne Fish | Hecklers Bar & Grill | January 24 

Saturday night comedy featuring top comics from across Canada and beyond. Doors open at 5:30pm for the early show (be there by 6:30pm) and 9pm for the late show (be there by 9:30pm). 7pm & 10pm. [$22]

The Village Choir Winter Concert with Dawn Pemberton | McPherson Playhouse | January 24 

Co-directed by Claire Butterfield and Oliver Swain, this genre-agnostic singing community performs music by D'Angelo, Shania Twain, Imogen Heap, Earth Wind and Fire, and Edward Sharpe. Supported by Ashley Wey on keys, Tyler Lieb on guitars, and Alex Campbell on percussion, featuring special guest vocalist Dawn Pemberton. 7:30pm. [$30]

The Choirs YYJ Winter Concert with Special Guests | The Farquhar at UVic | January 24  

The Choir, The Chorus, Sound Dragon, and The Mini-Choir share original choral and piano arrangements of songs by Heart, Blur, Enya, David Byrne and Brian Eno, Neko Case, and more. Special guests Jay Malinowski and Stephanie Cadman join the stage. 7:30pm. [$25]

The Planets: Symphony in Space | Royal Theatre | January 24-25 

Blast off with music from out of this world. Visit The Planets as depicted by Gustav Holst, Mozart, and Strauss, plus favourite themes by John Williams from Star Wars, the drama of Apollo 13, Star Trek through the years, and more. Conductor Sean O'Loughlin leads the journey from concert classics to inspired film scores. Various times. [From $29]

Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival | The Farquhar at UVic | January 25 

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of the world's most prestigious mountain film festivals. The Alpine Club of Canada Vancouver Island Section presents a heart-pounding lineup of the year's most exhilarating, inspiring films from around the globe. Experience breathtaking journeys, daring expeditions, and extraordinary feats set in spectacular landscapes. 6:30pm. [$32.50, early-bird $27.50]

The Island Big Band | Hermann's Jazz Club | January 25 

This 35-year-old Victoria-based non-profit performs music styles from the 1930s to the present. The band of professional and semi-professional players features excellent soloists and a large library of hundreds of standards in challenging concert arrangements. 7pm. [$20 plus fees/tax]

Tom Green: Stompin' Comedy Tour | McPherson Playhouse | January 25 

Groundbreaking Canadian comedian, actor, and media pioneer Tom Green brings his signature style of humour, stories about his career, and original songs live to Victoria. VIP meet and greet experience available as an add-on. 7pm. [From $56.75]

UJAM Club Night: January Blues  | Hermann's Jazz Club | January 28 

Chase away the drab, damp, and debt of January by sharing your love of music at a UJAM Club Night. Singers and instrumentalists are welcome on stage or in the house—register online to perform. Good food, drink, and fine company in Hermann's cosy atmosphere. 7pm.. [$10 members, $15 non-members at door]

Benji's January Pub Quiz | Île Sauvage | January 28 

Victoria's Quiz Master Benji brings eight rounds of mental gameplay designed to challenge your brain and tickle your funny bone. Perfect for quiz newbies and veterans alike, featuring good tunes, engaging visuals, and a sprinkle of lunacy. Compete for bragging rights and a gift card to the pub. Limited tickets available. 7:30pm. [Price TBA]

Sea Glass Jewellery Workshop | Maritime Museum of BC | January 29 | 5:30-7pm

Learn about the history and beauty of sea glass while designing your own stunning piece of jewellery using locally sourced materials. No experience necessary—leave with a unique and wearable work of art that captures the beauty of the sea. [$29.99 plus GST]

Steve Grebanier Guild plays Metheny | Hermann's Jazz Club | January 29

Victoria-based jazz guitarist Steve Grebanier revisits the music of Pat Metheny, drawing from across the guitarist's vast catalogue with freedom and care. Joined by Brent Jarvis on piano, Brayden Wise on bass, and Jon Miller on drums for an evening that balances history, individuality, and groove. 7pm. [$25 plus fees/tax]

Where Have All the Buffalo Gone? | Mary Winspear Centre | January 29-February 1 

An original play for young audiences exploring seven periods of Métis history, beginning during creation amongst the stars and ending in the present day. Incorporating fiddle music, jigging, and a life-size buffalo puppet, this production shares stories from the Callihoo family and the kinship between Métis people and the buffalo. [$35.70 adult, $33.60 senior/student, $27.30 youth 12 and under]

Spice Wannabe: The Spice Girls Tribute | McPherson Playhouse | January 30

USA's premiere Spice Girls tribute show brings Girl Power to Victoria with five-part harmonies, original choreography, iconic costumes, and British accents. Sing and dance along to hits including "Wannabe," "2 Become 1," "Say You'll Be There," and "Spice Up Your Life." Live from Las Vegas with professional tribute artists, musicians, and backup dancers. 7pm. [$65]

Rachel Therrien's Latin Jazz Project | The Coda | January 30 

Trumpeter Rachel Therrien offers a festive repertoire featuring original works and Afro-Latin jazz classics informed by her postgraduate studies in Havana. From salsa to danzón and rumba to chachacha, groove to the lively rhythms of Cuba, Mexico, Colombia, and Haiti with this exceptional ensemble of virtuosos. 6:30pm.. [$30]

OK, DOPE Game Show! | The Mint | January 30

An improv game show combining the fun of improv with the competitiveness of a game show. Watch as three comedians go head to head with host Bo Jagger Essery putting their improv skills to the test through various questions, prompts, and setups. Two will lose, one will leave a champion with Victoria's ultimate improv glory. 8pm. [$25 single, $20 group (6+)]

UVic Symphony Orchestra: Nobles, Smetana, Schumann  January 30 | 8pm

Conductor Yariv Aloni leads a dynamic programme journeying through vivid musical landscapes, from operatic drama to symphonic grandeur. Featuring Rossini's Overture to La gazza ladra, Jordan Nobles' contemporary work Apollo, Smetana's From Bohemia's Woods and Fields, and Schumann's powerful Symphony No. 4 in D minor. Part of the Sounding Grounds festival. The Farquhar at UVic. [$28 regular, $22 seniors, $15 students/UVic alumni]

Canadian Steam | McPherson Playhouse | January 31

It's Whose Line Is It Anyway? meets The Thunder from Down Under! This flannel-fuelled night of music and comedy features hilarious improvised songs and sketch, dangerously enthusiastic dance numbers, exciting crowd work, and cheeky Canadian charm. Audience judges decide if these lumberjacks have earned the Official Stamp of Sexy. 7pm. [Price TBA]

Mini Mariner Mornings: Waves of Communication | Maritime Museum | January 31

Explore communication and the ways we talk to people around the world, from telephones and telegraphs to signal flags. Craft and play games teaching the history of communication, plus see and handle real-life artefacts from the museum collections. Suitable for ages 3-8. Parents and guardians must remain at the museum. Drop-in anytime between 10-11am, with storytime at 10:15am. [Free with admission or membership]

Funeral Songs 2025 | The Coda | January 31

Covers in a Dangerous Time's annual tribute marking the passing of influential musicians lost in 2025. Performing music by Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys, Ozzy Osbourne of Black Sabbath, Jimmy Cliff, Sly & the Family Stone, and others. From sun-soaked harmonies to heavy riffs, soul, reggae, and funk, this night focuses on songs meant to be played live and shared. 6:30pm. [$20]

Hecklers Presents: Chris Gordon | Hecklers Bar & Grill | January 31

Saturday night comedy featuring top comics from across Canada and beyond. Doors open at 5:30pm for the early show (be there by 6:30pm) and 9pm for the late show (be there by 9:30pm). 7:30pm & 10pm. [$22]

Avram McCagherty Quartet | Hermann's Jazz Club | January 31 

Founder of the Stomp Club and the Capital City Syncopators presents a quartet of jazz masters deeply rooted in traditional jazz whilst forging new ground. Featuring Brooke Maxwell on piano/vocals, Patrick Boyle on trumpet, and Scott White on bass. Hard-swinging rhythms whilst staying sensitive and dynamic. 7pm. [$30 plus fees/tax]

International Guitar Night | The Farquhar at UVic | January 31 

The world's premier touring guitar festival features four extraordinary guitarists from around the globe: Itamar Erez, Jocelyn Gould, Jaimie Duplis, and Caroline Plante. An evening of dazzling virtuosity, diverse musical traditions, and intimate storytelling. 7:30pm. [$50 general, $45 alumni]