December in Greater Victoria is when the holiday season truly comes alive, with twinkling lights illuminating downtown streets, festive markets filling the air with seasonal cheer, and stages across the region showcasing traditions from The Nutcracker to A Christmas Carol.

From intimate jazz performances and candlelit classical concerts to family-friendly films and New Year's Eve celebrations, the capital region offers countless ways to embrace the magic of the season.

Whether you're searching for the perfect handcrafted gift at a local market, enjoying world-class entertainment at the Royal Theatre, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere with loved ones, December brings warmth and wonder to every corner of our community.

Check out the full list of events below.

Christmas Tree Village | Dec. 2-Jan. 2 | 12:30-10pm 

The Recreation Centre transforms into a holiday wonderland filled with decorated trees, twinkling lights, and festive decorations from local groups and businesses. Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street. [Free]

Lights of Wonder | Dec. 2-31 | 4-9pm 

Downtown's free outdoor celebration features twinkling lights, live music, food trucks, and seasonal activities. Enjoy live entertainment on stage on Friday and Saturday nights. The Ferris wheel starts operating on Dec. 19. Centennial Square. [Free]

December Mixer with the Township of Esquimalt | Dec. 3 | 5:30-7:30pm 

Celebrate the final mixer of 2025 with networking, festive cheer, and light refreshments in a beautiful setting. TCAC Gallery Space, Town Square, 501 Park Place, Esquimalt. [$10]

Postsecondary Chamber Music/Chorale Showcase | Dec. 3 | 7-9pm 

VCM and Camosun College postsecondary students present an eclectic mix of classical chamber music and choral repertoire to close out the term. Alix Goolden Performance Hall. 900 Johnson Street. [By donation]

GVHA Harbour Holiday Lights | Dec. 4 | 5-8pm 

The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority splashes seasonal light across the Inner Harbour in this free, family-friendly event that will also include live music, free hot chocolate and cookies, an artisan market and a visit via boat from Santa! Inner Harbour Lower Causeway & Ship Point Pier. [Free]

Esquimalt Fall Indoor Farmers Market | Dec. 4 | 4:30-7pm 

Shop local with farmers, food producers, bakers, and artisans offering fresh produce, delicious eats, and handcrafted gifts in a cozy indoor setting. Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street. [Free]

Nautical Rope Wreaths Workshop | Dec. 4 | 5:30-7:30pm 

Learn to transform a single piece of rope into a beautiful maritime-inspired wreath to hang in your home for years to come. Maritime Museum of BC, 744 Douglas Street. [$50]

Yuletide Market Series | Dec. 5-7 | Fri-Sun, 10am-4pm 

Browse rotating vendors at one of Victoria's most popular Christmas craft markets, featuring local artisans, live music, and pizza from the outdoor cob oven. Bilston Creek Farm. 4185 Metchosin Road. [$5]

Holiday Celebration Lunch | Dec. 5 | Noon-1:30pm 

Savour a traditional turkey dinner with holiday entertainment at this catered event organized by the Township of Esquimalt that requires no cooking or cleanup. Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street. [$20]

Girls Night! | Dec. 5 | 8pm 

Catch some of Vancouver Island's best female comedians in this evening of standup comedy with prizes from Foxy Box. The Mint Restaurant, 1414 Douglas Street. [$20]

Museum Tots—Welcome Winter | Dec. 6 | 10:30-11:15am 

Introduce children ages 3-5 to museum learning through maritime-themed crafts, play, song, and dance in this drop-in programme. Maritime Museum of BC, 744 Douglas Street. [Free with admission]

Nerdy Days Craft Fair | Dec. 6-7 | Sat-Sun, 11am-4pm 

Browse vendors at this festive market with entry by donation, and all proceeds will support Victoria hospitals. Market Square, lower courtyard corner unit #29. [Entry by donation]

Sea Glass Ornaments Workshop | Dec. 6 | 2-3:30pm 

Learn the fascinating history of sea glass and create your own holiday ornament using locally sourced pieces. Maritime Museum of BC, 744 Douglas Street. [$30]

Esquimalt Skate with Santa | Dec. 6 | 2:30-4pm 

Join Santa on the ice for music, fun, and free admission with skate rentals available on a first-come, first-served basis. Archie Browning Sports Centre, 1151 Esquimalt Road. [Free]

Colombian Rumba—Christmas Candles Party | Dec. 6 | Doors 9pm, show 10:30pm-2am 

Dance to salsa, merengue, reggaeton, and bachata with live performances by Paula Zerpa and Danza Colombia dancers. Enjoy tasty Latin American food. The Coda, Main Stage, 751 View Street. [$30]

Sunday Milonga | Dec. 7 | 1-4pm 

Join an afternoon of tango dancing in close embrace and watch spectacular performances by Canada's Tango Pista Champions Sandra Naccache and Jorge Lopez. The Coda, Bar Stage, 751 View Street. [$20]

Festive Arrangement Making Workshop | Dec. 7 | 1:30-3pm 

Create your choice of an outdoor bucket arrangement or an indoor holiday display with all supplies provided under a covered tent. Goldenball Mercantile, 649 Fort Street. [$70]

Beehive Christmas Fibre Fair | Dec. 7 | 11am-5pm 

Explore the grand opening of the Beehive Fibre Arts Centre while shopping for hand-dyed yarns, fibre, tools, and handcrafted goods from local makers. Beehive Fibre Arts Centre, 1205 Blanshard Street. [Free]

The Jive Big Band and the Blue Bosses | Dec. 8 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm 

Enjoy an evening of big band classics, rock, funk, and surprises with two fantastic ensembles performing by donation to keep live music thriving. Hermann's Jazz Club.  753 View Street. [By donation]

A Festive Celebration: Naden Band Holiday Concert Toy Drive | Dec. 8-9 | 7:30pm 

Support the Salvation Army while enjoying festive music from the Naden Band in this special holiday concert and toy drive. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street. [$15]

A Holly Jolly Christmas: The Sensational Rock 'n' Roll Revue | Dec. 9 | 7:30pm 

Internationally acclaimed performer Zachary Stevenson brings beloved Christmas classics combined with 1950s and '60s rock 'n' roll hits in this toe-tapping holiday extravaganza featuring an all-star band playing live. McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square. [Tickets starting $54]

Soul Source (R&B Band) | Dec. 9 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm 

A 20-piece R&B band directed by Nick La Riviere performing music by Janelle Monae, The Pointer Sisters, Dr. John, Bruno Mars, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more. Entry by donation to Living Edge supporting local food security. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [By donation]

Schnitzel Night | Dec. 10 | Doors 5:30pm, dinner 6pm 

Traditional German schnitzel or bratwurst dinner with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, red cabbage, dessert, and entertainment by Edelweiss dancers. Pre-orders required by Dec. 9. Victoria Edelweiss Club, 108 Niagara Street. [Members $24.50-$29, Non-members $27-$32]

An Upside Christmas | Dec. 10 | 7:30pm 

The Upside Guys host an evening of entertainment with world-renowned pianist Michael Kaeshammer, Juno winner Colin James, Miina, and Jason Verners. Proceeds support Island Families through the Salvation Army. McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square. [Tickets starting $48.25]

The Debaters | Dec. 10 | 7:30pm 

CBC Radio's The Debaters celebrates 20 years with host Steve Patterson and debaters Deborah Kimmett and Matt Wright delivering standup comedy and joke-filled debates. Not recorded for broadcast. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street. [Tickets starting $54.25]

Holiday Ornament Paint Night | Dec. 10 | 6-8:30pm 

Create one-of-a-kind holiday ornaments with step-by-step guidance, all materials included, plus a welcome beverage. Full menu of cocktails and appetizers available for purchase. Ryes & Shine Craft Distillery, 103-2323 Millstream Road. [$65]

‍Thursdays at Ecologyst—Monthly Shop & Sip | Dec. 11 | Noon-7pm 

Browse unique natural fibre products made in North America while enjoying locally made beverages from Vancouver Island breweries and wineries. Ecologyst, 552 Johnson Street. [Free]

Messiah by Candlelight | Dec. 11-14 | Dec. 11-12, 7:30pm; Dec. 14, 2:30pm 

The Victoria Symphony, local choirs, and four leading soloists perform Handel's great oratorio in the magnificent candlelit setting. Christ Church Cathedral, 930 Burdett Avenue. [Tickets $72]

Dance City Night | Dec. 12 | 7:30-10:30pm 

Rumba workshop 7:30-8:30pm followed by ballroom dance until 10:30pm. All ages welcome, bring a partner or come solo. Victoria Edelweiss Club, 108 Niagara Street. [$15 or $12 for members/students]

Holiday Soul Party: Shanna Dance and Jonnie Bridgman | Dec. 12 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm 

Soul, Motown, and New Orleans style holiday favourites with Victoria vocalist Shanna Dance, saxophonist Jonnie Bridgman, and street beat New Orleans ensemble. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [$35 plus fees/tax]

Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular | Dec. 13-14 | Dec. 13, 2pm & 7pm; Dec. 14, 2pm 

This 17th season celebration features music, dance, lights, and decorations with medleys from Bobby Darin, Mary Poppins, Frozen, ‘80s rock, disco, Canadian songs, and White Christmas. McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square. [Tickets starting $62]

Free Holiday Movie Screening: The Polar Express and The Grinch | Dec. 13, 14 | Doors 9am, show 10am Saturday and Doors 1pm, show 2pm Sunday.

Enjoy a cozy afternoon screening with family and friends. Donations for the Goldstream Food Bank are welcomed. Cineplex Odeon West Shore, 2945 Jacklin Road. [Free]

Family Coding Workshops | Dec. 13, 17 and 20 | 9:15am & 3:30pm 

Free hands-on workshops for kids ages 6-14 and parents to build games together with Code Senseis instructors. Registration required. Code Ninjas Westshore, 890 Goldstream Avenue. [Free]

Teen Winter Ice Skating | Dec. 13, 20 & 27 and Jan. 3 | 8:15-9:30pm 

SD62 teens enjoy free outdoor ice skating with skate and helmet rentals included. Special on s'mores: 2 for $5. SD62 Student ID required. City Centre Park, 1089 Langford Parkway. [Free]

Holiday Tubas | Dec. 13 | 2-3pm 

Tuba Christmas Victoria presents an annual gathering of tuba and euphonium players performing in support of the Times Colonist Christmas Fund. Market Square, 560 Johnson Street.

Breakfast with Santa | Dec. 14 | 9:30am-11:30am 

Festive buffet, cookie decorating, keepsake photos from Four Frames Photo Booth, and a visit from Santa in the ocean-view Harbour Room. Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Hotel Resort & Spa, 100 Harbour Road. [Adults $69, Children 4-12 $35, Under 4 free]

Hark! The Herald Street Holiday Market | Dec. 14 | 10:30am-3:30pm 

Quality vendors, festive atmosphere, food, and music. Sunset Labs, 400 Herald Street. [Free admission]

Free German Dance Lessons (Edelweiss Dancers) | Dec. 14 | 6-7pm 

Learn traditional German dancing from the Edelweiss Dancers. All ages welcome. Victoria Edelweiss Club, 108 Niagara Street. [Free]

Christmas Show: Stephanie Greaves & Friends | Dec. 14 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm 

Join Stephanie with Attila Fias on piano and keys, Ryan Tandy on bass, and Kelby MacNayr on drums for a fun night of musical favourites. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [$30 plus fees/tax]

Daniel Lapp's Home for Christmas | Dec. 17-18 | 7:30pm 

The 22nd annual concert features BC Fiddle Orchestra, Folkestra!, Joy of Life Choir, Shiny H'ornaments, Swing'n Shepherds, and Strings of Lights with special guests Cathy Fern Lewis, Adam Dobres, and Adrian Dolan. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street. [Tickets starting $25.25]

Sean Drabitt presents A Charlie Brown Christmas | Dec. 17 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7pm 

Bassist Sean Drabitt presents music from the Charlie Brown Christmas Special, with the TV special showing on venue screens. Charlie Brown turkey dinner available. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [$40 plus fees/tax]

A Wonderheads Christmas Carol | Dec. 19-21 | Dec. 19, 7:30pm; Dec. 20, 3:30pm & 7:30pm; Dec. 21, 1pm 

Visual storytelling virtuosos present their signature reimagining of Dickens' classic with spectacular giant masks, whimsical puppets, and theatrical invention. 75 minutes, no intermission. McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square. [Tickets starting $42]

MaMa Put—African & Caribbean Eatery Special Christmas Edition | Dec. 20 | 8am-8pm 

Pre-order authentic African and Caribbean favourites, including cassava leaves stew, okra soup, jollof rice, and malva pudding. Pre-order at issambacentre@gmail.com. African Arts & Cultural Society Centre Issamba, 1709 Blanshard Street. [Info]

Head to the Westhills YMCA/YWCA Winterfest | Dec. 20 | Noon-4:45pm 

Free swim, hot chocolate, crafts, bounce castle, games, family glow yoga (4-4:45pm), and pictures with Santa. Adults need a government-issued photo ID and proof of Langford address. YMCA Westhills, 1319 Westhills Drive.  [Free]

Winter Solstice Music 10th Anniversary Tour | Dec. 21 | 7pm 

Vocalist Cari Burdett and ensemble bring warmth and harmony with voices, strings, and storytelling to celebrate the turning of the season. Five per cent of proceeds support Mischa Lelum youth shelter. James Bay United Church, 511 Michigan St. [$33.28]

Elf—Film in Concert | Dec. 21 | 2:30-5pm 

Experience the seasonal and funny film on the big screen while the Victoria Symphony performs John Debney's score live. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street. [Ticket prices vary]

Die Hard | Dec. 21 | 7:30-9:45pm 

Bruce Willis in all his 1980s glory as John McClane. This 1988 action classic returns to the big screen with hostages, witty one-liners, explosions, and holiday music. The Vic Theatre, 808 Douglas Street. [Ticket prices vary]

Breakfast with Santa | Dec. 21 | Beginning 9:30am 

Festive buffet, cookie decorating, keepsake photos from Four Frames Photo Booth, and a visit from Santa in the ocean-view Harbour Room. Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Hotel Resort & Spa, 100 Harbour Road. [Adults $69, Children 4-12 $35, Under 4 free]

Sound of Music (No Minors) 19+ | Dec. 23 | 6-9pm 

Belt out along with Julie Andrews' Maria and the von Trapp kids at this 19+ screening with cocktails. The Vic Theatre, 808 Douglas Street. [$20]

Anise Russow Quintet | Dec. 26 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm 

Toronto-based jazz and soul vocalist Anise Russow returns home for the holidays with an immersive evening featuring Henry Baker, Thomas Andersen, Matisse Gubby-Hurtig, and Kelby MacNayr. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [$25 / $15 students plus fees/tax]

Relics: Playing the Music of Pink Floyd | Dec. 27 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm 

An early Pink Floyd experience focusing on the 1967-1975 period with songs from A Saucerful of Secrets, Umma Gumma, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn, and Meddle. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [$30 plus fees/tax]

Doctor Zhivago | Dec. 28 | 6:30-9:45pm 

Love, revolution, and snowy Russian landscape collide in this five-Oscar-winning epic. The film includes an intermission. The Vic Theatre, 808 Douglas Street. [Ticket prices vary]

Ballet Victoria's The Gift of the Nutcracker | Dec. 28-30 | Dec. 28, 7:30pm; Dec. 29-30, 2pm 

The timeless classic featuring Victoria Symphony and Ballet Victoria dancers. A Victoria tradition showcasing classical talent and young dancers from the Ballet Victoria Conservatory. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton Street. [Tickets starting $34.75]

Rowan Farintosh Group | Dec. 28 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7-9pm 

The award-winning saxophonist and composer leads a dynamic group of Victoria's top session musicians through a melting pot of contemporary genres rooted in jazz improvisation. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [$25 / $15 students plus fees/tax]

Early NYE 2025: Pablo Cardenas presents Afro-Cuban Jazz Explosion | Dec. 31 | Doors 1pm, show 2-5pm 

World-class Cuban pianist Pablo Cardenas and The West Coast Cuban All Stars celebrate the new year early with the best Afro-Cuban jazz. Full dinner menu plus two specials available. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [$50 including fees/tax]

New Year's Eve Celebration | Dec. 31 | Doors 6:30pm, buffet 7pm, dance 8:30pm 

Ring in the new year with live music by S-Bahn, a festive buffet dinner, dancing to sounds of the ‘70s, ‘80s & ‘90s, party favours and champagne at midnight. Tickets must be pre-ordered and prepaid by Dec. 21. Victoria Edelweiss Club, 108 Niagara Street. [Members $100 / Non-members $115]

Groove Kitchen: New Year's Eve 2025 | Dec. 31 | Doors 8:30pm, show 9:30pm-12:30am 

Seven-piece band delivers funk and Latin from Maceo Parker, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Buena Vista Social Club, Bruno Mars, and more. Full dinner menu plus two specials available. SOLD OUT. Hermann's Jazz Club. 753 View Street. [$60 including fees/tax]