It may seem like November is a quieter period that falls between the holiday-focused months of October and December, but in Victoria, it’s a time for cozy indoor markets, festive holiday celebrations, and world-class performances as the season shifts toward winter. 

From beloved Leonard Cohen tributes to enchanting ballet and experimental theatre, there's something to warm every heart during the cooler evenings. 

Mark your calendars for these local events that showcase our community's vibrant arts scene and holiday spirit.

Check out the full list of November events below.

Cinq à Sept Launch Party | Nov. 5 | 5:00pm - 7:00pm 

Kick off the 3rd Incoming Festival with libations and mingling throughout the Intrepid Studio and lobby. Meet new-to-Victoria arts leaders Caitlin North from Mary Winspear Centre and Jennifer Johnson from Royal & McPherson Theatre Society in a casual setting. [Free]

Stan Walker with Seven Suns | Nov. 6 | Times vary 

Award-winning New Zealand R&B and pop artist Stan Walker brings his powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence to Capital Ballroom. [Ticket prices vary]

Community Connect | Nov. 6 | Times vary

Premier networking event for nonprofits, local businesses, and social enterprises designed to cultivate collaboration. Learn from Eric Fenato, Operations Manager of Orca Spirit Adventures, about supporting local artists and community giving. Connect with leaders working towards a better Victoria at theDock, 722 Cormorant Street. [Free; registration required]

Murder at the Queenie | Nov. 7-9 | Various times 

Theatre Quadra presents a brand-new satirical musical whodunit by Chris Thompson with original songs by George Nickoloff. When an untimely death shakes one of Quadra Island's most famous hotels, a quirky RCMP detective investigates eccentric suspects in this hilarious send-up of the classic mystery. [$20]

TEST KITCHEN: Joy Cuisine | Peek Fest 2025 | Nov. 7-8 | Various times 

Impulse Theatre's experiential "meal" centered around joy for tables of 2-4 patrons. Enjoy immersive activities and tactile experiences that engage your senses without any real food—you'll still leave full. [PWYC + $5 table reservation]

Victoria Quilters' Guild Christmas Market 2025 | Nov. 7-8 | Various times

 Browse fabulous textile creations and quilts while supporting the guild's community work, including donations to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Residential School Survivors, and Quilts of Valour. This annual Christmas market is the guild's main fundraiser. [$5 admission valid both days]

James & Jamesy Present O Christmas Tea | Nov. 7-8 | Various times 

London's 3-time Impresario Award-winning duo present an outrageously funny British comedy perfect for fans of Monty Python, Mr. Bean, and Dr. Seuss. When catastrophe strikes and floods their Christmas tea party, James and Jamesy conjure wildly funny solutions in this brilliant celebration of friendship at the Royal Theatre. [$52.25+]

Yuletide Market Series at Bilston Creek Farm | Nov. 7-9, 15-17, 22-24, 29-30 | 10:00am - 4:00pm 

One of Victoria's most popular Christmas craft markets features rotating local vendors each weekend ensuring something new every visit. Enjoy pizza from the outdoor cob oven, hot drinks at Bilston Cafe, and live music by Sadie Karlsson on select dates. A fantastic opportunity to shop local at 4185 Metchosin Road. [$5 admission redeemable towards Bilston products; ages 16 and under free]

Slow Dive | Nov. 7-9 | Times vary 

Kerri Flannigan's auto-fictography and queer coming-of-age tale spanning 20 years combines experimental documentary and projected animations to explore what our bodies know. Swimming and themes of water move throughout, portraying embodiment, grief, self-love, and queer identity at Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street. [Ticket prices vary]

Tower of Song: Leonard Cohen Tribute | Nov. 8 | Times vary 

Canada's longest-running Leonard Cohen tribute featuring Oliver Swain and Glenna Garramone with special guests including Juno winner Stephen Fearing, multi-Juno nominee Dawn Pemberton, percussionist Alex Campbell, and composer Adrian Dolan at McPherson Playhouse. [Ticket prices vary]

No Living Witness with Blackthrone Ascension & Mutual Trauma | Nov. 8 | Times vary 

Progressive tech death from Washington headlines with four-piece symphonic deathcore from the Fraser Valley and Victoria's own Mutual Trauma featuring former members of Reaver and Lucid Karma. 19+ at Phoenix Bar & Grill. [$15-17 + fees]

Fabric Printmaking Workshop | Nov. 8 | 1:30pm - 3:30pm 

Ocean-inspired printmaking workshop where you carve your own linocut stamp and apply it to fabric using creative block printing techniques. Take home your carved 4x6" linoleum block and printed cotton tea towel or tote bag. Bring additional fabric items like old jeans or t-shirts to print on at the Maritime Museum of BC. [Registration includes workshop, supplies, and 24-hour museum admission]

Victoria Choral Society presents RESILIENCE: Works for Choir & Organ | Nov. 9 | 2:00pm 

Join 150 voices under conductor Brian Wismath with organist Mark McDonald and VCS Choral Scholars as Christ Church Cathedral fills with breathtaking sound. The program features beloved classics including Bach's Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring, Mendelssohn's Hear My Prayer, Fauré's Cantique de Jean Racine, and powerful contemporary works. Doors at 1:30pm at 930 Burdett Avenue. [$40 or Pay What You Wish]

Choir! Choir! Choir! | Nov. 10 | 8:00pm 

Interactive sing-along experience where the audience becomes the choir. Daveed and Nobu teach harmonies and lead everyone in performing together, creating an unforgettable communal musical experience at the Royal Theatre. [Ticket prices vary]

Still With Us: Performance Series | Nov. 10 | Times vary 

Victoria Arts Council's month-long Legacy of HIV/AIDS in the Arts features welcome drum songs from Aunty Collective, Saying Goodbye to My Brother duet remount, i am beauty verbatim opera excerpt, and The Viral Monologues with first-person accounts from the frontlines. A portion of proceeds supports AVI Health & Community Services at The Baumann Centre, 925 Balmoral Road. [Ticket prices vary]

Ben Caplan with Suzie Ungerleider | Nov. 13 | Times vary 

Halifax folk artist Ben Caplan brings his powerful, soulful voice and captivating stage presence to Capital Ballroom with special guest Suzie Ungerleider. Known for his incredible beard and emotional performances. [Ticket prices vary]

Thursday's at Ecologyst: Monthly Shop & Sip | Nov. 13 | 12:00pm - 7:00pm 

Browse unique natural fibre products produced in North America while sipping locally made beverages from Vancouver Island breweries and wineries. Unwind with friends at this monthly event at 552 Johnson Street. [Free]

Sip & Shop Holiday Market | Nov. 13 | Times vary 

Shop curated local vendors while sipping cocktails in arguably the most beautiful room in Victoria. The Bard & Banker building was home to Spirit of Christmas from 1988-2007, and now the spirit returns with wonderful gift ideas, great libations, gorgeous surroundings, and live music. [Free admission]

Sloan | Nov. 14 | 9:00pm 

Canadian indie rock institution celebrates over 30 years with their 14th album "Based on the Best Seller." All four members sing, write songs, and play multiple instruments in their trademark democratic approach to power pop and alternative rock. [Ticket prices vary]

Festival of Trees | Nov. 14 - Jan. 5, 2026 | Various times 

Cherished community event brings beautifully decorated trees curated by local businesses and organizations to the Bay Centre. Vote for your favourite, get inspiration for your own tree, and support BC Children's Hospital. [Free admission]

The Soft Storm | Nov. 15 | 6:30pm & 8:30pm 

Multi-disciplinary collective creates dream-like spaces featuring poetry by 6th Poet Laureate Emeritus Marie Metaphor Specht and Indigenous poet Shauntelle Dick-Charleson, with spatialized soundscapes and immersive analogue light art. A lyrical, visually engaging experience that elicits emotion and magic. Two performances at Kirk Hall: 6:30pm (masks required) and 8:30pm. [Free; registration required]

‍Shari Ulrich & The Unfaithful Servants | Nov. 15 | Times vary

Two of Canada's finest acoustic acts share the stage with individual sets and various collaborations. Multiple Juno Award-winning folk legend Shari Ulrich joins BC's most exciting newgrass band The Unfaithful Servants for an unforgettable evening at Alix Goolden Performance Hall. [Ticket prices vary]

Museum Tots: How To Not Crash Your Boat | Nov. 15 | 10:30am - 11:15am 

Children ages 3-5 learn through maritime-themed crafts, play, song, and dance at the Maritime Museum of BC. Drop-ins welcome, parents required to stay. [Free with museum admission]

Bollywood Cabaret | Nov. 15-16 | Times vary 

Bad Shah, Canada's first Bollywood Drag King, presents a vibrant variety show celebrating the essence of the Hindi Film Industry. Experience different stories, movies, and melodies through the eyes of aspiring artists with incredible local performers at Intrepid Studio, 1609 Blanshard Street. Dress code: Midnight Society Macabre—black and red, elegant mourning shrouds, witchy couture. [Ticket prices vary]

Singles Event: Age 50-65 | Nov. 16 | 11:30am - 2:00pm 

Fun and relaxed social with snacks and speed dating in an organized, lighthearted setting. Perfect for those new to dating or just wanting a fun afternoon out. Equal number of men and women, spaces limited at Swans Pub, 1601 Store Street. [Ticket prices vary]

GoGo Penguin | Nov. 17 | 7:30pm 

British jazz trio delivers flawless musicianship with their unique blend of acoustic and electronic elements. Known for their energetic performances and innovative sound at the Royal Theatre. [Ticket prices vary]

The Routine | Nov. 18-22 | Times vary 

Joylyn Secunda's 5-star reviewed surreal physical comedy follows a lonely office worker who squeezes through a bathroom mirror portal on a quest for the meaning of life. "Death of a Salesman meets Mr. Bean" in this whimsical world of illusion where routines are poetry and the mundane becomes pure magic at Intrepid Studio, 1609 Blanshard Street. [Ticket prices vary]

Rotary Spelling Bee Breakfast Fundraiser for Literacy | Nov. 19 | 7:30am - 8:30am 

Fun, fast-paced adult spelling bee supporting Victoria Literacy Connection. All proceeds go directly to vital programs that build reading, writing, and learning skills for people of all ages in the community. Includes breakfast at Victoria Marriott Hotel, 728 Humboldt Street. [$50 per individual, $400 per team of 8]

Shawn Desman with Jamie Fine | Nov. 21 | 8:00pm 

Canadian R&B and pop star Shawn Desman performs with special guest Jamie Fine at the Royal Theatre. [Ticket prices vary]

Snotty Nose Rez Kids | Nov. 21 & 22 | 9:00pm 

Polaris Music Prize-winning Indigenous hip-hop duo delivers powerful performances addressing Indigenous rights, identity, and resilience at Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street. Doors 8pm. 19+. [Ticket prices vary]

Museum Tots: Beach Life | Nov. 22 | 10:30am - 11:15am 

Drop-in weekly program introduces children ages 3-5 to exciting museum learning through maritime-themed crafts, play, songs, and movement at the Maritime Museum of BC. [Free with museum admission]

Shirley Gnome: Children—You Can't Beat 'Em | Nov. 22-23 | 8pm 

Juno-nominated comedian and songwriter Shirley Gnome's show about a singer who goes viral on TikTok and performs at an elite private school with disturbing results. This is satire, not a real kids' show—seriously, do not bring your children. [Ticket prices vary]

Daniel James McFadyen: Landmine Tour with Kieran Campbell | Nov. 23 | Times vary 

Rising Canadian indie-folk artist celebrates the release of his new album "Back to the Country" with his full band. Known for high-energy, heartfelt performances and down-to-earth storytelling with special guest Kieran Campbell at The Coda. [Ticket prices vary]

Ten Thousand Things | Nov. 25-29 | Times vary 

Acclaimed storyteller and former Canadian SLAM champ Brendan McLeod examines how we ruined Earth in one lifetime—85% of the carbon in our air has happened since World War II. What begins as an exploration of Western history morphs into personal grief, joy, and potential answers to societal change. [Ticket prices vary]

The Dirty Nil | Nov. 26 | Times vary 

Canadian indie and metal band known for super interactive performances with fans and great stage presence delivers high-energy rock at Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street. Doors 8pm. 19+. [Ticket prices vary]

Mime Workshop with Joylyn Secunda | Nov. 27 | Times vary

 Learn movement technique, collaborative group exercises, and embodied writing prompts to create your own mime pieces. This workshop explores comedic timing, character-based comedy, and visual theatre conventions. No mime experience necessary, performers of all disciplines welcome at Intrepid Studio, 1609 Blanshard Street. [$40-60 sliding scale]

Julian Taylor and Logan Staats | Nov. 28 | Times vary 

Two acclaimed Indigenous Canadian musicians—Juno-nominated Julian Taylor and Polaris Prize long-listed Logan Staats—share the stage at Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street. Doors 7pm. 19+. [Ticket prices vary]

Ballet Victoria's The Nutcracker with Victoria Symphony | Nov. 28-30 | Various times 

Ballet Victoria and the Victoria Symphony bring the beloved holiday classic to life with Tchaikovsky's enchanting score performed live. This magical production featuring the Sugar Plum Fairy, dancing snowflakes, and the Land of Sweets is perfect for introducing families to ballet during the festive season at the Royal Theatre. [Ticket prices vary]

What's Wrong with J McLaughlin: Episode 5: Loser! | Nov. 28-30 | Times vary 

Shy, queer performer J McLaughlin uses intimate narrative, dark humor, and surreal ribaldry to deconstruct living within systems of oppression. A mean, funny, petulant exploration of anxiety, ecstasy, true love, dark thoughts, inner peace, death, desire, and other people at Metro Studio Theatre, 1411 Quadra Street. [Ticket prices vary]

Allan Rayman | Nov. 29 | 9:00pm 

Mysterious Canadian soul and R&B artist known for his cinematic sound and enigmatic persona performs at Capital Ballroom, 858 Yates Street. 19+. [Ticket prices vary]

43rd Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade Presented by CHEK | Nov. 29 | 5:30pm 

Annual parade kicks off at Government and Belleville, moving north along Government, east on Humboldt, and north on Douglas to the Victoria Public Market. Collecting food and cash donations for Mustard Seed Street Church and Food Bank. CHEK News broadcasting live. Road closures begin at 3:30pm. [Free]

Museum Tots - Sailing Ships | Nov. 29 | 10:30am - 11:15am 

Weekly program for children ages 3-5 features maritime-themed crafts, play, song, and dance at the Maritime Museum of BC. Drop-ins welcome, parents required to stay. [Free with museum admission]

Christmas in Oak Bay - Light Up Festival | Nov. 30 | 2:00pm - 5:00pm 

Family activities start at 2pm with street games, craft stations, various entertainment, roasted chestnuts, and Santa Letter Station with a direct-to-the-North-Pole mailbox. Stage entertainment begins at 3pm with thousands of lights illuminating buildings, trees, and lampposts throughout Oak Bay Village. Santa arrives on an Oak Bay Fire Truck at 5pm to kick off the festive season. [Free]