Friday is International Women’s Day, a day aimed at recognizing the achievements of women, as well as the challenges they face in the workplace and society, such as the ongoing wage gap, violence, and health-care rights. 

Women’s Day first began in the early 20th century but didn’t take off internationally until the women’s movement of the 1960s and 1970s brought it to the forefront. The United Nations  recognized it as an international holiday in 1975, and nearly 50 years later it’s still acknowledged worldwide. 

This year’s theme in Canada is “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” highlighting the importance of gender equality in all areas for building healthier and more prosperous communities. 

Check out our list of events where you can celebrate and support women in Greater Victoria:

International Women’s Day Tote Painting Night | Thursday | 7pm

Get together with other women and paint your personalized tote bag at the David Strong Building at UVic. [$5]

Theatresports: IWD Improv for a Cause | Friday | 8pm

Catch this competitive improv show at KWENCH, featuring an all-women cast for International Women’s Day. Proceeds will go to Women in Need and Victoria Women’s Transition House. [$25]

Who’s Your Shero | Friday | 7pm

Enjoy a night of women’s storytelling, music, and laughter at the Vic Theatre. [By donation]

Planet Earth Poetry: International Women’s Day | Friday | 7pm

Head to Russell's Books for a live poetry reading by women. [Free]

Queens of Comedy | Friday | 7pm & 10pm

Laugh along to this lineup of women comedians at the Victoria Event Centre, with an early and late show. [$25+]

‍International Women’s Day at Ross Bay Cemetery | Friday | 10am, 1pm, 4pm

Learn about 10 women from Victoria’s past who defied expectations on this historical tour. Three time slots are available. [$20]

Great Expectations: Pregnancy in the 19th Century | Friday | 2pm

Explore 19th-century pregnancy experiences at this presentation from UVic’s Mary Elizabeth Leighton and Lisa Surridge at the Sidney/North Saanich Library. See pregnancy calendars, corsets, and maternity dresses alongside fascinating accounts of pregnancy from Victorian novels and diaries. [Free]

IWD Barbie Watch Party | Friday | 6pm

Vancouver Island Women's Committee will host a viewing of Barbie at the Parkside Hotel Theatre on Humbolt. Expect in-depth conversations and mocktails. [Registration required]

International Women’s Weekend at Oak Bay Bike | Fri.-Sat. 

Celebrate women in cycling at this two-day event with coaching talks, group rides, and community building, kicking off with an evening of refreshments at OBB. [Free]

International Women’s Weekend at Oakland Community Centre | Fri.-Sun. 

Join a drop-in craft night for women on Friday, browse the wares of local women vendors at Saturday’s market, and learn a new skill at Sunday’s workshops. [By donation]