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Celebrate World Ocean Day with a week of events, festivals, and activities that connect Greater Victoria to the wonders of the Salish Sea.
Celebrate World Ocean Day with a week of events, festivals, and activities that connect Greater Victoria to the wonders of the Salish Sea.
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Celebrate World Ocean Day with a week of events, festivals, and activities that connect Greater Victoria to the wonders of the Salish Sea.
Ocean Week Victoria celebrates World Ocean Day with a vibrant week of community events focused on ocean conservation, education, and fun. Running June 1–8, this year’s Ocean Week features over 35 ocean-themed activities presented by more than 25 local organizations.
Expect interactive stations and festivals at Beacon Park in Sidney, the Gorge Waterway Nature House in Esquimalt, Fort Rodd Hill, and a final celebration at Fisherman’s Wharf on Sun., June 8, along with a packed lineup of workshops, tours, arts and crafts, trivia night, and more. Check out the list below:
Sunday, June 1
World Ocean Day Celebration in Sidney | June 1 | 11am–3pm
Head to Beacon Park with the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea for a fun, family-friendly celebration featuring interactive exhibits, activities, and ocean-themed learning experiences. [Free]
Community Day at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea | June 1 | 10am–4:30pm
Visit the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea by donation and enjoy a full day of ocean-themed fun. Combine your aquarium visit with the nearby World Ocean Day festival in Beacon Park. [By donation]
Family Intertidal Exploration | June 1 | 1–2:30pm
Join the Maritime Museum of BC at Rainbow Park to discover the wonders of local marine life in a hands-on exploration of the intertidal zone. Perfect for families and curious kids. [$10-$20]
Exploring Marine Birds with CRD Regional Parks and Power To Be | June 1 | 1:30pm-3:30pm
Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists and Power To Be at Island View Beach for an inclusive, accessible program exploring the fascinating world of marine birds. Learn to spot and identify local species, discover their unique adaptations, and connect with nature. [Free; registration required]
Salty Sunday: Linocut Printmaking | June 1 | 2–4pm
Visit the Maritime Museum for a hands-on linocut printmaking workshop inspired by the ocean. Learn the basics of linocut techniques. Participants can create linocut bookmark or postcard prints, while learning about Salish Sea animals and their ecosystems. All materials provided; no experience necessary. [By donation]
Join Ocean River Sports for a guided kayak tour starting in Oak Bay, followed by a beachside session with marine biologist Amanda Swinimer of Dakini Tidal Wilds. Explore the remarkable world of local seaweeds—learn about their identification, edibility, nutrition, culinary uses, spa applications, and ecological importance. All skill levels welcome. [Free; registration required]
Ocean-Themed Pub Trivia | June 2 | 7:30–10pm
Test your marine knowledge at Christie’s Pub during a lively trivia night hosted by Sixty Watt Trivia. Bring your friends and compete for fun prizes like whale watching or paddleboarding tours, tickets to museums or science centres, or swag items like t-shirts and tote bags. [Free to play]
Specimen Spectacular: Ocean Week Pop-Up Display | June 3 | 12–2pm
For a limited time, rarely seen ocean-related specimens, from deep-sea creatures to coastal curiosities, will be brought out from behind the scenes for public viewing at the Royal BC Museum. Chat with curators and collection managers to uncover the fascinating stories behind these marine marvels. [Free]
Kayaking the Great Bear Sea with Susan Conrad | June 3 | 6:30–8:30pm
Join Pacific Wild for an inspiring evening exploring Canada’s Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Network in the Great Bear Sea. Expedition kayaker and Explorers Club Fellow Susan Conrad will share a dynamic presentation about her 2022 solo paddle through the Great Bear Rainforest, from the San Juan Islands to Sitka, Alaska. The evening also features a talk by Sydney Dixon, Marine Specialist with Pacific Wild, on the progress and importance of MPA Networks for biodiversity protection. [Free; registration encouraged]
Canadian Ocean Research Presentation Night at Ocean Networks Canada | June 3 | 7–8:30pm
Join Ocean Networks Canada for an engaging evening of casual talks highlighting ocean-based research and climate solutions developed in Canada. Enjoy complimentary treats and beverages, and take advantage of the opportunity to network and mingle with fellow ocean enthusiasts. [Free; registration encouraged]
Send Kelp! Documentary Screening & Q&A | June 3 | 7:15–9:15pm
Watch the inspiring documentary Send Kelp! at IMAX Victoria, following Frances Ward’s journey in building a kelp farm off Vancouver Island. A post-screening Q&A session with filmmaker Blake McWilliam after the film will dive deeper into the topic. [$13]
Ocean Stories: Reading Corners at the Royal BC Museum | June 4 | 11am–2pm
In collaboration with the Greater Victoria Public Library, pop-up reading corners will be set up in the Natural History gallery and museum lobby, featuring a curated selection of ocean-themed books for all ages. Surrounded by fascinating ocean specimens, these spaces offer a perfect setting to relax and delve into stories about sea creatures, underwater adventures, and the mysteries of the deep. Librarians will host special ocean-inspired storytimes for young visitors at 11:30am and 12:30pm. [Included with admission; free for members]
Adventures with a Kelp Creature: An Ocean Week Conversation with Alex Chen and Lis Xu (Virtual event) | June 4 | 12–12:30pm
Join author and musician Alex Chen and illustrator Lis Xu for a delightful online conversation about their new picture book and musical audiobook, The Adventures of Kelp Creature. This engaging virtual session will explore the inspiration and creative process behind their work, blending storytelling, ocean stewardship, vibrant artwork, and mesmerizing sounds. [Free; registration required]
Ocean Career Fair | June 4 | 5–8pm
Connect with marine science professionals and conservation organizations at James Bay Community Centre. A great opportunity for students and job seekers exploring ocean-related careers. [Free]
Lost Orca: The Legend of Luna Documentary Screening and Q&A | June 4 | 7:15–8:30pm
Experience the poignant story of Luna, a young orca who, after becoming separated from his pod in 2001, sought companionship among humans in Nootka Sound. Following the film, join filmmaker Michael Parfit for an engaging Q&A session. [$13]
Queer & Curious: Ocean Week Behind-the-Scenes Tour at the Royal BC Museum | June 5 | 3:30–4:30pm
Visit the Royal BC Museum for a special behind-the-scenes tour designed for the queer community. Explore the hidden corners of the museum’s natural history collections and exhibit arts spaces, uncovering rare specimens and the creative processes that bring exhibits to life. As part of Ocean Week Victoria, the tour will highlight fascinating marine specimens through the lenses of paleontology and entomology. [$10.50; registration required]
Virtual: Return of the Sea Otter Webinar | June 5 | 7–8:30pm
Learn about the remarkable conservation success of sea otters in a virtual webinar led by Pacific Wild’s marine specialist, highlighting how this keystone species is making a comeback. [Free]
Dive into the Deep: Ocean Adventure | June 6 | 12–4pm
A family-friendly event at Tillicum Centre featuring interactive ocean touch tanks, engaging displays, and educational activities. Meet marine experts from organizations like Ocean Networks Canada and the Greater Victoria Public Library. Discover fascinating marine creatures and learn about ocean conservation in a fun, hands-on environment. [Free; time-slot reservations are encouraged]
Songs from the Nearshore Performance | June 6 | 6:30–7:30pm
Experience a unique blend of music and science at Theatre SKAM, where local artists turn Canadian tide and wave data into an engaging live performance. [Free]
Gulf Islands Social Paddle Clean Up | June 6 | 6:30–8pm
Join Pacifica Paddle Sports and the Trash Panda Brigade for a beginner-friendly paddle departing from Canoe Cove Marina. Explore nearby islands while cleaning up shorelines inaccessible by road. Bring your own kayak, canoe, or SUP for free participation, or rent gear at a discounted rate. [Free with own gear; registration required]
Celebrate Ocean Week at the Gorge Waterway Nature House | June 7 | 10am–2pm
Join Seaquaria and the Gorge Waterway Action Society at the Gorge Waterway Nature House for ocean critters, crafts, shoreline walks, and family-friendly fun. [Free]
World Ocean Day at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites | June 7 | 10am–4pm
This event features interactive programs, games, and educational booths for all ages. Learn about marine ecosystems, conservation efforts, and how you can help protect ocean life. Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse NHS. [Regular admission applies; free for youth 17 and under]
Discover Local Coastal Wildlife with Prince of Whales | June 7 | 10am–4pm
Join Prince of Whales for a family-friendly Ocean Week Victoria event at 812 Wharf Street. Explore interactive educational displays and a kids’ colouring station to learn about marine conservation and the incredible wildlife of the Salish Sea. Participate in a colouring contest for a chance to win whale watching tickets. [Free]
Immersive Marine Ecology Paddle & FUNdraiser | June 7 | 10–11:30am
A guided stand-up paddleboard tour departing from Willows Beach. Explore the hidden connections between marine life and coastal ecosystems with marine biologist Gina Lemieux and Pacific Wild’s Sydney Dixon. Along the way, contribute to ocean conservation by collecting marine debris—buckets and nets provided. [By donation; registration required]
Museum Tots: Explore the Reef | June 7 | 10:30–11:15am
The Maritime Museum’s weekly education series for children aged 3-5 will have a marine theme this week. [Free with museum admission]
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Sea Glass Jewelry Workshop | June 7 | 2:00–3:15pm
Make some stylish sea glass jewellery at this workshop at the Maritime Museum. [$30]
Cinema of the Sea: Indigenous Waters, Orca Songs, Seaweed Dreams | June 7 | 7–9:30pm
Immerse yourself in an evening of ocean-themed films exploring Indigenous knowledge, marine life, and coastal conservation. This Ocean Week Victoria event features three short films—The Spirit Who Swims, Seaweed Chronicles, and Call of the Orcas—followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers. Hosted at the Vic Theatre. [$5]
11th Annual World Ocean Day Celebrations at Fisherman’s Wharf | June 8 | 11am–4pm
Cap off the week with the main celebratory event for World Ocean Day Victoria, happening at Fisherman’s Wharf. A free, family-friendly event featuring conservation organizations, live performances, touch tanks, and interactive exhibits. [Free]
Community Day at the Maritime Museum of BC | June 8 | 9:30am–4:30pm
Enjoy a by-donation Community Day at the Maritime Museum of BC. Explore sensory-friendly hours in the morning, featuring low lighting, reduced sound, and available sensory kits for a comfortable experience. In the afternoon, drop in to create your own maritime-inspired button. [By donation]
Kelp Float by Paddleboard | June 8 | 10–10:45am & 11–11:45am
A paddleboarding experience through the kelp forests of Gonzales Bay led by marine biologist Gina Lemieux of Mer Tales Ocean Journeys and South Island SUP. This is a unique opportunity to observe marine life in action, with eagles flying overhead, harbour seals popping up, and being able to gaze down through the water column to observe schools of fish, egg-yolk and moon jellies, kelp crabs on bull kelp stripes, and more. [Free]
Citizen Science SCUBA & Snorkel Workshop | June 8 | 10am–4pm
Join Wilson Diving for a hands-on marine survey experience led by marine biologist and PADI Staff Instructor Mara. Participants will learn to identify local marine species, take effective identification pictures, different survey methods including using transects, and easily upload them to a citizen science database. [Free; donations encouraged]
Summit and Sea Celebration: From Hilltops to Kelp Forests | June 8 | 10:30am–1:30pm
Begin with a guided hike from Anderson Hill Park, exploring scenic summits including Walbran Summit and Gonzales Observatory. An accessible route is available for those preferring a gentler path. Both hiking groups will arrive at Gonzales Beach for lunch and relaxation. At 12:30pm, join a guided stand-up paddleboard tour led by marine biologist Gina Lemieux and South Island SUP, immersing yourself in the vibrant kelp forest ecosystem. All equipment is provided, and no prior paddleboarding experience is necessary. [Free. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis; no registration required]
Under the Sea-lebrity Meet-Up | June 8 | 11am–3pm
Bring the whole family to Tillicum Centre for a special meet-and-greet with Bikini Bottom’s most famous sponge: SpongeBob SquarePants. As part of Ocean Week Victoria, this sea-lebrity event carries an ocean conservation message and offers fun photo opportunities. Held at Tillicum Centre on the upper level near Winners. [Free; reservation required]
Clover Point Shoreline Cleanup | June 8 | 11am–1pm
Cleanup supplies (buckets, gloves, pickers) are available on a first-come, first-served basis—bring your own if possible. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. [Free; registration encouraged]
Saltwater Stories: Emerging Ocean Sector Voices | June 8 | 6–9pm
Join Ocean Week Canada for an inspiring evening of storytelling at The Mint in Victoria. This event features early-career ocean professionals—including filmmakers, tech innovators, naturalists, and policymakers—sharing personal, heartfelt, and often humorous 10-minute stories about their journeys in marine science and conservation. [Free]
Explore the Marine Debris Art Exhibit at Hillside Centre | May 31–June 8
As part of Ocean Week Victoria, Hillside Centre hosts "The Floating World," an art installation by environmental artist Pete Clarkson. This exhibit features sculptures crafted entirely from marine debris collected along Canada's west coast, offering a compelling visual narrative on ocean pollution and sustainability. Visitors can engage with these thought-provoking pieces during regular shopping centre hours.
Critical Distance: An Immersive Experience with the Southern Resident Killer Whales | June 6-9 | Various times
Step inside an awe-inspiring VR and spatial audio installation that brings you face-to-face with the endangered Southern Resident killer whales. This immersive experience raises awareness of the challenges they face and highlights the urgent need for conservation. Presented as part of Ocean Week Victoria at the Royal BC Museum. [Free with museum admission]
Paddle 4 Pacific | June 8–July 31
Join this coast-to-coast paddling fundraiser to raise awareness and support for Indigenous and Pacific Islander communities impacted by ocean threats. Whether you kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, every kilometre logged helps highlight the urgent need for ocean conservation and community resilience. Participants can register individually or as teams and paddle at their own pace throughout the summer. [Registration required]
