INSIDE
SAANICH PENINSULA ARTS & CRAFTS
CONNECTING ARTISTS WITH RESIDENTS
U-JAM SUMMER
JAZZ WORKSHOP
THE PARKSVILLE BEACH FESTIVAL SOCIETY
SPRING AND SUMMER MARKETS
CAMP QWANOES
BUCCANEER DAYS
JUAN DE FUCA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
FLAVOUR TRAILS®
MOTHER’S DAY MUSICAL GARDEN TOUR
JAZZFEST
SKA & REGGAE FESTIVAL BUILDING OFF THE WORLD CUP
SAT
EXHIBITION & SALE
Mary
SPACSOCIETY.COM
MAY 2-JUNE 6 A RTIST I N R ESI DENCE
Esquimalt Town Square
A month-long residency showcasing the work of local artists at our fabulous gallery.
JUNE 19-24
Esquimalt Gorge Park
SCULPTUR E SPLASH! SA ND CASTLE EDITION
Sculptor Fred Dobbs and crew will create a sand sculpture “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” TCAC will host a family picnic Tea Party on Sunday, June 25th. Fun for everyone!
JUNE 26, 27, 28
PREVIEW - PAY WHAT YOU CAN
JUNE 29, 30, JULY 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15.
Gorge Park, Esquimalt 6:30 PM
The Greater Victoria Shakespeare Festival (Ticketed event)
www vicshakespeare.com/tickets
TUESDAYS, JULY 4 – AUG 22
Mermorial Park, Esquimalt
Stay tuned for our amazing line up of weekly bands. We’ll post to Facebook and our website once finalized!
JULY 14 - 16
Esquimalt Town Square
BA R D ACROSS TH
All’s Well that Ends Well
The Saanich Peninsula Arts & Crafts Society (SPAC) presents their Annual Spring Art Exhibition & Sale at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney on Saturday, April 29 (10am-6pm) and Sunday, April 30 (10am-4:00pm). Tickets are $10 at the door or online at: spacsociety.com/
This fabulous annual event showcases over 700 artworks from SPAC members, some of whom will be demonstrating their art in the concourse during the show. Stroll the Main Gallery in Bodine Hall amongst floral displays, paintings, pottery, jewelry, sculptures that range from serious to hilarious and fibre, textile and wood works of art. Be sure to look for featured artworks chosen by our Jurors and designated with a “Juror’s Choice” award. Vote for your favorite artwork by dropping your ballot in the “Viewer’s Choice Box for a chance to win an incredible door prize.
In recognition of its 70th Anniversary, SPAC is giving away seven 2023-4 SPAC memberships. Enter at the Show.
M EMOR IA L PA R K MUSIC FEST
Wait! There’s more! Visit the Gift Shop to find an amazing array of smaller original artworks that you can take home immediately. They make wonderful gifts!
Preview the show by becoming a SPAC Art Patron! Your non-refundable $150 contribution to SPAC includes:
• An invitation for you and one guest to attend the private Patron’s Gala on Friday April 28, 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm at the Mary Winspear Centre.
• Enjoy wine, music and gourmet appetizers while browsing the Main Gallery alongside some of the artists.
• A $100 credit towards the purchase of your favorite piece, before the general public.
• Recognition of your contribution to the arts community on the Patron’s List in our event brochure (or remain anonymous, if desired).
• Visit spacsociety.com/springshow/patrons/ today.
A few comments from last year’s Patrons;
“The Patron's night is always a fun time with great food, beverages, music and friendly hosts. I have used my Patron's credit towards paintings, jewellery and pottery in the past and look forward to finding my 2023 pick!"
– Richard Lloyd"My wife and I have been proud supporters and patrons of the SPAC Spring Show since 2019. The diversity of the show guarantees something for every palette for visual arts lovers like us. We have yet to leave a show without a new treasure for our home. A big thank you to the volunteers who organize SPAC and continue to bring us this wonderful event.
– Josh & Andrea Prowse
Scott Gillies & other professional chalk artists will create imaginative 3E artworks all around “The Square”. Drop by to see the creation of magical Vancouver Island birds
SEPT 15
SPLASH! OF LIGHT
The magic of lantern-fest returns to Gorge Park. Lantern making classes TBA
SEPT 2023-MARCH 2024
World class music at CFB Esquimalt Wardroom. Tickets available at the Sharkz Store for only $20. Proceeds fund our Youth Mentorship Program
TOWNSH I P CLASSICS
See our website www townshiparts.org for updates & information
The Township Community Arts Council (TCAC) creates a physical and organizational arts infrastructure for the Township of Esquimalt and beyond.
We advocate for and promote local artists and their work and programs, while supporting and enabling access for
residents to the arts in their own community. TCAC is a non-profit organization powered by volunteers — dedicated to creating partnerships, allocating funds within the Township and ensuring the public investment in the arts improves the livability and economic prospects of this community.
We connect artists of diverse backgrounds and disciplines with residents wanting an abundant Township where the arts are present, visible, accessible and affordable.
For information about the TCAC events and people, visit: townshiparts.org
Join the Jam at U-JAM’s “Summer Jazz Workshop”
August 14 - 18th at the Selkirk Montessori School!
An incredible line-up of talented professionals is ready to guide you through a full week of music making.
This promises to be a week filled with incredible training, camaraderie, and of course, FUN!
The camp is designed to help students of all ages and skill
Camper” option has been created for those wishing to attend with a limited schedule.
U-JAM is a registered not for profit society founded in 2006, with a goal of supporting
and encouraging enjoying and performing live music interactions in jazz and the many derivatives including rock, blues, Latin, and many other improvised musical styles.
For Voc alists and Instru mentalists of All Ages
levels gain instrumental/vocal experience in an environment of Encouragement and Fun. Students of ALL instruments can apply, particularly vocalists, saxophone, flute, clarinet, trombone, trumpet, piano and keyboards, strings, guitar, bass (electric and/or acoustic) and drums. The workshop will give students the opportunity to make music together in small and large ensembles and improve their
knowledge and skills, including improvising and jamming with others.
The camp will take place in the beautiful setting at the Selkirk Montessori School in Saanich.
Classes are offered in theory, arranging, song writing, chording, vocalizing, historical perspectives, technology, and many special areas of interest. Each day we will divide by interests and abilities to create a stimulating program for all instruments. The interplay of combining musicians of all ages gives all a chance to learn from different perspectives. A special program for vocalists plus masterclasses, performances, jam sessions, and more. Play or sing in a band, meet other musicians, make music, and generally have fun - the evening concert series includes a nightly jam session with the pros!
Camp cost is $499.00 for the week. Billeting and hotel information is available on request.
Bursaries and scholarships are also available for deserving students. For busy people, a “Day
Day time classes and work shops
Evening Concer t s & Jam Sessions
All- S tar Facul t y
August 14th-18th • Selkirk Montessori School
Reser ve your spot at www/ujam.ca
or email: ujamsummercamp@gmail.com
$499 with family discount s and bursaries available
Parksville Beach Festival promises fun in the sun at the Parksville Community Park located alongside Parksville’s famous beach. Starting with the worldrenowned, signature event, the Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition, opening weekend is July 14-16 with the sculpture exhibition open until August 20. This popular event features a 30-hour competition between twenty-nine international master sculptors. Working with this year’s sculpting theme “Wonders of the World,” sculptors begin by pounding sand on Thursday, July 13 to create the sculpting base that is essential to a successful sculpture.
Public entry to the Competition begins at 2pm Friday, July 14. Sculpting is complete by 2:45pm on Sunday, July 16, at which time the judging begins. Awards and cash prizes are presented to the top 3 doubles and the top 5 soloists, in addition to peer-selected awards and people’s choice prizes.
The sculptures are available for viewing from July 17 through to August 20 from 9:30am8:30pm daily. Admission is by suggested donation of $5 per person. Since 1999, the Parksville Beach Festival Society has donated close to $1 Million from the gate proceeds to non-profit organizations and community projects.
Parksville Beach Festival brings you the Wonders of the World…
Some of the other family-friendly activities to enjoy during the festival include:
• Parksville Canadian Tire Sculpting Lessons & Demonstrations 10am–5pm
July 15 & 16
Inspired by our sculptures? The public will have an opportunity to learn sand sculpting techniques used by the professionals. Parksville Canadian Tire has sponsored two professional sculptors to teach anyone who wishes to learn how to create a ‘proper’ sand sculpture from scratch. All ages welcome!
Start planning your summer today at parksvillebeachfest.ca and see you at the beach!
• Art in the Park July 22 (10am-6pm) & 23 (10am to 4pm)
A two-day arts and craft fair taking place in the gardens around the tennis courts in the park. Paintings, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, photography, art cards, children’s clothing, art glass and more will be available.
• Coastal Community Credit Union Sculpture Light Up!
August 18 & 19
For two nights only the Sand Sculpture Exhibition will be illuminated and open after dark. This event lets you experience our sculptures in a unique and wonderfully different way. Gate stays open until 11pm each evening.
With the addition of the Parksville Outdoor Theatre in the Community Park, Parksville Beach Festival offers a variety of entertainment options throughout the 5-week event. Locals and visitors can look forward to the return of the popular free Tim Hortons Summer Concert Series Friday and Saturday evenings from 6:30pm-8:30pm. Concert dates are July 21, 22, 28 & 29 and August 4, 5, 18 & 19. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chair or blanket and be prepared to dance!
parksvillebeachfest.ca/event/ summer-concert-series/
Last year Parksville Beach Festival partnered with Mid Island Co-op and introduced a three-day music festival called Rock the Park. It was such a success that it will be returning August 11-13. Featured tribute bands for 2023 will perform the music of: ABBA, Bob Seger, David Bowie, Eagles, Elvis, Fleetwood Mac, Joe Cocker, John Fogerty/ CCR, Neil Diamond, Santana as well as returning favourites Big Awesome and Rock of Ages and breakout country artist Garrett Gregory. Tickets on sale now at shop.mcmillanartscentre.com/ collections/box-office
The new addition to the festival this year is the RE/ MAX Parksville-Qualicum
“Symphony by the Sea” featuring the Vancouver Island Symphony. On August 20 don’t miss the opportunity to experience live orchestral music. The Vancouver Island Symphony under the direction of Calvin Dyck will present a Pops Show featuring lighter symphonic favourites by Strauss, Brahms, Rossini, Verdi, John Williams, Henry Mancini. Tickets go on sale May 1st. parksvillebeachfest.ca/event/ re-max-parksville-qualicumsymphony-by-the-sea-featuringthe-vancouver-island-symphony/
Also, the public can enjoy a diverse cross section of Vancouver Island musicians performing daily at the Boardwalk Gazebo adjacent to the sand sculptures. The Party City Buskers are programmed to play from 11 am to 1 pm and 2 to 4pm daily from July 18 to August 20.
These are just some of the family friendly activities offered during Parksville Beach Festival home of the Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition and Exhibition. Parksville Beach Festival runs July 14 through to August 20. Plan your visit today at parksvillebeachfest.ca and see you at the beach!
April 22nd and 23rd 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Location: the historic Pendray House, 3221 Heatherbell Road, Colwood
Presented by the Coast Collective of the
With over 100 vendors and 30 farmers, Moss Market is Victoria’s premier farmers market. Amazing local organic produce, meats, eggs, bakers, artisans and crafters, superb hot food, live music, and so much more.
Year Round, Every Saturday May-October 10am-2pm November-April 10am-1pm on the Sir James Douglas school grounds, surrounding boulevards, and Porter Park. 1330 Fairfield Road MossStreetMarket.com
Veterans’ Memorial Park, Langford Handmade - Homemade - Homegrown
Every Saturday 10am - 2pm May 6 - October 7, 2023
From our Hands to Yours Fresh Local Produce, Baked Goods, & Artisan Crafts
Check us out on and Instagram
Metchosin Farmers’ Market
May 14th - October 29th
Every Sunday 11am-2pm
Lovely country market featuring local growers, artisans, and bakers offering a wide variety of products including jewelry, soaps, pottery and an assortment of treats for both pets and their humans. Live Island music. Join us in our relaxed rural atmosphere.
Spend a Sunny Saturday in the Country Saturdays, June 3-October 7, 9am-1pm
Saanich Fairground
1528 Stelly’s Cross Rd, Saanichton
Come see how country feels and taste fresh produce, meats, baked goods, hot coffee, explore artisan gifts and crafts and discover live music. This year our focus is on fun for the whole family!
More information on vendors and music follow us at @peninsulacountrymarket or online at peninsulacountrymarket.ca
A juried exhibition of work by 67 Southern Gulf Islands artists: paintings, sculpture, textiles, photography, mixed media, and more.
ArtSea Gallery, 9565 Fifth St, Sidney (Tulista Park)
April 28 - May 11, 10am - 4pm
Presented by the Southern Gulf Islands Arts Council www.artsontheislands.org
View the exhibition online till the end of June
St. Luke’s Church Spring Fair and Coronation Tribute
Saturday, April 29th 10:00AM - 2:00PM 3821 Cedar Hill X Rd.
Plants, Jewellery, Antiques, Needlework, Books, Toys, Baking, Jams, Silent Auction, Vintage Clothing, Accessories, Coffee & Goodies, Royal Memorabilia, White Elephant and more! Free admission. Ample parking. Wheelchair accessible For more information call: (250) 592-2842
Summer Series Thursday and Sunday at the Mary Winspear Centre
Thursday Evenings 5:30-8:30 pm
June 15 to August 31
Sunday Mornings 10am -2pm
June 25 to August 27
“We are back for another fresh, local season” www.westcoastoutdoormarkets.com
Spring Craft Sale
Saturday, May 6th & Sunday, May 7th 12-4pm 3873 Swan Lake Rd.
Beautiful quilts and sewn handcrafts
Proceeds support the Nature Sanctuary www.swanlake.bc.ca 250-479-0211
RIM POTTERS
Annual Spring Show and Sale
Saturday, May 13, 10am-4pm
Knox Presbyterian Church Hall 2964 Richmond Rd.
Local ceramic artists in this popular, long established show will exhibit a wide variety of handcrafted, artful, functional and sculptural clay creations for home and garden. Free admission. Door prizes
Everybody welcome
For more info: 250 658 4523
The Greater Victoria Folk Festival Society’s 6th Folktoria will take place June 3 & 4, 2023 in Centennial Square Folktoria is a free, inclusive, & vibrant opportunity for the many diverse cultures in our community to share their music, song & dance. www.folktoria.ca/ www.facebook.com/Folkathome/
Every Saturday, May 6 to October 7 9 am to 3 pm Corner of Menzies & Superior Fresh Local Produce Specialty Foods
Local Award Winning Artisans Great Live Music Food Trucks Support LOCAL Growers & Makers www.jamesbaymarket.com
The annual Hills to Shore Artists Tour
Sat. & Sun. May 13&14, 11am to 4pm
This free, self-guided tour on Mother’s Day weekend features 11 studios and 20 artists in Gordon Head, Mt. Tolmie and Cadboro Bay.
For a map, visit the website at hillstoshoreartists.ca/ or follow us on Facebook and Instagram
The Esquimalt Ribfest Society and the Esquimalt Firefighters Charitable Foundation invite you to join us for the ELEVENTH ANNUAL ESQUIMALT RIBFEST
September 8th, 9th, and 10th, 2023 Bullen Park, Esquimalt, BC FREE ADMISSION
Six world-class, big-rig barbequers serving the best ribs you’ve ever tasted; craft brewers featuring local beer and cider; live music; fun activities for kids; vendors and entertainment for all ages. Proceeds from this family event go to local charities and school sponsored events. Check us out at:
www.esquimaltribfest.com
German Harmony Choir presents A Bouquet of Spring Songs
Conductor: Dr. Garry Froese
Soprano: Anjulie Djearam
Sunday 7 May @ 2:30 pm St Mary’s Anglican Church 1973 Cultra Ave Saanichton cash @ door $20/$10 student T: 250.721.0582
May 27 - 28, 2023 11am - 4pm 30 artists showing and selling a variety of art and artistic creations. Free self-guided tour. Paintings, weaving, jewelry, pottery, art cards, collectible knives and much more.
Enter to win free draw baskets at each location!
*8 locations all within a short distance of the Cedar Hill Golf Course
*First stop 2890 Foul Bay Road Instagram and Facebook: scatteredartists
With the 2023 theme “Next Level” it's clear that they are VERY EXCITED for all that is ahead in 2023. (Don’t miss watching their Next Level video!)
“The past three years have been quite an adventure and filled with many changes and challenges brought on from the impact of COVID.”
“It’s been amazing to see what can happen when people join together in unity for a common
cause - and especially powerful when it’s to make a difference in the lives of children and youth. We are so grateful for the outpouring of support.”
“WE LOVE OUR TEAM!
And I don’t just mean our staff team - I’m meaning EVERYONE who has had a part in making Qwanoes what it is!”
Camp has always had a profound impact on children and youth...and now more than ever!
It is one of the special places and
experiences in our world today.
“Last summer we welcomed back way more campers than in 2021 as COVID restrictions were removed. Now we’re hoping to welcome even more this summer.”
“Campers can expect amazing adventures, new friendships and all the wonder and discovery that is part of camp,” says Bayley.
Whether they’re exploring a giant floating Aqua-Park, racing a friend down a spectacular ocean zip line called the Jet Stream to
the beach, or skateboarding on a world-class concrete skate park, there is something for everyone. Since 1966 kids have been experiencing these kind of adventures and a whole lot more at Qwanoes, nestled beside Maple Mountain on a quiet bay in Crofton about one hour north of Victoria.
“Our staff can’t wait to welcome everyone!”
Speaking of the impact camp clearly has on kids, Bayley says, “What really makes a week at Qwanoes so special is that we love kids. Qwanoes is a safe place where kids are not only accepted but valued. Kids can just be kids here and enjoy an escape from our fast-paced, plugged-in world. Campers can gain not just new-found confidence, but also a new-found hope for their future.”
In the words of a camper: “You know, Qwanoes is amazing. Not just because of the activities or the beach or the soccer or the fun times. But because it gives us all the chance to meet amazing people and bond with amazing staff members. I have a group of close friends who I all met at this camp… it has been one of the highlights of my childhood. Qwanoes has changed my life forever."
Qwanoes is a Christian camp, and an ideal place for fun-filled, life-changing adventure. All are welcome and there still is some space available for this summer. Check out their summer 2023 video at qwanoes.ca/ summer/media.
(For more info: qwanoes.ca)
– Scott Bayley, Executive Director Camp Qwanoes
Buccaneer Days festivities have always been well attended, with over 20 community organizations taking part, which allows our community to work and play together, have a great time, and instill a feeling of accomplishment and pride in our community.
This fun-filled weekend is loaded with events for all and a great parade. For over 25 years West Coast Amusements have been our Midway provider and they will be once again this year, Robby and Tahra Hauser and their crew are looking forward to being in Esquimalt with their fabulous Midway May 12, 13, 14th, 2023.
The parade will be on Saturday, May 13th starting at 10:00 a.m. Neighbours from Victoria, Oak Bay, View Royal, Saanich and all other communities are invited to join us. We would love to have you enter our parade and you can find the Parade entry form on the Municipal web site, as well as the Buccaneer Days website.
Don’t forget the Dance on Saturday night with two great bands, Rocksteady & Kooler.
Tickets are $20.00 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased at Len Fraser Barber Hairstylist, 1230 Esquimalt Rd, Esquimalt Rd., or at VIC PD West Division - 500 Park Place.
For the parade entry form send request to kimviscampbell@gmail.com
Juan de Fuca Festival of the Arts began in 1992 as a volunteer organization whose vision was, and remains, to promote and develop the performing and visual arts. Our legacy event, now in its 27th year, is our Juan de Fuca Festival.
This celebration of music and art takes place over the three days of May 27 – 29. With over 80 performances on 5 stages, 100 volunteers, 50 food and artisan vendors and several local community organizations joining us this year, we are ready to make
this the best festival ever. JFFA is committed to celebrating our home and communities. Come and see what makes us unique! For more information on the festival, our organization, or to purchase passes, go to jffa.org. See you in May!
food economy, and build a more informed community in accessing and consuming locally grown/sourced food. And that is why we celebrate Flavour Trails!
Flavour Trails® programs promote and organize annual community celebrations that provide opportunities to experience good food – grown, farmed, made, produced, fished, harvested, vined – all right here! Flavour Trails events offer a fun way for the community to meet and/or learn about their local farmers, taste their favorite fresh and locally made foods and travel the “trails” to experience the flavours of the region. These food celebration experiences prioritize and nurture the growth and sustainability of the regional
Everyone is invited to join us this summer at one of the longest-running Flavour Trails events in the region –August 18 - 20 – the North Saanich Flavour Trails Festival will feature a community celebration, cultural and agricultural venues hosting farm gates, tours, tastings, entertainment and activities.
Whether you explore by car, bike, carpool or hula hoop, this annual rural ramble is a summer season must do!
Are you part of a business, association or community organizing committee interested in hosting a Flavour Trails® signature event or program?
Get in touch with us at events@crfair.ca
The Mother’s Day Musical Garden Tour brings together music lovers to enjoy beautiful private gardens and delightful music from students and faculty of the Victoria Conservatory of Music. As the Conservatory’s biggest annual fundraiser, 100% of the funds raised supports efforts to keep music education, performance, and wellness thriving in Victoria.
THE TOUR
Hosted over Mother’s Day weekend, this self-guided tour allows you access to some of Victoria’s most spectacular private gardens. This year’s event features eight hidden backyard gems including:
• a one-acre natural garden with fruit, oak and fir trees, a rose arbour, and bountiful spring bulbs
• a terraced collector’s garden full of rare botanical treasures
• A resort-style tropical garden right in the heart of the city
• a whimsical wonderland complete with picturesque ponds, a charming stone bridge, and a rose garden fit for the Queen of Hearts herself
Enjoy the weekend perusing the gardens and fantastic musical performances by students and faculty of the Victoria Conservatory of Music. The music is what makes this tour truly unforgettable! From classical to contemporary, musicians play in the gardens for a memorable outdoor experience. Performers range from soloists, duets, and small and large groups.
New this year! Kick back and relax at the Used.ca Chill and Charge lounge or watch demonstrations on how to create a planter garden with edible plants and flowers.
Two-day passes are $40 (plus service charges where applicable) and include exclusive access to each garden from May 13 and 14 from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Tickets are available online until Wednesday, April 26 at noon and in-person at the Box Office (900 Johnson Street) or a variety of ticket outlets. Visit vcm.bc.ca/ victoria-garden-tour/ for complete details.
Thanks to our Presenting Sponsors Newport Realty Victoria, Christie's International Real Estate and Newport Property Management, for helping us bring this tour to life.
Get ready for eleven hot days and nights of the coolest music in town during the TD Victoria International JazzFest, June 22 to July 2, 2023. Vancouver Island’s longest running multi-day professional music festival will present a culturally, musically diverse program of 70 stunning performances and four free-toattend workshop/clinics on 10 stages in Victoria. Jazz is the “sound of surprise” which will be heard from over 300 musicians in 53 bands from around the world in both ticketed and free performances.
summer party Victoria has ever known!
or getting your funk on outdoors at Bullen Park, this festival has something for everyone. Find out where to purchase tickets at jazzvictoria.ca and prepare to join the most unforgettable, longest
Celebrate the end of summer on a high note with the newly titled Harbour Blues ‘n Roots Festival, happening Thursday, August 24 - Sunday, August 27, 2023. Formerly known as Vancouver Island Blues Bash, this festival will bring “music in all shades for your soul” and include more genres such as roots music. Featuring artists such as Samantha Fish, Allison Russell, and more, as well as free-to-attend performances on the main outdoor stage at Ship Point, you’ll be rockin’ and groovin’ on the dance floor in Victoria’s inner harbour!
JUNE 22 - JULY 2, 2023
S AND NIGHTS OF THE COOLEST MUS 1 1 10HOTDAY ICINTOWN
CHRIS BOTTI | SNARKY PUPPY BADBADNOTGOOD | SONA JOBARTEH | MOLLY JOHNSON NIK WEST | JAMISON ROSS | LOWDOWN BR ASS BAND EMMET COHEN | LUDIC | BR ANDEE YOUNGER PULKES BAND | OSTAR A PROJECT | MALI OBOMSAWIN CAITY GYORGY | STORRY | WITCH PROPHET | ISAIAH COLLIER
AND MANY MORE... INCLUDING OVER 20 FREE PERFORMANCES! OVER 300 MUSICIANS | 70 PERFORMANCES | 10 STAGES
With free performances on the grassy fields at the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park, as well as free and ticketed performances on the outdoor TD Main Stage at Bullen Park in the Township of Esquimalt, Victoria residents and beyond can expect an exceptional roster of world-class touring artists to bring them the summer experience of a lifetime once more. Whether immersing yourself in a headliner Marquee Series performance at the Royal Theatre or McPherson Playhouse, enjoying an evening of food, drink, and live jazz at one of the club or restaurant venues,
FEATURING: SAMANTHA FISH ALLISON RUSSELL AND MANY, MANY MORE!
Maxi Priest to Victoria for the first time in his illustrious career. Also joining us for the first time are reggae legends Sister Carol and Junior Toots, son of reggae legend Toots Hibbert, who will be performing a tribute to Toots and the Maytals in honour his late father’s band. Pan Wizards Steel Orchestra will make their first appearance on the festival bringing us a 36-piece steel drum orchestra from Edmonds, Washington.
We are also thrilled to be presenting an exclusive Canadian performance with California’s beloved reggae outfit, The Aggrolites who played in the festival 20 years ago.
Victoria’s 24th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival is excited to kick off the summer festival season with another year of incredible music and strong community. Building on our biggest year in 2022, 2023 will bring another jam-packed 5 days of ska, reggae, hip-hop, funk, jazz, global roots, drum n’ bass and more featuring over 30 acts.
With three nights of free programming on our signature stage at Ship Point, free workshops, visual arts, a kids play area and some of the lowest festival ticket prices in North America, Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival is set once again to stake its claim as the Festival of the People.
This year we welcome international reggae superstar
Jamaican-rooted genres like ska and reggae is music born of struggle, love and community. And it’s that spirit that finds us welcoming some of hip-hop’s most recognizable and conscious voices. West coast legend Chali 2na brings his crowd-pleasing baritone voice as he returns to Victoria with his band the House of Vibe.
Recognized as one of the most thoughtful and passionate MCs of the last 20 years, Brother Ali brings his unimpeachable flow and rhymes to our stage for the first time. Our foster features artists from Jamaica, UK, Costa Rica, Mexico, Colombia, Belize, US and numerous bands from across Canada and our vibrant local music community. Join us in welcoming the world this summer. Bring your family, reconnect with friends, meet new ones and be a part of what promises to be another spectacular year!
This past December, we all witnessed the greatest World Cup ever…with the greatest final game ever…featuring, arguably, the greatest soccer player ever and perhaps the next great one too! The Canadian Mens National Team returned to World’s biggest sporting event after more than 35 years…and scored our first World Cup goal. With our recent Womens National Team success at the Olympics and World Cup, what better time to continue building our Canadian soccer program.
Our Canadian stars didn’t come out of nowhere, they started playing soccer at the grassroots
level early in life. This is where Royal Soccer Club comes in. As a non-profit community organization, the Royal Soccer Club has been hosting grassroots summer day camps for children aged 5 to 13 years old. For over 30 years, we’ve been the promoting soccer in 100 locations across Canada. Over 300,000 children have benefited from our unique day camp experiences. Campers, as we like to call them, not only build on their individual skills but they’ll also learn life skills like leadership, team building and even problem solving that extend far beyond the one or two weeks of their camp session. The self-confidence they gain at our program becomes very evident when they return to their regular soccer games and teams. You don’t have to be a great soccer player and often, you don’t need any soccer experience at all to attend a soccer camp. Whether your child wants to improve his/ her skills or simply want to try soccer in a non-competitive, fun environment, soccer camp is the right choice for you.
We encourage all children between the ages of 5 and 13 to register for either our full day or morning sessions during the months of July and August. Each camper receives a soccer ball, t-shirt, camp medal and much more. We also offer supervised extended care drop off and pickup times. For more information visit royalsoccerclub.com or call us 1-800-427-0536
A summer of fun awaits in City of Victoria day camps. Programs for ages 3-14. Spor ts camps, playground camps, science and engineering camps, youth camps and much more.
Vie w details online and star t planning your summer.
“I have nothing but excellent things to say about the staff associated They have been a par t of the village raising my child.”
“Leaders of the summer camps was awesome! They really care about kids.”
“Affordable full day camp with lots of fun activities :) My kids want to come back next year for sure!”
Registration is open
Spots fill quickly so register early. victoria.ca /recreation | 250.361.0732
