Get ready to stop and smell the roses—literally! One of Victoria’s most cherished spring traditions is making its grand return just in time to celebrate the moms in your life. The 43rd Annual Mother’s Day Musical Garden Tour, hosted by the Victoria Conservatory of Music (VCM), is set to take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 10th and Sunday, May 11th. This one-of-a-kind, self-guided tour invites locals and visitors alike to explore nine breathtaking private gardens scattered throughout Greater Victoria—each offering a unique burst of creativity, colour and community fun.
Guests will be treated to live performances by talented students and faculty from the VCM, ranging from elegant soloists to dynamic ensembles, playing everything from classical pieces to contemporary favourites. “The Mother’s Day Musical Garden Tour makes the perfect outing for anyone looking to enjoy time outside this spring with family and friends, enjoying exquisite music and stunning gardens, while helping us raise essential funds for the Victoria Conservatory,” says Nathan Medd, CEO of the VCM. “As the Conservatory’s biggest annual fundraiser, and a perennial sell-out, we are proud that 100% of the ticket proceeds support efforts to keep music education, performance, and wellness thriving in Victoria.”
This year’s gardens are hand-picked and as diverse as they are delightful. Highlights include an innovative urban garden, a sculpture-filled garden (where works will even be available for purchase), and a 1930s English-style sunrise garden above the ocean. Two-day tour passes are $45 and provide access to all nine gardens. Tickets are available via Showpass, at the VCM box office, and VCM’s Langford location. Treat mom to a unique and lovely experience and soak in some springtime vibes!
May is bursting with life in Victoria, and there's no shortage of ways to get out and celebrate it. From outdoor markets and fairs to lively concerts, hands-on workshops, and Mother’s Day festivities, the city is packed with events for every interest. Whether you’re sipping cider on a beautiful farm, dancing at a concert, or browsing local handmade treasures, this month’s lineup has something for everyone.
Design Victoria, a four-day celebration of creativity featuring over 50 events across architecture, interior design, graphic design, product design, and fashion, will be held from May 1 to May 4, 2025, at various venues. Most events are free, making it accessible for all.
For music lovers, Relics will be performing the music of Pink Floyd on May 1 & 2 at 7 p.m. for $25, while TED at Royal Roads University on May 2 promises inspiring talks from thought leaders from 1-6 p.m. for $72. Theatre enthusiasts can catch "Legally Blonde: The Musical" from May 2-11 at the McPherson Playhouse for $66, or enjoy the uplifting choral concert, "Soundtrack of Our Lives," from May 2-4.
On May 3, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 will be performed at 7:30 p.m. for $38, followed by a Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to Taylor Swift at 6:45 p.m. for $39+. The TC Book Sale returns on May 3 and 4, offering thousands of used books at the Victoria Curling Club.
The Victoria Pet Expo on May 3 & 4 is perfect for animal lovers, while The Mom Market at Tillicum Centre will showcase local vendors on May 3 & 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For those looking to celebrate May Day, Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse will host a family-friendly event on May 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
World-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma will perform on May 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Royal Theatre, an event that has already sold out. For those who enjoy tributes, Hotel California – A Tribute to The Eagles will take the stage on May 7 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. for $55.
Esquimalt Buccaneer Days will take place from May 8-11, with the parade scheduled for Saturday, May 10, along Esquimalt Road. On the same day, catch rising comedian Julie Kim at the Capital Ballroom at 8 p.m. for $47+, or indulge in a Cinco De Mayo Agave Paired Dinner for $99.
Families can enjoy the Luxton Spring Fair from May 15-18, featuring rides, games, and live entertainment. The Victoria Highland Games & Celtic Festival will celebrate Scottish culture on May 18 & 19, with various activities from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for $15+.
Victoria Day will be marked with the Thrifty Foods 125th Anniversary Parade on May 19 at 9 a.m., followed by comedian Leanne Morgan's performance at the Royal Theatre on May 23 for $59+. Disney fans can celebrate with "A Whole New World: Songs from Movie Musicals" on May 23 at 7:30 p.m. for $78.
Art enthusiasts can partake in the Saanich Scattered Artists Spring Tour on May 24 & 25, exploring eight locations and the work of 32 local artists. The community will also celebrate the rich culture of Victoria’s Chinatown on May 25 with the Awakening Chinatown 2025 event from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Local vendors will gather at the Orchard Market at Junction Cidery on May 25 at 11 a.m., while Queen: It's a Kinda Magic will pay tribute to the legendary band on May 28 at 7 p.m. for $78. Finally, food lovers can enjoy a Chef’s Table Macaron Dinner on May 30 at 6:30 p.m. for $70, and the Folktoria 2025 festival will celebrate folk culture on May 31 & June 1.
With so many exciting events lined up, May in Greater Victoria promises to be a month filled with fun, creativity, and celebration. Whether you’re enjoying the Mother’s Day Musical Garden Tour or one of the many other events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
