CITYVibe 2011

Summer 2011CItyVibe

Produced by the city of Victoria victoria’s guide to festivals and outdoor events

Summer 2011CItyVibe

Produced by the city of Victoria victoria’s guide to festivals and outdoor events

Festival Investment Grant Program

High quality festivals and celebrations contribute to a community’s well-being and economic health. The City of Victoria places the pursuit of arts, culture and tourism opportunities as one of its primary objectives as a means to strengthen its downtown and enhance livability. Over the past 12 years, the City has awarded $1.3 million to Victoria based non-profit arts and cultural organizations through its Festival Investment Grant Program.

The program is designed to nurture outdoor festivals and celebrations held within the Capital City, facilitate their growth and ensure their continued success. The City’s financial support assists organizations to develop new festivals and celebrations, or improve or expand existing events.

For more information and eligibility criteria on the City of Victoria’s Festival Investment Grant program, call 250.361.0363, or visit: www.victoria.ca and click on What’s New?

About This GuideThe festivals and celebrations showcased in the first section of this guide are recipients of the City’s 2011 Festival Investment Grant. The guide also features public markets as well as City sponsored concerts and events presented at the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park and Centennial Square next to Victoria City Hall.

festivals and outdoor events | CityVibe 1

Message from Mayor Dean Fortin

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to CityVibe, Victoria’s Guide to Festivals and Outdoor Events.

The City of Victoria is proud to be a part of this initiative. Both as the host city and as a community partner, we are excited to support the many festivals and celebrations that will take place this summer.

Summer is a special time in BC’s Capital City – with so much to do and see, it will certainly be busy. I encourage you to take part in as many of the events happening around town as possible. It is a great way to build community spirit and show your support.

Victoria has a wonderful array of long established festivals alongside new creative events that highlight our local talent and creative spirit, not to mention ongoing markets right across the city, boasting both local food and artisans.

So whether you are in Centennial Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, on Government Street or at Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park, there will be music in the air and people in the streets enjoying all that our wonderful city has to offer.

Best wishes for a fun-filled and memorable summer.

Sincerely,

Dean Fortin Mayor

CityVibe | city of victoria2

Table of Contents

Festival Investment Grant Program .............................................Inside Cover

About This Guide .........................................................................Inside Cover

Message from Mayor Dean Fortin .................................................................1

Uno Fest: Canada’s Singular Live Theatre Event ..........................................4

Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival ...............................................5

Island Farms Victoria Day Parade .................................................................6

Selkirk Waterfront Festival .............................................................................7

First Peoples Festival ....................................................................................8

TD Victoria International JazzFest ................................................................9

Victoria Celebrates Canada Day ........................................................... 10–11

Victoria Pride Week .....................................................................................12

Raven Baroque ............................................................................................13

Victoria Ska Fest ..........................................................................................14

Festival Mexicano ........................................................................................15

Bike Ride .....................................................................................................16

Victoria International Buskers Festival ........................................................17

TD Art Gallery Paint-In ................................................................................18

Victoria Symphony in the Summer ..............................................................19

Environmental Benefits StatementBy using paper made from 100% post-consumer recycled content the following resources have been saved:• 99 trees (7 tennis fields)• 363,806 litres of water (1,039 households use per year)• 5,512 kg of waste (112 waste containers)• 14,325 kg CO2 (emissions of 5 cars per year)• 162 GJ (1 household use of energy per year)• 43 kg of car vehicle emissions


Victoria Symphony Splash ...........................................................................19

Victoria Electronic Music Festival ...............................................................20

Tango Fest ...................................................................................................21

CITYVibe Map ....................................................................................... 22–23

Canada Dry Victoria Dragon Boat Festival .................................................24

FolkWest ......................................................................................................25

Indian MELA ................................................................................................26

Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival ...................................................................27

Vancouver Island Blues Bash ......................................................................28

Stage in the Park ................................................................................... 29–35

Heritage DanceFest ................................................................................30

Father’s Day Céilidh in the Park ..............................................................30

Free-B Film Festival .................................................................................31

Concerts in the Park .......................................................................... 32–34

Community Events in the Park.................................................................35

Public Markets ....................................................................................... 36–39

Summer in the Square ........................................................................... 40–44

Contact Us ......................................................................... Inside Back Cover

All content in this guide is distributed as information only, is correct at time of publishing and is subject to change without notice. The City of Victoria disclaims all responsibility and all liability you might incur as a result of the information being inaccurate or incomplete in any way, and for any reason.


Uno Fest: Canada’s Singular Live Theatre Event

Date: May 19 – 29

Location: Metro Studio (1411 Quadra Street) and Intrepid Theatre Club (2 – 1609 Blanshard Street)

for more info: 250.590.6291 | www.intrepidtheatre.com

Over the past 14 years, Uno Fest has featured more than 200 solo performers from around the world in a unique international festival devoted to the power of the one-person show. The 2011 line-up includes Fringe Favourites TJ Dawe and Chris Gibbs, master

monologist Mike Daisey, spoken word performer Missie Peters, new media artist Jeremy Bailey,

walking tours, monologue slams and more!


Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival

Join us for a family-focused weekend of Scottish and Celtic art, culture, music and sport including the Victoria International Heavy Events Challenge featuring top strong men from around the world! The 148th annual event includes kilted mile athletics, tug of war, haggis hurling, sheep dog herding, pipe band competitions, highland dancing competitions, massed pipe band performances, falconry and sword fighting demonstrations, cannon and musket demonstrations, skydivers, solo piping and drumming, Celtic rock bands, clan and historical displays, military demonstrations, Celtic music and dance, and Scottish and Celtic goods vendors. Food and beverage events include the Whisky Tasting School, beer tents, and Scottish and food vendors. Tickets are $10/day for adults, and $8/day for seniors and youth. Children ages 12 and under are free. The event features a large, free kids’ entertainment area.

Date: May 21 – 22

Location: Topaz Park (3000 Glasgow Avenue)

for more info: www.victoriahighlandgames.com


Date: May 23

Location: Downtown Victoria along Douglas Street

for more info: 250.382.3111

Victoria’s largest parade event features marching bands, floats, clowns, and 26 big American marching bands. Over 120,000 spectators watch this popular annual event in person and on television. Fun and free for the whole family.

Island Farms Victoria Day Parade


Date: May 28

Location: Selkirk Green Park and Waterfront Crescent (steps from the Jutland and Gorge Road intersection)

for more info: 250.388.5251 www.burnsidegorge.ca

Be captivated by the fun, food and festivities of the 2011 Selkirk Waterfront Festival. View beautiful works from talented artisans as you wander through the Vendor’s Market. Tantalize your taste buds with a variety of flavourful foods. Awaken the beat of your soul with drumming workshops by Hand Drum Rhythms. Sway, dance or tap your feet to the sounds and rhythms of live entertainment. If you still want more, then experience the thrill of a carnival swing ride or venture down the gigantic inflatable slide in the family fun zone.

Selkirk Waterfront

Festival


First Peoples Festival

Date: June 19

Location: Centennial Square

for more info: 250.384.3211 | www.vnfc.ca

The Victoria Native Friendship Centre and the City of Victoria are hosting the 22nd Annual First Peoples Festival, a free event showcasing the diverse, rich and thriving heritage of Canada’s First Peoples. Join us for drumming and dance performances, cultural presentations, and an artist market. The festive event will feature over 30 First Nations artists, including carvers, jewellers, weavers, Cowichan knitters, musicians, dancers, and those who practise traditional Aboriginal medicine.


Date: June 24 – July 3

Location: Various

for more info: 250.388.4423 | www.jazzvictoria.ca

Enjoy over 350 of the best jazz, blues and world beat musicians from around the world in over 85 exciting performances on 11 stages in downtown Victoria. Artists for the TD Victoria International JazzFest 2011 include: Paco de Lucia, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Lucinda Williams, Madeleine Peyroux, Trombone Shorty, Oka, The Paperboys, Christian McBride, Robert Glasper, The Lost Fingers, Misha Piatigorsky, Mae Moore and Adonis Puentes. Many afternoon free performances and workshops are available in addition to ticketed performances. Festival program guides are available at all TD, Thrifty Foods and Serious Coffee locations in Greater Victoria.

TD Victoria International JazzFest


Date: July 1 – 3

Location: Victoria’s Inner Harbour

for more info: www.VictoriaCanadaDay.ca

The City of Victoria is proud to host Greater Victoria’s annual Canada Day celebration.


Victoria Celebrates Canada Day is the largest public celebration on Vancouver Island. The dawn to dusk program includes an international food village, performances by well-known Canadian artists, a Living Flag, an evening fireworks display and lots of family activities. Please join us for this three-day event and celebrate what it means to be Canadian!

Victoria Celebrates Canada Day


Date: July 1 – 10

Location: Various

for more info: www.victoriapridesociety.org

Dig those rainbow streamers out and wrap that feather boa around your neck, because Victoria Pride Week celebrations come to us July 1–10! There’s Youth Pride Dance; the Big Gay Dog Walk; Pride and the Word; Drag Ball – Baseball and of course the much anticipated annual parade and festival, which features more than 100 vendors and new stage acts for all to enjoy. Make sure you visit the website for more information on these and all other community Pride festivities taking place in this very special week! Free.

Victoria Pride Week


Date/time/Location:

July 2, 10:30 a.m. – noon, Christ Church Cathedral lawn July 3, 1 p.m. – 2 p.m., Market Square July 6, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Legislature steps July 7, 1 p.m. – 2 p.m., St. Ann’s Academy gazebo August 3, noon – 1 p.m., Centennial Square

August 6, 10:30 a.m. – noon, Christ Church Cathedral lawn August 7, 1:30 p.m. – 3:20 p.m., Cameron Bandshell

August 11, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Legislature steps

for more info: 250.514.8916 www.victoriachamberorchestra.org

Raven Baroque’s 12 players, dressed in Renaissance costume, play popular

works by Vivaldi, Bach and other classics by masters of the Baroque period. Fun for the whole family! Free.

Raven Baroque


Date: July 5 – 9

Location: Victoria’s Inner Harbour (Ship Point) and various downtown venues

for more info: www.victoriaskafest.ca

The Victoria Ska Fest is celebrating its 12th year with five jam-packed days of concerts and workshops. As the largest festival of its kind in North America, Victoria Ska Fest is dedicated to showcasing the world’s best reggae, ska, punk, rocksteady, caribbean rhythms and world beats during a hyped festival for the people. With headlining ticketed and free shows in the Inner Harbour, tens of thousands of music fans will be entertained, educated and united under one sky in the middle of summer. This festival is not to be missed!

Victoria Ska Fest


Festival Mexicano

Date: July 8 – 10

Location: Centennial Square and Victoria Event Centre (1415 Broad Street)

for more info: 250.213.9366 | www.victoriamexicancanadian.org

For the 5th year, the Mexican Canadian Community Association of Victoria will host Festival Mexicano. Festivities kick off on July 8th at the Victoria Event Centre with a Mexican dinner and dance at 6 p.m. Festivities continue throughout the weekend on the 9th and 10th in Centennial Square from noon to 5 p.m. The weekend is packed full with professional Latin music and dance performances, traditional Mexican food, craft vendors, workshops, dance lessons, games and pinatas. The highlight will be the mariachi band. Admission is free for all Centennial Square programming.


Bike Ride

Date: July 9, 10,16, 17

Location: Cecelia Ravine Park (475 Burnside Road East)

for more info: 250.FUN.SKAM | www.skam.ca

Theatre SKAM’s mobile feast of live performance takes over four kilometres of the Galloping Goose Regional Trail, with its audience on bicycles riding from one short live performance to another. This one-of-a-kind, two-wheeled adventure explores the most luscious and green spaces of our city with live dance, theatre, music, and storytelling. Bicycles are decorated on site and adults and kids alike are curious about the treasure hunt-style adventure that lies ahead. SKAM invites the public for hot dogs, cool drinks and live performances on a hot summer weekend! Tickets: adults are $15, ages 6–13 are $5. Children 5 and under are free.PHOTO CREDIT: INGRID HANSEN, PAMELA BETHEL PHOTOGRAPHY


Victoria International Buskers Festival

Date: July 15 – 24

Location: Waterfront, Centennial Square and Bastion Square

for more info: 250.661.5350 | www.victoriabuskers.com

The Victoria International Buskers Festival presents street performers from around the world on five event stages across downtown. A family friendly free-to-attend event, donations to performers’ hats are encouraged. Acts include jugglers, a contortionist, flame throwers, and a hoola hoop specialist. Don’t miss the fun!IMAGE CREDIT: BECKY HOOPS


TD Art Gallery Paint-In

Date: July 16

Location: Moss Street, from Fort Street to Dallas Road

for more info: 250.384.4171 | www.aggv.ca

Vancouver Island’s largest outdoor visual art event features 150 invited professional and emerging artists from Victoria and surrounding areas. Artists take their studios to the street

to display and produce their work on Moss Street between Fort Street and Dallas Road from 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. The Paint-In is a free, fun-filled community based art awareness and educational event that sees 35,000 visitors. Take the opportunity to meet with a wonderful variety of artists and learn about their work and techniques. The event features an open house at the Art Gallery

of Greater Victoria from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (admission by donation), a food and beverage garden, and dancing to live music until 9 p.m.PHOTO: PAINT-IN ARTIST CHIN YUEN PHOTO BY: LARRY PHISTER


Victoria Symphony in the Summer


Location: Various

for more info: 250.385.6515 | www.victoriasymphony.ca

Enjoy summer sun and beautiful music during the Victoria Symphony in the Summer outdoor concert series. Over the course of two weeks, the orchestra will perform outdoor concerts in some of Victoria’s favourite places.

Victoria Symphony SplashDate: July 31

Location: Victoria’s Inner Harbour

Victoria Symphony Splash is a spectacular event that brings over 40,000 people of all ages to the heart of downtown Victoria for a musical and community experience like no other. From a floating stage in Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour, Maestra Tania Miller, the Victoria Symphony and special guests perform, ending with the grand finale performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture and an exciting display of fireworks and cannons.


Victoria Electronic Music Festival


Location: Centennial Square (noon – 10 p.m. daily) Club/After hour venues: Hush, Sugar and Sunset Room

for more info: www.vemf.ca

The Victoria Electronic Music Festival (VEMF) is a fun, exciting and free event that builds awareness of electronic music by showcasing both local and international artists. This all ages event is free to attend and features an exceptional artist line-up of 60+ artists, VEMF interactive seminars, a beer garden and much more. VEMF 2011 will keep music lovers dancing until the early morning as this festival includes multiple nightclubs and after hours events both Saturday and Sunday night. The event is presented by the Northwest Entertainment Foundation, with tremendous support from its sponsors, artists and volunteers.


Date: August 12 – 14

Location: Centennial Square, Alix Goolden Hall (907 Pandora Avenue), Hermann’s Jazz Club (753 View Street)

for more info: 778.432.0112 | www.passion4tango.com

Passion for Tango Society presents their 4th annual summer tango arts festival. Heat up your summer with three days of scintillating performance of tango music and dance from the classic era to Nuevo, jazz tango, and tango theatre. A day of free outdoor concerts and Market Place of fair trade goods, ethnic food and non-profit societies provides all ages entertainment on Saturday in Centennial Square. The headlining act this year is Canada’s own Norteno. This quintet from Quebec is one of the few specialists in the Nuevo music of Astor Piazzolla. Jazz and tango comes together with world champion harmonica player, tango musician and jazz man Joe Powers. Take in a lecture, workshop or class to round out your knowledge of tango history.

Tango Festival

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LocationsBastion Square ........................................ 1Cameron Bandshell (Beacon Hill Park) ... 2Cecelia Ravine Park ................................ 3Centennial Square ................................... 4Gorge Waterfront Crescent ..................... 5Intrepid Theatre Club .............................. 6Legislative Grounds ................................ 7Market Square ......................................... 8Metro Studio ............................................ 9Moss Street ............................................ 10Royal Athletic Park ................................ 11Selkirk Green Park ................................. 12Ship Point .............................................. 13St. Andrew’s School .............................. 14St. Ann’s Academy ................................ 15St. John the Divine ................................. 16Topaz Park ............................................. 17Victoria Curling Club ............................. 18Victoria Event Centre ............................. 19Victoria’s Inner Harbour ......................... 20Wood Recital Hall .................................. 21

Public MarketsBastion Square Public Market ................. 1James Bay Community Market .............. 22Moss Street Market ................................ 23Oaklands Community Farmers Market ... 24Ship Point Night Market ......................... 13

Sunday Market in the Square .................. 4

Victoria Downtown Farmers Market......... 8


Canada Dry Victoria Dragon Boat Festival


Location: Ship Point, Victoria’s Inner Harbour

for more info: 250.704.2500 | www.victoriadragonboat.com

This event is a wonderful celebration of Asian culture combined with the ancient tradition of dragon boat racing. Join us Friday afternoon for the elaborate Eye Dotting Ceremony that officially opens the festivities. On Saturday and Sunday, come witness up to 90 dragon boat teams from all over North America compete amidst the backdrop of Victoria’s spectacular Inner Harbour. Enter Forbidden City and enjoy free concerts, dancing and other cultural performances, participate in crafts demonstrations or sample a wonderful mix of Asian and multicultural foods. Be sure not to miss the breathtaking Lights of Courage display in support of those whose lives have been touched by cancer. A free event for the entire family.PHOTO CREDIT: GEORGE ALLEN


FolkWest


Location: Royal Athletic Park

for more info: www.folkwest.ca

Victoria has a fresh new folk festival this summer. This August, we take over Royal Athletic Park with an action-packed main stage, interactive workshops, family play area, busking pitches, community mural, your favourite festival foods and a thirst-quenching beer garden. Celebrate the Island’s folk talent and see some of the biggest names in Canada, all in one weekend.PHOTO CREDIT: BARBARA PEDRICK, 2011



Location: Centennial Square

for more info: 250.479.4016 www.iccavictoria.com

The Indian MELA is a culturally inclusive, free, public event showcasing Victoria’s Indian community. It is an opportunity for this community to share the power, diversity and colour of Indian cultures with the people of Vancouver Island.

This two-day event features a pulsing hot main stage with professional and budding semi-professional, Indian entertainment including classical and modern Bollywood dances/music, Gidda, Bhangra, Garba/Dhandia dances and highly energetic entertainment from many other multicultural communities.

Enjoy a menu of mouth-watering Indian food, prepared by masterful chefs, and dozens of kiosks with Indian fashions, jewellery, arts and crafts, henna, palm reading, balloon animals, face painting, clowns, and much more that will appeal to all families, from children to seniors.

Indian MELA


Date: August 25 – September 4

Location: Various downtown locations

for more info: 250.590.6291 www.victoriafringe.com

The Victoria Fringe celebrates its 25th anniversary with over 400 theatre performances in a dozen venues across town. Over 60 international, independent performing companies converge on Victoria for 11 days and nights of comedy, drama, dance, spoken word and physical theatre. Never been? Fringe-going is easy, fun and slightly addictive. Meet friends, artists and strangers in show line-ups, buy cheap tickets and see live shows, grab a bite or a beer in between and figure out what you’ll see next. It’s the best part of summer.

Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival


Vancouver Island Blues Bash

Date: September 3 – 5

Location: Ship Point

for more info: 250.388.4423 | www.jazzvictoria.ca

The 17th Annual Vancouver Island Blues Bash is a three-day festival that features all styles of blues and R&B on the Labour Day weekend at Ship Point, situated in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Free afternoon performances with ticketed performances in the evening. The full festival line-up will be announced mid-July.


Commonly known as the “Cameron Bandshell,” Stage in the Park is an outdoor performance venue located in the heart of Victoria’s renowned Beacon Hill Park.

The Bandshell hosts a variety of free events and concerts on its stage including the Concerts in the Park series, dance, theatre, and band and choral performances. Bench seating and the surrounding grass areas provide perfect spots for spectators to relax and enjoy free performances.

Stage in the Park


Stage in the Park

Heritage DanceFest Date/time: June 18, noon – 7 p.m.

Location: Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park

for more info: 250.475.1174 | www.veselkadancers.com

Come celebrate Victoria’s ethnic energy as over 350 dancers take to the stage with vibrant costumes, traditional music, and exquisite choreography! It’s like Folkfest re-invented with such diverse dance groups as Scottish, Chinese, Norwegian, Punjabi, Ukrainian and many more. It is a feast for the senses and a celebration of the multicultural communities within Victoria. Free event.

Father's Day Céilidh in the ParkDate/time: June 19, 1:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.


for more info: 250.361.0358 | www.victoria.ca

“Céilidh” or “kitchen party” is the Gaelic word for an informal gathering of Celtic music, dance, fiddling and storytelling. Music brings people together like nothing else! The City of Victoria invites you to spend some quality time with dad and the whole family at the 9th annual Father’s Day Céilidh in the Park. Free event.


Stage in the Park

Free-B Film FestivalDate/time: August 5, 6, 13, 20, 26 and 27, 9 p.m.


for more info: www.freebfilmfest.com

Keen to see a film for free? Don’t fancy being cooped up inside a hot stuffy theatre for long hours during summer? Celebrate the Victoria Film Festival’s 11th year with their double the size inflatable screen and go beyond summer blockbusters. Enjoy a movie under the stars with a great Free-B line-up.


Concerts in the ParkThe popular Concerts in the Park series includes:

• Seniors Concerts in the Park – Fridays• Music in the Park – Saturdays• Sunday and Holiday Concerts in the Park

Dates anD times: June 24 – September 9 1:30 p.m. to 3:20 p.m.


JUnEFriday, June 24 Sugar Blues Band (S)

Saturday, June 25 Linda Gould Trio (J)

Sunday, June 26 Greater Victoria Concert Band (V)

JULyFriday, July 1 Shades of Shearing (J)

Saturday, July 2 Victoria Brass Band (V)

Sunday, July 3 Barcada Sax Quartet (C)

Stage in the Park

stage in the Park LegendFree admission to all events.

B Blues C Classical F FolkJ Jazz M Multicultural S SwingV Variety


Stage in the ParkFriday, July 8 Gypsy Rovers (M)

Saturday, July 9 Esterhazy Salon Orchestra (C)

Sunday, July 10 Dixieland Express (J)

Friday, July 15 Damian Graham Trio (J)

Saturday, July 16 Nick La Riviere Quartet (J)

Sunday, July 17 Jon Miller Trio (J)

Friday, July 22 Ensemble Pacifica (C)

Saturday, July 23 A Great Noyse (C)

Sunday, July 24 Victoria Symphony (C)

Friday, July 29 Klondike Kate (V)

Saturday, July 30 Carli and Julie Kennedy (V)

Sunday, July 31 CanUs (J)

AuguStMonday, August 1 Qristina and Quinn Bachand (F)

Friday, August 5 Albert Head Cadet Band (V)

Saturday, August 6 Cookeilidh (M)

Sunday, August 7 Raven Baroque (C)

Friday, August 12 Barbara Blair Quartet (J)


Stage in the Park

stage in the Park LegendFree admission to all events.

B Blues C Classical F FolkJ Jazz M Multicultural S SwingV Variety

Saturday, August 13 Maureen Washington Quartet (J)

Sunday, August 14 West Shore Community Concert Band (V)

Friday, August 19 History of Blues (B)

Saturday, August 20 Jan Stirling Quartet (J)

Sunday, August 21 Miranda Sage Quartet (J)

Friday, August 26 Round Midnight (J)

Saturday, August 27 MacArthur Whitaker Duo (J)

Sunday, August 28 U Jam Allstars (J)

SEPtEMBERFriday, September 2 Diane Pancel (J)

Saturday, September 3 Al Pease Quartet (S)

Sunday, September 4 Windrift (C)

Monday, September 5 Lust Life Jazz Band (J)

Friday, September 9 Naden Band, Maritime Forces Pacific (V)


Stage in the ParkCoMMunIty EVEntS In thE PARk

May 25 2:15 – 3:45 p.m. Interlake High School Orchestra

May 29 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Aga Khan World Partnership Walk

June 9 7 – 10 p.m. Spectrum Concert Band

June 17 7 – 9 p.m. Dancing in the Park – July 1, 8, 22, 29 International Folk Dancers Aug 5

June 18 noon – 7 p.m. Heritage DanceFest

June 19 1:30 – 4 p.m. Céilidh in the Park – Annual Father’s Day Celebration

June 30 7 – 9 p.m. Mood Swing in the Park – Big Band Concert

July 9 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Seventh Day Adventist Church – Concerts in the Park

July 31 9 – 11 a.m. Gura Nanak Walk for Peace on the Earth

August 5, 6, 9 – 11 p.m. Free-B Film Festival 13, 20, 26, 27


Public Markets

photo credit: alistair chesson

Bastion Square Public MarketDate/time: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, April 15 – October 1, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Location: Located between Government and Wharf and Yates and Fort Streets

for more info: Thea Harris, [email protected] 250.885.1387 | www.bastionsquare.ca

This beautifully situated open air marketplace in Bastion Square features a unique selection of local artists and artisans displaying their original arts and crafts. Meet the artists and enjoy a fun Victoria experience.


Public Markets

James Bay Community MarketDate/time: Saturdays, May 7 – October 8, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Location: Corner of Menzies Street and Superior Street

for more info: Dallas Campbell, [email protected] 250.381.5323 | www.jamesbaymarket.com

Located five minutes from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the James Bay Community Market features produce, arts, food and live music with an emphasis on products that are homemade, handmade and homegrown.

Moss Street MarketDate/time: Saturdays, May 7 – October 29, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Location: Sir James Douglas schoolyard at Moss Street and Fairfield Road

for more info: [email protected] www.mossstreetmarket.com

Our vibrant community market provides local and organic produce and foods, handmade crafts, artisan clothing, inspiring services and community education to folks from the entire Greater Victoria area. Please join us in celebrating our 20th season!


oaklands Community Farmers MarketDate/time: First Thursday of each month, May 5 – September 1, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Location: 1–2827 Belmont Avenue (Behind Oaklands Elementary School)

for more info: 250.370.9101 www.oaklandscommunitycentre.com

Shop for fresh local produce, bakery items and local handmade arts and crafts. Come and enjoy the fun atmosphere with live music, entertainment, demonstrations and conversations with your neighbours.

Ship Point night MarketDate/time: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, June 10 – September 17, 6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Location: Victoria’s Inner Harbour – Ship Point Pier

for more info: [email protected]

Come on down for local handmade arts and crafts. Musicians, street performers and food add to the excitement as the harbour wakes up at night.

Public Markets


Public Markets

Sunday Market in the Square (formally Government Street Market)

Date/time: Sundays and some holiday Mondays, May 1 – September 25, 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location: Centennial Square, next to City Hall

for more info: Thea Harris, 250.598.2593 [email protected]

Located in Centennial Square, the Sunday Market features an exciting array of locally created arts, crafts and fair trade imports. Our vibrant new Farmer’s Market showcases a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, cheeses, jams, relishes, breads and much more. Experience Mexican Food, langoes, organic fudge, and specialty coffees while listening to live entertainment in the Square. There is something for everyone.

Victoria Downtown Farmers MarketDate/time: Fourth Sunday of each month, April 24, May 26, June 26, July 24, August 28, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Location: Market Square, 560 Johnson Street

for more info: www.victoriapublicmarket.com

This farmers market will focus on local products and will feature bread, meat, seafood, cheese, ice cream, plants, and a variety of local produce.


Summer in the Square

Community EventsDate: May – September

Location: Centennial Square, next to Victoria City Hall


May 14 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes

June 4 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Special Olympics Walkathon

June 12 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Grandmother’s Walk for Africa

June 17 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Road to Ska Fest Concert

July 1 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. Summer Chess Festival

August 23 – 24 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Fringe Block Party

September 11 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Eat Here Now 2

September 16 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Pro Bono Going Public

Dancing in the SquareDate/time: July 11, 18, 25 and August 1, 8, 15, 7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.


for more info: 250.721.JIVE | www.vbds.org

Free dance instruction followed by dancing to live music. Each week features a different dance. The event is presented by the City of Victoria and the Victoria Ballroom Dance Society.


Chess in the SquareDate/time: May 29 – September 4, noon – 5 p.m.

Location: CRD Square (Fisgard and Government Street)

for more info: www.victoriajuniorchess.com

Giant Chess, Blitz, Casual Games, Learn to Play plus much more chess fun every Sunday near historic Chinatown. Presented by Victoria Junior Chess and sponsored by the Downtown Victoria Business Association. Free.

Free-B Film FestivalDate/time: August 12, 19, 9 p.m.


for more info: www.freebfilmfest.com

Keen to see a film for free? Don’t fancy being cooped up inside a hot stuffy theatre for long hours during summer? Celebrate the Victoria Film Festival’s 11th year with their double the size inflatable screen and go beyond summer blockbusters. Enjoy a movie under the stars with a great Free-B line-up.




Sunday Market in the Square(formally Government Street Market)

Date/time: May 1 – September 25, Sunday and some holiday Mondays, 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.


for more info: Thea Harris, 250.598.2593 [email protected]

Located in Centennial Square, the Sunday Market features an exciting array of locally created arts, crafts and fair trade imports. Our vibrant new Farmer’s Market showcases a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, cheeses, jams, relishes, breads and much more. Experience Mexican Food, langoes, organic fudge, and specialty coffees while listening to live entertainment in the Square. There is something for everyone.

Lunchtime ConcertsDate/time: July 5 – September 2, noon – 1 p.m.


for more info: Call the hotline at 250.361.0388 or visit: www.victoria.ca

Enjoy your lunch breaks this summer listening to an eclectic mix of live music at the Summer in the Square Lunchtime Concerts. Bring your lunch – and some sunscreen – and soak up some sun and free tunes. From classical to world beat, folk to jazz and baroque to blues, there’s something for everyone. Summer in the Square Lunchtime Concerts are presented by the City of Victoria with the support of the Music Performance Fund and Local 247 American Federation of Musicians.



Lunchtime ConcertsJULyJuly 5 Banjo Jim

July 6 John MacArthur Trio

July 7 Flying Saucers

July 8 Trio Espresso

July 11 Just Standards Duo

July 12 Jonalee

July 13 Colin Campbell

July 14 Dixie Strollers

July 15 Diane Pancel

July 18 Kinzel & Wainwright Trio

July 19 Hermann’s House Band

July 20 Preston Bonkowski Duo

July 21 Swing that Thing

July 22 “Gurlz”

July 25 Sarah Tradewell

July 26 Chris Millington Quartet

July 27 Casey Ryder Quartet

July 28 Beacon Hill Brass

July 29 Carli and Julie Kennedy

AuguStAugust 2 James Young Trio

August 3 Raven Baroque

August 4 Skyla J & The Vibes



Lunchtime ConcertsAuguStAugust 5 Italian Cabaret

August 8 Victoria Ragtime Quartet

August 9 The King Mixers

August 10 Bill Mulley Quartet

August 11 Damian Graham Trio

August 12 Dave & Linda Piano Duo

August 15 Flora Scott Quartet

August 16 Maureen Washington Duo

August 17 Barbara Blair Quartet

August 18 Peter Dent Trio

August 19 Dave Klinger

August 22 Winds of Yarrow

August 23 Twango Trio

August 24 Touch of Class

August 25 Miranda Sage Duo

August 26 Sherry Clayton Band

August 29 The Honey Crooners

August 30 Easy Street

August 31 The TAJ Trio

SEPtEMBERSeptember 1 The Bruce Hurn Quartet

September 2 Anita Bonkowski Trio

Contact Us

If you’re interested in holding an event at Centennial Square or the Cameron Bandshell, contact:Lesley PetrieFacility and Event Coordinator City of Victoria

T 250.361.0708E [email protected]

For more information on the Festival Investment Grant program, contact:Nichola ReddingtonCommunity Recreation CoordinatorCity of Victoria


For general information, contact:T 250.361.0361E [email protected]

www.victoria.ca/CityVibe

Produced by the city of Victoria

What’s Inside:• Outdoor Festivals • Public Markets• Stage in the Park Concerts • City Map• Summer in the Square Lunchtime Concerts

For more information:Parks, Recreation and Culture Department


www.victoria.ca/cityvibe

Produced by the city of Victoria

What’s Inside:• Outdoor Festivals • Public Markets• Stage in the Park Concerts • CITYVibe Map• Summer in the Square Programs

For more information:City of Victoria Parks, Recreation and Culture Department

T 250.361.0361 E [email protected]

www.victoria.ca/CityVibe

Documents

CITYVibe 2011