Community
Beacon Hill Children’s Farm
Beacon Hill Park: Open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily
Located in the beautiful Beacon Hill Park, this petting zoo has everything: chickens, pigs, peacocks that make a lot of noise, and, of course, goats. From baby goats to older, gruffer goats, these easygoing animals are fun for the whole family to pet and groom with so many grooming brushes available. So bring grandma, mom, dad and that weird uncle you never talk to over to the petting zoo and have some quality de-stressing time. Don’t forget to arrive at 10 a.m. to see their daily “Running of the Goats” during which the staff herd the goats from their pens into the main petting enclosure. For more information, call 250-381-2532. Admission is by donation.
8th Annual Water Garden Tour
813 Claremont Ave: July 12th 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
This is a self-guided tour for all 10 Greater Victoria water gardens, filled with aquatic plants, beautiful streams, and pools. Spend time taking in the sights and the live music to accompany it. Designers and master gardeners will be available at many of the gardens to answer your questions. All proceeds will go to For the Love of Africa Society towards building a trade school in Tanzania. Admission is $25. For more information, visit watergardentour.ca.
Victoria International Buskers Festival
Various locations in downtown Victoria: Daily from July 18 to July 27
The Victoria International Buskers Festival is quickly becoming one of the world’s most famous street theatre festivals. Performers of all different types come from all over the world to perform on the streets of Victoria to create a unique 10-day event. So bring some change for tips and enjoy the different sounds and sights of the world! For information on musicians and stage locations, visit victoriabuskers.com.
Food
Moss Street Market
1330 Fairfield Rd.: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. every Saturday, May through October
Rain or shine, the Moss Street Market takes pride in providing local, organic, farm-fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisan clothing to local Victorians and visitors alike. Visit mossstreetmarket.com to view their produce availability. Make sure to bring cash as many vendors do not accept debit or credit.
Movies
Movie Night: Bethlehem
Oak Bay Beach Hotel, 1175 Beach Dr. Victoria: July 18, 6:15 p.m.
Bethlehem describes a complex relationship between an Israeli Secret Service officer and his teenage Palestinian informant. The film is a raw display of characters torn apart by conflicting loyalties, giving a glimpse into a dark and fascinating world of human interaction. Enjoy the movie on their big screen along with their house-made buttered popcorn, gourmet individual pizzas, and micro-brews. Tickets are $24, reservations are recommended. Call 250-598-4556 or visit oakbaybeachhotel.com/calendar/?c=5.
Music
Karaoke with Stacey
My Bar and Grill, 310 Gorge Rd East: Every Tuesday at 8 p.m.
No minors, no cover
Who doesn’t like karaoke? “Sweet Caroline” sounds a thousand times better when you sing it with friends. Boasting the best karaoke in town, it’s worth trying for the chance of having a fun-filled, possibly regretful night with friends and co-workers, especially when there’s no cover and glasses of wine are just $4.
Music Bingo
Moon Underwater Pub, 350 Bay St.: Every Friday at 7:30 p.m.
No minors, no cover
Spend an evening listening to and guessing ’80s and ’90s classics while spending a great time with friends, food, and a wonderful selection of locally brewed beers. Come early as this fun-filled event fills up fast.