Victoria, BC – The Royal BC Museum, with presenting sponsor, Island Savings, is proud to host the second annual WinterFest multicultural holiday market, November 30 and December 1.
Made possible with generous support from our supporting sponsors—Helijet, Prince of Whales and CHEK News—WinterFest is a vibrant celebration of arts, culture and community, bringing together the best elements of the holiday season. This year’s event will feature a unique blend of multicultural performances, delicious food, warm drinks, and a diverse market showcasing local artisans and vendors.
“WinterFest is a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate arts, culture and community,” said Tracey Drake, CEO of the Royal BC Museum. “We’re excited to welcome everyone—families, friends and visitors of all ages—to this free and festive event, packed with a variety of musical performances and, of course, plenty of food and unique gifts for all.”
Whether you're looking for the perfect gift, a special snack, or simply a fun way to get into the holiday spirit, WinterFest promises a one-of-a-kind experience for all ages. Performances range from folk songs and a Celtic band to Japanese drumming, Métis jiggers and a drag show featuring Tiffany Ann Co. from Canada’s Drag Race.
Capture the moment and make memories at the photobooth and look out for special appearances from some friendly neighbourhood Storm Troopers and the museum’s resident T. rex. Making your way downtown for the Santa Claus Parade on Saturday? Come a little early and peruse the market or grab a bite to eat. Warm up afterwards with a special screening of Polar Express at IMAX® Victoria.
Also, make sure to join us on Sunday for the popular Carillon Carol-Along. Gather under the Netherlands Centennial Carillon with your fellow singers, family and friend for a one-of-a-kind carolling party.
If this isn’t enough, the museum will also have an exciting contest. While attending WinterFest in person, visitors can enter a draw to win: a round trip for two on Helijet between Victoria and Vancouver, $500 cash from Island Savings, sunset tour for two with Prince of Whales, two Royal BC Museum adult admissions and two IMAX® Victoria adult documentary passes, and a behind the scenes tour at CHEK News. The winner will be announced on Monday, December 2.
WinterFest is an indoor/outdoor, semi-tented, free market, and visitors are encouraged to dress for the conditions. The museum will remain open until 6 PM on both nights for visitors to check out feature exhibitions, Stonehenge and Canadian Modern, as well as the core galleries. All WinterFest market purchases will come with a discounted admission coupon to the Royal BC Museum.
Don’t forget to bring down a non-perishable food item to support Island Saving The Full Cupboard program or a new, unwrapped toy to support CHEK’s Christmas Drive Thru.
For the full schedule of performances, vendors and food trucks, visit rbcm.ca/winterfest.
Date: Saturday, November 30, and Sunday, December 1, 2024
Time: 10 AM–5 PM
Place: Royal BC Museum precinct
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About the Royal BC Museum: The Royal BC Museum, which includes BC Archives, IMAX® Victoria and PARC Campus, is one of the oldest continually operating museums in Canada. A centre of learning and research, it strives to broaden our understanding of British Columbia through collections, exhibitions, outreach and community engagement. The museum celebrates the province’s diverse landscapes and the lives of the people who live here, enables research and knowledge sharing that advances our understanding of our world, and provides a dynamic place for discussion and reflection. IMAX® Victoria delivers educational and entertaining experiences that accompany the learning journey the museum offers. The Royal BC Museum is located on the territory of the Lekwungen peoples, known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations.
For information about PARC Campus, visit: PARC Campus | Royal BC Museum and Archives
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