
Modernization
Learn more about government’s intention to modernize the museum to protect our historic holdings and provide better access to our collections.
Commemorating the 100th anniversary of Mount Logan’s first ascent in 1925, the Canadian EH Society brings to light stories of resilience on Canada’s highest peaks. The historic climb, as captured in the diaries of naturalist Hamilton Mack Laing and vividly retold in Trevor Marc Hughes’ book Capturing the Summit, offers a rare and compelling account of what it took to reach the summit.
The Royal BC Museum is out in the Community
Join the Learning and Engagement team at the 11th annual World Ocean Day Celebrations at Fisherman's Wharf! Visit our booth for a hands-on experience with real museum specimens from natural history collection. Explore the incredible diversity of life along the coast, take part in engaging, ocean-themed activities, and learn more about the vital role the ocean plays in all our lives. Come connect with the ocean, ask questions, and discover how we can all play a part in protecting our the marine ecosystems around us.
Join one of our educators for a guided walking tour of our Native Plant Garden! Learn about the plant neighbors we share here on the BC coast, including some of their Indigenous uses. Approximately eight different plants will be highlighted.
From gold rushes to temperate rainforests, British Columbia’s past and present is vast and diverse. Join one of our knowledgeable educators for a highlights-only tour through the museum’s immersive Human and Natural History galleries.
Visit our Pride Button Station in the museum and create a button that celebrates love, identity, and inclusion! Choose from colorful designs or craft your own unique message. All supplies are provided, so you can wear your creation with pride or share it with someone special. Fun for all ages!
Join us for an engaging presentation and celebration of the book The Teachings of Mutton: A Coast Salish Woolly Dog, whose pelt lay forgotten in a Smithsonian drawer for 150 years. According to Indigenous oral histories of the Pacific Northwest, this small dog was bred for thousands of years for its woolly fibres, which were woven into traditional blankets, robes and regalia. Authors Liz Hammond-Kaarremaa, Kerrie Charnley, Andrea Fritz, Violet Elliott and Ty Elliot will read excerpts from The Teachings of Mutton, alongside a discussion.
Beyond the Beat: Music of Resistance and Change showcases music as a powerful catalyst for social and political change with historical and contemporary examples. Jodi Giesbrecht and Lorne Hammond will share about the development of and challenges of creating the exhibit and some of their favorite stories behind the artifacts.
About the Speaker
Celebrate love, identity, and self-expression at After Hours: Pride—a joyful, inclusive night honoring 2SLGBTQIA+ history, culture, and community. Dance to an all-night DJ set by Efrévescent, enjoy a live performance by Marina Avros, and catch a dynamic drag show by Asian drag king Noah Lott. Take part in a communal art project and connect with local advocates while exploring valuable community resources.
This event is organized with the LGBTQIA+ community and warmly welcomes allies to join in and celebrate together.
Join us at the Royal BC Museum for the launch of Celebrating Potlatches, a new children’s book by Samantha Beynon that honours Indigenous stories and traditions.
Enjoy a short presentation, book signing, and a booth from Strong Nations featuring children’s resources.
Join University of Victoria pre-service teachers as they share information, challenges and ideas about Climate Justice in animation stations throughout the core galleries.
Join artist Jaimie Robson for a hands-on workshop inspired by her temporary installation Uprooted, on view in the Climate Change Gallery starting on June 27th. The session begins with a visit to the installation, followed by a creative workshop where participants will craft their own forest-themed paper artworks.
Open House
Daily until Sept 2, 2024
12:00 - 2:00pm
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Come visit historic Helmcken House, on the east side of the museum building.
Join Provincial Carillonneur, Rosemary Laing, for a live recital. Music will feature songs written for the carillon, Canadian folk tunes and popular songs.
The Netherlands Centennial Carillon can be heard throughout the inner harbour, but the best place to enjoy the recital is from a bench in the Native Plant Garden or another area of the precinct around the Royal BC Museum.
Wanna reconnect? Tired of online dating? Nervous to put yourself out there? Join us for this exciting new series! With dating apps losing their spark, we're offering a refreshing alternative—an evening of low-pressure connections and inspiring conversations.
The Royal BC Museum Indigenous Market returns and we invite you to come and celebrate and support the work of talented Indigenous artists and makers.
Turn up the volume and step into the electrifying world of rock ‘n’ roll! After Hours: Rock On is a night dedicated to music lovers, featuring interactive activities, legendary sounds, and exclusive after-hours access to Beyond the Beat: Music of Resistance and Change. Explore how music has shaped culture, connect with fellow fans, and unleash your inner rock star.
Bust out your scrunchies, flannel, and baggy jeans—it’s time to party like it’s 1999! Step back into the ultimate era of neon, mixtapes, and iconic pop culture at this totally rad 90s-themed After Hours event. From throwback tunes to nostalgic games, this night is all about celebrating the decade that gave us Tamagotchis, dial-up internet, and the Macarena.
Wanna reconnect? Tired of online dating? Nervous to put yourself out there? Join us for this exciting new series! With dating apps losing their spark, we're offering a refreshing alternative—an evening of low-pressure connections and inspiring conversations.