6 Things to Do on Vancouver Island This July

Explore all that Vancouver Island has to offer this summer. Roughly an hour and a half ferry ride from the Lower Mainland, the island welcomes you with a distinct atmosphere, beautiful landscape and exciting activities. Here are some ways you can enjoy your island time this July, whether you’re a local or just visiting for a weekend. 

1. SUP, Sound, and Breath – Saturday, July 5

Relax and decompress at this Brentwood Bay wellness retreat with Fünketown Wellness. This fully on-the-water experience starts with a one-hour sunset paddle board session. After enjoying the colours of the setting sun while floating on the Pacific Ocean, you’ll regroup and experiment with a 45-minute grounding breath session. The retreat closes off with a 15-minute sound bath. This event is great for those hoping to feel calm after a long week of work, or those looking for a unique wellness experience—literally on the water.
789 Saunders Lane, Brentwood Bay
Tickets for $85
Details online

2. Art Lab Sunday: Comics – Sunday, July 13

Get creative at Nanaimo Art Gallery with your friends or little ones. This family-friendly event gives you the opportunity to learn about character design and ways to boost your storytelling skills. Whether you are an experienced artist or a beginner doodler, this is an engaging way to spend your Sunday afternoon. Adults and children are welcome—don’t be shy.
150 Commercial Street, Nanaimo
Free entry, or $5 for non-members
Details online

3. Pride Festival in the Park 2025 – Sunday, July 6

Celebrate Pride in Victoria. This year’s Pride Festival in the Park will commence at 11 a.m., at the same time as the Pride Parade. If you would like to take part in the parade itself, that starts at the corner of Pandora Avenue and Government Street. Head over to the festival after the parade, or skip the parade entirely and simply enjoy the lively celebrations. Either way, you can enjoy a day of fun in the sun while exploring food and goods from local vendors. Pro-tip for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere—head over earlier and enjoy the vendors before it gets too crowded with the post-parade rush.
McDonald Park in James Bay
212 Niagara Street, Victoria
Free entry
Details online

4. Victoria Conservatory of Music: Summer Strings Faculty in Concert – Tuesday, July 8

Presented by the Victoria Conservatory of Music, this live concert showcases the String Summer Program faculty’s expertise. Immerse yourself in an evening of musical wonder, brought to you by Victoria’s finest musicians. Experience musical works by Canadian composer John Estacio, Zoltán Kodály on Violin and Cello and Felix Mendelssohn’s string quartet in D major.
Alix Goolden Performance Hall
900 Johnson Street, Victoria
Tickets for $23.87
Details online

5. Flavour Trails: Central Saanich Festival – Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13

This self-guided festival celebrates Central Saanich farmers, food producers, chefs and brewers. Take part in supporting our local B.C. farmers and vendors on this self-paced adventure, where you can access feature offers from each of the Trail Partners. The offers range from farm tours to tastings and workshops. There are activities to explore for the whole family
Various Locations
Free entry
Details online

6. Footloose – Until Sunday, August 24

This iconic musical has made its way to Chemainus on the Cowichan coast. Enjoy an evening of song and dance with your loved ones as you follow the inspiring journey of a young boy fighting against the odds as the newbie in town. This heartfelt story blends rocking rhythms with an important message of perseverance. Lose yourself in the stage adaptation by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie, as you groove to Tom Snow’s classic tunes.
9737 Chemainus Road, Chemainus
Tickets from $23
Details online