Welcome to Victoria in March, where the promise of spring fills the air and the city awakens with renewed vigour. This is the season when Victoria’s already stunning landscape gets a colourful makeover, with cherry blossoms and daffodils painting the town in vibrant hues.
The mild climate of early spring in Victoria is ideal for exploring everything the city has to offer, from its scenic hiking trails and waterfront paths to its world-class museums and galleries.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, a quick getaway to Victoria in March offers an unforgettable experience.
Victoria in March
Victoria in March is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As the city shakes off the last vestiges of winter, it welcomes visitors with mild temperatures and a burst of springtime energy.
This is the time to experience Victoria’s stunning natural landscapes, from the rugged beauty of the coastline to the lush floral displays in its famous gardens.
But it’s not just about nature; the city’s vibrant arts scene, delicious restaurants, and rich history provide a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities.
A quick getaway to Victoria, BC, in March, is the perfect way to rejuvenate and immerse yourself in the unique blend of experiences that this city has to offer.
⛴️ Coming in from Vancouver? Check out our article on how to get to Victoria from Vancouver before you leave.
What to Do in Victoria in March?
Exploring Victoria in March offers a variety of activities. You can visit the Butchart Gardens to witness the spring blooms, attend the Victoria Whisky Festival for whisky tastings, or participate in the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.
Additionally, you can explore exhibits at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria or Royal BC Museum or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking at Mount Douglas Park or further afield on the Juan De Fuca Trail.
If you’re a food enthusiast, you can also indulge in a Victoria food tour. With so much to do in Victoria during March, you won’t be disappointed!
Coming in for the weekend? Check out our 2-Day Victoria Itinerary to maximize your time.
Victoria March Festivals and Events
March in Victoria is a time of celebration and excitement as the city comes alive with various festivals and events. From beer lovers to flower enthusiasts to theatre-goers, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
In this section, we’ll highlight the top festivals and events happening in Victoria in March. Get ready to mark your calendars and join in on the fun!
Related:Victoria in February: Must Visit Places & Events
Sip some Suds at Victoria Beer Week
The Victoria craft beer scene is one of the fastest growing in the country, with over 20 breweries to call its own. From March 1st to 9th, aficionados and brewers alike gather to celebrate this with a host of events and tastings at the top local breweries.
Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, Victoria Beer Week allows you to sip, savour, and celebrate the finest local brews, so you can’t go wrong?
Visit the Victoria Beer Society website to purchase your tickets for $45. Six drink tokens and a ticket to the VBW Tasting Cup are included.
Check out the schedule of events at local breweries, such as Phillips, Hoyne, Ile Sauvage, & more.
Take part in a variety of activities, including brewery tours, beer tastings, and educational seminars.
Enjoy a diverse selection of beers, food pairings, and live entertainment.
Interact with industry experts and learn about the craft beer production process.
Ever wonder where Victoria got the nickname the Garden City? Well, you’re about to find out! Every March, as the rest of the country is still shovelling snow, Victorians gather to count the emerging spring blooms.
This good-natured competition results in a winning municipality and school. In 2023, the total blooms counted was an amazing 33,475,292,158. That’s right, over 33 billion blooms!
Participate in the Victoria Flower Count from March 8th to 15th to celebrate the arrival of spring and the vibrant bloom of flowers across Victoria.
Join the community in counting and reporting the blossoms you see, contributing to the total tally of flowers in the city.
Engage with the local floral displays and take part in friendly competition with other cities in the Victoria area.
There are a number of events that celebrate all things Irish during this popular holiday. The family-friendly St. Patrick’s Day Festival takes place on Sunday, March 10th, at the entrance to Bastion Square and features music, Irish dancers, vendors and more.
Looking for something more adult-oriented? Then check out the Irish Whiskey Hooley at the Irish Times Pub, also in Bastion Square.
Head down to Bastion Square between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm to enjoy the free St. Patrick’s Day Festival.
Visit the Irish Times website to grab your ticket to the Irish Whiskey Hooley for $75.
You’ll receive 16 whiskey-tasting tokens, a whiskey passport, and a logoed tasting glass.
Victoria, BC, in March, offers a plethora of outdoor activities as the city begins its spring thaw. From vibrant gardens to challenging hikes, there is something for everyone to experience in the great outdoors.
In this section, we will highlight three must-visit destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. These include the stunning Butchart Gardens, the rugged Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, and spellbinding whale watching tours. Let’s dive into the beauty and adventure that awaits in Victoria this spring.
Related:Victoria in Spring: From Cherry Blossoms to City Charms
Visit the Floral Wonderland of Butchart Gardens
Visiting Butchart Gardens in Victoria in March is a captivating experience, perfectly timed to witness the awakening of one of the world’s most beautiful floral displays.
The mild climate of Victoria in March contributes significantly to the enjoyment of the gardens. As the season’s first blooms start to emerge, the landscape is painted with a palette of dazzling colours. It’s truly a sight to behold.
Explore the beautiful Sunken Garden, the colourful Rose Garden, and the peaceful Japanese Garden to soak in the serene ambiance.
Check out the early beginning of the over 300,000 bulbs that bloom every spring. In March, you’ll usually be able to enjoy the daffodils, hyacinths, and the start of cherry blossom season.
Hiking the 47km Juan de Fuca Trail in March offers a unique and invigorating outdoor experience just a stone’s throw away from Victoria.
This renowned coastal wilderness trail, known for its rugged beauty and breathtaking coastal views, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and hikers looking to explore the wilder side of Vancouver Island.
Research the difficulty level and weather conditions of the trail on the Juan de Fuca Park website.
Though the trail is 47 km long, its design allows for shorter hikes, making it accessible for those who prefer day trips.
Pack essential gear like proper footwear, water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
Check online for any updates or alerts about the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail before embarking on the journey.
Embarking on a whale watching tour from Victoria in March is an exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
This time of year is particularly exciting as you’ll see various species of whales, including majestic humpbacks, transient killer whales, and grays, during their March migration from the Mexican coast to Alaska.
There are several providers offering whale-watching excursions from the Inner Harbour or Fisherman’s Wharf.
Pick between a relaxing catamaran cruise or an exhilarating zodiac adventure.
Arrive early, dress warmly for the boat ride, and book in accordance with the weather forecast.
Keep your camera at the ready and enjoy the mesmerizing sight of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
A trip to Victoria in March is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant local culture. After all, though Victoria in March is quite mild by Canadian standards, you’ll still want to keep a rainy-day itinerary at the ready.
From historical museums to culinary adventures, there are a plethora of activities to choose from. In this section, we will discuss three ways to experience Victoria’s unique culture during your visit.
Related:The 13 Best Victoria City Tours for Travellers & Locals
Visit the Royal BC Museum
Looking for an activity to help you duck out of the rain? How does a visit to BC’s preeminent museum sound? During the quieter months of March, visitors have the rare opportunity to engage more closely with the Royal BC Museum’s exhibits.
This means uninterrupted views of the world-class dioramas in the Natural History galleries, peaceful contemplation of the First Peoples’ artifacts, and the chance to fully immerse oneself in British Columbia’s past. Don’t forget to walk across the street to Thunderbird Park for a look at Victoria’s best display of totem poles.
Plan your visit: Check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and events at the Royal BC Museum.
Arrival: Purchase tickets online to save time, avoid lines, and ensure entry to the Royal BC Museum.
Exploration: Take your time to admire the extensive collections at the Royal BC Museum, including natural history and First Nations artifacts.
Guided tours: Consider joining a guided tour at the Royal BC Museum for in-depth insights into the highlights of the museum.
Victoria is the destination with the most restaurants per capita of any city in Canada. This makes it one of the most celebrated foodie cities in North America; whether you’re on the lookout for seafood, brunch, or vegetarian cuisine, it’s all there.
One of the best ways to explore Victoria’s best restaurants is to embark on a Victoria food tour, especially if you’re only in town for a short time.
Research: Click the button below to look for guided food tours that offer a diverse culinary experience, such as Victoria’s history, local produce, and global cuisines.
Book: Reserve a food tour that aligns with your food preferences, dietary restrictions, and time availability.
Engage: Interact with local vendors, chefs, and fellow food enthusiasts to enhance your understanding of the region’s gastronomic culture.
Visiting Victoria’s Chinatown in March is a journey into a vibrant cultural and historical hub, offering a unique and enriching experience. Trust me; this neighbourhood is steeped in history and alive with a rich cultural tapestry that makes it a must-visit destination.
The district’s iconic red and gold ornate gates, sumptuous culinary delights, and historical architecture offer a picturesque backdrop for exploration and photography.
Begin your exploration of Chinatown with a visit to the Gate of Harmonious Interest, an iconic landmark marking the entrance to Canada’s oldest Chinatown.
Stroll along Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada, lined with vibrant shops, galleries, and eateries.
Sample some delicious Chinese cuisine at some of Chinatown’s best restaurants (I recommend Bao, Loy Sing, and Little Yunan.)
Did you know? Victoria’s Chinatown is the second-oldest in North America after San Francisco’s.
Victoria in March FAQs
What are some upcoming events in Victoria in March?
There are a number of exciting events coming up in Victoria in March. Victoria Beer Week is a fantastic way for newbies and aficionados to explore the city’s craft brewing scene.
The Victoria Flower Count is an interactive way to get a peek at the Garden City’s emerging spring blooms. And don’t forget, the St. Patrick’s Day parade and Whiskey Hooley are compelling ways to enjoy all things Irish.
What are the top things to do in Victoria in March?
Those visiting Victoria in March can enjoy the emerging spring blooms at Butchart Gardens, visit the Royal BC Museum for a dose of history and culture, or stroll through Victoria’s historic Chinatown.
If you’re looking to enjoy the spring weather, you can take a leisurely walk through Beacon Hill Park or take a whale watching tour to witness majestic marine life.
How is the weather in Victoria during March?
The average temperatures in March are 11 degrees for highs and 1-2 degrees for lows, with minimal chance of snow. It is a beautiful time to visit Victoria, as the city starts to warm up after the winter months and spring flowers begin to bloom.
Is there a recommended way to explore Victoria, BC, in March?
Exploring the city on foot or by bike is a popular and enjoyable way to take in the beauty of Victoria in March. You can also join bike or walking tours for an insider’s view of the city. Looking for a unique experience? Try taking a horse-drawn carriage ride or the ‘pickle boat’ passenger ferries around the Inner Harbour.
All set to Enjoy Victoria in March?
In conclusion, Victoria, BC, in March is a splendid destination for those seeking a serene yet vibrant spring getaway. As the rest of Canada slowly thaws from winter’s grip, Victoria welcomes you with mild temperatures and blossoming gardens.
Whether it’s the colourful displays at Butchart Gardens, the lively history and cuisine in Chinatown, or the breathtaking whale-watching tours, Victoria in early spring is an enchanting mix of natural beauty and cultural richness.
So, don’t miss the chance to experience this unique blend of tranquillity and adventure in Victoria in March.
Enjoy the spring blooms 🙂
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