I’m back on the west coast in Victoria, BC for Christmas this year! I’m so excited to be spending the Christmas season in this city. I love it so much. One of my first stops was the Magnolia Hotel & Spa (where I had a stay last June). In my room was the Magnolia Hotel’s Festive Trail guide of what to do this December in Victoria. Of course, I had to check it out.
First, I enjoyed a Bailey’s hot chocolate compliments of the hotel – a signature staple for their holiday stays. It was beautifully presented with a packet of delicious hot cocoa powder, a mini bottle of Bailey’s and came with an individual packet of mini marshmallows. Oh, and served in a glass mug. How charming is that?
Get to know the city of Victoria better and dive head first into the Christmas spirit with Magnolia’s Festive Trail.
Explore Victoria This Christmas with Magnolia Hotel’s Festive Trail
Magnolia’s Festive Trail: 25th Annual Festival of Trees
“Discover a forest of festive trees – watch for Magnolia Hotel’s tree and vote for your favourite!” These trees are actually amazing! There are so many to look at too so make sure you grab a hot cocoa (Bailey’s optional) to sip while you take in the sights.
Where: The Bay Centre, 1117 Government St. and Fairmont Empress, 721 Government St.
When: Until January 5th 2017
Magnolia’s Festive Trail: Christmas at Royal BC Museum
“Explore the Old Town gallery with its festive holiday decor.” I went to the Royal BC Museum last time I was in Victoria, so unfortunately I didn’t go this time but if you go, let me know how it is! I’m sure it looks super cute with all the holiday decor.
Where: 675 Belleville St.
When: Until December 31st 2016
Magnolia’s Festive Trail: Canada’s National Gingerbread Showcase
“Wander through amazing all-gingerbread works of art and watch for Catalano Restaurant & Cicchetti Bar’s creation!” Warning: Do not go to this exhibit on an empty stomach! The gingerbread houses look good enough to eat, but unfortunately you’re not allowed to touch. End of story.
Where: Inn at Laurel Point, 680 Montreal St.
When: Until January 2nd 2017
Magnolia’s Festive Trail: Free Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
“Weekend horse-drawn rides circulate downtown with stops!” I always feel like I’m in a movie when I go on a horse-drawn carriage. It doesn’t help that I’m obsessed with horses and wish I could take one home with me! It’s always been my dream to own a horse, but a short & sweet winter ride will have to do (for now).
Where: 50 Bastian Square, 3 Centennial Square, Willie’s Bakery and Capital Iron
Magnolia’s Festive Trail: Christmas in Old Victoria Walking Tours
“Discover how Christmas was observed in early Victoria with a leisurely 90-minute historical walking tour through Old Town with Discover the Past.” This is a fantastic way to really get to know the history of Victoria! It’s a beautiful city that is best seen by walking through it. If you only have time for a couple of activities from this list, make sure this one is on it.
Where: 26 Bastian Square
When: Until December 31st 2016, 2pm-3:30pm, $15/person
Other Festive Activities
- Take in the sights and sounds of the holidays with a stroll around the inner harbour
- The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens
- Christmas at Craigdarroch Castle
- A holiday cocktail in the lounge by the fireplace at Catalano
For more about Magnolia Hotel’s Festive Trail or Christmas in Victoria, visit their website here.
All photos by Morgan Cross Photography at Magnolia Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia.