British Columbia

Victorian Christmas at the Grand Empress

Program No. 18099RJ
Wondrous festive lights illuminate Victoria and the Inner Harbour! Celebrate at the Fairmont Empress, enjoy a festive light display at The Butchart Gardens and Tea at the Empress.

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At a Glance

Revel in the spirit of the season amid the history and ambiance of charming Victoria and the opulent, turn-of-the-century Empress Hotel. Presentations and field trips mingle with horse-drawn trolley rides and traditional sing-alongs as you stroll the historic streets of Victoria and learn of Canadian holiday traditions. On Christmas morning, immerse yourself in holiday atmosphere as carolers wander the hotel halls.
Activity Level
Easy Going
Easy walking on relatively flat terrain; optional stairs.

What You'll Learn

  • Witness the magical holiday transformation of magnificent Butchart Gardens with a display of thousands of twinkling lights.
  • Be regaled with true accounts of how Christmas was celebrated during the days of Fort Victoria and the gold-rush era.
  • Take part in one of Victoria’s grandest traditions — Afternoon Tea at the Empress — and top off Christmas Day with a festive dinner.

General Notes

Christmas dinner dress code is semi-formal, with a jacket and tie requested for gentlemen. Max of 90 participants, divided into groups for activities.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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John Adams
John Adams is the author of “Old Square-Toes and His Lady: The Life of James and Amelia Douglas.” Part historian and part storyteller, John has turned a passion for the past into a long career in history. His family-owned business, Discover the Past, provides a variety of historical educational programs for the community. His natural, lively, humorous and clear style makes his presentations both informative and memorable.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of John Adams
John Adams View biography
John Adams is the author of “Old Square-Toes and His Lady: The Life of James and Amelia Douglas.” Part historian and part storyteller, John has turned a passion for the past into a long career in history. His family-owned business, Discover the Past, provides a variety of historical educational programs for the community. His natural, lively, humorous and clear style makes his presentations both informative and memorable.
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Chris Adams View biography
Chris was raised in Victoria and attended the University of Victoria where he received his BA in history. Chris spent many years of his early adult life in the UK and received a diploma in human ecology from Strathclyde University in Glasgow. He and his wife now live in Victoria with their two children. Chris is a historian, storyteller and interpretive leader. In his spare time, he is a hard-working urban farmer, tending flocks of chickens, ducks and quail, along with many hives of bees.
Profile Image of Isabelle Maheux
Isabelle Maheux View biography
Isabelle Maxeux has two decades of experience in the travel industry. Her skills and personality have given Isabelle the opportunity to lead participants around the world. Originally from Québec, she now calls Vancouver Island home. Fluent in French and English, she enjoys languages and is currently learning Spanish. When Isabelle is not traveling, she enjoys exploring the outdoors with her family and teaching them about local flora and fauna.
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