It's now May: events happening in Greater Victoria this month

‍ Getting Tiddley: Navy Uniforms from Cap to Boot | Maritime Museum of BC | Opens May 1 (runs to Nov. 14)

This new exhibition traces 80+ years of Royal Canadian Navy uniform history, exploring how dress standards have evolved from the 1940s square rig to modern safety gear and what those changes say about identity and service. [Museum admission; 20% off for military and veterans; free for those in uniform]

BC Small Biz Pop-Up | Centennial Square | May 1-3 | 8am-6pm

A weekend marketplace celebrating local artisans, makers, and small businesses from across the region, with handmade goods, jewelry, art, clothing, home décor, and more. [Free]

The Peninsula Singers: Passport to Broadway | Mary Winspear Centre | May 1-3

The Peninsula Singers take audiences on a musical world tour through beloved Broadway shows, from Les Misérables and Wicked to a hometown celebration featuring Anne of Green Gables. [Adult $41, youth 12 and under $20]

Short Circuit Film Festival | The Vic Theatre | May 1-2

Victoria's beloved short film festival returns for its 14th year with a packed Friday night lineup, wristband access, and plenty of room to mingle before the reels roll. [Check venue for tickets/price]

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat | McPherson Playhouse | May 1-10

Victoria OnStage brings Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's beloved musical retelling of Joseph's journey from betrayal to forgiveness to the McPherson stage. [$66]

Patrick Watson: Uh Oh Tour | Royal Theatre | May 1 | 8pm

Montreal indie-pop composer Patrick Watson brings his new album to Victoria, a record born from a vocal crisis that led him to collaborate with a roster of guest singers and deepen his relationship with instrumental music. [From $53.25]

Improv Karaoke | Theatre SKAM | May 1 | 8:30-9:40pm

Every "hit" in this fast-paced musical improv show is invented on the spot from audience suggestions, turning a night of comedy into something that sounds suspiciously like a concert. [$25]

Bill Johnson & Shades of Blue | The Coda | May 1 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Veteran blues musician Bill Johnson brings his soulful band to the bar stage for an evening of roots music rooted in the full spectrum of human experience. [19+, $25]

Sina Bathaie—White Lotus World Tour | The Coda | May 1 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30-11:30pm

Multi-instrumentalist and producer Sina Bathaie blends Eastern and electronic sounds using the oud, ukulele, and live production as part of his globe-spanning 2026 world tour. [19+, from $29.99]

Esquimalt Craft Socials | Serious Coffee Esquimalt | Every Saturday in May | 1-3:30pm

A relaxed, freeform drop-in for crafters of all kinds to work on their projects and connect with others over beading, crochet, origami, jewelry, and whatever else you're making. [Free]

Goldstream Farmers Market | Danbrook Park | Every Saturday, May 2-Oct. 10 | 10am-2pm

Langford's beloved weekly market returns in a new location this season, bringing together local vendors selling homegrown produce, fresh-baked goods, handmade crafts, and textiles. [Free]

Sooke Country Market | Woodside Farm | Every Saturday, May 2-Oct. 10 | 10am-2pm

Now at a new home on West Coast Road, this weekly market offers farm-fresh vegetables, baking, art, crafts, and more from local producers. [Free]

Photo courtesy James Bay Community Market

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James Bay Community Market | 494 Superior St. | Every Saturday, May 2-Oct. 3 | 9am-3pm

Now in its 30th year, this beloved neighbourhood market gathers over 60 vendors selling fresh produce, prepared foods, handmade goods, and more, with free live music every week. [Free]

Island Band Fest | Mary Winspear Centre | May 2 | 10am-4pm

Five concert bands and two big bands take the Bodine Hall stage back-to-back in the Greater Victoria Concert Band's annual celebration of ensemble music. [Admission by donation, $10 recommended]

Hecklers Presents: Mayce Galoni | Hecklers Bar & Grill | May 2 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7pm / Doors 9pm, show 10pm

Stand-up comedian Mayce Galoni takes the Hecklers stage for two shows, part of the venue's weekly showcase of top Canadian and international comics. [19+, $22]

Emily Carnage | Theatre SKAM | May 2 | 8:30-9:40pm

Directed by Dan Bakkedahl of Veep and The Daily Show, this long-form improv troupe brings fast, fearless, and gloriously surreal comedy to the SKAM stage. [$25]

Martin Harley | Christian Science Church | May 2 | 7:30pm

Cardiff-born roots and blues guitarist Martin Harley brings his soulful slide guitar and three decades of road stories to Victoria, fresh off a European tour supporting Bonnie Raitt. [$45.50]

Sinfonia | The Final Concert of our 2025-26 Season | St. John the Divine Church | May 2 | 8pm

This program explores musical harmony through works by Haydn and Mozart, with pictures and demos by local instrument builders illustrating the craft behind the sounds. [Adult $35, student $5]

The Sharon Jones Project | The Coda | May 2 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Local vocalist Katherine Beckett leads a large ensemble in a tribute to the late Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings, celebrating what would have been the Queen of Funk's 70th birthday. [19+, $35]

Victoria Symphony: Queens of Soul | Royal Theatre | May 2-3

The Victoria Symphony joins powerhouse vocalists Kelly Levesque, Tamika Lawrence, and Shayna Steele for a celebration of the iconic women of soul and R&B, from Aretha Franklin to Amy Winehouse. [From $34]

Latin Vibes Orquestra—Mexican Party | The Coda | May 2 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-1:30am

A Cinco de Mayo celebration featuring live salsa, cumbia, and merengue from Latin Vibes Orquestra alongside performances by a Mexican folkloric dance group. [19+, $25]

Gardening for Pollinators and Other Wildlife | Goldfinch Arts Centre | May 3 | 10-11:30am

Retired ecological restoration professional Judy Nault leads a free introductory workshop on creating backyard habitat for BC pollinators and birds, hosted at Arts and Culture Colwood's space overlooking Esquimalt Lagoon. [Free, pre-registration required]

Sunday Afternoon Milonga | The Coda | May 3 | Doors 1pm, show 1-3:30pm

Victoria's beloved Sunday afternoon Argentine tango social celebrates its first anniversary at The Coda with an exceptionally generous admission price and an afternoon of warm embraces and close-embrace dancing. [19+, $1]

Basie and Beyond | The Coda | May 4 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

The Don Leppard Jazz Orchestra, an 18-piece ensemble founded by the late Don Leppard, brings the hard-swinging spirit of Count Basie and Buddy Rich to the bar stage with powerful ensemble playing and exciting soloists. [19+, $25]

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Farquhar Auditorium. Photo: UVic

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School Dance Highlights 2026 | The Farquhar at UVic | May 4 | 7pm

The Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival presents an evening showcasing standout performances from school dance groups across all styles entered in this year's festival. [Adult $18.75, student/youth $15.75]

A Taste of Ireland | Royal Theatre | May 5 | 7:30pm

Former world Irish dance champions and alumni of Lord of the Dance and Riverdance bring this internationally acclaimed Celtic music and dance production to Victoria for one night only. [From $45.75]

Watercolours for Wellness: Healing Ocean | Emily Carr House National Historic Site | May 6, 13, 20 | 10am-12pm

Therapeutic arts practitioner Helga Strauss leads a three-part watercolour workshop series exploring the colours and textures of the ocean in a playful, supportive setting. [$105, all materials included]

Jack de Keyzer | The Coda | May 7 | Doors 6:30pm, show 7-9pm

Two-time Juno and seven-time Maple Blues Award winner Jack de Keyzer brings his powerhouse blues band to the Coda stage for an evening spanning his award-winning catalogue and the timeless traditions of Chicago blues, British blues rock, and Southern soul. [19+, $35 plus fees]

Harold Night | Theatre SKAM | May 7 | Doors 7:45pm, show 8-9pm

Garden City Improv's cast performs the Harold, long-form improv comedy's most ambitious format, weaving together characters and storylines from a single audience suggestion. [$15]

The Crowd Work Show | The Mint Restaurant | May 7 | 8pm

Comedians Nash Park and Alex Forman take the stage with no material prepared, relying entirely on crowd interaction and quick wit for a rowdy, unpredictable night of stand-up. [$25, group pricing available]

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Photo: Mary Winspear Centre

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The Writer's Notebook: Writing Workshop | Mary Winspear Centre | May 7-June 11 | 6:30-8:30pm

Kelsey Andrews leads a six-week, in-person writing workshop for all levels, running every Thursday from May 7 through June 11. [Check venue for tickets/price]

The Andrew Greenwood Quintet Plays Dexter Gordon | The Coda | May 8 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

The Victoria-based Andrew Greenwood Quintet pays tribute to bebop legend Dexter Gordon, performing a selection of his original compositions and other music from his influential career. [19+, $25]

Sure on this Shining Night: Voice Faculty Concert | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 8 | 7-8:30pm

Seven members of the Victoria Conservatory of Music's voice faculty take the stage together for an evening celebrating the art of singing in all its range and expression. [Admission by donation, $20 suggested]

Gnome + Fairy Mother's Day Terrarium Workshop | VI Plant Shop | May 8 | 5:30-6:30pm

A hands-on terrarium-building workshop perfect for bringing along Mom, with all materials and gnome and fairy decorations included, along with tips for keeping your creation thriving at home. [$54.60]

Theatresports | Theatre SKAM | May 8 | Doors 8:15pm, show 8:30-9:40pm

Victoria's best improvisers go head-to-head in this audience-judged competitive improv format, back for a new spring season directed by Claire Pollock of Vancouver Theatresports. [$25]

An Evening with City and Colour (Solo) | Royal Theatre | May 8-9 | 8pm

Dallas Green brings his emotionally resonant solo project City and Colour to the Royal Theatre for two nights, performing songs from a catalogue that has earned him five Juno Awards and a devoted global following. [From $87.25]

Mother's Day Musical Garden Tour | Nine private gardens across Greater Victoria | May 9-10 | 10am-4:00pm

The Victoria Conservatory of Music's 44th annual fundraiser opens nine stunning private gardens across Greater Victoria, each featuring live performances by VCM students and faculty amid spring blooms. [$45 two-day pass]

Rueda Flamenco | The Coda | May 9 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Victoria's collaborative flamenco ensemble presents a fundraiser show for guitarist Jake Lee, whose decades of dedication to the art form have made him a cornerstone of the city's flamenco community. [19+, $30; reduced $15]

Hecklers Presents: Jono Zalay | Hecklers Bar & Grill | May 9 | Doors 5:30pm, show 7pm / Doors 9pm, show 10pm

American stand-up comedian Jono Zalay brings his sharp observational humour to Hecklers for two shows as part of the venue's weekly showcase of top comics. [19+, $22]

Dungeons Yes And Dragons | Theatre SKAM | May 9 | Doors 8:15pm, show 8:30-9:40pm

Garden City Improv conjures an evening of epic storytelling and outrageous characters inspired by the world of Dungeons and Dragons, performed entirely on the spot. [$25]

Tight Hair Disco | The Coda | May 9 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-1:30am

A high-energy live disco band transforms The Coda into a dance floor inferno with a set list drawing from the Bee Gees, ABBA, Earth, Wind & Fire, Chic, and the golden era of boogie. [19+, $25]

MEC Gear Swap | MEC Victoria | May 9-10 | 9am-1pm

Outdoor enthusiasts can buy, sell, or swap gently used gear at this two-day community event, with table rental proceeds going to the local Alpine Club of Canada section. [Free to attend; table rental $20/day]

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Royal Theatre. Photo: Royal & McPherson Theatres

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Victoria Symphony: Kluxen—Mahler Symphony No. 5 | Royal Theatre | May 10 | 2:30pm

Conductor Christian Kluxen leads the Victoria Symphony through Mahler's most celebrated symphony, a monumental work composed in the wake of a near-fatal illness and the joy of a new marriage. [From $44]

Victoria Psychic Fair | The Bay Centre | May 11-17

Psychics, intuitives, and spiritual readers from across Vancouver Island gather for a week-long fair offering readings on life purpose, relationships, guides, past lives, and well-being. [Check venue for tickets/price]

Second Wind | Special Film Screening | The Vic Theatre | May 11 | Doors 6pm, screening 6:30-9:30pm

This Ukrainian documentary follows five veterans and an active-duty servicewoman who climbed Mount Kilimanjaro after lower-limb amputations, with a post-screening Q&A featuring the producer and one of the film's protagonists. Proceeds support Ukrainian veteran rehabilitation. [$29.64]

Young Artist Academy Senior Chamber Concert | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 12 | 7-8:30pm

Advanced teenage musicians from the Victoria Conservatory of Music's Young Artist Academy perform chamber works refined through intensive coaching and rehearsal. [Admission by donation]

Ready, Set… Pirouette! 2026 | The Farquhar at UVic | May 12-13 | 7pm

Pirouette Dance Studio's year-end showcase features students from preschool to adult performing ballet, tap, hip hop, and more across two evenings at the Farquhar. [Adult $22, student/senior $17, child $12]

An Evening with David Sedaris | Royal Theatre | May 12 | 7:30pm

American humorist and essayist David Sedaris returns to Victoria for an evening of readings, Q&A, and a post-show book signing. [From $66]

Foster Motel—Songs for Stadiums Tour | The Coda | May 12 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Toronto outlaw indie folk duo Foster Motel, joined by Matt Kennedy of Vancouver's Headlong Hearts, bring harmony-rich storytelling and a warm, intimate energy to the bar stage. [19+, $15]

Wild Art for the Big of Heart | Gage Gallery | May 12-31

Nine sculptural works inspired by local charities fill the Gage Gallery for a month-long exhibition where 25% of each purchase price goes directly to the buyer's chosen cause, with a free opening reception on May 14. [Free admission]

Alain Bédard Auguste Quartet | The Coda | May 12 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-12am

Montreal bassist and composer Alain Bédard brings his celebrated modern jazz quartet to the main stage for an evening of spontaneous, boundary-crossing acoustic music with roots in over two decades of international touring. [19+, $20; $25 at door]

Eric Kane—Right by My Side Western Canada Tour | The Coda | May 13 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Western Canadian singer-songwriter Eric Kane brings emotionally honest folk-influenced originals to the bar stage, drawing on a decade of navigating grief and resilience through music. [19+, $30]

PODIUM 2026: Festival Opening Concert | The Farquhar at UVic | May 14 | 1pm

Canada's national bilingual choral conference opens with performances by Greater Victoria School District students, a massed Francophone choir, and The Choirs YYJ in a celebration of collective song and community. [Adult $35, senior $25, student $15]

Tapas 4 TAPS 2026 | Heron Rock Bistro | May 14 | 4:30-7pm

A festive fundraising evening of tapas, live music, and live and silent auctions supporting Together Against Poverty Society's free legal advocacy services across Vancouver Island. [$107.83, includes one drink]

Future of Good: What's Your Story? | theDock—Centre for Social Impact | May 14 | 5:30-7:30pm

A networking and storytelling evening for nonprofit leaders, social entrepreneurs, and community builders, opening with a talk by Future of Good executive director Anouk Bertner on how to share the stories behind meaningful work. [Check venue for tickets/price]

Victoria Academy of Ballet: Take Flight | McPherson Playhouse | May 14 | 6:30pm

Emerging artists from the Victoria Academy of Ballet's Vocational Division perform excerpts from classical ballets alongside original contemporary works, with graduating Bridge Program dancers taking their final bow before launching professional careers. [$43]

Cascadia Strings: Blind Date | The Coda | May 14 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Award-winning chamber ensemble Cascadia Strings closes out their 2025-26 season with a program mixing Brahms and a new Canadian work alongside a selection of surprise pieces chosen to keep audiences on their toes. [19+, $30]

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Victoria Conference Centre. Photo: Destination Greater Victoria

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Menopolooza 2 | Victoria Conference Centre | May 15-17 | Starts 4pm (May 15)

A 2.5-day clinical intensive on perimenopause and menopause taught by a multidisciplinary faculty of OB-GYNs, naturopaths, pelvic physiotherapists, sexologists, and more, designed for both people navigating menopause and the practitioners who treat them. [$420.75, includes welcome reception and two Fairmont Empress lunches]

Alice in Wonderland | Royal Theatre | May 15-16 | 7:30pm (May 15); 2pm (May 16)

Ballet Victoria brings Lewis Carroll's fantastical world to life through a playful, quirky choreography set to a score by Benjamin Britten, with unforgettable characters from the Queen of Hearts to the Mad Hatter. [From $34.75]

Dead Churches: Fear and Faith Tour | The Coda | May 15 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Victoria punk rock outfit Dead Churches launch their debut EP with their first-ever tour, joined by Vancouver's The Fomites and local pop-punk opener Jesse Heinz for a high-energy night at the bar stage. [19+, $20]

Improv Comedy Live at The Mint | The Mint Restaurant | May 15 | 8pm

OK, DOPE brings some of Victoria's best improv performers together for a loose, lively evening of unscripted comedy with exclusive happy hour deals alongside. [$25, group pricing available]

Heavy Airship Live | The Coda | May 15 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-1:30am

BC-born Led Zeppelin tribute act Heavy Airship recreates the full scope of the band's sound with note-for-note fidelity, from Robert Plant's soaring vocals to John Bonham's thunderous drumming. [19+, $30]

Mini Mariner Mornings: It's a Pirate's Life for Me! | Maritime Museum of BC | May 16 | 10-11am

A drop-in morning program for kids aged 3-8 featuring pirate-themed storytelling, dress-up, and hat-making, with storytime at 10:30am. [Free with museum admission or membership]

Mindful Art-Making: Open Art Studio | Hanna Kaye Art Therapy and Counselling | May 16 | 11am-12:30pm

A small, relaxed drop-in studio session facilitated by an art therapist, open to all experience levels and offering art supplies, optional creative prompts, and a calm space to create without pressure. [$29, limited to 8 people]

Filmmaking 101: How to Make a Short Film | Pacific Design Academy | May 16, 23, 30, June 6 | 10am-1pm

A four-week Saturday workshop for beginners covering scriptwriting, camera techniques, directing, and video editing, with hands-on guidance from industry professionals. [$360]

163rd Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival | Topaz Park | May 16-17 | 8am-5:30pm

One of Victoria's most beloved annual traditions returns for its 163rd year with highland athletics, Celtic music, dance, and community spirit over the Victoria Day long weekend. [$17.31]

PODIUM 2026: Concert 5 | The Farquhar at UVic | May 16 | 1:30pm and 4pm

Canada's national choral festival presents two afternoon concerts featuring Coastal Sound Youth Choir, Fern Hill Chorus, and Ventus Women's Choir. [Adult $35, senior $25, student $15]

Sea Glass Jewellery Workshop | Maritime Museum of BC | May 16 | 2-3:30pm

A hands-on workshop exploring the history of sea glass and guiding participants through creating a wearable piece of jewelry from locally sourced materials. [$29.99 plus GST]

The Gondoliers | Mary Winspear Centre | May 16-17 | Doors 1:30pm, show 2pm

The Victoria Gilbert and Sullivan Society presents its main 2026 production, the comic opera about two Venetian gondoliers who discover one of them may be the heir to a fictional throne. [Ticket $51.45, student $25.20, youth 12 and under $4.20]

Paul Black Trio | The Coda | May 16 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Victoria blues-rock artist Paul Black performs songs from his Western Canadian Music Award-nominated album Beautiful Sin, a decade in the making and recorded right here in the city. [$20]

Hecklers Presents: Emily Woods | Hecklers Bar & Grill | May 16 | 8pm

Canadian comedian Emily Woods takes the Hecklers stage for a night of standup as part of the venue's weekly showcase of top comics. [$24]

The Hip Experience | McPherson Playhouse | May 16 | 7:30pm

Toronto-based tribute act The Hip Experience brings a note-for-note recreation of the Tragically Hip's live sound and catalogue to the McPherson stage. [From $46.75]

Rae Spoon with Pink Snail and Ghostly Hounds | The Coda | May 17 | Doors 1pm, show 1:30-3:30pm

Two-time Polaris Prize nominee Rae Spoon headlines a Sunday matinee alongside choral punk act Pink Snail and the folk-noir banjo project Ghostly Hounds in a triple bill spanning country, punk, and old-time. [19+, $20]

Spring Time Paint and Snack | Archer's Community Hub | May 17 | 2-5pm

Artist Violet Zolorycki leads a relaxed spring-themed painting session with snacks provided, a good excuse to bring Mom or a friend for a creative afternoon. [$20]

PODIUM 2026: Festival Closing Concert | The Farquhar at UVic | May 17 | 4pm

Canada's national choral festival closes with performances by Calgary's Luminous Voices and the Vancouver Youth Choir in a joyful send-off to four days of collective song. [Adult $35, senior $25, student $15]

Victoria Jazz Jam Session 11 | The Coda | May 20 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

The Tom Vickery Trio hosts Victoria's premier monthly jazz jam, open to musicians of all stripes who want to sit in and play standards alongside the community. [19+, $10; musicians $5]

‍ The Journeymen: The Best of Clapton and Santana | McPherson Playhouse | May 21 | 7:30pm

A live tribute show built around the expressive guitar music of Eric Clapton and Carlos Santana, blending deep blues grooves and fiery Latin-rock rhythms performed by seasoned musicians. [$48.25]

Young Artist Academy Junior Chamber Ensembles and Junior Orchestras Concert | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 21 | 7-8:30pm

Students from the Victoria Conservatory of Music's Junior Orchestras and Young Artist Academy showcase their ensemble work in a joyful end-of-term concert featuring chamber groups and full orchestras. [Admission by donation]

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The Coda. Facebook photo

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Alan and the Daves | The Coda | May 21 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Victoria songwriter trio Alan Cassels, David Bigsby, and Dave Kettlewell return to the bar stage with new acoustic originals and a few choice covers. [19+, $15]

Kids Soccer Fundraiser Comedy Night | Hecklers Bar & Grill | May 21 | 8pm

A night of standup comedy raising funds for Victoria United youth soccer. [$25]

Brew School: Historical Beer Styles | Vessel Liquor | May 21 | 7-8:30pm

An educational tasting led by Ben exploring the historical conditions that gave rise to classic beer styles and how those traditions continue to shape what's in your glass today. [$26.25]

CelloFest: Opening Concert | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 22 | 7:30-9:45pm

CelloFest 2026 opens with an evening featuring acclaimed cellists Desmond Hoebig, Minna Rose Chung, and Brian Yoon alongside pianists Lorraine Min and Laura Loewen, performing works spanning Bach to contemporary composers. [Check venue for tickets/price]

And Then There Were None | Mary Winspear Centre | May 22-24

The Peninsula Players bring Agatha Christie's classic thriller to the stage, following 10 strangers trapped on a remote island as they are picked off one by one in keeping with the lines of a sinister nursery rhyme. [Adult $30, senior/student $25]

James Vickers Band | The Coda | May 22 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Sixteen-year-old Indigenous guitarist and vocalist James Vickers, of Gitxaala, Heiltsuk, and Haida nations heritage, leads his band through blues rock, pop rock, and alternative originals from their debut album Last Goodbye. [19+, $25]

The Grapes of Wrath with Limblifter | McPherson Playhouse | May 22 | 8pm

Beloved BC indie rock veterans the Grapes of Wrath bring their catalogue of jangly, hook-driven songs to the McPherson stage, supported by fellow Vancouver alt-rock act Limblifter. [From $41.75]

SoulFire | The Coda | May 22 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30-11:30pm

A collective of seasoned musicians blends contemporary jazz, soul, reggae, and Latin grooves into a warm, groove-driven sound inspired by artists like The Crusaders and Nina Simone. [19+, $30]

Harvest and Preserve Your Bounty | Compost Education Centre | May 23 | 9:30am-12:30pm

Gardening educator Kayla Siefried leads a hands-on workshop covering optimal harvest windows and food preservation methods, including dehydrating, fermenting, canning, and cold storage. [$22-55]

CelloFest: Masterclass with Dr. Minna Rose Chung | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 23 | 9:30am-12:30pm

Internationally renowned cellist and educator Dr. Minna Rose Chung coaches selected young cellists through works by Brahms, Schumann, Saint-Saëns, and others in an open masterclass that offers audiences a rare window into the teaching process. [Admission by donation]

CelloFest: Masterclass with Desmond Hoebig | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 23 | 2-5pm

Juno Award-winning cellist and longtime Rice University professor Desmond Hoebig leads a public masterclass working with selected participants on repertoire spanning Haydn, Mendelssohn, Paganini, and more. [Admission by donation]

Meteor in the Metro with Lost Talkers | The Coda | May 23 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Two Vancouver Island acts share the bar stage for an evening of groove-driven original music, with Lost Talkers blending rock, funk, punk, and bluegrass alongside Meteor in the Metro's hook-laden indie sound. [19+, $20]

Hecklers Presents: Dino Archie | Hecklers Bar & Grill | May 23 | 8pm

Canadian comedian Dino Archie takes the Hecklers stage for a night of standup as part of the venue's weekly showcase of top comics. [$24]

Voodoo Sometimes - The Great Canadian Jam Tour | The Coda | May 23 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-1:30am

Halifax psychedelic jam band Voodoo Sometimes rolls into Victoria on its 18-stop coast-to-coast tour celebrating the release of their EP Luna's Five Card Draw, joined by local support act Ultraviolet. [19+, $20; $25 at door]

Elevate Dance Centre: Cloud Nine! Show 1 (Silver) | Royal Theatre | May 24 | 11am

Elevate Dance Centre's year-end showcase features dancers of all ages and styles in a high-energy celebration of a full season's worth of growth and creativity. [$25.25]

CelloFest: Final Concert | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 24 | 1-3pm

CelloFest closes with an afternoon concert featuring masterclass participants performing refined repertoire alongside a massed cello ensemble of over 20 players. [$10 suggested donation]

Victoria Choral Society: Renewal | The Farquhar at UVic | May 24 | 2:30pm

A 150-voice choir with full orchestra presents Brahms' Ein deutsches Requiem alongside the world premiere arrangement of Iman Habibi's Marble of the West, a work exploring displacement and environmental loss, with a pre-concert talk at 1:30pm. [$45; pay-what-you-wish options available]

Queer Line Dancing | The Coda | May 24 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Véronique and Madeleine bring Victoria's queer community together for an all-night beginner line dancing lesson set to country classics and queer favorites, with no experience required. [19+, $10; no one turned away for lack of funds]

Michael Jackson HIStory Show | Royal Theatre | May 25 | 7pm

Garth Field leads a full live band and dance company through three decades of Michael Jackson's catalogue in a theatrical tribute marking 30 years since the original HIStory world tour. [$68-$78]

Jive Big Band and the Blue Bosses Jazz Combo | The Coda | May 25 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Two ensembles share the bar stage on the Victoria Day holiday, with the Jive Big Band delivering big band classics and Latin grooves under Barrie Sorensen, followed by the Blue Bosses jazz combo led by Ashley Wey. [19+, $20]

Soul Source | The Coda | May 25 | Doors 8:30pm, show 9-11pm

Nick La Riviere directs this 20-piece R&B band through a set spanning the music of Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, and more, with all proceeds going to Living Edge NGO. [19+, $20]

Yves Léveillé Quartet Phare | The Coda | May 26 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-12am

Montreal pianist and composer Yves Léveillé brings his acclaimed jazz quartet to the main stage for an evening of lyrical, refined modern jazz with roots in over a decade of international touring. [19+, $20; $25 at door]

The Metro Big Band | The Coda | May 27 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Juno-nominated saxophonist Ryan Oliver leads Victoria's top high school and college jazz musicians through the big band repertoire of Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus, Count Basie, and more. [19+, $20]

Oratorio and Sacred Song Competition | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 27 | 5-7:30pm

Victoria Conservatory of Music voice students perform oratorio arias and sacred songs before adjudicators in this annual competition open to all ages and abilities. [Admission by donation]

Dumpling Fest Victoria | Various restaurants, downtown Victoria | May 27 | 5-9pm

A self-guided evening food tour visiting participating Victoria restaurants serving dumplings from around the world, from Chinese soup dumplings to Nepalese momos and Mexican tamales. [From $59]

Grand Opera Aria Competition | Alix Goolden Performance Hall | May 27 | 8-9pm

Senior-level voice students at the Victoria Conservatory of Music compete in grand opera arias before adjudicators in this annual showcase of advanced vocal talent. [Admission by donation]

Wednesday Wine Club: Black Sage Bench | Cask and Keg Liquor Store | May 27 | 7-8:30pm

An evening tasting six wines from three acclaimed Black Sage Bench wineries, Stoneboat, Phantom Creek, and Bartier Brothers, paired with cheese and charcuterie. [$38.85]

Stars and Stories Live: The Story of Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell | McPherson Playhouse | May 28 | 7:30pm

A multimedia stage production exploring the brief but creatively charged romance between Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell, performed by award-winning singer-songwriter Dana Wylie and poet-musician Joe Nolan. [From $46.25]

Colin James Blues Trio | Mary Winspear Centre | May 28 | Doors 7pm, show 7:30pm

Six-time Juno Award winner Colin James brings his blues trio to Sidney, joined by notable sidemen Kenny Neal and Chris Caddell, for an evening of electrifying guitar-driven music spanning three decades of one of Canada's most celebrated careers. [Sold out, $72.45]

VINcabulary: The Road Less Poured | Vessel Liquor | May 28 | 7-8:30pm

Wine educator Janice guides a tasting of six examples showcasing lesser-known grape varieties, a chance to expand your palate beyond the familiar. [$36.75]

Hampton Baseball Fundraiser Comedy Night | Hecklers Bar & Grill | May 28 | 8pm

A night of standup comedy raising funds for Hampton Baseball. [$25]

Pablo Cardenas Presents: Portraits of Havana | The Coda | May 29 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Cuban-Canadian pianist Pablo Cardenas leads an all-star ensemble through a curated evening tracing the musical evolution of Havana from the 1920s son and danzón era through Afro-Cuban jazz and the Buena Vista Social Club. [19+, $35]

DBX: The Doobie Brothers Experience | Mary Winspear Centre | May 29 | Doors 7pm, show 7:30pm

A seasoned six-piece tribute act recreates the full span of the Doobie Brothers' catalogue, from the Tom Johnston era through the Michael McDonald years, with soaring harmonies and note-for-note guitar work. [$56.70]

Dance Unlimited: 33rd Annual Celebration of Dance | McPherson Playhouse | May 30 | 11:30am and 5pm

Dance Unlimited's 33rd annual recital features dancers of all ages and levels celebrating a full season of growth and artistry across two afternoon performances. [$33.75]

‍ Protégé Dance: Year End Showcase | Royal Theatre | May 30 | 12pm and 6pm

Protégé Dance Project's fourth annual year-end showcase brings together dancers from their general, performance, and ITP programs for two celebrations of a full season's work. [$32]

Carol Sokoloff: Change in the Weather CD Launch | The Coda | May 30 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Victoria singer-songwriter Carol Sokoloff launches her Nashville-recorded folk and country album with her Island Dream Band, celebrating a return to roots with thirteen originals about love, spring, and shared experience. [19+, $20; $25 after May 20]

Hecklers Presents: Kristeen von Hagen | Hecklers Bar & Grill | May 30 | 8pm

Canadian comedian Kristeen von Hagen takes the Hecklers stage for a night of stand-up as part of the venue's weekly showcase. [$22]

The Choirs YYJ: Spring Concert | The Farquhar at UVic | May 30 | Doors 7pm, show 7:30-9:30pm

Victoria's beloved 200+ voice community choir collective performs original choral arrangements of songs by Brandi Carlile, Radiohead, Weezer, and others, with all net proceeds going to Rainbow Kitchen. [$25, child 12 and under, $5]

RNS Dance: The Rewind | Mary Winspear Centre | May 30 | Doors 7pm, show 7:30pm

RNS Dance marks its 10th anniversary with a retrospective showcase celebrating the music, styles, and moments that have shaped the company's first decade of performance. [$31 plus tax]

Victoria's Other Secret | The Coda | May 30 | Doors 9pm, show 9:30pm-1:30am

Local favourites Victoria's Other Secret pack the main stage dance floor with decades of cover songs spanning rock, funk, R&B, hip hop, and country. [19+, $25]

Blind Dates Live! with Alex Forman | The Mint Restaurant | May 30 | 8pm

Improviser Alex Forman hosts a live comedy show built around real strangers going on blind dates on stage, with his commentary making everything simultaneously better and worse. [$25, group pricing available]

The Shindigs and The Moonsnakes | The Coda | May 31 | Doors 6pm, show 6:30-8:30pm

Vancouver Island indie rock act The Shindigs shares the bar stage with Calgary psych-rock touring band The Moonsnakes for a high-energy Sunday afternoon show. [19+, $15]

Sidney Concert Band: Top of the Pops | Mary Winspear Centre | May 31 | Doors 1:30pm, show 2pm

The Sidney Concert Band marks 39 years of community music-making with a lively spring concert of pop hits, joined by the Allegro Dancers for an afternoon of toe-tapping fun at the Charlie White Theatre. [$34.20]