10 Things to do this October in Victoria, BC

Being the oldest city on the West Coast, Victoria has plenty to offer for the spookiest month of the year. From historic ghost tours to enjoying the beautiful natural scenery of autumn, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are our 10 recommendations of things to do in Victoria in October 2019:

​1. Thrill Yourself With Our Local Ghost Tours

Ross Bay Cemetery

Being an old city with a rich history, Victoria is home to many ghosts and spirits, from Chinatown’s Fan Tan Ally spirits to the inmate ghosts of Bastion Square. Each ghost is accompanied by a unique story from tragic love stories to murder and peculiar characters that Victoria’s Discovery Tours and Ghost Walks will gladly share with you.

2. Dare Try The Galey Farms Corn Maze

Lose yourself in one of Canada’s leading corn maze at Galey Farms with 6 acres of family fun. Located in Saanich the maze leads to a fully animated ghost town and haunted mansion. A fun activity to do with friends and family, you get to pick whether to venture out during the light of day or dare for a spooky attempt at night!  

3. Discover The Annual Salmon Run ​

Catch the annual salmon run and witness one of Nature’s most impressive wonders.  Each year thousands of salmon make their way back to Goldstream Provincial Park to their home pools, where they spawn and ultimately die, leading the way for a new generation to continue the life-cycle. 

4. Stroll Through Oak Bay's Pumpkin Art

​During October, the streets of Victoria are filled with Jack-O-Lanterns of all shapes and sizes. A local classic, walk down the streets of Oak Bay to admire the impressive art behind pumpkin carving with hundreds of pumpkins and their ghoulish grin on display

5. Run Away From Zombies

Photo credit by Celso Marchini

Travellers beware! On October 26 at 3:00pm, hundreds of zombies will invade downtown Victoria.  Everyone is welcome to join this thrilling event!

6. Royal BC Museum Night Shift: Mythical Monsters

Explore the galleries our BC Royal Museum under a new light by participating in their annual adult only Halloween After party.  With their Mythical Monsters theme, live music, special performances and delicious catering, this event promises a few screams! 

7. Admire The Autumn Colours 

Hatley Castle

With Fall comes a stunning natural display of vibrant colours, and Victoria offers the perfect setting to admire Nature’s colour palate. Beacon Hill Park or Hatley Castle Historic Park are just two of the many sites where this spectacular change of season can be observed. 

8. Enjoy The Food Scene ​

Pendray Tea House Winter Afternoon Tea

Victoria has a very diverse food scene that can satisfy any palate. Many restaurants embrace the change of season to adapt their menu with seasonal vegetables and traditional fall dishes. Click here to view Victoria’s top restaurants. Stop by the Pendray Inn and Tea House to enjoy our different Afternoon Teas crafted with seasonal flavours and autumn spices. 

9. Get Spooked At Wicked Victoria ​

For the 5th year running, on October 27th from noon to 5pm, downtown Victoria is transformed into Wicked Victoria and Boo Boulevard. A free and fun family event, Wicked Victoria has everything from “Too Cute to Spook Wicked Kid Zone” to a Harvest Market and Halloween music zone!  

10. Stein And Dine - Victoria's Oktoberfest ​

If you are an amateur of craft beer, do not miss Stein and Dine, Victoria’s version of Oktoberfest at Victoria’s Public Market on October 19th.  Serving delicious traditional German specialties with a vast selection of BC craft beer, this event guarantees fun and laughter!