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What to Do Over the Winter Holidays in Victoria During a Pandemic

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Now, more than ever, we’re going to need something special; and Victoria is the perfect place to be for the holidays. This short article contains a list of activities to do locally and at home with your family and close bubble. Stress-Free:

  • Taking a walk with your family and enjoying the lights in your neighbourhood is a fun, simple, and almost interaction-free way to spend the evening.

Helping make the Holidays extra special:

The Bay Centre in downtown Victoria is holding the 29th Annual Festival of Trees to raise funds for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. Out of 50 one-of-a-kind trees, pick your favourite. All proceeds from donations go to the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. GNS is once again participating in the event, with a tree theme of #mygnsStrongerTogether, which highlights aspects of the GNS community. Donate to vote for our tree by texting “TREE015” to 45678. If you happen to be in the Bay Centre, stop by to check it out and take a photo. We would love to see your pictures!

Spread the spirit of giving by donating to the Saanich Peninsula Holiday Toy Drive. Exclusively this year (due to COVID-19), they will be collecting monetary donations. Donations can be received until December 18. Shopping:

Located at Westshore Town Centre, the market is a craft fair with exclusive art produced by local artisans. From December 5 to 13, go and browse through local treasures and find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Arts: 

The holidays are never complete without music, and Hermann’s Jazz Club in Victoria is the perfect place to enjoy Kelby MacNayr and Friends Home for the holiday performance. Feeling uncomfortable in public places? This jazz performance is also being streamed online. At home:

  • Cookie baking

Cookie baking has always been an integral part of the winter season. Whether it is the standard gingerbread person or a gingerbread mansion, cookies have always been delightful to share and eat. This year, buy the ingredients from your local grocery store. It will benefit you and your local community.

Giving out cards in person this year will be hard, that’s why there are virtual card websites. Paperless Post is a fantastic way to send out cards to friends, teachers, and anybody else virtually. This way, there is no direct contact, therefore reducing the spread of COVID-19.

Crafting is a fun pastime to enjoy with family and friends (provided that they are in your extremely close bubble). Check out local craft stores such as the Papery, located on Fort Street in downtown Victoria. No matter what, the holidays are still the best time of year. To see some more activities, visit To-Do Canada and ChatterBlock, for more information on some local winter holiday activities in Victoria. As always, remember your mask and stay six-feet apart from others.