Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens 2026: Dates, Tickets & Tips

If you only do one Christmas outing near Victoria, make it this one. Every December the Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay swap flowers for lights, and the 55-acre National Historic Site turns into an evening walk past the Twelve Days of Christmas, carollers, a brass band and a small outdoor skating rink.

The 2026 season runs December 1, 2026 to January 6, 2027 (closed Christmas Day). Here is what it costs, when to go and how to get there without fighting for parking.

Planning a whole evening of lights? Our Christmas lights in Victoria roundup lists every display on the South Island side by side.

Magic of Christmas 2026: Quick Facts

What You’ll See

The route follows the Twelve Days of Christmas, with a lit display for each day placed through the Sunken Garden, the Rose Garden and the Italian Garden. Keep an eye on the archway on your way out: the twelfth day is the last thing you see. Carollers and brass musicians perform in the evenings, and the outdoor rink is a nice warm-up stop for kids.

The season opens with the official light-up on December 1 at 6:00 PM.

Tickets and Prices

Butchart sells its own tickets online. Pick a date and arrival time and arrive within your time window. Prices for the Christmas 2026 season are $41.00 for adults, $20.50 for youth and $5.00 for children 5 to 12, all including tax. Skating is a separate small fee paid at the rink.

If you visit Victoria often, Butchart’s 12-month pass may work out cheaper than buying single tickets.

Dining at the Gardens

The Dining Room and the Blue Poppy Restaurant both run festive menus during the Magic of Christmas, and reservations go fast in December. A dinner reservation is a good way to lock in your visit on a busy night. The Coffee Shop sells hot chocolate and snacks for walking.

For a night out with friends or colleagues, the adults-only Magic of Christmas Dinner and Dance returns on two dates this season. It costs $155 per person, including access to the Gardens, taxes and gratuities, and is booked by phone at 250-652-4422.

Getting There

• Driving: about 25 minutes from downtown via the Pat Bay Highway. Parking is free but fills on December weekends.
• BC Transit: you don’t need a timed booking if you arrive by transit.
• Tours: Sightseeing Victoria runs a Holiday Lights Tour from in front of the Fairmont Empress every day from December 1 to 31 (except December 25), leaving at 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. The adult price of $99 includes admission and the round-trip ride.

Tips for Your Visit

• Go on a weeknight in the first two weeks of December for the shortest lines.
• Sunset is around 4:20 PM in December, so a 4:30 to 5:00 PM arrival gives you full darkness without the late crush.
• Wear waterproof shoes. Paths are paved but it’s the West Coast in December.
• Plan on 1.5 to 2 hours, more if you eat or skate.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Butchart Gardens Christmas light display in 2026?

From December 1, 2026 to January 6, 2027, every day except December 25.

How much are Butchart Gardens Christmas tickets?

$41.00 for adults, $20.50 for youth 13 to 17 and $5.00 for children 5 to 12, tax included. Kids 4 and under are free.

Is there skating at Butchart at Christmas?

Yes. The outdoor rink costs $5.25 for adults, $4.20 for youth and $3.15 for children, plus $3.15 for skate rental.

Do I need to book in advance?

Timed-entry tickets are recommended, and weekends in December sell out. Visitors arriving by BC Transit do not need a booking.

Is Butchart Gardens open on Christmas Day?

No. It is closed December 25 and reopens December 26.

How long should I spend there?

About 1.5 to 2 hours for the lights, longer with dinner or skating.

Related: Best Christmas things to do in Victoria, Christmas on Vancouver Island.

Part of: Victoria Christmas Guide 2026 › Christmas Lights in Victoria 2026