2026 dates not confirmed yet. Craigdarroch Castle has not released its 2026 holiday calendar yet. The details below are from 2025. We’ll update this page as soon as the 2026 details are announced.
Craigdarroch Castle was built in the 1880s and 1890s by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, and at Christmas it looks the way a Victorian Christmas is supposed to look. Garlands climb the oak staircase, a dozen-plus trees fill the rooms, and the dining table is set for a holiday meal. It’s the most atmospheric indoor stop of the season in Victoria.
The castle publishes its 2026 holiday calendar in November. Here’s what the season has looked like recently, so you can plan.
Planning a full day? See our best Christmas things to do in Victoria.
Christmas at Craigdarroch: Quick Facts
| Season | Early December into early January. In 2025 it ran December 3 to January 7 |
| Hours | Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM |
| Closed | December 25, December 26 and January 1 |
| Location | 1050 Joan Crescent, off Fort Street, about 10 minutes from downtown |
| Accessibility | 87 steps and no elevator. The castle is not wheelchair accessible |
| Official site | thecastle.ca |
What to Expect
The self-guided tour takes you through four floors of restored rooms decorated in period style, with displays of Victorian-era toys and Christmas traditions. In December, piano students from the Victoria Conservatory of Music play holiday music in the Drawing Room and Dance Hall on select days. The Conservatory was based in the castle from 1968 to 1979.
Holiday Tours and Shows
In 2025 the castle added a guided after-hours Holiday Tour on select December evenings, starting at 4:30 PM, followed by time to explore the quiet castle on your own. Those tours sold out well ahead of time, so book as soon as the 2026 dates are posted.
The castle has also been the setting for actor Jason Stevens’ one-man performance of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. It’s recommended for ages 13 and up and tends to sell out.
Tips
- Go on a weekday morning to avoid tour-bus crowds.
- The gift shop is good for Victoria-made ornaments and history books.
- Pair it with a walk down Fort Street’s Antique Row, or high tea afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Craigdarroch Castle decorated for Christmas?
Yes. Every December the castle is decorated in Victorian style, with period toys and traditions on display.
When is Craigdarroch Castle open at Christmas?
Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed December 25, 26 and January 1.
Do I need to book the holiday tour?
Yes. The guided evening holiday tours have sold out in past years, so book as soon as dates are released.
Is the castle accessible?
No. There are 87 steps and no elevator.
Related: Christmas at the Fairmont Empress.
Part of: Victoria Christmas Guide 2026
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