Whether you’re looking to spend some time near the water, under the night stars or with your four-legged friend, this weekend’s got you covered. Here are five things you might want to check out over the weekend.
Reel entertainment – The Free-B Film Festival comes to the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park running Friday and Saturday nights (starting at 9 p.m.) from Aug. 11 to 26. Bring your blankets, snacks and flashlight to experience a visual treat under the stars. Find the lineup of this year’s screenings at victoriafilmfestival.com/product/free-b-film-festival/
Enter the dragons – The Canada Dry Victoria Dragon Boat Festival will see more than 1,000 racers from the Island, Lower Mainland and U.S. paddling their crafts in the Inner Harbour. The free two-day event (Aug. 12 and 13) also features live music, food trucks, family events and cultural activities to celebrate the festival’s Chinese roots. The medal rounds take place Sunday afternoon, with the dragon boats navigating the 470-metre course from Laurel Point to Ship’s Point.
Dog Days of Summer – Every dog has its day, and for many in Greater Victoria Aug. 12 and 13 will be that day. Day of the Dog (formerly Pet-A-Palooza) comes to Bullen Park in Esquimalt. An estimated 25,000 people and their furry friends are expected over the two days to enjoy everything from a pool party, superhero photo booths, treats, doggy yoga, races and even a foam party. Admission is free for the event that runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Water colours – The shores of Bowker Creek will come alive with colour for the Bowker Creek Brushup, running from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Aug. 13. Dozens of artists will display the works for the thousands of spectators who stroll the banks of the creek from Armstrong Avenue to Hampshire Road in Oak Bay.
Encore performance – The Phillips Backyard Festival is back for a second time this summer, as Reverb brings a host of top acts to the brewery parking lot at 2010 Government St. Jesse Roper gets the party started, headlining the Aug. 11 lineup, with Peach Pit among the five bands taking the stage Aug. 12 and Fleet Foxes helping to finish things off Aug. 13. Tickets start at $85.69 and are available at phillipsbackyard.com.
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