Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
The Magic of Christmas at The Butchart Gardens
Step into a winter wonderland at The Butchart Gardens' 'Magic of Christmas' event. Explore enchanting light displays depicting 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' and be serenaded by traditional carollers and a festive brass band. Children can participate in a special snowflake exchange for a warm treat, making it a magical experience for all ages.
What to Expect
Twelve Days of Christmas light displays
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ โ Get tickets
- Parking: Parking information is not explicitly detailed but is implied to be available on-site.
- Accessibility: Information available on their accessibility page.
- Pets: Pets welcome after 8:00 PM, otherwise restricted.
Other Christmas Events Near Brentwood Bay
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, photographers
Vibe
Magical, festive, enchanting
Energy Level
Low to moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (outdoor event, but with indoor dining options)
Special Events & Promotions
- Christmas tickets go on sale October 15, 2025.
- Children 12 and under can exchange a handmade snowflake for a hot chocolate.
- Dining Room reservation serves as admission ticket.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 1 hour for a stroll, longer if dining or shopping.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Featured Performers
- Traditional Carollers
- Festive Brass Band
Organizer
The Butchart Gardens
Food & Drink
The Coffee Shop offers hot chocolate and gingerbread. The Dining Room Restaurant and The Blue Poppy Restaurant offer more casual fare.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets in advance, especially for evenings, as the event can reach capacity and timed entry is strongly recommended.
- Consider visiting on a weekday evening to avoid the largest crowds, or plan for a longer visit to enjoy dining and performances.
- Children 12 and under can exchange a homemade snowflake for a hot chocolate, a fun and interactive activity for families.
- Check the schedule for Traditional Carollers and Festive Brass performances, which alternate every half hour from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- If dining at The Dining Room Restaurant, your reservation serves as your admission ticket, eliminating the need to book separate timed entry tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book timed entrance tickets for the Christmas season?
It is strongly recommended to reserve your ticket in advance as the event can reach capacity, and those without timed entrance tickets may not be admitted.
What is the refund policy for Christmas tickets?
All timed entrance ticket sales are final. Unused tickets can be applied to a future visit within the same season or have their dollar value applied to a future visit.
Are pets allowed during the Christmas season?
Pets are not permitted between 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM, but are welcome from 8:00 PM until closing. They must be kept on a leash no longer than 4ft.
How much time should I allocate for a visit?
An average stroll takes about an hour. Allocate more time if you plan to dine, shop, or enjoy the live performances.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
While specific details on outside food are not provided, the event offers hot chocolate, gingerbread, and dining options at their restaurants.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.