June 18–22, 2025 | Victoria, British Columbia
Now in its 26th year, the Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival is the longest-running event of its kind in Canada—and one of the most anticipated celebrations of Caribbean-rooted music on the west coast. Held every June on the edge of downtown Victoria, the festival brings together internationally renowned artists, homegrown talent, and music lovers of all ages for five days of high-energy performances and laid-back island vibes.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the festival’s flagship venue—Ship Point Amphitheatre—offers ocean views, open air dancing, and a uniquely west coast atmosphere. Additional shows, workshops, and after-hours sets take place at intimate downtown venues throughout the week.
Whether you’re here for the full five days or just passing through, this is one event worth planning your summer around.
Tickets
Festival passes are on sale now, with a mix of free, all-ages concerts and ticketed events.
Options include:
- Full festival passes
- Day tickets for select headliners
- VIP access and reserved seating
Visit victoriaskafest.ca/tickets for current pricing, artist announcements, and updates on availability.
Where to Stay
Victoria is a walkable city with accommodations for every type of traveler. Many hotels and guesthouses are located within 10–15 minutes of the festival grounds.
Browse lodging options:
- Downtown hotels and harbourfront stays
- Vacation rentals and boutique inns
- Campgrounds and RV parks outside the city
As one of the busiest weekends of the summer, early booking is highly recommended.
Things to Do While You’re Here
Make the most of your trip to Vancouver Island by pairing the festival with a few unforgettable local experiences. Popular activities in and around Victoria include:
- Whale watching and harbour tours
- Guided bike rides and walking tours through historic districts
- Visits to Butchart Gardens, Sooke Potholes, or the Malahat Skywalk
- Shopping at local markets and galleries
- Sampling craft beer and west coast cuisine throughout the city
Explore more activities in the area →
Who You’ll Hear
The 2025 lineup features a mix of legendary ska and reggae acts from Jamaica, the UK, Mexico, the US, and across Canada—along with soul, dub, punk, hip hop, and genre-bending experimental artists.
Check the full schedule and artist lineup at victoriaskafest.ca/lineup. More details are being announced as the festival approaches.
Getting to Victoria
Victoria is accessible by car, ferry, or air:
- From Vancouver: Drive and ferry via Swartz Bay, or take a seaplane directly to the Inner Harbour
- From Seattle or Port Angeles: Daily ferries across the Salish Sea
- From within the Island: Victoria is a 2.5-hour drive from Nanaimo or a short hop from smaller regional airports
Once you’re in town, most festival venues are within walking distance or easily reached by transit.
About the Festival
Founded in 2000, Victoria Ska & Reggae Festival is produced by the not-for-profit Victoria BC Ska Society, which promotes inclusive, community-based music experiences and youth music education year-round. The festival is grassroots by nature but global in spirit—bringing together cultures and generations through rhythm and movement.
Plan Your Trip
Join thousands of festivalgoers as Victoria fills with music, colour, and dancing in the streets. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, the Ska & Reggae Festival is a joyful, unforgettable way to experience summer on Vancouver Island.
Book your tickets, accommodations, and activities today.