This October, Victoria becomes the epicenter of Canadian wine as the
Victoria International Wine Festival returns,
showcasing our national wine producers on the world stage.
The Victoria International Wine Festival will take place October 3rd and 4th, 2025, at the Victoria Conference Centre, bringing together more than 467 wines from 15 countries for two days of all-inclusive tastings, seminars, and special events. Now in its 12th year, the Festival has become one of Canada’s leading wine showcases, drawing producers, trade, and wine lovers from across the globe.
This year, the Festival is proudly shifting its spotlight to homegrown producers with a renewed focus on Canadian wine. From the vineyards of British Columbia to the shores of Nova Scotia, a new coast-to-coast feature will highlight boutique wineries and host seminars that celebrate the craftsmanship, diversity, and story of Canadian wine.
What sets 2025 apart is the launch of regional programs that support small Canadian wineries by making participation more accessible. This ensures boutique producers will stand shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best, many of them for the first time. These initiatives are supported by Tourism Cowichan, the Cowichan Wine Society, and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association.
“Wine tells a story from the ground up. To me that is the heart of wine, the history and the roots behind it,” said Dave Bain, Producer of the Victoria International Wine Festival. “When we think of Canada, we are proud of our natural beauty and what makes each region unique. We started this Festival to connect that story back,” Bain added. “The Festival gives people a space to learn and build a portfolio of new beloved wines. Wine should be excitin to talk about and discover at the store, not something that feels intimidating when faced with endless labels. This year we have expanded on this by addressing the elephant in the room and focusing on supporting our nation. When recent world tensions emerged, we went back to the drawing board to reform the Festival and strengthen our community. Our regional partnerships have allowed us to welcome wineries rarely seen in Victoria”, he said.
Momentum is already surging. Ticket sales are at record levels and all Saturday tasting segments are on track to sell out in the coming weeks. With more than 75 vendors and hundreds of wines to explore, this year’s Festival promises to be a landmark moment for Canadian wine on the international stage.
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR TICKET
The Victoria International Wine Festival runs from October 2 to 4, with additional dinners and events taking place throughout the week. Here’s a breakdown of the ticket types currently available:
GRAND TASTINGS on Friday and Saturday
Our main public tasting events featuring more than 400 wines. All tastings take place at the Victoria Conference Centre. Choose from:
– Friday evening from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
– Saturday afternoon from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM
– Saturday evening from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
SEMINARS on Friday and Saturday
Smaller, educational wine experiences hosted throughout the day. Each seminar requires its own ticket and has limited capacity.
SUPER PASS
Includes all three Grand Tastings and two seminars with registration. Ideal for the full Festival experience.
TWO DAY PASS
Includes Friday evening and your choice of either Saturday afternoon or Saturday evening.
COMING SOON
Stay tuned for wine dinners and exclusive events taking place throughout the week.
Event Details
Victoria International Wine Festival
October 3rd to 4th, 2025 | Victoria Conference Centre
Tickets and full schedule: www.vicwf.com