IMPACT
Impact of the Greater Victoria Festival Society
Building Community Through Festivals & Events
The Greater Victoria Festival Society (GVFS) is more than just an event organizer—we are a dedicated nonprofit committed to bringing people together, celebrating cultural diversity, and fostering community spirit. Our festivals and events create memorable experiences, drive economic growth, and strengthen local connections, making Victoria a more vibrant and inclusive place for all.
Our Economic & Cultural Impact
🎭 Supporting Local Artists & Performers
GVFS provides a platform for musicians, dancers, artists and entertainers to showcase their talents. From lively parade performances to captivating cultural showcases, our events celebrate the rich artistic diversity of Victoria.
🏪 Boosting Local Businesses & Tourism
Our large-scale events, including the 125th Anniversary of the Victoria Day Parade, 43rd Santa Claus Parade, Wicked Victoria, and St Patrick’s Day, attract thousands of visitors, generating significant revenue for hotels, restaurants, and small businesses. The Victoria Day Parade brings over 1,000 hotel room nights from our participants, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of tourism in Greater Victoria and Vancouver Island.
🎉 Creating Accessible & Inclusive Experiences
GVFS is committed to making all events free and accessible, ensuring that everyone—regardless of background or financial situation—can participate. Our dedication to cultural diversity and inclusion is reflected in events like One World Cultural Day, which celebrates the many traditions that make Victoria unique.
💰 Maximizing Community Investment
Despite a common misconception that GVFS is city-funded, we operate through key partnerships with local businesses and some municipal support. Our events contribute millions in economic impact, demonstrating a significant return on investment for our community.
Giving Back Through Charity & Partnerships
GVFS believes in the power of festivals to support local causes. Through our partnerships with organizations like Mustard Seed, Parkinsons, CFAX Santa’s Anonymous, Five Hearts, and local nonprofits at our events, we help drive fundraising and awareness for important community initiatives.
Help Us Keep the Celebration Going
Every festival, parade, and market we organize is made possible through the dedication of volunteers, local businesses, community organizations including La Societe Francophone de Victoria, Victoria Disability Resource Center, City of Victoria, Province of British Columbia, Kaleidoscope Theatre,and our generous sponsors including Thrifty Foods, Peninsula Co-op, CHEK TV/Media, and Dodd’s Furniture and Mattress. As we continue to grow, we need support to ensure that Victoria remains a city of celebration, culture, and connection.
Are You Ready to Make an Impact with GVFS?
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QUICK FACTS ABOUT
ABOUT VICTORIA
- Capital City of British Columbia
- Greater Victoria Population 370K
- Serves as the metropolitan core for a region of 360,000
- Incorporated on August 2, 1862
- Over 3 million visitors annually
- Average of 2,183 hours of sunshine each year
- Average rainfall is 66.5 centimetres per year
- 1,600 signature hanging baskets displayed each summer
GVFS
PHOTO GALLERY
