There’s a particular feeling that comes with finding a favourite spot in a city you are still getting to know. It’s the moment a place stops feeling like a tourist stop and starts feeling like yours. That’s exactly what happened to me at Citrus & Cane, which just made the move from the edges of downtown Victoria to a new home right in the heart of it, at 606 Trounce Alley. I loved their previous location on Douglas and couldn’t wait to visit their new digs.

Citrus & Cane is a tropical cocktail bar spread across three levels, with an oval bar at the centre of it all and big windows that let in far more natural light than you would expect from a nightlife spot. The building itself has real character, and the team has leaned into that rather than covering it up. It feels lived in, in the best way, while still being polished enough to make a great first impression.

The drinks are the real draw. This is a rum forward menu built by people who clearly know what they are doing, with house made syrups and fresh juice in almost everything they pour. Whether you gravitate toward a classic daiquiri or something a little more adventurous, there’s a cocktail here that will surprise you in a good way. I ordered something off the tropical list and it might be the best drink I have had in the city this year.

I think about places like this a lot when I’m working with relocation clients and first time buyers. When you move to a new city, or even a new part of your own city, it is not just about finding the right home. It’s about finding the places that make you feel like you belong there. I moved from Toronto to Victoria myself, and I still remember how much it mattered to find a handful of spots that felt like mine before the rest of the pieces fell into place.

Citrus & Cane is one of those places I would point a client toward if they were settling into downtown Victoria and wanted a starting point for exploring the neighbourhood's evening life. It’s walkable from so much of what makes downtown special, and it has the kind of warm, easy hospitality that makes a new city feel a little less new.

If you are house hunting downtown, or you already call this neighbourhood home, put Citrus & Cane on your list.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
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Victoria shines in December — literally. The whole city glows with lights, music, and community warmth, and some of the best things to do this season are entirely free. Whether you’re new to the Island or simply soaking up the magic, here’s your Local Love guide to the most festive no-cost activities across Greater Victoria.

1. Inner Harbour Holiday Lights

December transforms the Inner Harbour into a glowing postcard. Parliament, the Empress, and the marina sparkle every night — and it’s completely free. Grab a hot chocolate, stroll the waterfront, and soak in the atmosphere.
Best time: just after sunset.

https://gvha.ca/events/harbour-holiday-light-up/

2. Lights of Wonder

Check out Lights of Wonder - Downtown Victoria’s most photo-worthy holiday event at Centennial Square November 29 – December 31! Catch live entertainment on stage Friday and Saturday nights. Snap unforgettable holiday photos with family, friends, and even your pup. Don’t miss the return of the Ferris wheel, opening December 19.

https://downtownvictoria.ca/lights-of-wonder/

3. Sidney’s Seaside Lights & Beacon Avenue Stroll

Sidney goes all-in on holiday lights every year. Take a walk along Beacon Avenue, enjoy the decorated storefronts, and wander the waterfront promenade by the pier.

Bonus: Many shops offer free tastings or cookie samples on select days.

https://www.exploresidney.ca/holidays/

4. Esquimalt’s 2025 Christmas Tree Village

Esquimalt is one of the most underrated places for holiday magic. Experience the magic of the holidays at the tenth annual Christmas Tree Village.The Recreation Centre Atrium and Archie Browning Sports Centre is transformed into a holiday wonderland, teeming with twinkling lights and delightful decorations.

https://www.esquimalt.ca/ChristmasTreeVillage

5. Oak Bay Village Holiday Windows

Oak Bay’s boutique shops create beautiful window displays throughout December. It’s festive, friendly, and walkable — and with the smell of fireplaces drifting through the village, it feels like a small-town Hallmark movie.

And On the first Saturday of December the Island Equipment Owners Association Truck Parade & Food Drive, featuring over 80 brightly lit cement trucks, dump trucks and other heavy equipment comes through Oak Bay Village. Music, food collection from 5 PM at the Oak Bay Municipal Hall.

https://www.oakbay.ca/whats-happening/annual-events/christmas-in-oak-bay/

6. Beacon Hill Park Winter Walks

No cost, endless beauty. Wander through Beacon Hill Park, visit the ducks, enjoy quiet forest paths, and take in the views from Dallas Road. Crisp winter air + ocean scenery = perfection.

Park info:
https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/our-parks/beacon-hill-park

7. Drive or Walk Through Festive Neighbourhoods

Local favourites you can walk or drive through:

https://www.timescolonist.com/life/greater-victoria-christmas-lights-map-4831091

Free, cheerful, and perfect for a pre-holiday drive.

8. Local Craft Markets

Victoria hosts multiple markets — and many offer free entry on certain days or after certain hours. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a lovely way to support local makers and feel part of the community.

https://www.victoria.ca/community-culture/events

Local Love Wrap-Up

December in Victoria is less about spending and more about slowing down, wandering, and feeling part of this island community. Whether you’re exploring harbour lights or discovering new neighbourhood favourites, the magic is everywhere — and most of it is free.

If you're new to Victoria or thinking about calling this beautiful place home, exploring in December is the perfect way to get to know its heart.

And if you’d like help choosing a neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle — I’d love to guide you.

Jacqueline Ross
REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Oceanside Real Estate
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
www.YourVanIsleHome.com
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