Night Illuminations starts June 1 at Butchart Gardens. (Courtesy Butchart Gardens)

Dramatic light display kicks off summer at Victoria’s Butchart Gardens

June 11, 2024 // by Sam Duerksen

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The Butchart Gardens invites guests to experience the National Historic Site after dark with extended hours signalling the arrival of an eventful summer and the Night Illuminations display.

After dusk, more than 3,000 lights will transform the garden into a dramatic display that plays with light and shadow, with extended viewing hours until 11 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, June 1 through Sept. 15.

The national historic site’s popular summer entertainment series – free with the price of admission – launches June 28 with 8 p.m. performances Wednesdays to Fridays, and three hours before Saturday fireworks.

Standouts of the lawn concerts include The Chris Millington Band (July 3 and 31), Barney Bentall, Tom Taylor and Shari Ulrich (July 17), Victoria Symphony (Aug. 1), Chilliwack (Aug. 15) and Stephen Fearing (Aug. 30).

Saturday evenings will offer the most entertainment included with admission: live music followed by a world-class 30-minute firework show – including original aerial and ground displays choreographed to music – starting June 29 and running through through August.

Also coming up is the Children’s Garden Gnome Hunt, June 14 to 16, a fun, interactive way for younger visitors to explore the gardens.

For the Butchart Gardens’ full summer schedule, including hours for the seasonal Annabelle’s Café, visit butchartgardens.com/summer.

Butchart Gardens summer hours:

Wednesday to Sunday – admission gates close at 10 p.m, viewing until 11 p.m.

Monday and Tuesday – admission gates close at 5 p.m., viewing until 6 p.m.

Daily admission is $41.50 for adults, $20.75 for youth and $5 for children ages 5 to 12.

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