Saturday marks the start of a month of Christmas celebrations at Butchart Gardens. The gardens' Magic of Christmas program is marking its 26th season.
The light-up ceremony at 5 p.m. Saturday kicks off the Magic of Christmas.
Visitors can admire tens of thousands of coloured lights, evergreen swags, wreaths of holly and winter berries that will line walkways and adorn lampposts. The ever-popular Twelve Days of Christmas displays can be found tucked away around the grounds.
Live performances featuring traditional carolling and music take place from 5 to 9 p.m. in the piazza.
People can also enjoy ice skating on a 5,000-squarefoot outdoor rink. Show up and skate at the next available time, or book a time by visiting the Visitor Information Centre upon arrival. Skate times run on the hour and last for 40 minutes. Skate rentals are available for $3 per pair.
Helmets and wrist guards are available at no charge.
Regular admission to the gardens applies. The Magic of Christmas runs daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (except 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Christmas Day) until Jan. 6 at the gardens, 800 Benvenuto Ave. in Brentwood Bay.
For information, go to butchartgardens.com.
