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What you need to know about the 2018 Victoria Symphony Splash

A crowd of about 40,000 takes in the event each year, making it one of the largest outdoor classical music events in North America. Here’s what you need to know.
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Music director Christian Kluxen rehearses with the Victoria Symphony at UVic's Farquhar Auditorium on Saturday, ahead of today's Symphony Splash at the Inner Harbour.

A crowd of about 40,000 takes in the event each year, making it one of the largest outdoor classical music events in North America. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s on the musical menu?

Here is the full program in order:

• Bernstein — Candide Overture

• Korngold — Robin Hood and His Merry Men

• Nielsen — Aladdin Suite (Festival March, Spiritual Dance)

• Vaughan Williams — Suite for Viola and Orchestra (Prelude & Gallop)

• Steiner — Gone with the Wind (Main Title)

• Rimsky-Korsakov — Dance of the Clowns from the Snow Maiden

• Wagner — Prelude to Act 3 from Lohengrin

• Korngold — Prince and the Pauper Suite (Duel)

• Morricone (arr. Krogstad) — Love Theme from Cinema Paradiso

• Williams — E.T. (Flying Theme)

• Williams — Star Wars (Main Title Theme)

• Lincke — Berliner Luft

• Tchaikovsky — 1812 Overture

• Amazing Grace

When does Splash start?

The music gets underway at noon on the steps of the legislature with the Albert Head Cadets, with added activities located in the nearby family area.

Seven-piece Victoria swing band Dock Side Drive will kick off the barge programming at 4 p.m. Music by the 56-piece symphony, led by music director Christian Kluxen and featuring young solist Danielle Tsao, begins at 7:30 p.m.

Any tips for getting a great seat?

The best vantage point is on shore directly in front of the barge, but these spots are typically staked out early in the morning (note: no one is allowed to “claim” seats before 8 a.m.).

If you aren’t too fussy about being able to see the orchestra, try the lawn of the legislature.

Grandstand seats can be purchased through the Information and Merchandise tent on site.

Note that seating is not allowed among the “Welcome to Victoria” flower beds.

What if I get hungry or thirsty?

Food and beverage vendors will be located on Government Street next to the Royal B.C. Museum. A percentage of sales is donated to the Victoria Symphony.

A family-friendly beverage garden can be found on Belleville Street between the Fairmont Empress and Royal B.C. Museum. It will be open from 3 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

What if I have to go to the bathroom?

Don’t worry, there will be porta-potties.

Is there fun stuff for families?

The Splash Family Zone on the grounds of the Fairmont Empress provides live music, arts and crafts, face painting and a bouncy castle from 1 to 4 p.m.

Is it really free?

You don’t have to buy a ticket, but donations are encouraged. Many people donate at least $5, receiving a Victoria Symphony button in return. Cashless donations are accepted via smartphone. Splash proceeds do not cover its cost, so donations — especially generous ones — are appreciated.

What if I don’t want to go downtown?

You can watch a livestream of the event on the CHEK News Facebook page.

Can I leave my lawn chair or bags unattended?

No, this is not a good idea. Keep your belongings with you at all times.

Victoria police will be using temporary cameras to monitor downtown during the event.