Indigenous Arts & Cultures in Victoria

Discover Indigenous Destinations and Experiences in Victoria

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is located on the unceded traditional territory of the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) people, known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. The region has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with deep connections to the land, sea, and cultural traditions. Today, Victoria offers visitors opportunities to explore Lekwungen history, Coast Salish art, and immersive Indigenous experiences that highlight the living culture of the Songhees, Esquimalt, and W̱SÁNEĆ (Saanich) peoples.

Visit the Royal BC Museum’s Indigenous Collections

The Royal BC Museum houses an extensive collection of Indigenous artifacts, totem poles, and historical exhibits in its First Peoples Gallery. Visitors can explore traditional regalia, oral histories, and contemporary Indigenous art, providing insight into the resilience and cultural heritage of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia.

Walk the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) People’s Trail

The Lək̓ʷəŋən People’s Trail is a self-guided tour that follows bronze markers embedded in the ground throughout downtown Victoria. These markers, designed by Songhees artist Butch Dick, highlight significant sites of Lekwungen villages, sacred places, and gathering areas. Stops along the trail include the Inner Harbour, Beacon Hill Park, and Songhees Point.

Explore Indigenous Art and Totem Poles at Thunderbird Park

Located outside the Royal BC Museum, Thunderbird Park features a collection of Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka’wakw totem poles and house posts, some of which were carved by master Indigenous artists such as Mungo Martin and Henry Hunt. This site is a powerful representation of Indigenous artistic traditions.

Indigenous Cultural Experiences at the Songhees Wellness Centre

The Songhees Wellness Centre, located just outside downtown Victoria, offers Indigenous-led cultural workshops, canoe tours, and traditional food experiences. Visitors can learn about the history of the Songhees Nation, participate in storytelling sessions, and explore traditional paddling routes along the coast.

Attend Indigenous Festivals and Events

Victoria hosts a variety of Indigenous cultural events throughout the year, including:

• National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations (June 21st) – Featuring traditional drumming, dancing, storytelling, and local Indigenous cuisine.
• The Indigenous Cultural Festival – A three-day event with Coast Salish performers, artists, and food vendors.
• The Talking Stick Festival (Victoria edition) – Highlighting Indigenous theatre, music, and spoken word performances.

Indigenous-Led Outdoor Adventures and Eco-Tours

• Songhees Canoe Tours – Visitors can take part in guided canoe journeys along the Victoria waterfront, learning about traditional waterways, marine stewardship, and Songhees history.
• Indigenous Plant Walks – Guided by Indigenous knowledge keepers, these walks offer insights into traditional plant medicines and ecological practices.

Whether you’re exploring the Lək̓ʷəŋən People’s Trail, admiring Indigenous carvings, or taking part in a Songhees canoe experience, Victoria invites you to engage with the rich and living culture of the Songhees, Esquimalt, and W̱SÁNEĆ peoples.