The streets of Canada’s oldest Chinatown will come alive with the sights and sounds of Chinese Canadian culture once again on Sunday, May 25, 2025, from noon to 5:30 PM, when Awakening Chinatown returns for its fourth year.

Organized by the Victoria Chinatown Museum Society (VCMS) in partnership with Lead Sponsor RBC and Chinatown businesses, this annual celebration marks the last Sunday of Asian Heritage Month with a day filled with performances, cultural experiences, and community engagement, taking place on and around lower Fisgard Street in the heart of Victoria’s Chinatown.

Building on the success of previous years, this year’s festival promises to be even more vibrant. From traditional Chinese dance and opera to modern cultural expressions, the event reflects both the deep history and evolving diversity of Chinatown.

“Awakening Chinatown is about honouring our past while celebrating the present and future of this incredible community,” says Grace Wong Sneddon, Chair of VCMS. “Each year, we see more people come together to share in the stories, traditions, and energy that make Victoria’s Chinatown such a special place.”

A Legacy of History and Cultural Pride

As the oldest Chinatown in Canada and one of the most architecturally intact in North America, Victoria’s Chinatown remains a testament to the resilience and contributions of Chinese Canadians. VCMS launched this festival in 2022 to bring greater awareness to these contributions and to build momentum for a permanent museum dedicated to sharing the stories of early Chinese immigrants who helped shape Victoria.

A Day Full of Performances and Activities

Festival-goers can expect an exciting mix of traditional and contemporary performances, including:

  • Chinese opera, dance, and drumming showcasing centuries-old artistry
  • Live vocal performances spanning classical and modern Chinese music
  • Magic shows and theatrical acts featuring local Asian performers
  • Calligraphy, fortune telling, and hands-on arts and crafts for all ages
  • Cultural exhibits and storytelling sessions highlighting Chinatown’s history
  • Meet-and-greet opportunities with local community organizations
  • New this year: a Scavenger Hunt!

Pick up your free scavenger hunt passport at locations around the 500 block of Fisgard, visit historic landmarks, collect at least 5 stickers, and drop off your completed card at the Victoria Chinatown Museum (10 Fan Tan Alley) for your chance to win an incredible prize package.

🎁 What’s in the prize?

🛳️ Two one-way vehicle + driver vouchers & two adult passenger vouchers from BC Ferries
💳 $100 Downtown Victoria gift card from the Downtown Victoria Business Association
✨ $50 to Fan Tan Home & Style
💝 $50 to So Delightful
🍞 $50 to Shanzee’s Old Town
🧼 A gift basket from Saltspring Soapworks

View the contest rules and regulations.

Join the Celebration

This free, family-friendly event is open to all, inviting attendees to explore Chinatown’s past and present through an immersive cultural experience.

Whether you come to watch a breathtaking performance, take part in an interactive demonstration, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, Awakening Chinatown 2025 is set to be an unforgettable celebration.

Stay updated on festival details here, and follow along on social media for announcements leading up to the big day.

12:30 PMOpening Ceremonies
1:15 PMHappy Drum Group
1:30 PMFusion Harpist Michelle Kwan
1:50 PMVictoria Chinese Opera Club
2:10 PMHappy Drum Group
2:25 PMTraditional Erhu player John Wong
2:40 PMChinese Dance Victoria
2:55 PMFusion Harpist Michelle Kwan
3:15 PMWong Sheung Kung Fu Club Kung Fu Demo
3:30 PMWong Sheung Kung Fu Club New Hoksan Style Lion Dance
3:50 PMSinger & Rapper Hua Li
4:40 PMWong Sheung Kung Fu Club New Hong Kong Style Lion Dance
4:55 PMOpera on the Balcony with Alex Chen & Shelley Shen

thank you to our lead Sponsors

DRAGON Sponsors

Panda Sponsors

MONKEY Sponsors

RABBIT Sponsors

MEDIA Sponsors