All loyalty
all-new FirstName LastName
FirstName LastName
all-new

ALL rewards you wherever you go, whatever you do.

BECOME A MEMBER
Life styled your way
all-new

ALL rewards you wherever you go, whatever you do.

BECOME A MEMBER
Sign in

Fairmont Empress

Christmas at the Empress

Experience the magic
of the Christmas at the Empress

There’s something truly magical about the festive season at Fairmont Empress. Set along Victoria’s sparkling Inner Harbour, the iconic Castle on the Coast comes alive for the holidays with twinkling lights, elegant décor and cherished traditions. From festive Afternoon Tea and memorable dining experiences to seasonal celebrations and special events, the spirit of the holidays can be found around every corner.

Whether you’re planning a Christmas getaway, gathering with family and friends, or simply looking to make the season a little more magical, Fairmont Empress offers festive experiences for every generation. Discover timeless traditions, exceptional dining and unforgettable celebrations in the heart of Victoria, and make Fairmont Empress part of your holiday story.

Holiday Events

Throughout December, Fairmont Empress comes alive with a festive calendar of holiday experiences designed to capture the magic of the season. From memorable gatherings around the table to family-friendly activities and cherished traditions, every moment at the Castle on the Coast invites you to celebrate together and create holiday memories to last for years to come.

Explore Our Holiday Events

  • FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA

    November 20, 2026 - December 31, 2026

    Our signature Tea at the Empress is reimagined for the holiday season — a beloved tradition dressed in festive elegance.

    Served in the historic Lobby Lounge, this seasonal experience brings together the warmth of Christmas and the timeless ritual of afternoon tea beneath sparkling décor and soft seasonal ambience.

    Available daily. 

    Book Now Book Now

  • Christmas Veranda

    Overlooking the sparkling Inner Harbour, the Veranda transforms into a cozy winter retreat where guests can gather around the fire to roast marshmallows, sip seasonal hot beverages, and enjoy indulgent cheese or chocolate fondue. With outdoor heaters, plush blankets, and sweeping waterfront views, the space offers a warm and relaxed setting for festive connection. Available weekends from mid-November and daily beginning mid-December.

  • COCKTAILS IN Q AT THE EMPRESS

    The holiday season comes to life through a thoughtfully curated cocktail menu inspired by classic festive flavours and modern mixology. Crafted by the talented bar team, each drink offers a creative twist on seasonal favourites — perfect for toasting to the holidays in a vibrant and stylish setting. Open daily beginning in the late morning, offering a lively atmosphere from day to evening.

Holiday Dining

Dining at Fairmont Empress is a celebration of seasonal flavour, thoughtful craftsmanship, and timeless hospitality. From elegant dinners to indulgent holiday buffets, each experience brings loved ones together in a setting that captures the magic of Christmas at the Castle.

  • CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER IN Q AT THE EMPRESS

    December 24, 2026

    Celebrate Christmas Eve in the newly reimagined Q at the Empress. Enjoy our full à la carte menu alongside festive features and seasonal inspirations in an elegant setting. From 5:00pm.

  • CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET IN THE CRYSTAL BALLROOM

    December 25, 2026

    Experience Christmas Day in the iconic Crystal Ballroom with a lavish buffet featuring chef-attended carving stations, fresh seafood, holiday favourites, and festive desserts.

    Seatings at 2:30pm & 5:30pm

    $279 per adult | $70 per child plus taxes.

    See Menu See Menu

  • CHRISTMAS DAY DINNER IN Q AT THE EMPRESS

    December 25, 2026

    Gather with family and friends for an elegant Christmas Day dinner featuring festive creations alongside the signature Q at the Empress menu. From 5:00pm.

  • New Years Eve in Q at the Empress

    Thursday, December 31, 2026

    Welcome the New Year with an evening of elegance at the newly renovated Q at the Empress. Indulge in a sophisticated celebration featuring Veuve Clicquot Champagne paired with thoughtfully curated seafood and caviar experiences, all set within a beautifully elevated atmosphere.

Festive Turkey To-Go

Bring the magic of Fairmont Empress home with a chef-prepared Christmas feast featuring a whole herb-brined, slow-roasted free-run turkey and classic holiday accompaniments. Add a festive Holiday Yule Log from our pastry team. Serves 10 guests. Order by December 18. Pick up December 24 & 25. Price: $599 plus taxes.

More holiday Moments at The Castle

Discover the experiences that make Christmas at Fairmont Empress truly unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking elegant indulgence, moments of relaxation, or memorable time together, our collection of festive experiences invites you to celebrate the magic of the holidays in the heart of Victoria, BC.

Explore All Activities

  • Winter Wellness

    Fairmont Spa

    Fairmont Spa is a serene oasis in the heart of Victoria. This winter, step into a sanctuary of warmth and renewal, where elevated, results-driven treatments are thoughtfully tailored to restore balance and rejuvenate the senses. 

    LEARN MORE LEARN MORE

  • Fairmont Empress Gift Guide

    Timeless Gifts From the Castle

    This Christmas, the Fairmont Store has a treasure trove of new and thoughtfully curated gift ideas filled with inspiration and meaning for all the special people in your life. 

    LEARN MORE LEARN MORE

  • The Holiday Season in Victoria

    Explore Holiday Events in the City

    From holiday lights on the Parliament Buildings to the jingle of horse-drawn carriages making their way along the cobblestone streets, the festive season in Victoria is truly magical. 

    LEARN MORE LEARN MORE

Best Resort Offers

Make Fairmont Empress your home for the holidays. Choose from elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, or elevate your stay with the exclusive Fairmont Gold experience. With its iconic setting overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour, exceptional dining, Fairmont Spa, and festive experiences throughout the hotel, everything you need for a memorable Christmas getaway is waiting at the Castle.

  • BC Resident

    BC Resident
    Dates: Book until October 31, 2026. Stay from now until October 31, 2026.

    There is no place like home. And there's no place like Whistler - your backyard, year-round mountain playground. Fairmont Chateau Whistler delivers an unforgettable west coast alpine experience with a seamless ski-in, ski-out location for your Whistler Blackcomb ski vacation, an on-site mountain golf course, and year-round poolside relaxation.

    BOOK OFFER BOOK OFFER EXPLORE MORE EXPLORE MORE

  • Whistler Golf Resort Vacation

    Play & Stay
    Booking Dates: Available through October 11, 2026.

    For a game as unforgettable as the destination, book your next British Columbia (BC) golf vacation at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler golf resort. Consistently ranked among the BC Best Golf Resorts and one of the top golf courses in North America, this Robert Trent Jones Jr. masterpiece is the perfect golf resort destination for your next Whistler golf holiday.

    BOOK OFFER BOOK OFFER EXPLORE MORE EXPLORE MORE

  • Celebrate Offer

    Parking, 20% Off & Daily Activities
    Dates: Book until December 17, 2026. Stay November 12 - December 17, 2026

    Before the holiday rush begins, escape to the mountains and experience the magic of Whistler at its most enchanting. Our Celebrate offer invites you to enjoy a pre-festive getaway filled with daily activities, inspiring seminars, guided outdoor adventures, and culinary experiences that capture the spirit of the season. To make it even more special, you will receive 20% off your stay at Fairmont Chateau Whistler, along with complimentary self-parking for one vehicle (exclusive to direct bookings). An elevated beginning to your holiday celebrations.

    BOOK OFFER BOOK OFFER EXPLORE MORE EXPLORE MORE

Take time for serenity and rest

Whether you are on a festive staycation or a longer, holiday escape in Vancouver, don't forget to book in some 'you' time amidst the busy season.  Spa Solea, in the lower lobby of the hotel, offers a range of wellness treatments designed to rejuvenate your senses, restore your body, and immerse you in seasonal serenity.

Explore Vida Spa