See what all the fuss is about
Four-day event an opportunity for locals to visit attractions for free or at a discount
Take in some of the most popular tourist destinations for free or at a discount during the 45th annual Be A Tourist in your Own Home Town, today through Sunday at various venues in Greater Victoria.
The popular event is an opportunity for locals and offseason tourists to check out more than 60 attractions and activities.
Participating businesses offer admission to their attractions for free or at a fraction of what visitors usually pay.
But you need to act fast, as tickets are selling at double last year’s rate.
“We have been overwhelmed by the level of support shown to us this year,” said David Roberts executive director for Attractions Victoria, the host of the event. “At the rate we have been selling, we might sell out of all our 10,000 [VIP] cards.”
The VIP card, introduced last year, acts as an all-access pass during the four-day event. Show it to gain free admission to Butchart Gardens, Ross Bay Villa, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, the Maritime Museum of B.C., The Gardens at the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific and other venues.
Receive up to 50 per cent off admission or products at Craigdarroch Castle, Grey Line Sightseeing, Prince of Whales Wale Watching and other attractions.
Be aware that some establishments only offer free admission or discounts on select days — not every day of the promotion — so check the schedule ahead of time.
Among the new perks this year is a free hourly shuttle service from downtown to and from Butchart Gardens (Saturday and Sunday only). Also new is a Distillery and Winery Tasting Tour (requires reservation and additional cost) at De Vine Vineyards, Sea Cider Ciderhouse, Victoria Distillery and Victoria Caledonian Distillery.
New participants this year include Mineral World in Sidney, Trapped Victoria, Category 12 Brewing and Pedego Victoria Electric Bikes in Oak Bay.
The VIP card (valid all four days) is $15, or buy five and get one free. It is available at Tourism Victoria, Thrifty Foods, Bay Centre or Uptown Shopping Centre or 250-953-2033.
The main event runs today until Sunday. For information, a list of participants or to buy a card, go to beatourist.ca.