Embrace the holiday magic in enchanting Oak Bay
The nostalgic holiday movie vibe hits its stride on the last Sunday of November in Oak Bay, with the Light Up Event marking the perfect time to escape the season's chaos. Offering the perfect blend of festive cheer and a peaceful retreat, enjoy yourself to the fullest while still taking care of your holiday shopping — finding unique gifts everyone on your list will love. With plenty of adorable cafes, independently owned stores, an elegant luxury boutique resort, and delicious dining options, your holiday season highlight may happen well before gifts are unwrapped.
Make your gift giving legendary
Starting with the shopping scene, it’s impossible not to get excited about surprising them with something special as you stroll through streets decorated with twinkling lights and pop into local shops where you’ll find everything from clever stocking stuffers to jaw-dropping wardrobe gems. Nicholas Randall is a lifestyle boutique that offers a curated collection of small home goods, jewelry, women’s clothing, apothecary, artisanal food items, and other sensible luxuries. Supporting small independent businesses as often as possible, whoever you’re shopping for and whatever your budget, you’re sure to find them something they’ll love. For the fashionista on your list (or if you want to treat yourself,) Turnabout Luxury Resale has been curating contemporary and luxury brands for over 40 years! You never know what treasure you’ll find here, but it’s not uncommon to see labels like Dior and Gucci on the racks. Sidestreet Studio offers some incredible west-coast inspired gifts that are ALL locally made and handcrafted. Tulipe Noire offers stylish clothing, accessories, and skincare and is a one-stop shop for casualwear and cool finds. Need to do some shopping for kids? Timeless Toys is a family-run specialty toy store that curates their shop with a wide range of the best toys they find from around the globe. If you’re looking for great gift ideas for holiday parties, Charellies has an impressive selection of gourmet gift baskets that guests will be drooling over. ‘Tis the season to celebrate, and Cork and Barrel Spirit Merchants is renowned for their extensive selection of wines, craft beers, and spirits that cater to both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts. Village Butcher specializes in high-quality, locally sourced meats from nearby Island farms, including pasture-raised, grass-fed and free-range offerings for the paleo or keto enthusiast on your list.
Feel jolly with a full belly
After all that shopping and exploring the festive neighbourhoods, you will have worked up an appetite, and you’ve got plenty of options. If you’re looking for fresh coffee and a tasty snack, Hide + Seek Coffee makes a great brew served in a fun and friendly space. As a bonus, their Donut Saturdays are a must-try, featuring irresistible treats like freshly made maple bacon bars. And if that’s not enough, Waffle Sundays take things to the next level with creative delights such as salted butter, Greek yogurt, lemon zest whip, and a honey drizzle on a soft and warm waffle. In the mood for something more hearty? Enjoy yummy pub fare and the coziness of Penny Farthing Pub — with its crackling fireplaces and rich dark wood decor. For something fancier, Vis a Vis Wine Bar next door offers diners an incredible selection of wine and cocktails and a delicious menu inspired by French cuisine. Plus, the atmosphere is very easy to get comfortable in. If you want to look out at the ocean while you eat, Oak Bay Marina’s Dockside Eatery offers spectacular scenery and a fresh, west coast menu. For something lowkey but still very delish, Windsor Café is located close to Willow Beach and serves up some excellent sandwiches and baked goods made in-house. And for arguably the area’s best bread and a taste of Italy, Ottavio is a bakery and delicatessen with an extensive deli section featuring a huge variety of cheeses, olive oils, and imported Italian and European specialties.