Symphony Splash Returns: A Celebration of Music, Community, and Collaboration
Get your lawn chairs and blankets ready! After a six-year hiatus, Symphony Splash returns to Victoria’s Inner Harbour this summer on Saturday August 2 and Sunday August 3, bigger and bolder than ever.
This supersized Splash has had a winding road of challenges and triumphs leading to its long-awaited comeback. It’s not just a concert—it’s a beloved tradition and a testament to what’s possible when community, creativity, and collaboration come together. As we look forward to this summer’s event, we also reflect on the immense effort and generosity required to make Symphony Splash possible.
Launched in 1990 as a celebration of the Victoria Symphony’s 50th anniversary, Symphony Splash quickly grew into one of Canada’s most iconic outdoor concerts. Each summer, it transformed the Inner Harbour with a floating stage surrounded by thousands of music lovers—locals and visitors alike—sharing a singular, awe-inspiring experience under the open sky. In an age where screens often separate us, Splash brings people together through the power of live music and the wonder of the natural setting.
And now, the music returns.
Reviving Splash after the pandemic required patience, determination, and partnership. Since 2020, the VS board and CEO Matthew White have championed the return of this beloved event. The logistics are staggering: from stage size to where and how to load the barge, to coordinating tugboat moves, docking, crew… that’s before you add in musicians, lights, sound, volunteers, and how to fund it. The path cleared in 2024 thanks to key collaborations with Seaspan Shipyards, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority, and essential funding from the City of Victoria’s Major Events and Initiatives Grant. With the added support of presenting sponsor Huntingdon Hotel and Suites, returning sponsor B.C. Lottery Corporation, generous underwriters Terry Scandrett and Angela Bassage, and many others, Symphony Splash is back on the water.
“B.C. Lottery Corporation (BCLC) is thrilled to be a part of the Victoria community and once again partner with Symphony SPLASH! to help bring this beloved event to Victoria harbour,” says Lara Gerrits, Director, Social Purpose, Partnerships and Engagement. “Music is one of the great ways we connect to each other and build and share community. Through its accessible, no-cost programming, Symphony SPLASH! helps make those vital connections possible, while empowering and showcasing local artists – a true win-win for everyone.”
But make no mistake—bringing Symphony Splash back to life is no small feat. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of Victoria Symphony staff and Splash specialists work tirelessly to make it happen. Splash Executive Producer Janette Galan, who has overseen Splash for more than 25 years, ensures that every detail—from stage to shore—is just right. Technical Producer Anton Skinner, a Splash original, handles the complex water logistics and the spectacular fireworks finale. Supporting them are this year’s Volunteer Coordinator Jesse Strang and Event Assistant Miranda Carroll, who help orchestrate the hundreds of moving parts—and people—that make the weekend a success. From the skilled hands that construct the floating stage to the volunteers who dedicate countless hours, to the donors who fuel our artistic endeavors and the musicians who bring the music to life—this event is a labor of love, made possible by the support of the community.
And the programming? A showstopper. Expect the Victoria Symphony to perform timeless favourites like Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, plus a diverse lineup that spans generations and genres. We’re excited to welcome the 90 members of The National Youth Orchestra of Canada, Juno award-winning Indigenous vocalists Celeigh Cardinal and Shawnee Kish, and Sal Ferreras and his Latin Jazz Sextet to Victoria. And there’s still more to come as Symphony Splash get closer.
“It was important to bring back all the iconic elements of Symphony Splash that people know and love—but also to fill the Inner Harbour with as much music as possible,” says CEO Matthew White. “We’re doing it, so why not make a true splash no one will forget?”
Symphony Splash is a gift to Victoria, but it is only possible with the generosity of those who champion and believe in the arts. Your support ensures that this extraordinary tradition continues to inspire and delight for years to come. Whether through a donation, sponsorship, or simply spreading the word, you play a vital role in keeping the music alive.
Join us to celebrate the return of Symphony Splash, and be part of a moment that belongs to all of us. We can’t wait to see you on August 2 and 3, where the music meets the water, and the heart of Victoria beats in harmony.