VICTORIA HISTORY TOUR FIELD GUIDE
December Shadows: A One-Hour Walk Through Victoria’s Old Town to the Ghosts of Christmas Past
A focused, seasonal walking tour that distills Victoria’s Christmas-era hauntings into a brisk, story-driven hour—this guide tells you what to expect and how to plan.
December Shadows: A One-Hour Walk Through Victoria’s Old Town to the Ghosts of Christmas Past.
During December the Ghostly Walks team stages Ghosts of Christmas Past, a one-hour, walking route through Victoria’s Old Town that presents a string of seasonal ghost stories—from a haunted chocolate shop and a Christmas Eve assassination to the “Lady in White,” first seen at Christmas 1861, and a haunted Christmas book.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A December-only repertoire of Christmas hauntings
The tour is presented only in December and collects the company’s best holiday‑themed tales, focusing on stories that first or most vividly appear around Christmastime.
Characters and episodes drawn from Old Town lore
Expect intimate, character‑driven stories: a Christmas Eve assassination, the Lady in White whose first appearance was recorded in 1861, and other personality‑centered legends brought to life on the street.
A compact walk through Old Town
The route threads through Old Town, stopping at sites tied to seasonal tales—shops, alleys and façades that anchor each ghost story to a specific place in the city.
What the day feels like
What the walk feels like
The tour unfolds as a brisk, narrated stroll through Old Town: a guide pauses at a handful of tight, atmospheric spots to tell each seasonal tale, keeping the pace tight so the full set of stories fits into a single, 60‑minute loop.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most out of this walk—and who should be cautious.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The Ghosts of Christmas Past presentation runs only in December and is designed to fit into a single 60‑minute walking loop; book in advance as availability is seasonal.
Tickets must be purchased online prior to joining the tour.
The tour starts in front of the Visitor Information Centre at 812 Wharf Street, directly across from the Empress Hotel.
Rates vary by category: adults (17+), seniors (65+), students (ID required) and children (6–11); parents should note content advisories for young children.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 60 minutes.
When does this tour run?
This presentation is offered during December only.
Where does the tour start?
It starts in front of the Visitor Information Centre at 812 Wharf Street, directly across from the Empress Hotel.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes — tickets must be purchased online prior to attending.
Are children allowed and are there age-based prices?
Children ages 6–11 are charged a child rate; some content may be unsuitable for very young children and parental discretion is advised.
Are there concessions for students or seniors?
Yes — student and senior rates are offered; students must provide valid student ID to qualify.