OUR DWTN

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Got a bold idea? We’re inviting you to turn vacant or underutilized storefronts into vibrant spaces for art, performance and connection.
Whether it’s a one-day pop-up or a year-long installation, the City will fund your project and support you every step of the way as you bring your vision to life.

Submit your idea by July 7, 2025, or email culture@victoria.ca to chat about your ideas.
Learn more and apply now.

If you would like to receive more information about this project, please email: amahimwalla@victoria.ca 

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The 2025 Busking in Victoria Summer Pilot Program is here, designed to support local performers and enhance the city’s vibrant street music scene. New features this year include Busk Stops, community building opportunities and busking showcases.

What’s New?
🎶 Busk Stops - Elevated performance locations for better visibility and audience experience. 
🤝 Buskers Mixer and Jam Sessions - Networking events for new and experienced performers. 
🎤 Special Event - July 1 Busking Showcase.

📅 Click here for the Busking schedule!
For more information, please contact ourdwtn@victoria.ca. 

Victoria’s Furry Friends Take the Spotlight!
 

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15 winning photos will be featured throughout the year at the Douglas Street art kiosks and on the City’s social media channels. Keep an eye out for these furry stars starting in March - you might just recognize a few downtown regulars!

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The Tam Kung Temple mural by artist Carolyn Wong is a celebration of art, history and culture. Located on Government Street near Fisgard Street on the south exterior of the Yen Wo Society building, this dynamic, storytelling mural includes elements of augmented reality by artist Mark Illing.

Created as part of the OUR DWTN revitalization program with sponsorship from the Downtown Victoria Business Association and Sunbelt Rentals, the Tam Kung Temple Mural reflects the cultural heritage of Chinatown and the Tam Kung Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Canada. 

Learn what you can do to report, remove and prevent graffiti downtown on private and public property. 

The City's Feet on the Street program provides a visible presence in the core, with bylaw officers making regular downtown patrols where they engage with the business community and proactively enforce bylaws relating to nuisance activities. 

Under the OUR DWTN program, the City now has a dedicated OUR DWTN service person, who monitors and coordinates downtown cleaning and maintenance. This service person conducts regular downtown inspections and works with a larger cleaning crew to target areas of high need.

OUR DWTN partnered with the Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) to host two OUR DWTN Scrub-Ups since 2023, which provided  businesses, staff and commercial office workers the opportunity to join together to refresh downtown. Council, City staff and the DVBA Team were on hand to help out.