Message from His Majesty The King for the Commonwealth Day Service of Celebration
March 11, 2024 The seventy-fifth anniversary of The Commonwealth is a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey that our unique family of free and independent nations has made since 1949. Last year, The Bahamas celebrated its fiftieth anniversary of...
Human Trafficking Prevention Network founding partners announced
Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin and Susannah Pierce, Shell Canada president and country chair, unveiled the founding partners of the Human Trafficking Prevention Network of British Columbia. The inaugural event took place at Covenant House Vancouver and coincides with National Human...
The investigative series of the 2023 Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellowship is published

The 2023 recipient of the Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellowship is Kim Bolan, an experienced and award-winning journalist who has covered gangs in British Columbia for the past 25 years.

New Year’s Day Levée to Welcome 2024 at BC Government House
Government House is pleased to announce the New Years Day Levée, taking place on January 1, 2024. An annual tradition celebrated by Vice Regal offices throughout Canada, the New Year’s Day Levée is an opportunity to ring in 2024 with...
Reflections on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30th marks the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation, recognizing the tragic history and destructive impact of residential schools in Canada.

Summertime Recap at Government House

A sunny season full of festivals and community at the ceremonial home of all British Columbians

Celebrating Pride Season in British Columbia

Marking the end of a joyful celebration of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community

The Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for Maritime Achievement

Recognizing individuals and organizations along BC’s coast and inland waterways who have made noteworthy contributions to BC’s maritime interests

Introducing the 2023 Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellow

The second recipient of the new Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellowship is is Kim Bolan, an experienced and award-winning journalist who has covered gangs in British Columbia for the past 25 years.

Celebrate Community at Government House Gardenfest

Join Government House at a free family-friendly garden party on July 28!

Announcing the 2023 BC Reconciliation Award Recipients
The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, in partnership with BC Achievement Foundation, is honoured to announce the recipients of the third British Columbia Reconciliation Award. The award recognizes four extraordinary individuals and two organizations that have demonstrated...
The Lieutenant Governor’s First Official Visit to the South Okanagan

The Honourable Janet Austin has travelled throughout the South Okanagan on her first official visit.

Music on the Lawn Returns for 2023 Summer Season

The popular free outdoor concert series returns to Government House for three nights in July.

Hosting BC’s Legends at Government House

British Columbia is rich with people of legendary status, people who looked the hardships of life in the eye and stared them down. Along the way the tales of their seemingly impossible feats became folklore. In other words they are larger than life.

The Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III

On May 6, 2023, the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III & Queen Camilla will take place. This historic event is the first coronation of a Canadian Head of State and Monarch in seven decades!

Blooming Together: Recognizing the Friends of Government House Gardens Society

A tribute to the volunteers who help make a visit to Government House an exceptional one.

Applications now open for the 2023 Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellowship
In the spirit of supporting a healthy democracy with a thriving journalistic community, the Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellowship encourages the development and support of local journalists in British Columbia. The Fellowship was launched in 2022 as part of celebrations...
Live Outdoor Concerts Seek Musicians: Apply to Perform at Government House’s Music on the Lawn

Government House is looking for high energy local bands and musicians interested in playing the 2023 season of Music on the Lawn.

Telling Important Stories: The Work of the Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellow

The first Lieutenant Governor’s Journalism Fellow is Francesca Fionda, who has created a multi-part series, published in The Tyee, on climate disaster refugees in British Columbia.

An Inspired Gathering: a Women’s Symposium with the Canadian Armed Forces

More than one hundred women members from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) came together this month to learn, be inspired, and build connections at a Women in Uniform symposium, co-hosted by the Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and Vice Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.

BC Golf & The Office of the Lieutenant Governor Announce First Indigenous Championship British Columbia

British Columbia Golf, in partnership with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and the Osoyoos Indian Band-owned Nk’Mip Canyon Desert Golf Course, announce the launch of the inaugural Indigenous Championship British Columbia.

Vibrant Stories and Incredible Accomplishments: BC Black History Month

February marks the beginning of Black History Month, exploring and celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of Black British Columbians.

Holocaust and Reconciliation: Healing through Conversation

A “fireside chat” at Government House brought together members of the Jewish community and First Nations, with open hearted conversation about what it means to heal in the wake of intergenerational trauma.

The New Years Day Levee Returns!
2023 New Years Day Levee1401 Rockland AveJanuary 1, 2023 An annual tradition celebrated by Vice Regal offices throughout Canada, the New Year’s Day Levée is an opportunity to ring in 2023 with friends and neighbours at beautiful Government House, the...
Nominations Now Open for 2023 BC Reconciliation Award

Nominations are now open for the 2023 British Columbia Reconciliation Award, recognizing individuals, groups and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation or inspired others to continue reconciliation efforts.

Trick-or-Treats at Government House
Gnarled tree branches, creaking in the wind... the light of the moon, and nothing but darkness beyond the path... an imposing old house, with one window lit, and a mysterious figure at the door... is this the scene of a...
The Government House Foundation

The work of the Government House Foundation supports the beloved open-to-the-public grounds of Government House, as well as the programmes and projects of the Lieutenant Governor.

Remarks by the Honourable Janet Austin for the Provincial Commemorative Service for Queen Elizabeth II
On September 19, 2022, dignitaries from throughout British Columbia gathered in Victoria to mourn the passing of our beloved Queen. As representative of the Crown in British Columbia, the Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, gave the following...
The Ceremonial Procession and Commemorative Service for Her Late Majesty The Queen
A ceremonial procession and commemorative service for Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will beheld in Victoria on Monday, September 19, 2022. The ceremonial procession will start from the B.C. Parliament Buildings and walk to Christ ChurchCathedral. The procession will...
In Memoriam: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
A statement from the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia: "It is with enormous sadness that I relay the news of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada. Her long and steadfast reign endured for seven decades....
A Historic Visit to Tŝilhqot’in Title Lands

The Honourable Janet Austin has made her first official visit to Tŝilhqot’in Title Lands.

Celebrating The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at Government House

Nearly 1000 people came to Government House to celebrate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.

Platinum Jubilee Fest

Join Government House in celebrating Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee with music, refreshments and festivity!

A Special Day at Rudi’s Tea Room

On July 7, enjoy a treat from the Tea Room and support the Lodge at Broadmead, in honour of Rudi’s birthday

Engaging Allies in the Age of #MeToo and #TimesUp

Blueprint is a nonprofit founded at the University of British Columbia for thought leadership on masculinity and men’s impact on societies. Through research and proven programs, they equip men with the tools for reshaping their role for their own well-being and for that of their families and communities.

Music on the Lawn Returns!

Music on the Lawn, the outdoor concert series, returns to Government House for three nights in July 2022.

The 2022 BC Reconciliation Award Recipients

It is my great honour to share the six recipients of the second BC Reconciliation Award, recognizing those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to furthering Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples in the province of British Columbia. 

Introducing the 2022 Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellow

Meet the first recipient of the new Lieutenant Governor’s B.C. Journalism Fellowship.

Celebrate Your Local Artists: Announcing the Lieutenant Governor’s Arts and Music Awards

As part of celebrations in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, the Honourable Janet Austin, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, has launched the Lieutenant Governor’s Arts and Music Awards.

Celebrating The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II celebrates an unprecedented 70 years of service to Canadians and the Commonwealth. Learn more about Platinum Jubilee programmes and activities in British Columbia.

2022 New Years Day Levee Update

The New Years Day Levee for January 1, 2022, has been cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic.

The LG Report: 2021, a Year of Challenge and Hope

On the first day of 2021, Government House remained closed and quiet, the traditional New Years Day Levee having been cancelled. What followed was a year defined by its challenges, but also the hope it inspired.

Share Your Voice: The Democracy & Me Poetry Contest

Young British Columbians are invited to express themselves through poetry or spoken word on the topic of democracy, with a chance to win a trip to Victoria!

A Message of Support for British Columbians from Her Majesty The Queen

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has extended her support to all British Columbians in light of the recent weather events and flooding in the province.

Nominations Open for the 2022 BC Reconciliation Award

Nominations are now open for the 2022 BC Reconciliation Award, presented in partnership with the BC Achievement Foundation.

A Time to Make Real Change: Inspiring Women in STEM with Mina Hoorfar

Mina Hoorfar is at the forefront of promoting STEM technology in British Columbia. As part of the Women Leading Change in STEM initiative, Mina shares her journey from inspired young girl in Iran to dean of Faculty and Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Victoria.

Change is Growing: The New Reality of Gardening with Brian Minter

The Friends of Government House Gardens Society were lucky to have a special guest speaker last month: world renowned gardening expert Brian Minter. In this guest blog, Brian, sharing his thoughts on changes in how we garden and interact with our natural world.

Celebration and Commemoration: Marking Pride Month in British Columbia

Reflections on Pride, progress and the people and communities we must uplift, love and protect.

Looking to the Past for Courage for the Future: Telling the Stories of Chinese Canadians with Carol Lee

Asian Heritage Month closes with a guest blog from Carol Lee, a CEO with strong family ties to Vancouver Chinatown, and a tireless drive to preserve and celebrate Chinese Canadian culture and history in British Columbia.

Recognition, Resilience, and Resolve: Reflecting on the History of Asian-Canadians

LG Youth Advisory Council member Jonathan Tang shares his reflections on the meaning of Asian Heritage Month to him and other Canadians of Asian descent.

Celebrating Asian Heritage Month

Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize and explore the accomplishments, artistry, traditions and culture of those who helped build the province that would become British Columbia, and all members of Asian-Canadian communities who have called BC home since.

Announcing the Recipients of the BC Reconciliation Award

Honouring individuals and organizations have shown extraordinary leadership & meaningful action, while inspiring others to continue Reconciliation efforts.

A Lifelong Love for Volunteering: David Valentine, Honorary Aide-de-Camp

An Honorary Aide-de-Camp to four Lieutenant Governors and a lifelong volunteer with St John Ambulance, David Valentine is an example to all who choose to give their time.

Volunteering is a Lifelong Learning Experience: Paige Ingram and Furqana Khan

In celebration of National Volunteer Week, two members of the LG Youth Advisory Council share their experiences volunteering, and why everyone should consider donating their time to good causes.

You Might Bee Perfect for Volunteering: Carolyn Hissen, Volunteer Beekeeper at Government House

Carolyn Hissen felt the call of volunteering from an early age. This Volunteer Week, meet Government House’s volunteer beekeeper and learn how volunteering makes her life sweeter.

The Value of Volunteering: Jonathan Tang and Emma Borhi of the LG Youth Advisory Council

In celebration of National Volunteer Week, two members of the LG Youth Advisory Council share their experiences volunteering, and why everyone should consider donating their time to good causes.

National Volunteer Week: The Value of One, the Power of Many
I am delighted to mark the launch of National Volunteer Week, a week-long campaign celebrated across Canada in recognition of volunteers and those who donate their time, skills and energy to better their communities. This year's theme reflects on how...
In Memory of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

A Statement from the Lieutenant Governor on the Passing of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

An Update on Government House Refurbishments

An update on refurbishments taking place at Government House.

Job Opportunity – Volunteer Coordinator, Goverment House

Government House is looking for a Volunteer Coordinator, a role that will be a pivotal liaison between our volunteers and the Government House Director of Operations.

A Bloom of Hope: Government House’s Ongoing Commitment in the Fight Against Food Insecurity

Government House is committed to fighting food insecurity, giving back through community initiatives and gardening.

Women on the COVID Front Lines: Sydney-Anne Porter, Owner and Manager, AG Valley Foods

Meet Sydney-Anne Porter, Owner and Manager, AG Valley Foods.

Women on the COVID Front Lines: Sarah Crowe, Nurse Practitioner, Surrey Memorial Hospital

Meet Sarah Crowe, a Nurse Practitioner at Surrey Memorial Hospital.

Women on the COVID Front Lines: Dr. Charuka Maheswaran, General Practitioner and Public Health Physician-in-Training

Meet Dr. Charuka Maheswaran, General Practitioner and Public Health Physician-in-Training.

Women on the COVID Front Lines: Cheri Franklin, handyDART Driver

Meet Cheri Franklin, a handyDart driver from Kamloops.

Women on the COVID Front Lines: Karen Reader, Paramedic, Unit Chief and Community Paramedicine Mentor

Meet Karen Reader, Unit Chief for Station 330 in Princeton, and a Community Paramedicine Mentor.

Women on the COVID Front Lines: Angie Maitland, Director of Education, Haisla Nation Council

Meet Angie Maitland, Director of Education for the Haisla Nation Council.

Notice of Temporary Main Gate Closure at Government House

On Wednesday, March 10, 2021, the main gate to Government will be temporarily closed from 9:00 am to 11:00 am.

Nominate an Extraordinary British Columbian for the Order of BC

Nominations are now open for the Order of British Columbia, the highest form of recognition the Province can extend to its citizens.

Black History Month: A Look Back at Learning and the Journey Forward

Black History Month has come to an end for 2021, and it is with great humility that I reflect on what I’ve learned, and what I can do going forward to share the lives and achievements of Black British Columbians

Woodlands Trail Temporarily Closed at Government House

A notice for visitors to Government House, the Woodlands Trail is closed temporarily due to inclement weather

Black History Month: Reflections on the Past and Supporting the Future

Welcome to week two of Black History Month, highlighting some of the contemporary organizations doing the work to support Black excellence in British Columbia

Celebrating Black History Month in British Columbia

February 1st marks the beginning of Black History Month, a time to celebrate the history and vibrant communities of Black British Columbians.

New Year’s Day Levée : A Collection of Memories

We are delighted to share the winner of our New Year’s Day Levée photo contest.

The LG Report: 2020, a Year of Resilience

2020 has been an exceptional year in many ways. I reflect on the challenges, accomplishments and small joys of a year like no other.

Government House Invites British Columbians to Share New Years Day Levée Memories

With the cancellation of the New Years Day Levée, Government House invites all who have attended a Levée to share their favourite photographs and memories.

Grounds of Government House to Reopen on Tuesday, December 8, 2020

The grounds of Government House will reopen at dawn on Tuesday, December 8, 2020. Thank you to all for your patience and understanding over the course of this closure.

COVID-19 Updates for Visitors to Government House

With cases of COVID-19 increasing on Vancouver Island, the grounds of Government House will be closed for at least two weeks.

Introducing the British Columbia Reconciliation Award

Today, in partnership with the BC Achievement Foundation, we launch the British Columbia Reconciliation Award to recognize individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation or inspired others to continue reconciliation efforts.

A Statement From The Lieutenant Governor on the 2020 Provincial Election

The Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia hereby announces she has invited Premier John Horgan to form a new government.

The LG Youth Advisory Council: Why We Vote (And Why You Should Too!)

The members LG Youth Advisory Council are heading to the polls this Saturday to participate in the BC General Election and they want you to join them!

Notice of Main Gate Closure at Government House

Starting on October 5, 2020, the main gate entrance to the grounds at Government House and connecting driveway will be closed for construction.

Because of Her: Seeking Inspiration for Gender Equality Week

Gender Equality Week is an opportunity to share the contributions of women and gender diverse communities, and celebrate their achievements, accomplishments and work in advancing gender equality.

Fall Updates from Government House

Updates on the status of the Government House grounds, House renovations, and thanks to all patrons for another successful season of Rudi’s Tea Room.

“Food is Community”: Giving Back Through Gardening with Willow Kaukanon

Meet Willow Kaukanon, manager of the Government House Victory Over COVID Garden.

You’re Not in This Alone: Tips for Students During COVID-19

LG Youth Advisory Council members Samer Rihani and Furqana Khan share advice for students on finances, international studies and helpful resources for confusing times.

Words Matter, Actions Matter Even More

Nurjehan Mawani, former Chair of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada and Commissioner of the Federal Public Service Commission, shares a guest blog on her experiences as an immigrant to Canada, and what effective action against racism looks like.

Bringing People Together Through Baking: Connecting During COVID-19

Alana Forsyth, LG Youth Advisory Council member, shares how she kept her youth group connected during COVID.

Change, Resilience, and Support: A Perspective of COVID-19 From Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside

A guest blog written by Nicolas Tellez-Espana, a member of the LG Youth Advisory Council, sharing his perspective on COVID-19 from Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

The Commemorate 50 Timeline: The Champions

The Champions are the last category of the Commemorate 50 Timeline. They’ve picked up where the Trailblazers left off, carrying the fight for equal rights and representation into the next generation of LGBTQ2S+ people in Canada.

The Commemorate 50 Timeline: Civil Rights

Civil rights are the foundation of our individual freedom. They entitle us to basic rights, safety, dignity and respect, that allow us to participate in society without discrimination or repression. The Civil Rights category of the Commemorate 50 Timeline represents this long journey, that still hasn’t come to an end for many.

The Commemorate 50 Timeline: Gender Identity

The third category of the Commemorate 50 Timeline is devoted to moments in Canada’s history related to gender identity.

The Commemorate 50 Timeline: Arts & Culture

The second category of the Commemorate 50 Timeline is devoted to a selection of LGBTQ2S+ pioneers in the arts, who stayed true to their creative selves when it felt impossible for many to do so, along with cultural moments that gave further space for members of the LGBTQ2S+ community to find their voice and place within Canadian society.

The Commemorate 50 Timeline: Trailblazers

The first category of the Commemorate 50 Timeline is devoted to a selection of trailblazers whose work laid the groundwork for equal rights for LGBTQ2S+ people in Canada.

Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day

June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day, recognizing the heritage, culture and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada.

The Commemorate 50 Timeline: Celebrating the Accomplishments and Contributions of LGBTQ2S+ People in Canada

Introducing the C50 Timeline, recognizing the work, sacrifices and resiliency of both LGBTQ2S+ trailblazers and current advocates.

Summertime Updates from Government House

Updates on refurbishments at Government House, the Music on the Lawn summer concert series and open hours for the grounds.

Temporary Closure: Rudi’s Tea Room

Rudi’s Tea Room will be CLOSED for one day on Friday, June 19, due to BC Hydro maintenance requirements.

Join Us to Get Growing!

Government House is delighted to take part in Get Growing, Victoria!, a free food seedlings distribution program created by the City of Victoria.

Remembering Rudi Hoenson

Government House has lost a great friend with the passing of Rudi Hoenson, a lifelong philanthropist and passionate supporter of Government House.