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Music on the Lawn Returns for 2023 Summer Season

The much loved concert series Music on the Lawn returns to Government House in July for the 2023 season, featuring new acts and old favourites. The show starts at 6:00 p.m. with an opening act, followed the headliner rockin’ until 8:00 p.m. Government House will be open for public tours prior to the concert (times can be found below). Pre-registration for the tours is strongly recommended– register here.

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Thursday, July 6, 2023

Phonix YYJ: A party band playing all the hits you know and love.
With opening act The Anishinaabe Mitchell Sisters

Government House Public Tours – 2:30-5:00 p.m.
Government House will be open for public tours prior to the concert; on July 6, this includes a special Hearts of Freedom exhibit.

“Hearts of Freedom” puts a spotlight on the stories of Southeast Asian refugees who arrived in Canada from 1975 -1985. This national travelling exhibition was curated by Dr. Stephanie Phetsamay Stobbe and the National Hearts of Freedom Committee, and is hosted in BC by the Pacific Canada Heritage Centre —Museum of Migration Society.

Thursday, July 13, 2023

Tight Hair Disco: Pounding disco beats and soaring vocal harmonies sure to make you dance.
With opening act Trophy Dad

Government House Public Tours – 2:00-5:00 p.m.
Government House will be open for public tours prior to the concert.

Thursday, July 20, 2023

The Midnights: A 12-piece choreographed R&B band featuring professional musicians and exceptional young talent from the Victoria High School Rhythm and Blues Band.
With opening act The Village Choir

Government House Public Tours – 2:00-5:00 p.m.
Government House will be open for public tours prior to the concert.

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Things to Know:

  • Concerts will take place rain or shine, barring any extreme weather forecasts.
  • Concerts take place at 1401 Rockland Ave, at the Government House Bandshell, located just above the Cary Castle Mews near the orchard (see map).
  • A rotating group of food trucks  will be available all three nights (outside food is welcome too, but no alcohol please).
  • Bring Your Own Seating – there’s lots of room for everyone, but come early if you want to be close to the stage. Seating is on an open lawn, so bring hats for sun and cover in case of rain.
  • There are outside washrooms available onsite.
  • These events are popular and onsite parking is limited. Government House can be reached via a 20-minute walk or five-minute drive from downtown. Buses on Victoria Regional Transit routes 11 and 14 stop on Fort Street at Joan Crescent, three blocks from Government House.
  • Transit by bicycle is welcome! Due to the popularity of these events, bike rack space may be limited, but bikes may be stored along the perimeter fence surrounding the concert space.
  • Well behaved, on-leash furry friends are welcome (and may have the opportunity to meet Macduff!).
  • Donations graciously accepted in support of The Friends of Government House Gardens Society.