History of balls at Government House
Balls were once a regular occurrence at Government House, with one held annually, as well as for special State occasions and at Christmas. Traditional balls took place until the early 1980s.
In 2013, the Government House Foundation revived the annual ball to raise funds for Foundation projects and initiatives. Featuring the best of BC food, wine and music the Government House Foundation Gala Ball was so popular and well received it is now held most years in November and is one of the most popular social events of the year.
After a three-year hiatus, Her Honour Janet Austin was delighted to host the 2022 Gala Ball in recognition of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s historic Platinum Jubilee and to celebrate the reign of King Charles III.
A sell-out crowd enjoyed music and dancing with the Royal Canadian Navy’s Naden Band and a special performance by the Greater Victoria Police Pipe and Drum Band. Signature cocktails were served alongside gourmet delights, and guests enjoyed the finest of single malts in the scotch tent.
Many thanks to our sponsors for their gracious support of the Gala and the exciting raffle prize draw.
Mark Horne, KC and Horne Coupar LLP
Chef Nicolas Hipperson
The Friends of Government House Gardens Society
Dr. Tess Peters and Viso Dermatology
Pacific Opera Victoria
Deep Cove Chalet
The Gala Ball is a fundraiser for the Government House Foundation in support of the Lieutenant Governor’s programmes and offers an opportunity to experience the glamour of a black-tie ball in one of the most unique venues in Canada—Government House, the ceremonial home of all British Columbians, in beautiful Victoria.
Join us November 4, 2023
We hope you will join the fun this year! Save the date in your calendar and further details, including how to purchase your tickets for the 2023 Gala Ball, will be available soon. Please contact Allison Farrell at Allison.Farrell@gov.bc.ca to receive upcoming communications about the Gala.
Learn more about the Lieutenant Governor’s awards and programmes here.