As the sun sets over Victoria from September 11-14, the last rays hiding behind the mountains, Rifflandia 2025 is going to come alive. Victoria may be the province’s capital city, but for those days, it’s going to get a little silly and a lot of fun. The stages are going to glow under neon lights, colorful skies, as the crowd sways like the waves under an eclectic mix of music. It’s going to be a mix of international, global and local stars. Public Enemy is coming on Friday, with their powerful raps, making the crowd raise their fists in the air, and giving the feel of a rebellion. Alessia Cara will be performing on Sunday, and her soulful voice is going to be the perfect ending to this festival. ‘No scars to you, you are beautiful’, I know how much that song meant to me, and to watch it being performed live is absolutely going to give you goosebumps.
You don’t want to miss the Victoria Symphony performing Daft Punk, with strings soaring like colorful comets across the sky.
Rifflandia is more than just a concert; it’s a force for good. Considering this is the 15th year, the festival is donating 15% of every ticket sold back into the community through the Give Where You Riff program. This initiative supports 15 local organizations making a real difference. For example, KidsSport Greater Victoria provides young athletes with gear. The Victoria Cool Aid Society provides shelter to the homeless, which is such a necessary cause. Before you buy your ticket, you can choose which organization you want the 15% to go to by using their code.
A festival is most worth it when it’s also affordable. Usually, inflation is given as a reason to increase prices and build that barrier for people who just can’t afford the prices. But Rifflandia has gone cheaper than last year. The four-day pass has gotten cheaper despite them adding an extra day, with it costing just $379 and single days being around $139, instead of the $150 they were last year. We love it when festivals also care about the community they are putting the festival in. This is going to be a celebration that will bring people who listen to all kinds of genres together. They are ensuring they are leaving the community better for it, by donating some of their proceeds. They are bringing in local talent to ensure they have a spotlight. What else does one need? Well, a Victoria BC ferry ticket, of course. It starts tomorrow, get that ticket, and have a grand time!