The Victoria Masquerade Ball

By Barbara Thompson

What has increasingly become one of Victoria's most well known fundraisers is being presented for the fifth year at the Fairmont Empress Hotel on Saturday, October 24^th. Get ready for a magical night of mystery and intrigue at the Victoria Masquerade Ball!

"Many people tell me they have always wanted to go to a formal masquerade ball and it seems that each year they are really upping the stature of the event", says organizer John Vickers who says he is increasingly amazed at the elaborate costumes many people wear. (He adds that there are also those who prefer to wear tuxedos and ball gowns, and the night proves to be a great mix for both young and old.)

Since 2005, the Ball has raised over $75,000 for African AIDS relief efforts; however, this year John has opted to support a local cause, our cause, right here at the James Bay Community Project! He has requested that the event proceeds this year go to the Victoria Youth Clinic, which is operated by the Project. 

The Victoria Youth Clinic is a confidential, free health clinic for youth aged 12-24. The clinic is managed by the James Bay Community Project and provides comprehensive health care services in a safe, welcoming and accessible youth-friendly environment with a special commitment to youth who may be at risk for poor health outcomes. 

What happens at a Masquerade Ball? The ball is a three-set dance mixer featuring the nine-piece Brooke Maxwell El Superbando with intermission fundraising and a silent auction in the Palm Court Foyer. There is no formal dinner; however, there will be plenty of hand-served appetizers. The emcee will be A-Channel's Bruce Williams. 

Guests are also presented with a display of some of John Vickers' Pumpkin Art. In addition to creating the Victoria Masquerade Ball, Vickers is also the artist behind the pumpkin display that became well known locally while appearing at Government House. (Pumpkin Art also returns outdoors to downtown Victoria this fall - for details visit !)

For further information regarding the Victoria Masquerade Ball, call 250-380-0324 or visit The event is also featured on FACEBOOK at "The Victoria Masquerade Ball".