Victoria Secures BreakOut West 2026 with Unanimous Council Support

The Victoria City Council has unanimously approved the use of the Victoria Conference Centre for the upcoming BreakOut West Music Festival, scheduled for September 2026. This festival is recognized as the largest music industry event in Western Canada, featuring a blend of genres and venues. It includes a comprehensive business development conference alongside performances from over 50 Western Canadian artists, as well as select national and international acts.

Matt Dell, the individual who presented the proposal to the council, emphasized the festival’s role in promoting local talent, stating, “The Junos are out of reach for many smaller artists, so BreakOut West really gives them an opportunity to shine.” He highlighted the festival’s significant economic impact, estimating that it would lead to the rental of more than 700 hotel rooms and generate approximately $2 million in economic activity for the region.

BreakOut West is set to take place in Winnipeg this year, following its last edition in Kelowna in 2023. Reports indicate that the festival incurred initial expenditures of $1.4 million while generating $658,576 in visitor spending and contributing a total of $1.97 million to the provincial economy, supporting 11 local jobs in the process. Dell noted that around 100 musicians from Victoria are planning to attend this year’s festival in Winnipeg.

As part of its support, the Victoria City Council is considering waiving the rental fee for the conference centre, which is estimated to be $25,000. This gesture is intended to demonstrate the city’s enthusiasm for hosting the festival. Dell mentioned that the event organizers are actively seeking funding from both federal and provincial governments to assist with costs.

Councillor Jeremy Caradonna, who voted in favor of the motion, expressed confidence in the benefits of the festival for the local economy. He stated, “It’s a major marquee event that’s going to bring hundreds of people to the city. I think the scale of this one justifies an in-kind contribution.” The event has also received financial support of $30,000 from Destination Greater Victoria, further solidifying the collaborative effort to bring BreakOut West to Victoria.

With a commitment from the city and support from local organizations, BreakOut West 2026 promises to be a significant cultural and economic event for Victoria, enhancing its reputation as a vibrant hub for music and entertainment.