Victoria Day Weekend Guide

5 Faith-Filled Mini Getaway Tips

Victoria Day long weekend is finally here—and for many Canadians, it marks the much-anticipated unofficial start of summer. Whether you’re opening the backyard pool, heading to the cottage, or planning a spontaneous road trip, this long weekend offers a refreshing opportunity to pause, reset, and step into a new season with joy and intention.

As we embrace longer days and warmer weather, let this time also be a reminder of the blessings of rest, renewal, and togetherness. Here’s your guide to planning a cozy, stylish, and faith-inspired Victoria Day mini-getaway.

1. Embrace the Spirit of Renewal

Just as the earth begins to bloom, we too are invited to refresh our hearts and homes. Take this weekend as a gentle nudge to reconnect—with nature, loved ones, and the peace that surpasses understanding.

Whether it’s time in prayer, quiet reflection by the water, or laughter around the bonfire, allow space for moments that feed the soul and ground your summer in gratitude.

2. Family-Friendly Travel Essentials

For a smooth and stylish mini-getaway, pack these essentials for the whole family:

• Comfy Layers: Weather can shift quickly in May—think soft cardigans, windbreakers, and breathable lounge wear. We all know that rain has traditionally blessed our Victoria Day long weekend, so don’t forget to pack the umbrella!
   
• Picnic-Ready Gear: A cozy blanket, favourite go-to snacks, and reusable dishware for lakeside lunches or backyard brunches.
   
• Sun Protection: Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses to keep everyone sun-safe.
   
• Faith-Filled Reads: Bring along a devotional like our New Season, Renewed Spirit that gently reminds us that God is always at work bringing beauty from the ordinary. Don’t forget to bring along a journal or your favourite inspirational book. Stay tuned for next week’s blog as we share with you UCB Radio’s staff picks! Listen to a podcast on the UCB Radio APP to stay spiritually refreshed on the go.

3. Outdoor Fun with Purpose

Victoria Day weekend is perfect for creating lasting memories with the family. Plan activities that bring joy and meaning:

• Nature Walks & Gratitude Hunts: Explore God’s creation with eyes wide open—encourage kids to spot signs of new life and name things they’re thankful for.
   
• Campfire Devotionals: Share a short verse or reflection around the fire each evening.
   
• Gardening as Worship: Whether it’s planting herbs or flowers, make it a moment of intention and thankfulness for the growth ahead. Nature is a beautiful reflection of God’s abundance. We touched on this in our Blog: How Does Your Garden Grow.

4. Cozy Moments at Home (or Cottage!)

Not traveling far? You can still enjoy a soul-restoring staycation. Set up a backyard oasis with comfy lounge chairs, ambient lighting and living decor like potted plants, flower beds and water features. Play calming worship music, or organize a tech-free family night filled with games such as Snakes and Ladders, Frisbee, UNO and conversation.

Your home can be a haven this Victoria Day long weekend—filled with light, laughter, and the presence of peace.

5. Set the Tone for Summer

How you begin often shapes what follows. Use this long weekend to reflect on the season ahead. What are you hoping to sow and grow—physically, emotionally, and spiritually?

Take a moment to write down a family summer mission statement or create a seasonal prayer to guide your days.

Download our Victoria Day Family Checklist and Christian Devotional!

Celebrate the start of summer with intention and joy using our free Weekend Checklist & Devotional PDF! This beautifully designed resource includes a practical, family-friendly packing list to simplify your mini-getaway, plus a heartfelt one-page devotional to help you reflect, renew, and reconnect with God during the long weekend. Whether you’re heading out of town or enjoying a cozy staycation, download these resources and make your Victoria Day both peaceful and purposeful.

Download the Weekend Checklist

Download the Weekend Devotional

A Weekend of Grace and Joy

The Victoria Day long weekend isn’t just a break from routine—it’s an opportunity to step into summer with intention, style, and spiritual refreshment. Whether you’re traveling or staying local, make room for connection, creativity, and quiet moments with God.