Oak Bay Tea Party at Willows Beach
For one weekend each June, the calm beach-and-park feel at Willows turns into a lively community celebration.
A Local's Advice
The Oak Bay Tea Party is an annual community event at Willows Park. The official event site lists the 2026 dates as June 5, 6, and 7, marking the 64th Tea Party weekend. Expect crowds, entertainment, rides, food, parking restrictions, and a much busier Willows Beach area than usual.
What is the Oak Bay Tea Party?
The Oak Bay Tea Party is a long-running annual community event held at Willows Park. It brings a festival atmosphere to the beach area, with entertainment, midway rides, food, community groups, and family activity.
Oak Bay also describes the event as a first-weekend-in-June summer tradition with activities such as an air show, bathtub race, parade, carnival, live music, raffle draw, and more. Always check the current event site because schedules can change.
2026 dates
The official Oak Bay Tea Party site lists June 5, 6, and 7, 2026 for the 64th Tea Party weekend. If you are planning travel, family meetups, or a beach visit around those dates, check the event schedule close to the weekend.
Event details can change, and some parts of the weekend may have special notes. For example, the official parade page currently notes that the parade is cancelled for 2026, while other event activities continue.
Crowds and parking
Tea Party weekend is not a normal Willows Beach weekend. Streets, parking, and park space can be much busier than usual. The best approach is to arrive early, travel light, and expect to walk farther than you would on an ordinary beach day.
If you want a quiet swim or a peaceful picnic, choose a different weekend. If you want community energy, music, rides, and a classic Oak Bay tradition, Tea Party weekend is part of the local calendar for a reason.
Family tips
For families, choose a meeting point before anyone gets distracted by rides, food, music, or the beach. Bring water, hats, sunscreen, and patience. A stroller or wagon may be helpful, but crowds can make movement slower.
Set expectations with kids before arriving. Decide what activities matter most, where to regroup, and how long you plan to stay. A little planning keeps the day fun.
Beach visit or event visit?
During the Oak Bay Tea Party, Willows Park is more event site than quiet beach escape. You can still enjoy the waterfront setting, but the mood is different. The beach becomes part of a bigger community gathering.
For the classic towel-and-book Willows Beach feeling, pick a calmer day. For a lively Oak Bay weekend, embrace the crowd and check the official schedule before heading out.
FAQ
When is the 2026 Oak Bay Tea Party?
The official event site lists June 5, 6, and 7, 2026.
Where is the Oak Bay Tea Party held?
It is held at Willows Park in Oak Bay, beside Willows Beach.
Is parking difficult during the event?
Yes, expect crowds and parking restrictions. Arrive early and plan to walk.
Is the 2026 parade happening?
The official parade page currently notes that the parade is cancelled for 2026. Check the event site for the latest details.