Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre

Located in the heart of Victoria, the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre is one of the region's most prominent entertainment venues. This modern indoor arena is the largest facility of its kind in Canada outside of Vancouver. It brings together the worlds of professional sports, spectacular shows, and business events under one roof.

The arena can accommodate up to 7,400 spectators for hockey games and up to 9,000 people for major concerts by world-class stars. It is a multi-functional space where every detail has been considered, from 26 luxury suites to the modern Lion’s Den restaurant and cozy lounge areas. It also houses a television studio and office spaces, making the center an important business hub for the city.

Designed as the island's premier venue, the center is renowned for its excellent acoustics and great views from every seat. It was built on the historic site of the former arena and today is considered a key symbol of the city's vibrant life, attracting both locals and numerous tourists.

To check the current schedule of games and concerts or to book ice time, you can contact the center's administration directly. The staff are always ready to help with seat selection or provide information about upcoming events.

Below are the main contact details for the Memorial Centre for your convenience:

The main draw for visitors is the exciting hockey games. The home team, the Victoria Royals, plays here, and the atmosphere in the stands during Western Hockey League (WHL) games is always electric. If you want to feel like a pro, don't miss the chance to hit the ice during public skating sessions—it's a unique opportunity to skate in the same arena where sports stars train.

For culture and music lovers, the Memorial Centre offers a packed schedule. Over the years, legends such as Bob Dylan, Elton John, and Cher have performed here. The hall's superb acoustics make every concert unforgettable. Additionally, the arena regularly hosts family shows, theatrical productions like Cirque du Soleil, as well as large-scale exhibitions and conferences.

For those who value comfort, exclusive relaxation areas are available. You can book a table at the exquisite Lion’s Den restaurant or relax in the Lighthouse Lounge. Sometimes special events are held after games, such as skating sessions with the players, which are a particular delight for young fans. Tickets for all events are easily purchased through the convenient Select Your Tickets system.

The Memorial Centre is located at 1925 Blanshard St, making it highly accessible for guests. Thanks to its central location, the arena can be easily reached on foot in 10–15 minutes from landmarks such as Chinatown, the Bay Centre shopping mall, or historic Market Square.

If you prefer public transport, numerous Victoria city buses stop near the arena. Routes connect the center with major neighborhoods, the bus station, and the suburbs. For those arriving from Victoria International Airport (YYJ), a taxi or rental car trip will take about 20–30 minutes.

Travelers from Vancouver will first need to take a ferry to Vancouver Island and then transfer to a bus or taxi to downtown Victoria. Please note that parking around the stadium fills up quickly on major event days, so it is recommended to arrive early or use taxi services.

The history of this site began long before the modern building appeared. Until 2005, it was home to the old Victoria Memorial Arena, built in 1949. Locals jokingly called it "The Barn on Blanshard" due to its distinctive curved roof that resembled a giant hangar. It was the first concrete structure of its type in Canada, becoming a true symbol of its era.

The modern Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre opened its doors on March 26, 2005. The opening ceremony is remembered for a funny moment when the legendary Rod Stewart took the stage wearing a hard hat and safety vest, hinting that construction was being finished literally minutes before the concert. The $30 million project breathed new life into the city's sporting and cultural scene.

Over the years, the arena has hosted many high-profile events, including the 2005 World Men's Curling Championship. It was the home of the Victoria Salmon Kings, and since 2011, the Victoria Royals hockey club has been firmly established here. In 2025, the center celebrated its 20th anniversary, solidifying its status as the island's premier entertainment venue.

The amount of time you spend at the Memorial Centre depends entirely on the purpose of your visit. If you plan to attend a hockey game or a major concert, allow approximately 3–4 hours in your schedule. This will give you enough time to pass through security, find your seats, and fully enjoy the atmosphere without worrying about missing your transport.

For those attending public skating sessions or just wanting to stop by the gift shop and see the interior, 1–2 hours will be sufficient. If your visit includes a festive dinner at the Lion’s Den restaurant combined with a show, plan for a full evening lasting up to 5–6 hours.

The Memorial Centre's operating hours depend entirely on the current schedule of events. The arena does not have fixed daily visiting hours, as door opening times are tied to the start of hockey games, concerts, or exhibitions. Typically, doors open to spectators 1–1.5 hours before the event begins.

If you are interested in public skating sessions or ice rentals, be sure to check the current schedule on the official website sofmc.com or the city portal victoria.ca. The schedule may change depending on professional team practices and touring productions.

After visiting the Memorial Centre, don't rush to leave the area. The arena's location in the heart of Victoria makes it easy to combine a sporting event or concert with a pleasant stroll through the city's historic and cultural sites.

Exploring the surroundings will enrich your experience: you can peek into unique narrow alleys, visit majestic castles, or spend time in green parks. Below is a list of interesting sites located within walking distance or a short drive.