When the BC Lions roll into Langford, it no longer feels like a road trip.
It feels like a second home.
On March 3, the CFL club was once again in Langford, formally announcing their plans to return to Starlight Stadium for a May 23 pre-season clash against the Edmonton Elks.
It marks the second consecutive year the Lions will host a game in the West Shore, and their third straight year playing in Greater Victoria.
In 2024, the Lions earned a regular season victory over the Ottawa Redblacks and in 2025, they fell to the Calgary Stampeders in a pre-season contest.
For team president Duane Vienneau, the relationship with the Island has grown into a seamless partnership.
“It really feels like home,” Vienneau said. “We come in quick, there is no stress, it just feels like we are coming home and it feels really good.”
Last year, the Lions sold out Starlight Stadium in just 12 minutes for their game against the Stampeders.
Vienneau noted that despite the smaller capacity compared to BC Place, the Langford crowd matched the volume.
This year, the team is expanding the footprint.
The weekend will kick off on Friday, May 22 with a tailgate concert headlined by Victoria country-rock band Born Reckless, with local hip-hop funk artist JAXXEE opening the show.
All proceeds from the concert will support the Belmont Bulldogs football program.
For Belmont quarterback Jacob Hansen, having the province’s top talent in his backyard is an unmatched motivator.
“I am not used to seeing stuff like here. I am used to the (West Shore) Rebels, who are great in themselves, but seeing these guys come over here and dominate, that was pretty sick,” the Grade 11 student recalled about seeing the Lions at Starlight Stadium in 2025.
“Seeing them up close and personal makes everyone want to play football. They’re so talented, and move the ball so fast. It really spikes your interest.”
Hansen pointed to Rourke’s ability to stay calm and composed in the pocket as a trait he wants to emulate heading into his senior season at Belmont.
Reigning CFL MVP and Victoria-born quarterback Nathan Rourke says it is an honour to showcase the beauty of the Island during the team’s visits to Greater Victoria. (Tony Trozzo/Goldstream Gazette)
Rourke himself is focused on setting the tone early.
After a disappointing end to the 2025 campaign, which saw them fall 24-21 to the eventual Grey Cup champion Saskatchewan Roughriders, the pivot said the work to bounce back begins on the Island.
“At this point of the season, it is going to be our first preseason game. So for us we are really looking to see what the foundation is going to be for this team,” Rourke said.
“Obviously we have a bitter taste in our mouth for the way that things ended, and we are looking to really rebound. It starts here in Langford.”
Langford Mayor Scott Goodmanson echoed the excitement, noting the community’s passion for sport and the benefits a professional event brings to the West Shore.
“It is a powerful way to bring sport, music, and community together,” Goodmanson said. “The City of Langford remains committed to activating Starlight Stadium in ways that are meaningful, inclusive, and beneficial to our community, and the BC Lions return is a strong reflection of that vision.”
Tickets for the game and concert go on sale to the general public on March 31 at 10 a.m. Prices will average between $45 and $50.
Kickoff on Saturday, May 23 is set for 2 p.m.
READ MORE: Nathan Rourke returns home as BC Lions visit Greater Victoria schools
BC Lions set Langford clash with Edmonton this spring at Starlight Stadium