The B.C. Lions are set to return to Langford on May 23, 2026, to face the Edmonton Elks in a pre-season game. (Tony Trozzo / Goldstream News Gazette)
Just two months ago, the B.C. Lions announced they would be making another pre-season stop in Langford, and on Dec. 9, the team unveiled their 2026 schedule, confirming Langford's date for May 23.
It will be the third different opponent that Greater Victoria will see, with the Edmonton Elks the newest team to enter the provincial capital. Last season, the Lions won all three outings against the Elks.
The club has made a point of spreading games around the province, and Greater Victoria has quickly become one of its most reliable draws.
B.C. Lions president Duane Vienneau said the decision to return was straightforward after two strong Island turnouts.
"The success of Touchdown Pacific in 2024 and Lions in Langford last May further manifests the excellent passion of our fans on Vancouver Island," Vienneau said. "We look forward to once again playing our first live game action at Starlight Stadium."
Island fans have packed the stands every time.
Victoria sold out Royal Athletic Park for Touchdown Pacific in August 2024, drawing 14,700 fans as the Lions beat Ottawa 38-12.
Langford kept the streak alive this past May, selling out the 6,000-seat stadium for a pre-season game against Calgary in just 12 minutes before B.C. fell 26-16.
Langford Mayor Scott Goodmanson said the city is ready to build on that momentum.
"We're thrilled to welcome the B.C. Lions back to Langford for another exciting pre-season game next May," Goodmanson said. "Their return is a testament to the passion our community has for football and the incredible atmosphere Starlight Stadium brings to the sport."
The Lions' spring visit comes during a stretch where the team is travelling more than usual.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup taking over B.C. Place for seven matches, B.C. will shift two regular-season games to Kelowna's Apple Bowl on June 27 against Calgary and July 4 against Edmonton.
Langford had pushed for more than just the pre-season date.
In September, acting mayor Colby Harder said the city hoped to host any additional games the Lions were willing to bring to the West Shore.
"We're ambitious. We're hoping for as many games as they're willing to play in Langford," Harder said.
Even so, having B.C.'s lone CFL franchise make the Island a consistent stop remains a win.
The May 23 matchup will also mark the Lions' first outing since their 24-21 loss to the eventual Grey Cup champion Saskatchewan Roughriders in the Western Final.
B.C. finished the 2025 season 11-7, riding a six-game win streak to second place in the West Division.