Even after the Labour Day weekend Saanich Fair, celebrate fall via roadside stands offering everything from eggs to bouquets on the honour-system (stuff your money in the box or jar)–among the charms of exploring the farming areas just beyond Victoria.
By Charlene Rooke
EVENTS
Mark the harvest moon at the Asian-inspired Moon Festival Lantern Celebration on September 14, a free, family-friendly event with lantern making and an illuminated procession through Lambrick Park.
FARM TO GLASS
Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse grows more than 50 varieties of certified organic heritage apples that go into its ciders and cider vinegar, available alongside local farm products here. Complimentary tours of the orchard and cider making process should naturally end with a tall, cold cider enjoyed on the patio.
Judge the Best Contemporary Gin in the world in 2019, Sheringham Seaside Gin has a not-so-secret ingredient: hand-harvested local winged kelp. Visit Sooke to find out how they make their steller grain-to-glass spirits, including award-winning whiskey from Red Fife wheat and Scandinavian akvavit, during complimentary daily tours and tastings from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
FARMS
De Vine Vineyards is 25 acres of beehives, grapes, botanicals that go into gin distilled on site and more, all growing strong thanks to organic methods. Both wine and spirits are available in the tasting room, and grain-to-glass aficionados can even take whiskey school with master distiller Ken Winchester.
FUN
The Roost Farm Bakery and Vineyard makes the most of its 10 acres; wheat grown and milled on-site is used in the bakery and the property’s blueberries, sheep and grapes all appear in Vineyard Bistro and Farm Bakery offerings. Eat a snack on the so-called chicken-bus, picnic out back or book a farm tour for your group that includes a medievel-themed dungeon.