Little Local - August 28

Can you believe back-to-school is next week already? I hope your summer’s been packed with adventures, sunshine, and sweet treats. There’s still plenty to enjoy this long weekend, including the Saanich Fair! Don’t forget, our Summer Adventure Passport wraps up this weekend, so be sure to send yours in. Read on for this week’s Recs (wine, books, burgers!) plus a roundup of family events to enjoy before the school year kicks off. Have fun out there!

📘 The Invisible String by Patrice Karst. Starting something new like daycare, preschool, or kindergarten, can feel a little scary. This sweet story by Patrice Karst is one of our favourites for helping our kids remember that even when we’re apart, we’re still connected by an “invisible string” of love. It’s a gentle, reassuring read that makes goodbyes a little easier.

🍱 Yumbox Lunch Boxes are my favourite for leak-proof, kid lunches. Each box holds a full meal plus a little treat. I’ve got my eye on their stainless steel version, but I’m just waiting for it to come back in stock! Grab a Yumbox Original from Thistle & Wren in Fernwood!

🍷 Rosé goes with everything—charcuterie, sunshine, patios, even awkward family barbecues—and this month’s pick is Mt. Boucherie Rosé. Made from 100% Gamay grapes and cold-soaked for that irresistible blush hue, it’s mouthwatering and bright with notes of watermelon, raspberry, and a touch of citrus blossom. The perfect way to keep summer vibes going straight into September. – Joey Sprout, our favourite wine consultant.

🍔 Teriyaki Chicken Burgers – These easy weeknight burgers from Pinch of Yum were such a hit that one of my kids even said he prefers them to regular hamburgers. If you’re feeling “burgered out” after summer, this teriyaki twist is a fresh and delicious change…and so easy to make!

This week’s Bulletin is a little different—we’re shining a light on the incredible local businesses that made the Summer Adventure Passport possible. Victoria is full of amazing spots run by people who truly care about our community, and I’m so grateful for their support of Little Local this season.

Swans Pub – A downtown pub that actually WANTS you to bring the entire family. Dig into hearty pub classics while watching the harbour bustle just outside.

Ottavio – Oak Bay’s go-to spot for Italian cheeses, fresh bread, and creamy scoops of gelato.

49 Below Ice Cream – Small-batch craft ice cream made right here in Victoria, with fun flavours that they switch up daily.

Big Wheel Burger – Victoria’s gourmet burger joint, serving up juicy burgers, crispy fries, and classic milkshakes with a local, sustainable twist.

Wheely Clean – A mobile dental hygiene and teeth-whitening service that brings sparkling smiles straight to your driveway. Great for kids!

Island View Mini Golf – A family-friendly mini golf course where kids can practice their swing and have a little friendly competition.

Part & Parcel – A Quadra Village gem serving up seasonal, locally inspired dishes that are equal parts cozy, creative, and most importantly, delicious.

Ferris’ – A downtown institution where you can slurp oysters, twirl pasta, and soak up the lively atmosphere from brunch to late night. Keep an eye out for their happy hours!

House of Luo – The Luo-Sisters specialize in the most amazing custom sugar cookies, cakes & treats.

Better Print – A locally owned print shop known for friendly service and high-quality results, helping community projects (like our Passport!) come to life in print.

📅 Upcoming Events

🌿 Picnic in the Gardens
Thursday, Aug 28 | 5–8pm
Pack a blanket for a relaxed evening picnic with lawn games and live vibes in the gardens. [Info]

🎬 Movies on the Hill – Moana 2
Thursday, Aug 28 | 8pm
Bring chairs and cozy layers for an outdoor screening at Juan de Fuca Rec under the stars. [Info]

🪄 The Magical World of Ventriloquism – Puppet Show
Thursday, Aug 28 | 5:30–6:30pm & Saturday, Aug 30 | 8:45–9:45pm
A laugh-filled, all-ages puppet show with plenty of audience interaction. [Info]

🇬🇷 GreekFest Victoria
Fri, Aug 29 – Mon, Sept 1
Souvlaki, music, and dance! Celebrate Greek culture with food, performances, and kids’ fun. [Info]

⛵ Classic Boat Festival (Ship Point, Inner Harbour)
Fri–Sun, Aug 29–31
Stroll the docks, tour heritage vessels, and catch on-water demos. [Info]

🌴 i-Land Fest
Fri–Sun, Aug 29–31
Caribbean-inspired music, food, and family activities all weekend long. [Info]

🎸 Music in the Park
Saturday, August 30 | 5:30-7:30pm
Hang out at Meadow Park with live music from FreezeFrame. Bring a blanket and enjoy the evening! [Info]

👑 Royal Summer Ball (View Royal Hall)
Saturday, Aug 30 | 12pm
Dress-up fun with music and dancing, perfect for little princes and princesses. [Info]

🦆 Beginner Birding Basics: Self-Guided Walk
Saturday, Aug 30 | 10am–1pm
Pick up a guide and explore Island View Beach at your own pace while spotting shorebirds. Trail is about 1km and packed gravel. Bring the family! [Info]

🎹 Pop-up Outdoor Piano Concert – Brooke Maxwell
Saturday, Aug 30 | 11am–12pm
Enjoy a waterfront piano performance at Oak Bay Marina. Easy listening for the whole family. [Info]

⚓ Sensory-Friendly Hours at the Maritime Museum
Sunday, August 30 | 9:30am–12pm
A quieter museum experience designed for visitors who prefer a quiet and subdued environment. [Info]

Final Note: I do my best to keep everything accurate, but I am only human so the odd mistake might sneak in! If you catch one, feel free to let me know.