New Sooke visitor experience coming to one of Canada’s oldest farms

Western Canada’s oldest farm still has a lot planned for its future.

Woodside Farm has operated in Sooke since 1851. In those days, it was home to the Muir family, one of Sooke’s founding families and the namesake of many Sooke landmarks such as John Muir Elementary School. After that, it became home to three generations of Muirs over nearly 70 years.

Now, Woodside Farm is finding new ways to connect with the community of Sooke.

This summer, the farm will welcome visitors from Sooke and beyond for the farm’s Fresh Food experience.

“Visitors of all ages are invited to spend the day wandering flower gardens, taking scenic hayrides, and sampling fresh-picked fruits and vegetables,” the farm announced in a press release.

“Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a hands-on experience with nature, this event offers the perfect blend of both.”

Farm festivities include garden strolls with all-you-can-eat strawberries, hayrides through the fields, hands-on time with animals, an orchard maze and more. From barn viewings to a pirate ship play zone for kids, there’s lots of fun to be had.

Woodside Farm first introduced the Fresh Food Experience in 2024, running five events between June and October. They were such a success that Woodside opted to continue the celebrations into 2025.

“Many people came back for every event, and we had more visitors each time,” says Joshua Perina, one of the current owners of Woodside Farm.

“We’re hoping to build on that success this year and share our fresh food experience with more and more people.”

For the owners, the event is a great opportunity for visitors to enjoy a “true Garden of Eden experience,” Perina says.

“Eating fresh fruit, berries and vegetables right off the plants and out of the ground is not something most people have a chance to do very often. I love to see both children and adults enjoying those tastes and smells,” he says.

“The animal experience is also a huge part of this, especially for the kids, and it’s also so much fun to see their eyes light up when we hand them their gold coins to head into the apple maze and find their way to the seven vending machines we have hidden inside.”

But ultimately, for Perina, the Farm Fresh Food Experience is about getting to connect with friends, family and the beauty of the region.

“Our hope is that everyone takes a couple of hours away from their screens, with their families and friends or by themselves,” he says.

“To enjoy a moment to reconnect to the earth, visit some animals and have a unique and special Fresh Food Experience in a beautiful environment.”

The first of four Farm Fresh Food Experiences will be held June 22 at Woodside Farm – 7149 W Coast Rd., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Three other events are planned for July 20, Aug. 17 and Sept. 14 as well – same time, same place.

Tickets are available now at woodside.farm and at the door during the event.

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