Remember that feeling of summer you used to have as a kid? The days melting into one another, the open sense of adventure every morning? While you might be on a bit more structured schedule now, recapturing that distinct feeling of play and discovery is never too far away. In fact, it’s exactly as far as a drive to the Fraser Valley!
The first day of the season arrives on Sunday, June 21 at the stroke of midnight, and then wraps up on Tuesday, September 22 (give or take). That’s 93 days to explore, amble, detour and just generally indulge your mischievous side. Whether that’s via filling up your picking pail to the brim with berries, requesting an extra scoop of farm-fresh ice cream, or practicing a little friendly smack talk on the disc golf course, The Valley is filled with all kinds of opportunities for sunny side quests. You’ve got 93 days to fill! Which might seem like a long time on paper, but just as it was when you were a kid, it will likely fly by faster than an airborne water balloon. So shake a leg!
Abbotsford
Ice cream at Birchwood Dairy
With 50 gourmet flavours to choose from, this working dairy and farm shop is an excellent option for a spontaneous summer outing. Complete with a petting zoo, playground and milking parlour where you can meet the cows that make it all possible, you can easily wile away the whole afternoon with the kids.
Visit the flower fields at Tuscan Farm Gardens
There’s truly no sensation quite like wading through a field of fresh lavender when the summer breeze picks up. And at magic hour, when the sun is low, the lighting is otherworldly! Pair that with flower beds teeming with vibrant colour, and a gift shop where you can take home newly cut bouquets, and this is a top destination for getting into that airy, breezy summer mode.
Berry picking at Bumbleberry Farms
You can always count on local berries to add a dash of colourful flavour to any monochrome breakfast routine. Picking your own fresh blueberries, strawberries, blackberries and raspberries, you can assemble a rainbow of bold tastes in your pail, and taste the bold difference natural sugars make on your palate.
Chilliwack
A game at Tap-Ins Putting Course
No matter your skill level or age, at Tap-Ins at Cultus Lake, it’s always a fun time on the fairway. With 18 holes creatively spread across 4 acres, it’s an excellent way to practice your form or start a friendly rivalry with your friends. Then afterwards, you can wrap up the day with a cold one at Legends Bistro and enjoy the glorious mountain views.
Stroll through District 1881
Like stepping into an old-timey village in cottage country, District 1881 is filled with heritage character and interesting boutique shops. Close your map app for a minute and follow your feet as they take you through criss-crossing pedestrian alleys and artisan storefronts. You’ll quickly stumble across that carefree vibe from summer stories of old!
Shop away a Friday Night at the Yarrow Farm Market
Open every Friday evening throughout the summer, this community market always makes for a fun, social, music-filled start to the weekend. Stroll through each of the friendly artisan vendors, sampling their wares and hearing their stories. If you’re curious about the local makers of the Valley, you’ll discover all kinds of new creative inspiration here.
Harrison River Valley
Spend the day at Sasquatch Mountain Resort
Who says a mountain resort is only for winter? When summer arrives, the ski slopes transform into a lush green playground filled with alpine possibilities. Head out for a hike with panoramic mountain views, launch down the incline on a thrilling network of biking paths, or practice your wrist technique on the disc golf course. There’s a mountain’s worth of things to do, so you might want to plan a return visit to see it all.
A Quadricycle ride with Harrison Hot Wheels
Cruise the town on 2, 3, or 4 wheels! If you’re looking for a unique way to get around and sightsee, then Harrison Hot Wheels is your ticket for a memorable summer afternoon with friends. The Quadricycles will have everyone laughing and pedalling together on the way to your next destination. Plot out a route and make a day of it!
Treat yourself at Farmhouse Natural Cheeses
Sometimes an outing dedicated to one specific niche is the best way to spark your curiosity. In this case, it’s the delicious world of natural cheese! Crafted with fresh milk from the friendly cows and goats that you’ll see wandering around the grounds, this is a wonderful spot to cultivate your appreciation for the subtle details of meticulously crafted food. Gouda, cheddar, chevre, it’s a safari for the senses!