Hayrides, sheep-shearing, classic cars herald Metchosin Day
Enjoy the last blast of summer at Metchosin Day, a community celebration always held on the first Sunday after Labour Day, on the Metchosin Municipal Grounds.
This is the 50th year for the celebration, which coincides with the regular Sunday Metchosin Farmer’s Market, with more than 100 vendors selling vegetables, meat products, fruits, crafts, artisan creations and more.
Take a hayride for 25 cents or upgrade to a backhoe digger for 50. Watch a sheep-shearing demonstration and see the winners of the baking, photography and produce growing competitions.
Watch youngsters in a gymnastic demonstration, in a pet show and showing off their 4H showmanship.
Car buffs will enjoy the collection of classic cars and motorcycles.
Members of the Victoria Motorcycle Club will set up an obstacle course with natural and manmade challenges to showcase their skills, with a show every two hours starting at 10:30 a.m.
The Metchosin Equestrian Society has several events planned, with local trainers, horses and riders demonstrating their skills between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the riding ring.
The Pioneer Museum is also nearby for those who want to learn more about the history of Metchosin.
There will be all-day entertainment by Metchosinites throughout the day on the main stage, with Morris Dancers performing around the field all day.
Food is available all day, including ice cream and hot, buttered, locally grown corn on the cob. Wash it all down with beer and wine in the beer garden.
Admission to Metchosin Day is free (donations accepted). The event runs 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday on the Metchosin Municipal Grounds, behind the fire hall, 4450 Happy Valley Rd. Free vehicle parking with entry and exit via Rocky Point Road. Free bicycle parking behind the Community House, just past the disabled parking.
To get to the site from Victoria by bike, take the Galloping Goose trail to kilometre 251⁄2 and turn left on Rocky Point Road, then right on Happy Valley Road. Pets are welcome, but must be on a leash. For information, go to metchosinday.ca.