The annual strawberry festival will be making its return to Beaver Lake Park this year, with events starting at 11 a.m.
This marks the return of the festival after it was cancelled for the previous two years due to the pandemic.
Saanich Mayor Fred Haynes says people are excited about the return of the event.
“We had no social events during the pandemic years because of the public health order from the province, which we followed resolutely, so this is the first event in three years,” Haynes said.
“People are just thrilled that we’re bringing it back, and it’s one of our highlight events of the year. Just thrilled.”
While the strawberries and ice cream won’t be served until 1 p.m., starting at 11 there will be events and activities like face-painting, program demonstrations, arts and craft stations and bouncy castles.
“This is one of the oldest running festivals in Saanich, I think it’s over 50 years old,” Haynes said. “And we’re delighted to have it on. The strawberry and ice cream will been served by mayor and council at 1:00 to 3:00.”
Guess what we are serving up at Beaver Lake Park today? It’s part of Saanich’s farming history. I, and others will be on the frontline with our “big smiles on”. Come on down! Oh yes they are local! #Saanich #farming pic.twitter.com/b2AGTiT2Xf
— Judy Brownoff, Saanich Councillor (@Judy_Brownoff) July 10, 2022
There will also be live music starting with Freeze Frame at 11, The Sutcliffes at 12:15 p.m., and Commodores Big Band at 1:45 p.m.
Strawberries and ice cream will cost $1 per serving, and there is no bank machine on site so attendees are asked to bring cash.
Additionally, the District of Saanich warns since this event is popular the parking lot often fills quickly. There will be overflow parking in the grass area just off Elk Lake, and a shuttle bus will be running starting at noon until 4 p.m.
Laura Brougham
