The first cold morning always catches me by surprise. The windows fog up, the string lights come out along Beacon Avenue, and suddenly every community hall on the island is filling up with tables of handmade gifts. After 26 homes and a move across the country from Toronto, November is the month that reminds me how much a community can feel like family and I’m so here for it.

It’s also one of the easiest months to get to know a new place. Holiday markets bring makers, neighbours and local businesses together under one roof, and you’ll find them in almost every corner of the region. I’ve gathered the markets and events happening across Victoria, the Saanich Peninsula, Sidney and the Westshore so you can plan your month in one place.

Holiday Markets in Early November

Market season starts strong this year, with something happening nearly every weekend from the first week of the month. These are wonderful places to find gifts that come with a story, and to meet the people who made them.

• 47th Annual Creative Craft Fair, G R Pearkes Recreation Centre, Saanich. November 6 to 8, with over 125 exhibitors. Friday 11am to 7pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm.

• Christmas at the Lake, Prospect Lake Community Hall, 5358 Sparton Road. Saturday, November 7 from 10am to 4pm. Admission is $2 and children 12 and under are free.

• Bilston Creek Farm Holiday Market, 4185 Metchosin Road, Metchosin. November 7 and 8, 10am to 5pm.

• First Chance Christmas, Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney. November 7 and 8, with hours to be confirmed.

• Atomic Christmas Vintage Fair and Makers Market by Island Vintage Events, Da Vinci Centre, 195 Bay Street. Friday, November 13 from 5pm to 9pm and Saturday, November 14 from 9am to 4pm. Admission is $5 and children 12 and under are free.

• 51st Annual All Sooke Arts and Crafts Show, Sooke. November 13 to 15, Friday 12pm to 7pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm. Entry is free.

• Winter Craft Market, North Douglas Church, 675 Jolly Place, Saanich. Saturday, November 14 from 10am to 4pm.

• Centre Mountain Lellum Middle School Winter Market, 3090 Constellation Avenue, Langford. Saturday, November 14 from 10am to 3pm.

• Holiday Market at the Empress by Seek Bespoke Market, Fairmont Empress. November 14 and 15, with hours to be confirmed.

• Calico Christmas Market, Spectrum School, 957 Burnside Road West. November 14 and 15, 10am to 5pm. Weekend admission is $5 and children 12 and under are free.

• Wear2Start Winter Market, James Bay Community School Centre, 140 Oswego Street. November 14 and 15, with hours to be confirmed.

The holiday market at the Empress is a first for the hotel this year, and it is a lovely excuse to step inside one of Victoria's most beloved landmarks. If you’re new to the city, pair it with a walk along the Inner Harbour and you have a perfect November afternoon.

Holiday Markets Later in the Month

The second half of November brings some of the biggest markets of the season. Many of them run all weekend, so you can take your time and come back for the gift you could not stop thinking about.

• Magic of Christmas Artisan Market, Eagle Ridge Community Centre, 1089 Langford Parkway. November 20 to 22, with over 125 artisans. Friday 3pm to 8:30pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday 9am to 4pm. Admission is $3 and children 12 and under are free, with accessible shopping the first hour each day.

• Candy Cane Lane Winter Festival, Saanich Fairgrounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Road. November 21 and 22, 9:30am to 4pm, with local makers, island food vendors and local wine, beer and cider.

• Victorian Christmas Craft Fair, Commonwealth Place, 4636 Elk Lake Drive. Saturday, November 21 from 10am to 5pm and Sunday, November 22 from 10am to 4pm. Weekend admission is $5.

• The Holiday Market at Uptown, Uptown, Saanich. November 21 and 22, with hours to be confirmed.

• Esquimalt Farmers Market Holiday Edition, Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street. Sunday, November 22 from 11am to 5pm.

• Winter Bazaar by the Fernwood Makers Party, Gorge Park Pavilion, 1070 Tillicum Road. November 27 to 29, with over 120 artists and food creatives. Friday 5pm to 9pm, Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 10am to 5pm.

• VIDEA's Winter Fair, Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Avenue. Saturday, November 28 from 11am to 4pm, featuring fair trade and Indigenous makers. Admission is free.

• Cook Street Village Holiday Market, Cook Street Village Activity Centre. Saturday, November 28 from 9am to 3pm.

• Babes in Biz Holiday Market, Westshore Masonic Centre, 2832 Bryn Maur Road. Saturday, November 28 from 1pm to 4pm, celebrating local women in business. Admission is by donation in support of Bridges for Women Society.

Where You Will Find Me

I’ll be at two of my favourite shows this month, and I would love to see you there. Atomic Christmas at the Da Vinci Centre is pure vintage holiday charm, and the team at Island Vintage Events puts so much heart into every market they host. The Winter Bazaar at Gorge Park Pavilion is one of the most thoughtfully curated markets of the year, and the Fernwood Makers Party always brings together an incredible group of local artists.

If you are thinking about a move or simply want to chat about life on the island, come find me and say hello. Some of my favourite conversations happen over a cup of cider at a market table.

Arts, Culture and Community

November kicks off with a little leftover Halloween fun. On Sunday, November 1, the Spooky Pumpkin Walk lights up Pineridge Park in Sooke, with carved pumpkins dropped off after 1pm and the trail glowing from 5pm to 7:30pm. That same afternoon, the Colwood Pumpkin Smash takes over Colwood City Hall from 1pm to 3pm, with donations welcome for the Goldstream Food Bank.

For a night out, Murder on Paper Street returns to Craigdarroch Castle from November 5 to 14 with immersive mystery theatre inside the castle itself. On November 6, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria celebrates its new winter exhibitions with an evening opening. Showtimes can change, so check each organizer's website before you go.

Wine lovers can mark November 6 and 7 for the Victoria International Wine Festival downtown, with grand tastings, seminars and wine dinners. The Intuitive Arts Festival also returns to Victoria on November 7 and 8, with location and times to be confirmed. On Sunday, November 8, the Orchard Market at Junction Orchard and Cidery on Prospect Lake Road runs from 12pm to 6pm and pairs local makers with fresh island cider.

On Thursday, November 12, Music Bingo with the Eves of Destruction Roller Derby comes to the Fernwood Inn, with doors at 7:30pm. Two days later, the Colourful Business Expo at Clifford Carl Hall in the Royal BC Museum showcases local entrepreneurs and the stories behind their businesses.

Getting Outside This November

The salmon run at Goldstream Provincial Park in Langford continues into early December. Walking the river trails on a misty November morning is one of my newer favourite island rituals, and it never fails to slow me down in the best way. Bring a warm layer (or two!) and stay on the paths so the river stays healthy for years to come.

The Holiday Season Begins

Bastion Square Christmas Village opens on November 12 and runs through December 24, with holiday vendors and seasonal entertainment in the heart of downtown. The Festival of Trees begins on November 18, and FOLKTORIA brings a multicultural celebration to the Royal BC Museum on November 21 and 22.

The month wraps up with the 44th Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, November 28, starting at Government and Belleville Streets. It is one of those evenings that makes Victoria feel like a small town in the best possible way. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate and find your spot along the route early.

Finding Your People This Season

If you’re new to the island or planning a move, I hope this guide helps you find your people. Shopping local is one of the simplest ways to put down roots, because every market table is a chance to meet a neighbour.

Event details can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with organizers before you head out. If you’d like a monthly roundup like this in your inbox, you can sign up for my newsletter at yourvanislehome.com.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

There’s a moment every October when the island quietly shifts. The mornings turn misty, the maples start to glow, and every porch in the neighbourhood seems to have a pumpkin on it. So fresh, so crips. After 26 homes and a move across the country from Toronto, I can tell you that fall is when Vancouver Island feels most like home to me.

October is also one of the best months to get to know a new community. If you’re new to the island, thinking about a move, or simply looking for a reason to get out of the house, this guide is for you. I’ve gathered the events, markets and Halloween happenings across Victoria, the Saanich Peninsula, Sidney and the Westshore so you can plan your month in one place.

Fall Festivals and Pumpkin Patches

Galey Farms in Saanich is a fall tradition for so many local families, and Pumpkin Fest runs daily all month long. If you like a little fright with your fall fun, their Festival of Fear takes over after dark. It’s a great evening out for older kids and anyone who loves a good scare.

Out on the Westshore, the Luxton Fall Fair returns to the Luxton Fairgrounds in Langford from October 2 to 4. Gates are open Friday from 3 to 11pm and Saturday from noon to 10pm, with Sunday noon to 9pm. That same weekend, Light Up the Hills brings a festival of lights to Belmont Secondary in Westhills on Saturday, October 3 from 7:30 to 9:30pm.

On the Peninsula, the Halloween Express runs in the evenings from October 16 to 18 at Heritage Acres in Saanichton. It’s a festive and gentle outing that works well for little ones and grandparents alike.

Arts, Culture and Community

Music lovers can catch BreakOut West at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Victoria from October 1 to 3, with performances at various times. On Saturday, October 3, the Victoria Tea Festival fills Nootka Court from 11am to 5pm. It’s a cozy way to spend a fall afternoon downtown, rich in culture. There’s also the Otsukimi market in lovely Fernwood on October 3, from 11am to 4pm at the Fernwood Community Centre.

Book lovers will want to mark October 12 to 18 for the Victoria Festival of Authors, with readings and events at various times around the city. The following weekend, October 16 to 18, the Victoria Fall Home Show comes to Pearkes Recreation Centre in Saanich. If you’re planning a refresh, preparing to sell, or simply gathering ideas for your next chapter, it‘s worth a wander.

Getting Outside This Fall

Thanksgiving weekend brings the Victoria Marathon to downtown Victoria from October 9 to 11. Alongside the main race there is an 8K, a 5K and a kids run. Even if you’re not lacing up, cheering from the sidelines is one of the best ways to feel the community spirit here.

From mid to late October, the salmon begin returning to Goldstream Provincial Park in Langford. The run continues into early December, and walking the river trails on a misty morning is one of my favourite island rituals. Bring a warm layer and stay on the paths so the river stays healthy for years to come.

Local Election Day

Saturday, October 17 is General Local Election Day in every municipality across the region. Polls are open from 8am to 8pm, and voting is a meaningful way to have a say in the future of your neighbourhood. If you have moved recently, check with your municipality about where and how to cast your ballot.

Halloween Fun Before the Big Night

Vic West Halloween Fun Day takes place on Saturday, October 24 at 521 Craigflower Rd from 10am to 2pm. The next day, Wicked Victoria brings Halloween fun to Government St, Langley St and Bastion Square from 10am to 3pm.

On Friday, October 30, G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre is hosting a themed skate from 6 to 7pm. Admission is free when you come in costume, which might be the best deal in town.

Fall Markets Around the Region

Many of our outdoor markets are wrapping up for the season, so October is a lovely time to visit before they close for winter. Here is where to find local produce, baking and handmade goods this month.

• Moss Street Market, 401 Moss St, Victoria. Saturdays through October 31, 10am to 2pm.

• Bastion Square Public Market, Victoria. Thursday to Sunday into early October, 11am to 5pm.

• James Bay Community Market, Menzies and Superior, Victoria. Final market of the season on Saturday, October 3, 9am to 3pm.

• Peninsula Country Market, Saanich Fairgrounds, Saanichton. Saturdays through October 10, 9am to 1pm.

• North Saanich Farm Market, 10990 W Saanich Rd, North Saanich. Saturdays through October 10, 9:30am to 12pm.

• Goldstream Station Market, Danbrook Park, Langford. Saturdays through October 10, 10am to 2pm.

• Sooke Country Market, Woodside Farm, Sooke. Saturdays through October 10, 10am to 2pm.

• Metchosin Farmers Market, Metchosin Municipal Grounds. Sundays through October 25, 11am to 2pm.

Halloween Markets

October is also market season of a spookier kind. These Halloween markets are full of local makers, vintage finds and seasonal treats.

• Monster Mash Vintage Market by Island Events, Da Vinci Centre, Vic West. Saturday, October 3, 9am to 4pm.

• Spooky Markets Halloween Market, Langford Station. October 17 and 18, 11am to 4pm.

• Halloween Market YYJ, Da Vinci Centre, Victoria. October 24 and 25, Saturday 11am to 5pm and Sunday 11am to 4pm.

• Metchosin Bewitched Market, Metchosin Community Hall. October 24 and 25, 10am to 4pm.

• Witchcrafted Halloween Market, Prospect Lake Community Hall, 5358 Sparton Rd. October 31, 10am to 4pm.

Halloween Night Across the Island

When October 31 arrives, communities all over the region come out to celebrate. Here is where to find trick or treating, bonfires and fireworks on Halloween night.

• Treat Street Halloween Spooktacular, Beacon Ave, Sidney. 4:30 to 6pm.

• Trick or Treat on the Avenue, Oak Bay Village merchants. Times to be confirmed.

• Vic West Halloween BBQ, 521 Craigflower Rd, Victoria. 5 to 9pm.

• Halloween Spooktacular, Archie Browning Sports Centre, Esquimalt. Starts at 5:30pm.

• Treat Street, Luxton Fairgrounds, Langford. 5:30 to 8:30pm.

• Halloween Bonfire, Colwood Fire Hall. 6 to 8:30pm.

• Otter Point Halloween Bonfire and Fireworks, Camp Barnard, Sooke. Fireworks at 7:30pm.

Finding Your Place This Fall

When I moved here from Toronto, community events were how I started to feel at home. A fall fair, a Saturday market and a Halloween night on a friendly street can tell you more about a neighbourhood than any listing ever will. If you’re new to the island or planning a move, I hope this guide helps you find your people.

Event details can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with organizers before you head out. If you would like a monthly roundup like this in your inbox, you can sign up for my newsletter at yourvanislehome.com.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

There’s a particular feeling that comes with finding a favourite spot in a city you are still getting to know. It’s the moment a place stops feeling like a tourist stop and starts feeling like yours. That’s exactly what happened to me at Citrus & Cane, which just made the move from the edges of downtown Victoria to a new home right in the heart of it, at 606 Trounce Alley. I loved their previous location on Douglas and couldn’t wait to visit their new digs.

Citrus & Cane is a tropical cocktail bar spread across three levels, with an oval bar at the centre of it all and big windows that let in far more natural light than you would expect from a nightlife spot. The building itself has real character, and the team has leaned into that rather than covering it up. It feels lived in, in the best way, while still being polished enough to make a great first impression.

The drinks are the real draw. This is a rum forward menu built by people who clearly know what they are doing, with house made syrups and fresh juice in almost everything they pour. Whether you gravitate toward a classic daiquiri or something a little more adventurous, there’s a cocktail here that will surprise you in a good way. I ordered something off the tropical list and it might be the best drink I have had in the city this year.

I think about places like this a lot when I’m working with relocation clients and first time buyers. When you move to a new city, or even a new part of your own city, it is not just about finding the right home. It’s about finding the places that make you feel like you belong there. I moved from Toronto to Victoria myself, and I still remember how much it mattered to find a handful of spots that felt like mine before the rest of the pieces fell into place.

Citrus & Cane is one of those places I would point a client toward if they were settling into downtown Victoria and wanted a starting point for exploring the neighbourhood's evening life. It’s walkable from so much of what makes downtown special, and it has the kind of warm, easy hospitality that makes a new city feel a little less new.

If you are house hunting downtown, or you already call this neighbourhood home, put Citrus & Cane on your list.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

There's something special about watching a local business find exactly where it's supposed to be. That's how it felt walking into Katherine Margetts' new space at The Shop, Sidney by the Sea. Just over a month ago, she moved the shop from Bevan Ave to Beacon Ave, right on Sidney's main street, and you can already feel the difference. The foot traffic tells the story before you even step inside.

I interviewed Katherine as she walked me through the new space, pointing out everything from the layout to her favourite new finds along the way, and you can watch the full conversation above. It's a bigger space with a better layout, and it still has everything she's known for. Vintage finds worth digging through, new housewares, clothing, and gifts that feel genuinely curated rather than mass produced. Nothing about it feels like a big box store, and that's exactly the point.

I've known Katherine for a while, and she puts her whole heart into this shop. Getting to see her settle into a space that finally fits the vision was a good day. If you're relocating to Sidney or just visiting for the afternoon, this is exactly the kind of local shop worth finding. It's a great stop for anyone who wants a real feel for the community, not just a postcard version of it.

The Shop, Sidney by the Sea is located at 2506 Beacon Ave, #107, Sidney, BC V8L 3E1. You can find Katherine and her latest finds on Instagram at @the_shop_sidney_by_the_sea.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

Some of my favourite local discoveries start with a donut. In this case, it was a vegan jelly sugar donut called the Josie Jelly, split open on a napkin with raspberry jam spilling out, paired with a can of Tofino Kombucha. I remember thinking that if a coffee shop can make a vegan donut taste this good, everything else on the menu is probably worth trying too. Many visits later, I can confirm that it is.

Rhino Coffee House sits on Peatt Road in the heart of downtown Langford, and it has quietly become one of my favourite stops on the Westshore. The coffee beans are hand roasted in Tofino, and you can buy bags of them right off the counter. There is something I love about sipping a little piece of the west coast in the middle of a growing city like Langford.

The community clearly feels the same way. The awards sit right on top of the donut case, including Best Independent Coffee Shop and Best New Business from the Best of the WestShore awards, with another win added in 2024. Once you visit, none of that is surprising. The donuts are baked fresh every day, and the case is a genuine event: apple fritters, maple bacon, Boston cream, sour cream glazed, and always a vegan option or two. Beyond the donuts there is an all day breakfast menu, housemade wraps and sandwiches, smoothies, and even a small list of local beer and cocktails, which makes it just as easy to settle in for lunch as it is to grab a coffee to go.

My order is a simple one. I am an Americano person, or whatever dark roast is on, no milk, which is the truest test of any coffee shop, and Rhino passes easily. The Josie Jelly was a one time treat, though I have been thinking about it ever since. I have also become a regular at their Uptown location, which has turned into my favourite meeting spot after a workout at Fitness World. There is a third location in Westhills too, so wherever life takes you across the Westshore and into town, a Rhino is never far.

If you are new to the Island, or thinking about calling the Westshore home, this is exactly the kind of place I mean when I talk about connection. A good neighbourhood coffee shop is where a new city starts to feel like yours. It is where you take a breather between viewings, meet a friend after the gym, or simply sit by the window with a donut and watch your new community go by. Langford has no shortage of energy right now, and Rhino is one of the places where you can feel it.

Put it on your list, order a donut, and stay a while. It is a lovely way to start feeling at home.

Rhino Coffee House Langford is located at 2840 Peatt Road, with additional locations at Westhills and Uptown. You can find them online at rhinolangford.com.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

There is a particular kind of energy in a room full of women who have decided to show up for themselves. It is warm and loud and a little bit contagious. That is exactly what I walked into on June 10th at the Victoria Pickleball Centre in Langford, and I have been thinking about it ever since.

Pickleballooza is a Women's 55 Plus Rally Tournament organized by The Local Inc., and this year it brought together one hundred women for a full day of pickleball, live music, and the kind of community connection that is genuinely hard to find. I was proud to be a sponsor, and I was there in person for the whole day with a hydration station stocked with Good Life Juice Skye High electrolyte drinks and fresh lemon, lime, and cucumber infused water. I wanted every player to feel taken care of, and I think we pulled it off.

I also had a gift basket giveaway at my booth, generously donated by two local partners I am so grateful for: Victoria Olive Oil Co. and Gourmet Foods. The basket was beautiful, the entries came in all day, and the energy around it was a reminder that people love a reason to connect, even if it is just stopping by a table to fill out a form.

If you want to see how the day came together, I put together a highlight reel that captures the setup, the players on the court, and a few of the moments in between. You can watch it here: Pickleballooza Recap

What I did not expect was how much I would take away from the conversations. I spoke with women who were thinking about downsizing, women who were curious about different neighbourhoods, and women who just wanted to know what the market is doing right now. These are the conversations I live for, and they happen naturally in spaces like this one, away from the formality of a showing or a listing presentation.

One of the things I try to do in my work is help people find not just a home but a place where they belong. That question, "will I find my people here?", comes up more often than almost any other. Days like Pickleballooza are part of my answer. Vancouver Island has a community of active, engaged, generous women who show up for each other, and if you are thinking about whether this is the right place for your next chapter, I would invite you to take that as a very good sign.

A heartfelt thank you to The Local Inc. for creating this event, and to every woman who stopped by my booth to say hello. I already cannot wait for next year.

If you have questions about downsizing, relocating, or what life on Vancouver Island actually looks like day to day, I am always happy to talk. There is no pressure and no agenda, just a conversation with someone who has been through the transition herself and genuinely loves helping others navigate it.

Reach me anytime at 250-415-5656 or through yourvanislehome.com.

There's a question I hear more than almost any other from clients who are thinking about moving to Vancouver Island. It comes up toward the end of conversations, almost like an afterthought, but it never really is. The question is: where should we stay when we come to look?

It sounds practical, and it is. But what's behind it is something bigger. The trip to Vancouver Island is often the moment everything becomes real. It's when you stop imagining the move and start actually picturing it. Where you stay, how you wake up, whether you can walk somewhere for coffee, whether the town feels right at seven in the morning before you've seen a single house — all of that shapes what you come home with.

For a long time I gave my clients the best guidance I could. But I didn't have a place I could point to and say: go here, I trust this completely, this is the right base for the trip you're about to take.

That changed when I walked into The Sidney Pier Hotel.

The Sidney Pier sits right on the waterfront in Sidney, at the edge of Beacon Avenue and the marina. It's a short walk to the bookshops, bakeries, and coffee spots that make this town so easy to fall in love with on a first visit. The building is modern and thoughtfully designed, with a spa on site and a restaurant downstairs. It doesn't feel like a place you pass through. It feels like a place you settle into.

I should mention: the hotel has just completed a full reimagining of the suites. New finishes, new furnishings, and a feel that's warmer and more considered than before. The bathrooms are spa-inspired and well-appointed. The kitchens and kitchenettes are beautifully fitted out. It's the same stunning waterfront location — the views haven't changed — but the experience inside has been genuinely elevated. If you've stayed here before, it's worth coming back with fresh eyes.

I've partnered with The Sidney Pier Hotel to offer my relocation clients a special rate on three specific room types as part of working with me.

The Townview Suite is a spacious studio with a king bed, a full kitchen, and west-facing views over the heart of Sidney. It's the room for clients who like to cook their own breakfasts and spread out a little. The Seaport or Courtyard King is a comfortable, well-appointed guestroom with everything you need, offering views of either the courtyard or the town of Sidney. And the Coastal King or Queen is a beautifully designed room with courtyard or Beacon Avenue views, with select floors offering a private furnished balcony — one of the loveliest places to have your morning coffee while you think through the homes you saw the day before.

I make the reservation personally. There's no code or link — you just reach out to me and we sort it out together as part of working with me.

Sidney is a town that tends to make the decision for people. You arrive not quite sure, you walk Beacon Avenue, you sit somewhere with a coffee and watch the ferries move across the water, and then you know. I wanted my clients to have a place that helps that happen. The Sidney Pier Hotel is that place, and with the newly reimagined suites, it's better than ever.

If you're thinking about a move to the Saanich Peninsula and want to know more about how this works, reach out. I'm always happy to talk through what the process looks like from start to finish.

Find out more and view those dreamy suites right here.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

Part of what I love most about showing people around Greater Victoria is that the neighbourhood surprises never stop, even after seven years of calling this place home. Last weekend I found one hiding inside a grocery store, and I have been thinking about it ever since.

Ay Mi México is a small, family-run Mexican restaurant operating out of Craigflower Foods at 811 Craigflower Road in Esquimalt, bordering Vic West. If you have driven past that plaza without stopping, I completely understand. It does not exactly announce itself. But step inside, follow the signage, and you will find a counter serving some of the most careful, authentic Mexican cooking I have come across on Vancouver Island.

We ordered the Tacos de Birria and the Tacos de Pastor, and both were exceptional in their own way. The corn tortillas were soft and slightly charred, exactly as they should be.

Tacos de Birria

The birria arrived on a wooden board alongside a small clay cup of rich, fragrant consommé for dipping. The meat was slow-braised and deeply seasoned, topped with pickled red onion and a bright orange salsa that added just enough heat to cut through the richness.

Tacos de Pastor

The tacos de pastor came on a traditional clay plate, three tacos piled with thinly sliced marinated pork, fresh pineapple, cilantro, and more of that gorgeous salsa. Sweet, savoury, and absolutely satisfying.

This is the kind of cooking where you can tell someone cared about every element on the plate.

Ay Mi México is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. You can order online at aymimexicobc.com or call them at 778-767-3982. I would recommend going in person at least the first time, because part of the charm is discovering it for yourself.

For my clients who are new to the area, or who are still in the process of building their sense of what makes Greater Victoria so special, this is exactly the kind of local gem I love pointing people toward. Victoria is full of places like this, small and unpretentious and genuinely delicious, tucked into corners you might not think to look.

Esquimalt in particular is a neighbourhood worth exploring, with a real community feel and a growing food scene that does not always make the listicles.

If you go, tell me what you ordered. And if you have a hidden gem of your own I should know about, I would love to hear it.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

Helping you find home, and community, here in Victoria, BC.

If you’re new here, Local Love is where I highlight businesses around Greater Victoria that genuinely stand out—places that aren’t just offering a service, but creating an experience and a sense of connection.

And this one is personal.

✨ Celebrating 2 Years of Beam Beauty & Wellness

Located in Belmont Market in the WestShore, Beam Beauty & Wellness is celebrating its two-year anniversary—and after spending time there, it’s easy to see why they’ve built such a strong and loyal client base.

From the moment you walk in, there’s a calm, welcoming energy. It doesn’t feel clinical or transactional—it feels intentional. And that comes from Kat.

🤍 More Than Treatments—A Sense of Community

There are a lot of places you can go for skin treatments. But not all of them make you feel comfortable, informed, and genuinely cared for.

What stands out most at Beam isn’t just the quality of the services—it’s the sense of community Kat has created. You’re not rushed. You’re not pressured. You’re guided.

That matters—especially when you’re trusting someone with your skin. And it shows up in the details, too.

During their anniversary celebration, they supported other local businesses by sharing coffee and treats from Rhino Coffee House and a beautiful cake from Cordova Bay Cake Company—a small touch that says a lot about how they operate.

✨ Treatments I’ve Personally Tried

I don’t recommend places lightly—especially when it comes to skin. Here are a few of the treatments I’ve experienced at Beam:

Laser Hair Removal
A long-term solution that’s been worth it—especially heading into warmer months.

Lumecca (IPL)
This one has been a standout. Lumecca is designed to target pigmentation like sun spots and uneven skin tone, leaving your skin looking clearer, brighter, and more even.

👀 What’s New at Beam

Beyond their core treatments, Beam is continuing to expand into more advanced wellness services—including options that support things like hormonal balance and overall well-being.

If you’ve been curious about where skin care meets wellness, this is definitely a space to start asking questions and exploring what’s possible.

🎥 Watch My Visit

Here’s a quick look inside and why this place has become my go-to:

👉 Local Love: Beam Beauty & Wellness

📍 Why It Matters (Especially If You’re New to the Area)

If you’re moving to—or settling into—the WestShore, finding trusted services can take time. Places like Beam make that easier. Not just because of what they offer, but because of how they make you feel when you’re there.

And that’s what Local Love is all about.

💬 Final Thoughts

Two years in, Beam Beauty & Wellness has clearly built more than a client list—they’ve built a community.

If you’ve been thinking about doing something for your skin, this is one of those places where you can feel confident you’re in the right hands.

Looking for more hidden gems around the Island? Stay tuned—there’s more coming

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

One of the best parts of living in Victoria, BC is discovering the small local businesses that make everyday life here feel special. From farmers markets to neighbourhood cafés, Vancouver Island is full of locally owned shops that bring personality and community to the region.

In this edition of my Local Love series, I stopped by Victoria Olive Oil Co to connect with owner Cherilee and see what’s new in the shop.

If you enjoy cooking, entertaining, or finding thoughtful gifts, this is a place worth knowing.

Watch the Local Love Feature

🎥 Watch the short video here:
👉 https://youtube.com/shorts/xDkPd9brm6s 

What Makes Victoria Olive Oil Co Special

Victoria Olive Oil Co & Gourmet Foods has become a favourite destination for food lovers in Victoria. The shop specializes in premium extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars sourced from around the world.

Visitors can sample a wide range of flavours and learn how different oils and vinegars can elevate everyday cooking.

Some highlights include:

• Seasonal infused olive oils
• Rich, aged balsamic vinegars
• Gourmet pantry items
• Beautiful custom gift baskets
• Perfect hostess or housewarming gifts

Whether you’re preparing a meal for friends or looking for a unique local gift, the shop offers something special.

A Perfect Stop for Entertaining and Gift Giving

Many of my clients are surprised by how many locally owned specialty food shops exist across Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula.

Victoria Olive Oil Co is one of those places that makes entertaining easy. Their gift baskets are especially popular for:

• housewarming gifts
• hostess gifts
• holiday entertaining
• corporate or client gifts

Supporting businesses like this is one of the reasons living on Vancouver Island feels so connected to the community.

Living in Victoria Means Discovering Local Gems

When people move to Victoria, they often focus on finding the right home or neighbourhood. But what truly makes a place feel like home are the businesses, cafés, markets, and shops that shape daily life.

From Sidney to the Westshore, Vancouver Island has an incredible network of independent businesses that bring character to the community.

That’s exactly why I started the Local Love series — to highlight the people and places that make living here so enjoyable.

Thinking About Moving to Victoria BC?

If you're considering a move to Victoria, BC or exploring neighbourhoods across Vancouver Island, I’m always happy to share local recommendations and insights about the communities here.

Visit YourVanIsleHome.com to learn more about:

• moving to Victoria BC
• neighbourhood guides
• local lifestyle recommendations
• real estate opportunities across the region

And follow along for more Local Love features highlighting the businesses that make this community so special.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

One of the things I love most about working in and around Sidney is how connected the surrounding communities feel. You’re never far from something special — a great walk, a thoughtful local shop, or a place that reminds you why people choose this part of Vancouver Island in the first place.

Farmer’s Daughter, located just outside Sidney in Saanich, is one of those places.

If you haven’t been yet, it’s a locally loved shop known for its carefully curated selection of cheeses, pantry staples, and specialty food items — all chosen with intention and a strong connection to local producers.

Why Farmer’s Daughter Feels So “Island”

Farmer’s Daughter isn’t about rushing in and out. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, ask questions, and discover something new — whether that’s a local cheese, a small-batch condiment, or the perfect addition to a dinner with friends.

That slower, more thoughtful way of living is something I hear people say they’re looking for all the time — especially downsizers and newcomers considering Sidney. It’s not just about the house. It’s about the rhythm of daily life.

A Lifestyle Match for Sidney Living

Sidney has a unique charm — walkable streets, ocean views, independent shops, and a strong sense of community. Farmer’s Daughter fits beautifully into that lifestyle, even though it’s technically just outside town.

It’s the kind of spot Sidney residents happily make a short drive for — and one I often recommend to clients who are getting to know the area. These are the local gems that make settling in feel personal, not generic.

Why Local Businesses Matter in Real Estate

When I help someone move to Sidney or the surrounding areas, we always end up talking about more than listings and floorplans. We talk about where they’ll shop, where they’ll walk, where they’ll bring visiting family, and what will make the place feel like home.

Local businesses like Farmer’s Daughter are part of that story. They’re what turn a neighbourhood into a community.

Local Love, Always

Supporting local businesses is something I care deeply about — both personally and professionally. They’re part of what makes living on the Saanich Peninsula and in Sidney so special.

If you’re new to the area or simply looking to explore more of what’s nearby, Farmer’s Daughter is well worth a visit.

And if you’re thinking about making a move to Sidney — or just starting to explore what life here could look like — I’m always happy to share not just market insight, but the places that make this community feel like home.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
Instagram | Facebook

Helping you find home — and community — here in Victoria, BC.

Victoria shines in December — literally. The whole city glows with lights, music, and community warmth, and some of the best things to do this season are entirely free. Whether you’re new to the Island or simply soaking up the magic, here’s your Local Love guide to the most festive no-cost activities across Greater Victoria.

1. Inner Harbour Holiday Lights

December transforms the Inner Harbour into a glowing postcard. Parliament, the Empress, and the marina sparkle every night — and it’s completely free. Grab a hot chocolate, stroll the waterfront, and soak in the atmosphere.
Best time: just after sunset.

https://gvha.ca/events/harbour-holiday-light-up/

2. Lights of Wonder

Check out Lights of Wonder - Downtown Victoria’s most photo-worthy holiday event at Centennial Square November 29 – December 31! Catch live entertainment on stage Friday and Saturday nights. Snap unforgettable holiday photos with family, friends, and even your pup. Don’t miss the return of the Ferris wheel, opening December 19.

https://downtownvictoria.ca/lights-of-wonder/

3. Sidney’s Seaside Lights & Beacon Avenue Stroll

Sidney goes all-in on holiday lights every year. Take a walk along Beacon Avenue, enjoy the decorated storefronts, and wander the waterfront promenade by the pier.

Bonus: Many shops offer free tastings or cookie samples on select days.

https://www.exploresidney.ca/holidays/

4. Esquimalt’s 2025 Christmas Tree Village

Esquimalt is one of the most underrated places for holiday magic. Experience the magic of the holidays at the tenth annual Christmas Tree Village.The Recreation Centre Atrium and Archie Browning Sports Centre is transformed into a holiday wonderland, teeming with twinkling lights and delightful decorations.

https://www.esquimalt.ca/ChristmasTreeVillage

5. Oak Bay Village Holiday Windows

Oak Bay’s boutique shops create beautiful window displays throughout December. It’s festive, friendly, and walkable — and with the smell of fireplaces drifting through the village, it feels like a small-town Hallmark movie.

And On the first Saturday of December the Island Equipment Owners Association Truck Parade & Food Drive, featuring over 80 brightly lit cement trucks, dump trucks and other heavy equipment comes through Oak Bay Village. Music, food collection from 5 PM at the Oak Bay Municipal Hall.

https://www.oakbay.ca/whats-happening/annual-events/christmas-in-oak-bay/

6. Beacon Hill Park Winter Walks

No cost, endless beauty. Wander through Beacon Hill Park, visit the ducks, enjoy quiet forest paths, and take in the views from Dallas Road. Crisp winter air + ocean scenery = perfection.

Park info:
https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/our-parks/beacon-hill-park

7. Drive or Walk Through Festive Neighbourhoods

Local favourites you can walk or drive through:

https://www.timescolonist.com/life/greater-victoria-christmas-lights-map-4831091

Free, cheerful, and perfect for a pre-holiday drive.

8. Local Craft Markets

Victoria hosts multiple markets — and many offer free entry on certain days or after certain hours. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a lovely way to support local makers and feel part of the community.

https://www.victoria.ca/community-culture/events

Local Love Wrap-Up

December in Victoria is less about spending and more about slowing down, wandering, and feeling part of this island community. Whether you’re exploring harbour lights or discovering new neighbourhood favourites, the magic is everywhere — and most of it is free.

If you're new to Victoria or thinking about calling this beautiful place home, exploring in December is the perfect way to get to know its heart.

And if you’d like help choosing a neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle — I’d love to guide you.

Jacqueline Ross
REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Oceanside Real Estate
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com
www.YourVanIsleHome.com
Instagram | Facebook  
Get the newsletter!

Helping you find home — and community — here in Victoria, BC.