Experience Esquimalt Fall 2023

There is still ample summer to soak up before we head into the colder months. Take advantage of the longer days by exploring a new park or trail and watch for the change in seasons.

Events are still in full swing in Esquimalt with a very busy events calendar—more events are added all the time so check it out online as well.

Esquimalt has been recognized numerous times lately as a destination community for international restaurants. Come and check out somewhere new to you. Thai, Syrian, Vietnamese, East African and Filipino are just a few of the avours you’ll nd. Whether you walk, bus, bike, boat or drive, our compact community means that there is always lots to explore!

EVENTS

ESQUIMALT FARMERS MARKET

Mondays at Gorge Park

Thursdays at Memorial Park 4:30PM–7:30PM

Find

Explore Gorge Park!

SPLASH PAD AT THE ESQUIMALT ADVENTURE PARK

Open until Labour Day 10:00AM–7:00PM

ESQUIMALT FARMERS MARKET

ESQUIMALT RECREATION 21 DAY FITNESS CHALLENGE

Day Fitness Challenge. This program includes pre- and post-program assessments plus a variety of small group Personal Training sessions, educational seminars and

small group classes available only to Fitness Challenge participants. Take advantage of a personalized program in our modern tness centre. Prizes and options to extend your facility access for 2 more months at one great price available ONLY to Challenge participants. Don’t miss out!

The Esquimalt Farmers Market continues this summer and fall! Enjoy an incredible variety of produce, baked goods, prepared foods, body products, quality crafts and more! You will also nd a

wide selection of food trucks and twice nightly musical performances at all of our outdoor markets. Find us 4:307:30pm on Mondays @ Gorge Park, 1070 Tillicum Road until September 4 & Thursdays

in Memorial Park, 1200 Esquimalt Rd until September 14. Our indoor fall season at the Esquimalt Rec Centre kicks off on September 21. Find us at 527 Fraser Street every Thursday, 4:30-6:30pm, until Dec. 14th

DRIFTWOOD BREWERY

Born in the spring of 2008, Driftwood Brewery quickly gained a reputation for brewing highquality, innovative brews. After years of rapid growth, they quickly outgrew their brewery in Rock Bay and were able to secure a lease at a warehouse on View eld Rd. and moved their operations across the

bridge to Esquimalt. This allowed room for signi cantly more space for building a distillery, pilot brewhouse, and taproom. Driftwood Bar, Kitchen, and Patio now offers a vibrant hub to the Esquimalt community. Offering 18+ taps of fresh beer, local wine and cider, and a cocktail menu crafted with Driftwood Spirits,

there is something for everyone! Partnering with local favourites, Dumpling Drop, you can expect a full menu of Thai-style dumplings and other delicious fare. Driftwood Bar is open 12- 8:30pm Sun – Wed, and 12-9:30pm Fri – Sat. driftwoodbeer.ca

8:30PM at Bullen Park

Everyone’s favourite flying cow movie will delight all ages at this free event. Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs to get comfy. Esquimalt’s Emergency Preparedness team will be there to provide valuable information on how to keep you and your family safe during a natural disaster.

AUG 25

SUMMER STORIES IN THE PARK- MACAULAY POINT PARK

10:00–11:00AM at Macaulay Point Park (free)

Join Esquimalt’s Parks and Recreation staff for story time in the park. These stories are intended for children ages 3-6, but all are welcome. Parent or caregiver supervision is required. Help your little ones gain an appreciation for nature, reading, and Esquimalt’s beautiful parks.

AUG 24

EXPERIENCE ESQUIMALT WALKING TOURS (BY ESQUIMALT COMMUNITY ARTS HUB)

5:30–7:30PM (suggested $10 donation) - meet at Memorial Park Cenotaph

Whether you’re a local to the Township, a new resident or visitor, Experience Esquimalt in this fun and informative walking tour led by the Esquimalt Chamber of Commerce and Esquimalt Community Arts Hub!

AUG 26

JAPANESE CULTURAL FAIR BY VICTORIA NIKKEI CULTURAL SOCIETY

10:00AM–4:00PM at Esquimalt Gorge Park

Celebrate Japanese culture at this free and family-friendly event. New this year is a community showcase that features the Vancouver Island Bonsai Society, Uminari Taiko, Kongo Dogo and more.

AUG 30 OUTDOOR MOVIE—KUBO AND TWO STRINGS

8:00PM at Esquimalt Gorge Park

This movie will take you and your family on a magical adventure. Bring your own blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks to make this a fun and relaxing event.

August 2023

Mmm... Ribfest!

SEPT 8-10

RIBFEST AT BULLEN PARK

This popular weekend is back!

Enjoy three days of BBQ ribs, food trucks, local entertainment, craft beer, cider and wine, free kid’s activities, local arts, and vendors. Net proceeds go to local charities and school-sponsored activities for our community’s youth.

Social Sundays with Esquimalt Recreation!

Sept 17

BOARD GAMES & BEER

7:30 PM AT ARCHIE BROWNING LOUNGE (19+)

OCT 15

TRIVIA NIGHT ALL AGES (REGISTRATION NEEDED)

6:30PM AT THE ESQUIMALT REC CENTRE

NOV 26

OPEN MIC NIGHT

7:30 PM AT ARCHIE BROWNING LOUNGE (19+)

SEPT 16

SPLASH OF LIGHT LANTERN

FESTIVAL

6:30–10:00PM at Esquimalt

Gorge Park

Come to watch beautiful and creative lanterns decorate Sherwood Forest in Esquimalt Gorge Park. Check the Township Community Arts Council’s website for more information: townshiparts.org/

SEPT 23

ESQUIMALT STORY FEST AT ESQUIMALT TOWN SQUARE

10:30am–1:00pm (by donation)

Help us celebrate the 18th year of Esquimalt’s Story Festival with another awesome line-up of great story tellers.

Lunch, provided through a generous donation from Country Grocer, from 11am onwards.

SEPT 24

CHESS IN THE PARK TOURNAMENT

10:00AM–5:00PM at Gorge Park Chess tournament in the beautiful Gorge Pavilion! Cash prizes. New players welcome. Entry fee $30. More details on the Victoria Chess Club website.

SEPT 30

SOUTH ISLAND POWWOW

10:00AM at Royal Athletic Park

Free admission, everyone welcome. September 30th marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The annual South Island Pow wow is an opportunity to recognize Survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation.

The Township of Esquimalt acknowledges with respect that we are within the Traditional Territories of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations.