Little Local – May 29

You probably don’t need me to remind you how lucky we are to live by the ocean, surrounded by salty air, amazing beaches, and endless places to explore with your family. But I am here to remind you that Ocean Week kicks off this weekend (June 1–8), with World Ocean Day on Sunday, June 8. There are some great family-friendly events and hands-on activities happening around town to help us celebrate and learn about the waters that surround us.

And some exciting news from Little Local headquarters! I’ve been working on something fun for your family to participate in this summer: a Summer Adventure Passport! It’s packed with playful activities to complete in July & August, and comes with perks at local businesses when you show your passport.

From Sunday, June 1 to Sunday, June 8, Ocean Week Victoria has planned a week of events to help us learn about and care for our big blue backyard. I’ve combed through the full calendar and selected the most kid-friendly activities to make it easier for families to participate.

Name, Neighbourhood, & Family Crew:

Joey Sprout. Camosun Lansdowne/Mt Tolmie. Zach (Husband), Eloise (Daughter, 10) and Coco (Son, 7).

What do you do (for work, passion, or both)?

Mom first and foremost. Outside of family life, two of my biggest passions are wine and soccer. I’ve been lucky enough to turn my love for wine into work, and today I’m an independent contractor in the wine world. That includes buying, selling, writing about, and talking about wine. Currently, I’m buying wine for Swans Liquor Store & Pub and also work with Mt. Boucherie and Rust wineries in the Okanagan.

On the soccer side, I volunteer as a coach for girls' youth soccer three times a week. I find it super rewarding and amazing to see the girls grow their skills, gain confidence, and form strong, organic friendships through sport.

What’s a typical day like in your household?

I think the same as many families with young, active children - BUSY! We are pretty go, go, go from the time we wake up until the time we get to bed. Making lunches, planning meals, running errands, getting groceries, pick-up and drop-off to activities. Rinse and repeat. On the weekends, we like to burn off some energy by taking the bikes out or doing something active followed by hitting up a favourite coffee shop or treat spot.

Favourite family-friendly spot in Victoria?

Beacon Hill Park: petting zoo, playgrounds, drive-in, peacocks. There is something for everyone.

What’s one thing you’ve learned as a parent that you wish you knew sooner?

How quickly the early years fly by and how special they are! There’s this golden window, especially in those first few years of school, when your kids genuinely want to spend time with you and think you’re the best. I’ve learned how important it is to be present in those moments, to soak them in, because before you know it, they start discovering their independence and wanting to be with their friends more.

Your favourite coffee shop:

We love Discovery Coffee and Ruth & Dean. Great coffee and delicious treats!

Kid’s favourite meal (made at home):

Spaghetti & Meatballs

Kids’ book on repeat at your house:

Anything David Walliams right now - they are so funny and well written.

Favourite purchase under $100 with kids in mind:

Long-range walkie talkies! Whether we’re hiking or even just around the house or yard, they use them to check in, make plans, and feel like real adventurers. It’s given them a little taste of independence in a safe and exciting way.

Riding the coattails of the spring tide, we’ve got an epic low tide just before noon today. Perfect for beachcombing. See you at the beach!

📅 More Events

🎶 Songs for the Gorge: Saturday, May 31 | 12pm–3pm
A free, family-friendly celebration of nature and music at Bamfield Park along the Gorge Waterway with live performances and eco-activities. [Info]

🎭 Folktoria: Saturday, May 31 (12pm-8pm) and Sunday, June 1 (11am-7pm)
Celebrate world cultures with music, dance, and storytelling at this free, family-friendly folk festival at Centennial Square. Enjoy performances from diverse communities, food trucks, and hands-on activities for kids. [Info]

🎉 Oaklands Street Party: Saturday, May 31 | 11am–3pm
There will be dozens of morning garage sales around the Oaklands neighbourhood, as well as an exciting Street Party from 11am-3pm on Belmont Avenue with food trucks, kids activities, live music, and much more! [Info]

🫖 Oak Bay Tea Party: Friday, June 6 – Sunday, June 8
An annual summer fundraiser at Willows Beach featuring carnival rides and midway, an air show, festive parade, bathtub races, pancake breakfasts, live music, raffles, and family-friendly entertainment [Info]

🎈 The Village Block Party: Sunday, June 8 | 10am–6pm
This lively street party brings Cook Street to life with music, food trucks, kid-friendly activities, and a big local market. A fun way to explore one of Victoria’s most charming neighbourhoods. [Info]

🌈 Saanich Pride in the Park: Tuesday, June 11 | 5:30–8pm
Head to Beckwith Park for an evening of rainbows, live entertainment, games, food trucks, and all-ages fun as the community comes together to celebrate Pride Month. [Info]

🎉 FernFest: Friday, June 13 & Saturday, June 14 | Fernwood Square
Fernwood’s beloved two-day block party is back for its 28th year! Celebrate the start of summer with live music, performers, food trucks, a kid’s zone, face painting, bubbles, games, and a bustling artisan market. It’s a free, all-ages neighbourhood extravaganza filled with art, magic, and community spirit. [Info]

Want to spread the word about your business, a project you’re working on, or a hire?

🛒 Urban Grocer is a locally owned market on Fort Street offering fresh and thoughtfully sourced groceries, with a strong focus on supporting Canadian producers. Stop in for everyday essentials, local products, and a pleasant shopping experience.

🌱 Orion Landscape will bring your outdoor spaces to life! This Victoria-based team is known for thoughtful design, expert installations, and sustainable landscaping solutions. From lush gardens to modern patios, they create beautiful, functional spaces tailored to your lifestyle. Jay, the owner, is incredible – tell him we sent you!