Little Local - April 23

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Happy belated Earth Day! Feeling extra grateful for all the teachers and caregivers helping our kids learn how to care for the planet, whether it’s recycling, biking more, or just those small everyday habits that add up. Definitely a good reminder for me too!

This week I’m sharing one of our family’s favourite spots to soak in all the fresh leaves and blooms, plus a simple activity that made it extra fun for the kids. 🌈

And with Mother’s Day around the corner, I’ve pulled together a shortlist of brunch spots if you’re thinking ahead.

Let’s get into it!

Finnerty Gardens & UVic

It’s that magical time in Victoria when everything starts to bloom. One of our favourite spots to enjoy it in is Finnerty Gardens, at the University of Victoria.

Last weekend, we turned our walk into a little rainbow hunt, snapping photos of flowers and plants in every colour. The kids were completely into it, and it made the stroll through the gardens feel like a bit of an adventure.

When you need a break, you can swing by the campus cafeteria or grab a coffee at Starbucks. UVic is actually such a great weekend destination — the campus is usually quiet, there’s lots of space to roam, and if your kids are into biking, the Alumni Trail is an easy ride. The big field in front of the library is perfect for picnicking or playing catch.

Mothers Who Brunch

May is just around the corner, and so is Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 10)!

Brunch spots fill up quickly this weekend, so if going out is your thing, here are a few ideas depending on what kind of morning you’re in the mood for.

Best fancy treat experience: Oak Bay Beach Hotel — Ocean views, live piano, and a proper sit-back-and-relax kind of brunch.

Great value (and still nice): Glo Restaurant & Lounge — They’re doing a 3-course Mother’s Day brunch all weekend with a really pretty waterfront setting.

Most “make a day of it” option: The Butchart Gardens — They’re offering a Mother’s Day lunch buffet in the gardens, which feels extra special this time of year with everything in bloom.

Best quiet experience: The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden — Enjoy a Mother’s Day High Tea in a peaceful and beautiful (and honestly, kind of ideal if you want a slower morning).

Best waterfront spot: Boom + Batten — They’re doing a 3-course Mother’s Day brunch ($50) with beautiful waterfront views. It’s a bit more of a grown-up feel, but still works with kids (they’ll have child-friendly options).

Best “on vacation” vibes: Brentwood Bay Resort — They’re hosting a family-friendly Mother’s Day brunch in the Arbutus Room (9–2) with a curated menu and beautiful ocean views. They’re also offering a dinner service, so you can turn it into more of an evening outing if that works better.

Best hidden gem: Charlotte and the Quail — Such a special little spot tucked beside the gardens at HCP. They’re offering a Mother’s Day brunch with their usual fresh, seasonal menu—think really thoughtful, nourishing food in a beautiful setting.

And also…coffee in bed and someone else making breakfast at home is also extra special and sweet 😌

☀️ Camp Planner: Your one-stop spot for summer camp discovery and planning. Filter camps by week, provider, or interest, and map out your kids’ summer all in one place.

🦷 Wheely Clean: Skip the dentist office because Wheely Clean’s mobile hygiene vans come to you! They’re fantastic with kids, now offer teeth whitening, and make family dental care stress-free. Book your visit online!

Upcoming

🎡 West Coast Amusements
April 23–26
The midway has rolled into town (Mayfair Mall) with rides, games, and all the classic sweet treats. [Info]

📚 Storytime at Swan Lake (with GVPL)
Friday, April 24 | 12–1pm
The Greater Victoria Public Library is hosting a free nature-themed storytime at Swan Lake Nature House (3873 Swan Lake Rd). Expect stories, songs, rhymes, and puppets, followed by social time and free play. Best for ages 1–5 (older siblings welcome). [Info]

🌱 Spring Plant Sale at The Gardens at HCP
April 25 & 26 | 9am–4pm
Stock up on plants, herbs, and garden goodies for the season ahead. Don’t forget to wander the beautiful Gardens at the Horticultural Centre. [Info]

🧲 Mariner Mornings: Magical Magnets
Saturday, April 26 | 10-11am
A hands-on, play-based program at the Maritime Museum for kids ages 3–8 to explore the magic of magnets through fun activities, storytime and crafts. [Info]

📸 Mother’s Day Mini Portraits at Thistle & Wren
Sunday, May 3 | Multiple times in morning
A sweet 15-minute photo session, plus a mini floral bouquet and exclusive in-store discount. [Info]

🎨 Kids Spring Market
Sunday, May 3 | 1–4pm
Shop handmade goods created by local kids at Oaklands Community Centre. A great way to support young makers in the community! [Info]

🌸 May Day Spring Fair at Sea Cider
Sunday, May 3 | 11 am–4 pm
A cheerful spring fair with local vendors, live music, and family-friendly fun set against beautiful orchard views. [Info]

🫖 A Cup of Love: Mother’s Day Teapot Crafting at Staples
Wednesday, May 6 | 5pm–7pm
A free, hands-on crafting session where kids can decorate a paper teapot gift for Mom. Offered at both Langford and Victoria locations. [Langford & Victoria]

🛍️ Mother’s Day Weekend Craft Market at Bilston Creek Farm
May 8–10 | 10am–4pm
A lovely mix of local makers, flowers, and treats in a scenic farm setting. [Info]

🔬 Science Rendezvous
Saturday, May 9 | 10am–3pm
A big, hands-on science festival with interactive demos and activities for curious kids.
[Info]

🛁 LUSH Mother’s Day Bath Bomb Pressing
Saturday, May 9 | 11am–2pm
Drop in to press your own bath bomb – fun, hands-on, and a great little gift. $5 [Info]

🌼 Mom & Me Hanging Basket Workshop
Saturday, May 9 | 1:30pm–2:30pm
A hands-on gardening experience at Patio Gardens designed for kids and their moms! [Info]

🌸 Mother’s Day Musical Garden Tour
Saturday & Sunday, May 9–10 | 10am–4pm
Wander beautiful local gardens with live music performances along the way. [Info]

🎶 Mother’s Day Concert
Sunday, May 10 | 2–4pm
Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed afternoon of live music in Playfair Park. [Info]

Ongoing

🧱 20th Annual LEGO® Brick Exhibit at the Sidney Museum
Now – April 6
Marvel at incredible LEGO creations built by local and regional builders, with detailed displays that will impress kids and adults alike. A classic family favourite that’s easy to pair with a day in Sidney. [Info]

📸 Wildlife Photographer of the Year
On now
Award-winning nature photography from around the world at the Royal BC Museum. A stunning exhibit for all ages. [Info]

📚 Storytime at the Library
Multiple dates and times
An easy outing with stories, songs, and rhymes for little ones. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Check out our storytime timetable.

👶🏼 Kindergym + Play Groups
Multiple dates and times
Open play with toys, climbing, and space to run around! Great for toddlers and preschoolers (and a nice way to meet other parents). Check out our Kindergym & Play Groups timetable to find one near you.

Hope you enjoyed this issue of Little Local! Please reply with any feedback and suggestions :)

P.S. Would you like to get your business in front of thousands of local Victoria families? Email us at [email protected].

Final Note: I do my best to keep everything accurate, but I am only human so the odd mistake might sneak in! If you catch one, feel free to let me know.