Fall is here. Whether you’re still reminiscing over the last days of summer or already reaching for your favorite sweater, fall in Victoria is a special time. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and the city feels brimming with new possibilities. So embrace the cozy spirit of fall in the city and make the most of the season with your loved ones!
At Mustard Seed, we believe fall is more than just a season: it’s a chance to slow down, spend time with loved ones, and find ways to meaningfully give back to our community. For decades, we’ve loved serving our community in Victoria, providing food, care, and support for families who need it most. And this fall, we’d love for you to experience the best of the city while keeping connection and community at the heart of it all.
The air is crisp, the leaves are changing, and it’s the perfect time to slow down and soak in the season. Whether you love exploring outdoors, discovering local markets, or finding meaningful ways to give back, there are plenty of ways to make this fall memorable for you and your family.
Here are 5 free or nearly free things you can do in Victoria this fall:
1. Experience the Salmon Run at Goldstream River
One of the most incredible natural events in Victoria happens every fall at Goldstream River. This is the prime place to see the salmon run up close, with Chum salmon being the most common. The river comes alive with activity, and it’s an unforgettable experience to share with kids or out-of-town visitors.
Beyond the captivating salmon run, the park also has a variety of beautiful forest trails and picnic areas, so you can easily make a whole day adventure of it. Best of all, it’s completely free and a great reminder of the natural beauty we’re lucky to have so close to the city.
2. Explore Beacon Hill Park
Beacon Hill Park is beautiful all year round, but it truly shines in autumn. The trees burst with vibrant colours, the trails are perfect for a crisp walk and the grounds are great for a picnic. The park is also home to ducks, herons, and even peacocks, which makes it fun for both kids and adults alike.
To make your visit even better, grab some grub from The Beacon Drive In! They serve classic, made-to-order hamburgers and fries at affordable prices, making it the perfect spot to pick up food for your Beacon Hill picnic. The Beacon Drive-In is a beloved 1950s-style diner known for its crispy fries, creamy shakes, and famous soft-serve ice cream. It’s located right across from Beacon Hill Park, so you can easily grab your food and enjoy it outdoors surrounded by fall colors.
3. Volunteer with the Mustard Seed or Donate to support families in Victoria
One of the most meaningful ways to spend your fall is by giving back to your local community. At the Mustard Seed, we’re always looking for volunteers to help sort food, lend a hand in our kitchen, or support the programs we run for families in Victoria, because we provide food to more than 60,000 people per month!
This year, Mustard Seed is making 50-years of fighting hunger and nurturing the community. We love welcoming families, schools, and groups to join us. Volunteering together is a wonderful way to connect while experiencing firsthand the value of kindness. Just note that all volunteers need to be 16 and older! Whether you can give a few hours or a few dollars, your support keeps our community strong and cared for.
If your schedule is packed, donating and giving financially is another way to make a difference.
4. Browse Local Fall Markets
There’s something about fall markets that feels extra cozy. From the Moss Street Market (which runs all year long on Saturdays starting at 10 am) to smaller neighborhood gatherings, markets are a chance to meet the people who grow your food, bake your bread, and create unique art.
Even if you don’t buy much, strolling the aisles is fun and a great way to soak up the season. Every purchase, no matter how small, supports local farmers and makers who keep Victoria’s community strong. For a full list of markets to explore, check out BC Farms and Food’s guide for more information.
5. Walk the Dallas Road Waterfront
For a refreshing dose of ocean air, head to Dallas Road. The seaside path is perfect for a family walk or bike ride. You might even spot seals or other wildlife in the water. It’s an easy, free way to connect with nature right in the city.
Fall in Victoria is about slowing down, enjoying the beauty around you, and finding ways to connect with others. Whether you’re wandering Beacon Hill Park, cheering on the salmon at Goldstream, or spending an afternoon helping at the Mustard Seed, these moments make the season meaningful.
🍂 At the Mustard Seed Street Church, we’d love to welcome you to be part of our community this fall. From volunteering your time to donating food or resources, every act of kindness helps us support families in Victoria.
If you’d like to stay connected, you can also subscribe to our email list for updates on how your support is making a difference and new opportunities to get involved.