The first day of fall is this Friday, September 22nd, as if you couldn’t tell by looking at the goosebumps on your arm this week.
Dramatic fall foliage, cozy sweaters, and mugs of hot chocolate are just around the corner. Before that though, have a go at one of these great fall activities in and around Kitsilano.
Stock Up and Eat Up
Just as the squirrels outside are frantically hiding hazelnuts and acorns in the ground, you too should be stocking up on some winter food (because, have you read the news lately?). Apples, carrots, beets, garlic, beans, onions, potatoes, and squash all store well for many weeks and can be bought right now at the Kitsilano Farmers Market. The market is on for another month until October 22nd and runs Sundays from 10am till 2pm.
While at the market, do indulge in some serious comfort food from the onsite food vendors including the Chili Tank, Melt City Grilled Cheese, Creperie La Boheme, and The Schnitzel Shack. Not heading to the market? Try pizzas and pastas at Nook on Yew Street (they even do a breakfast pizza for brunch on the weekends) or an after-work beer and pulled pork dish at Deacon’s Corner on West Broadway.
Decorate
It’s never too early for pumpkins and the U-Pick Pumpkin Pile at the UBC Farm is a good place to get them. Look for the ghoulishly grey ones for something different this year. The U-Pick is open during market hours on Saturdays from 9am till 1pm and pumpkins range between $5 to $15.
Take a Hike
Wander along the now nearly empty stretches of Kits Beach and beyond for a peaceful stroll, take the dogs with you and navigate the winding paths in the Pacific Spirit Regional Park, or go on a guided tour at the VanDusen Botanical Garden and learn about the native bird species that make their home there. Alternatively, head to the North Shore and go for the last grind of the season at Grouse Mountain – that gruelling uphill trail generally closes sometime in November, depending on the weather.
Last modified: September 21, 2017
