Discover Vancouver Island’s farm-fresh turkeys, produce, and artisan treats for a holiday feast that’s local, delicious, and unforgettable.
Taste the Season: Farm-Fresh Feasts Await
When it comes to holiday meals, there’s nothing like the satisfaction of knowing every bite comes straight from local farms. From plump turkeys and heirloom potatoes to artisan breads and freshly harvested cranberries, Vancouver Island is a treasure trove for food lovers aiming to create the perfect festive spread.
Farm-to-Table Adventures
Shopping locally is more than a chore it’s a full-on edible adventure. Farmers’ markets, farm shops, and roadside stalls around Greater Victoria offer an irresistible variety of produce and artisanal goods.
Stop by Michell’s Farm Market for pasture-raised beef and crisp seasonal veggies. At Dan’s Farm and Country Market, pick up fresh fruit and vegetables grown just steps from the store. Country Bee Honey Farm adds extra holiday cheer with free-range turkeys, Christmas trees, honey, and handmade beeswax candles that double as festive table décor.
For bakers, Millstone Farm and Organics Inc. offers gluten-free flours, Canadian maple sugar, and freshly ground spices, ensuring your holiday treats are both wholesome and flavorful. Meanwhile, Fickle Fig Farm Market combines a bistro, bakery, and farm shop where seasonal breads, pastries, and festive treats can be enjoyed with a steaming cup of mulled wine.
Meet the Makers: Butchers with Passion
If meat is the centerpiece of your holiday table, you’ll want to meet the Island’s master butchers. Fraser Orr Butcher and Deli in Saanichton continues a family tradition of British classics—from sausages and haggis to perfectly roasted racks of lamb. Fraser and Lori Orr emphasize local sourcing, ensuring products are free of hormones and antibiotics, while Lori’s soups, pies, and mincemeat tarts provide convenience without compromising flavor.
Meanwhile, Berryman Brothers Meat Ltd. in Central Saanich takes farm-to-table to the next level. Their shop is packed with pork, lamb, beef, and even Fraser Valley duck, much of it frozen and ready for online orders. They offer everything from whole hogs to party-ready charcuterie boxes, combining convenience with true farm freshness.
Turkey Time: Your Local Holiday Star
Finding a locally-raised turkey can be tricky, but Vancouver Island makes it possible. Berryman Brothers supply free-range turkeys, while Fraser Orr prepares bread- and sausage-stuffed turkey rolls. Carnivore Meats adds grass-fed lamb, beef, and pork to the menu, plus seasonal free-range turkeys. Planning ahead is key, as these holiday stars are snapped up quickly.
Why Local Matters
Buying local isn’t just delicious it’s essential. Supporting Island farms shortens supply chains, strengthens the community, and connects you with the people who grow your food. From sparkling local bubblies to sustainably-farmed caviar and oysters, local luxury products let you celebrate in style while keeping dollars and stories close to home.
This holiday season, make your feast unforgettable. Shop local, savor every bite, and share the joy of Vancouver Island’s farm-fresh bounty with friends and family.
For more farm-to-table destinations, check the Southern Vancouver Island Direct Farm Marketing Association’s Island Farm Fresh guide at islandfarmfresh.com.
