As the warm embrace of summer begins to wane and the crisp air of autumn approaches, the Fraser Valley offers a plethora of activities to savour the season’s end. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Chilliwack, Abbotsford, and Fort Langley present a charming array of experiences tailored for women over 50. From indulging in gourmet food tours to exploring serene lakes and quaint wineries, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable transition from summer to fall.
Chilliwack
Consider taking a food tour in Chilliwack’s District 1881. This tour offers a delightful exploration of local culinary gems, breweries, and bakeries. Enjoy the tour with the assistance of a digital guide or through the eyes of a local resident! Either way, you’ll enjoy a 40 minute guided mural tour to see works by local and international artists. It’s the perfect break between tastings!
Enjoy the summer sun at Cultus Lake. You can suntan on the docks or rent pedal boats, paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes for a sunset adventure on the lake. The watersides are a popular attraction at Cultus Lake Water Park.
The Chilliwack Mural Festival is an annual celebration of public art that transforms downtown Chilliwack into a vibrant outdoor gallery. Taking place from August 15 to 17, 2024, this event showcases the creative talents of both local and international muralists, including artists from Argentina, Belgium, Mexico, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The festival is not just about murals; it’s a lively street party featuring over 40 performers, music, dancing, and family-friendly
activities. Highlights include the Graffiti Jam, where attendees can learn about graffiti art, and a variety of perform
ances on the Sasquatch and Thunderbird Stages, offering everything from indie rock to Indigenous cultural displays. With free mural tours and interactive installations, the Chilliwack Mural Festival is a dynamic event that celebrates creativity, culture, and community spirit.
Abbotsford
The Taste of Abby festival in Abbotsford is an exceptional event for women over 50 looking to enjoy a rich tapestry of culinary delights and cultural experiences. Running from September 13 to 22, 2024, this festival celebrates the peak of the harvest season with a variety of activities that highlight the region’s agricultural bounty and culinary creativity. Women can indulge in the Taste of Abby Night Market, featuring dishes crafted from local ingredients, handcrafted beverages, and live music, all set in the charming ambiance of Jubilee Park. Beyond the night market, the festival offers unique experiences such as the Paint n’ Sip event at Taves Estate Cidery, guided farm tours, and the Beyond Bubbles Mixed Craft Tour, which includes tastings at premier wineries, a cidery, and a brewery. These events provide a perfect opportunity for women to socialize, explore local flavors, and enjoy the vibrant community spirit of Abbotsford.
This Abbotsford tour offers a delightful exploration of the area’s vibrant culinary scene. This five-hour tour, available from Wednesday to Saturday, invites participants to experience the best of Abbotsford’s local flavours through curated tastings at va
rious establishments. The tour includes all tastings, taxes, and gratuities, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests. Partici
pants can expect to savour a diverse range of foods, from artisanal ice creams to savoury delights, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. The tour not only highlights the culinary offerings but also introduces guests to the stories and people behind each location, providing an immersive and personal connection to the community. This all-inclusive adventure is perfect for those looking to indulge in the rich tastes of Abbotsford while supporting local businesses. Available as an independently led experience or with the guidance of a local!
Another fantastic option for women over 50 to enjoy in Abbotsford during August and September is the Symphony in the Park event. Scheduled for August 16, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Mill Lake Park, this outdoor concert features live music performed by the Fraser Valley Symphony, creating a delightful atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment. Attendees can bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit back and soak in the beautiful surroundings while listening to a variety of musical selections.
Fort Langley
Join a food tour in Fort Langley with Chew On This Tasty Tours. This tour includes high tea and visits to local shops and wineries, offering a comprehensive taste of the area. The most popular tour for five years running and written about by Restaurant Critic for the Vancouver Sun, Mia Stainsby.
In Fort Langley, women over 50 can look forward to several engaging events in August and September. At Locality Brewing in collaboration with Camp Beer is Live at the Lagoon. This event features live music performances in a picturesque outdoor setting, creating a perfect backdrop for relaxation and enjoyment. Attendees can bring their own seating, enjoy food trucks. It promises to be a delightful afternoon of music and community connection.
Held every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the Fort Langley Farmers’ Market showcases a delightful selection of local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. Located in the parking lot outside St. Andrews Historic Church, the market features around 30 to 48 vendors. They offer everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to baked goods and local wines. This medium-sized market is particularly lively during the summer months. This makes it an ideal destination for women over 50 to explore, socialize, and support local businesses. Visitors can also enjoy the charming surroundings of Fort Langley. The historic buildings and scenic views, enhance the overall experience. Consider booking a tour with Chew On This Tasty Tours on the same day as the market. Or stay overnight at the Sandman Signature Hotel closeby and take the tour on a Sunday.
Complementing the daytime market, the Fort Langley Night Market takes place on Friday evenings from late June to late September. Here you’ll find a unique atmosphere filled with food trucks, live music, and local artisans. With free admission, this market creates a relaxed and festive environment. It’s perfect for women travelers looking to unwind after a day of exploration. The night market allows attendees to sample a variety of cuisines while enjoying the vibrant community spirit of Fort Langley. Together, these markets provide a rich experience for women travellers. They combine local culture, culinary delights, and the opportunity to connect with the community.
These activities provide a blend of relaxation, exploration, and culinary delight, perfect for marking the transition from summer to fall.
