A new Tasting Passport app allows users to create their own self-guided food tour of regions across B.C., including the Sunshine Coast, with a goal to reach “Superfoodie” status and an opportunity to redeem points for fun prizes.
Melissa Maltais, membership and programs manager for the BC Association of Farmers Markets (BCAFM), likes the idea of having such a large assortment of farmers markets highlighted on an app.
“And then also having all of those additional featured listings too, which makes it even more fun,” she says.
Maltais explains, every year the BCAFM works on an initiative in order to apply for funding through Destination BC’s Co-op Marketing program.
“And this year, we decided we wanted to do a really fun tasting passport app in order for all of our farmers markets to, not only have a listing in an app… but we wanted there to be a challenge to it, so something extra fun, where people could check in and earn points,” says Maltais.
Maltais adds the BCAFM put out a call to tourism offices across B.C. last fall, looking for hyper-local, food-related locations with an agri-tourism focus, including farm-to-table restaurants, local breweries with connections to farms, a petting zoo, markets and Indigenous attractions and activities. Content for the Sunshine Coast itinerary was curated with support from Sunshine Coast Tourism.
The goal is for food lovers and road trippers to use the app to plan their own route, collecting points along the way, which can then be exchanged for fun prizes.
“We have limited quantities, but we have these really fun socks that have vegetables on them, so they can redeem points for the veggie socks or for a packet of beneficial pollinator seeds from West Coast Seeds,” says Maltais.
The Sunshine Coast Tasting Passport options include:
Starting in 2017 with just two vendors selling homemade baked goods, coffee and traditional chai, this local community market has evolved into a “market crawl” around Gambier Harbour. Island residents participate by setting up stalls at the end of their driveways to sell baked goods, fresh veggies, fruits, and flowers from their gardens, and handmade art and crafts.
The Powell River Summer Farmers’ Market operates every Saturday, from May through September and on Sundays 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. year-round. An important community event, visitors gather to enjoy a cold drink, hot meal, live music or a ride on the miniature train with the kids.
The Davis Bay Farmers market strives to be “beyond organic,” with fresh, local and diverse produce from growers’ gardens to their neighbours’ table. Located next to historic Davis Bay-Wilson Creek Community Hall, the market offers drop-in vending to all locally made product vendors and goods.
Sechelt Farmers and Artisans Market
With more than 60 vendors on hand from April through October, the Sechelt Farmers & Artisans Market is the largest outdoor market on the Sunshine Coast – rain or shine — supplying the community with garden-fresh produce, fresh seafood, craft beer, baked goods, fresh-cut flowers and artisan crafts every Saturday morning.
Things To Taste
The Lagoon Restaurant at Painted Boat Resort, Spa & Marina
Indulge in locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list amidst a romantic or friendly ambiance. Seasonal menus and upcoming events promise a delightful dining experience on the Sunshine Coast.
Wild Scoop Ice Cream in Powell River brings joy with its variety of flavors and creamy treats.
Things To Do
Farm Ventures in Roberts Creek provides a unique interactive farm experience with a variety of happy animals. From petting zoos to trail rides, there’s fun for everyone. Mobile petting farms and pony rides are available for special events. Award-winning and loved by visitors for its joyful atmosphere and animal care.
Shaggy Jack’s in Gibsons leads educational eco-tours specializing in wild and sustainable food through immersive workshops and experiences. Sign up for a foraging excursion or visit the food market full of locally sourced items.
Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park
Explore Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park and view the natural wonder that is the Skkoumchuck Narrows from Roland Point or North Point. The turbulent Sechelt Rapids undergo a dramatic transformation, with water levels fluctuating by more than nine feet, creating spectacular whirlpools, attracting extreme kayakers and divers from around the world.
Terracentric Coastal Adventures
From Zodiac boat tours to sea kayaking, hiking, and more, Terracentric offers a range of experiences for all ages and skill levels. Located in Lund, B.C., their Coastal Adventure Centre overlooks the harbour and provides a hub for exploring the marine environment.
Discover the historic Patricia Theatre, in Powell River, home to Canadian films, tours and festivals. Enjoy a variety of genres, from drama to comedy. Support the qathet film society and experience the magic of cinema in a unique setting.
Explore the shíshálh Nation’s government structure, cultural heritage and diverse support services. Visit the tems swiya Museum showcasing artifacts and interactive displays. Engage with the rich history and development initiatives of the shíshálh Nation.
Talaysay Tours goes beyond traditional tours, sharing the heart and culture of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and shíshálh people. Explore nature, art and history through unique immersive experiences.
Other locations taking part in the Tasting Passports initiative include North Vancouver, Burnaby, Vernon, Caribou Chilcoton Coast, Comox Valley, Delta, Nelson and Kootenay Lake, Parksville Qualicum Beach, Prince George, Squamish and Surrey. The Tasting Passport app is located in the Google and Apple stores or by searching bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/get-the-app/.
