Summer in Vancouver: UBC Farm

One of the best parts of summer in Vancouver is enjoying fresh, local food. And one of the best places to enjoy fresh, local food in Vancouver is the UBC Farm. As the only working farm in Vancouver, it offers a unique opportunity to see and experience exactly where your food comes from. And you’re not the only one who can experience this – your kids can, too. With three weekly markets, there are lots of chances for your whole family to get up close and personal with your food.

Creating Sustainable Food Systems

With the UBC Farm being located on a university, it’s probably no surprise that they’re at the forefront of growing food. The farm is home to the Centre for Sustainable Food Systems, which is a “living laboratory” that aims to transform local and global food systems towards a more sustainable, food secure future. The centre offers children’s programs, including FarmWonders. These fun, educational and innovative programs for kids aged six to fourteen promote environmental awareness through science-based farm learning. Find out more at farmwonders.ca.

Visit the Farm Markets

One of the best ways to learn more about UBC Farm is to visit one of those three weekly markets we mentioned. Their multi-vendor market runs at the farm on Saturdays from 9:00am-1:00pm. It runs from June 21 – October. You’lll find farm-fresh veggies, fruits, herbs, flowers and free-range eggs from the UBC Farm. There are also a variety of other local growers, bakers, craftspeople, prepared food and live musicians on site. Park outside of the farm gate in the lot or on Ross Drive, or take transit or cycle. Occasionally special events happen during the Saturday market – this past weekend it was all about “Pollinator Power”.

You can also pick up produce and eggs from the UBC Farm at their other two weekly markets. The first happens at the farm on Tuesdays from 4:30-6:30pm, and the second happens at the UBC Bookstore on Wednesdays from 11:30am-1:30pm.