September is a time of transition, where the last days of summer blend into the crisp beginnings of autumn. And we do autumn WELL here in Abbotsford! This month offers an array of activities perfect for savoring the season. From exploring local farms during the harvest season to enjoying outdoor festivals and scenic walks along the Fraser River, Abbotsford is brimming with experiences that capture the essence of this magical month. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor eager to explore, here are ten must-do activities to make the most of this beautiful time of year in Abbotsford.
Apple picking is the perfect way to ease out of summer and into fall! Willow View Farms not only offers apple picking in their orchards but they also have farm animal friends, a fabulous farm shop and even apple cider slushies which are especially enjoyable on a warm day. Stay tuned to their U-Pick page to see which apples are ripe for picking!
Join artist Jarred Genaille of Indigicree Hoop Dancing Co. to learn about the traditional art of hoop dancing. This session includes a presentation on the history and significance of the dance form, live performance, and a participatory workshop. This workshop is free for all ages and registration is required.
September 7th, 2024 from 10am – 12pm
The Culture City: Program Series is a new annual series of multicultural community programming hosted across the City from June to November. Participants will learn more about the rich and diverse cultures and communities in Abbotsford through free, interactive, family friendly arts and culture programming and events.
Matsqui Recreation Centre | 3106 Clearbrook Road
Whether your looking for a delicious cocktail OR a mocktail, Ripples Winery & New Wave Distilling has got you covered! We really love their Hubba Bubba mocktail which includes a yummy passionfruit smoke bubble on top! This beautiful spot has the most incredible garden you can wander through while enjoying your bevvies and it’s dog-friendly so you can bring your four-legged friends along with you.
The Taste of Abby Fall Food Festival runs from September 13th – 22nd, 2024 and it’s your opportunity to savour unique culinary experiences at the peak of the harvest season. Explore a selection of diverse events, tasting menus and limited-edition creations. Treat your palate to Abbotsford’s rich history, culture and cultivations at this celebration in the beautiful Fraser Valley. Events include the Night Market, Pickleball & Pints, Movie in the Vineyards at Cannon Estate Winery, a Guided Circle Farm Tour, a Harvest Dinner at Singletree Winery and more! Check out the full events calendar HERE.
Matsqui Trail Regional Park (Máthekwi) is located along the shorelines of the Fraser River and makes for a beautiful place to go for an end-of-summer walk! The 16.86km trail is made up of 9.16km of gravel dike trail and 7.7km of gravel foreshore trail with incredible views all around. It’s also a dog-friendly trail and a great spot for a campfire (when there are no fire bans on).
The MCC Festival for World Relief is the ultimate Mennonite heritage celebration, featuring beloved eastern-European dishes passed down through generations. Indulge in the flavours of “oma’s” kitchen like Vereniki & Sausage, Borscht, Watermelon & Rollkuchen, and Plumi Moos. This year, all proceeds and donations at the MCC Festival will provide food to vulnerable and displaced families in Lebanon, Syria, Ethiopia and beyond. Go eat some delicious food and support a good cause!
September 13th from 5pm-9pm
September 14th from 8am-2pm
September is normally filled with lots of sunny days but sometimes we do get a good, rainy day thrown in the mix. We are in British Columbia after all! Grab your friends and head to Galaxy Bowl for some friendly competition! (Gutter guards are optional)
The Mt Lehman Fall Fair is a longstanding tradition in the Mt Lehman community and is fun for all ages! Enjoy rides, games, craft markets, live music, a car show and even a chicken dinner. The fair is spread out between the Mt Lehman Community Hall and Mt Lehman Elementary School so there’s plenty of places to explore while spending a day at the fair.
September 21st, 2024 starting at 8am, rides from 10am – 4pm
Learn about what bees do for the environment and how important they are with an educational tour at Campbell’s Gold Honey Farm & Meadery! This family owned diversified farm operation and apiary is passionate about all things bees, from beekeeping and agri-education, to offering premium beehive products, with a focus on specialty honeys and honey wine production. After your tour, pay a visit to their farm shop where you can do a tasting of their honey mead (so delicious!) and buy yourself some beeswax candles.
If you’ve been wanting to learn more about what Truth and Reconciliation means to you then make plans to attend the Stetís ímexstowx (Walk Beside Us) on September 30th at Abbotsford’s Civic Plaza. Local civic organizations have united to create a space for learning and understanding in order to share learning opportunities for the public about Truth and Reconciliation, as well as the history of Residential Schools.
September 30th, 2024 from 10am – 3pm
If you’re trying out any of the activities listed above, don’t forget to share your memories with us on Instagram by tagging @tourismabbotsford and using #ExploreAbbotsford!