Tall Ship Festival

The Victoria Tall Ship Festival started with a sailpast at the breakwater around noon today. The water was good for sailing, but a bit overcast and windy. It was great because all the ships were able to have their sales full. They enter the inner harbour this afternoon and will be available for boarding during the festival. Apparently it was too bumpy to have people board the boats while at sea today for a ride. Thousands were on hand at the Dallas Road breakwater today to watch the sailpast.
There are many interesting boats in the Festival this year. One of the coolest looking was a replica of the Pinta, sailed by Christopher Columbus. For more information click here.

Wanna Get Goosed

It is amazing that Canada has a Canada Goose problem. Since there are few predators, the Canada Goose population has soared. Parks, golf courses and beaches are being visited by these grand birds in record numbers and of course they leave their poop everywhere. At one of our local golf courses a dog named Chloe was sent out to keep them in the air. After two years of harassment, the Goose no longer land there. Nice work Chloe. At another course yesterday, we had to clean the goose poop of the wheels of our golf carts. We need more Chloes. The are magnificent birds. Perhaps our food shelters could start serving Sunday goose dinners. Oh so cute when they are little and fuzzy!

The Best Soft Serve in Town Turns 50

They say that nothing lasts for every. Well maybe so, but the Beacon Drive Inn next to Beacon Hill Park has now been open for 50 years and the new owner plans to keep things as is. For many years they have pumped out the best soft ice cream cones in the world. I have taken so many people there and everyone has confirmed what I believe is the best soft ice cream anywhere. On a hot summer day there is a line up stretching out into the street. It is amazing that their machines do not blow up! They serve pretty good food also, but I go there mainly for the ice cream and will continue to do so. Give it a try, you will not be disappointed.

Rare White Raven

This is not an albino raven. Apparently it comes from a couple of ravens that produce both white and black young. This year two white ravens have been spotted in Qualicum Beach. The frequent the playing fields behind the Ravensong Aquatic Centre, however I found this one behind the water towers in the public works yard. Word has it they hang around there a lot. I think the other white one is in the background, however I did not see it until I took a close look at my pictures. These are very rare indeed. Luck was with me.

Tea PartyWas a Hoot!

The weather half cooperated and it was a fun time at the Oak Bay Tea Party. Attendance was good and there was fun to be had. My granddaughter brought home a raccoon the size of a Volkswagen. If you get a chance when you visit Victoria, check out the local festivals. You may have more fun than you think.

One Heck of a Tea Party

Given a spot of good weather and Willows Beach, a popular sandy beach in Oak Bay, will turn into one of the busiest places in all of Victoria this coming weekend. The 46 year old Oak Bay Tea Party kicks off this weekend and it has something for everyone. There is a parade, rides, competitions, bands, and much more. If you are looking for a good family event, check it out. The beach should be alive.