The SEAPARC Leisure Complex is more than just a swimming pool and an arena. It is also a bike park, hike and bike trail, golf course, ball field and picnic area.
In an effort to highlight the outdoor activities offered by SEAPARC, they will be hosting Picnic in the Park, a one-day free event for people of all ages on Saturday, June 17.
“We wanted an event for the whole family where they can enjoy local live music and activities encouraging active play for all ages,” said Darcy Smith, recreation program assistant at SEAPARC.
A Capital Regional District People Power grant has made it possible for four groups to come together to showcase SEAPARC’s outdoor activity areas. SEAPARC, Gord Phillips Band, Sooke Bike Club and Nolan Riding are joining together to bring families to the park for old fashioned picnic games like tug-o-rope, potato sack races and the like, as well as a BBQ and lots of giveaways.
“We also want to highlight our summer camps. We are fortunate to have Gord Phillips Band who will be starting the show with the Restitution Song which all the elementary students learned from Gord,” Smith said, adding there will be a sing-a-long at 11 a.m.
Other events include the Sooke Bike Club teaching bike maintenance, Nolan Riding will host pump track races and there will be a dirt jam with prizes for the best tricks. SEAPARC will have a Spin to Win wheel and summer camp staff will organize picnic games.
Smith wants people to know about the Hike and Bike Trail and Bike Park which was a community-based initiative.
Both are used a lot, said Smith and the Stan Jones ball field is a beautiful setting for ball games or picnics.
The trail, which connects SEAPARC to Journey Middle School is well-used and has been upgraded with no steep grades. The trail is used by more than 2,000 people a month. The trail also runs beside the DeMamiel Golf Course which was purchased by the CRD and continues to draw people to the links. Seniors’ rates have been extended Monday to Friday where golfers can play 18 holes for the price of 9. There is a ticket dispenser at the entrance to the golf course.
Picnic in the Park runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sooke Bike Park and Stan Jones Ball Field. Bring a picnic, a blanket and the kids for this free family event. Attendees are encouraged to walk or bike to the event.
“It’s going to be a ton of fun,” Smith said.