Celebrating Our Local Businesses

Page updated August 6, 2024

The District of Sooke is proud to celebrate the vibrant and diverse array of local businesses that contribute to the unique charm and economic vitality of our community. From artisanal markets to fine arts shows, our local businesses are at the heart of what makes Sooke special. Here, you can find resources and information to connect with and support our thriving business community.

Sooke Chamber of Commerce Directory

The Sooke Chamber of Commerce is a resource for local businesses, providing support, advocacy, and networking opportunities. The Chamber’s directory is a comprehensive guide to the businesses that make Sooke a dynamic place to live, work, and visit. Explore the Sooke Chamber of Commerce Directory to discover local businesses, services, and opportunities.

Sooke Region Tourism Association

The Sooke Region Tourism Association (SRTA) plays a key role in promoting tourism and supporting businesses in the region. Their directory offers information on accommodations, dining, activities, and attractions that showcase the best of Sooke. Visit the Sooke Region Tourism Association to learn more about what our beautiful region has to offer.

Celebrating Local Markets and Events

Sooke Country Market

Every Saturday, the Sooke Country Market brings together local farmers, artisans, and vendors to offer fresh produce, handmade goods, and unique crafts. Located at the corner of Otter Point Road and Rhodonite, the market is a hub of community activity and a testament to our commitment to supporting local agriculture and small businesses. Join us at the Sooke Country Market and experience the best of local produce and crafts. The Market runs every Saturday from 10am – 2pm from April 20th until October 12th.

Sooke Night Market

The Sooke Night Market at the Sooke Region Museum and Visitor Information Centre is a lively event that takes place during the summer months, offering a festive atmosphere with food trucks, live music, and a variety of vendors. It’s a great way to spend a warm evening, meet local artisans, and enjoy the vibrant community spirit that defines Sooke. Don’t miss the fun and excitement at the Sooke Night Market.

Highlighting Sooke’s Cultural Events

Sooke Fine Arts Show

The Sooke Fine Arts Show is an annual event that showcases the incredible talent of artists from Vancouver Island and BC’s coastal islands. This prestigious exhibition attracts art lovers from near and far, offering a unique opportunity to view and purchase works of art in a variety of media. The Sooke Fine Arts Show is a highlight of the cultural calendar and a celebration of the creative spirit that thrives in our community.

All Sooke Day

All Sooke Day is a beloved community event that brings together residents and visitors for a day of fun, festivities, and local heritage. With activities ranging from logger sports to live entertainment, All Sooke Day is a testament to our rich history and vibrant community life. Join us for this annual celebration and experience the warmth and camaraderie of Sooke.

Sooke Fall Fair

The Sooke Fall Fair is a cherished tradition that celebrates the agricultural roots and community spirit of Sooke. Featuring exhibits, contests, and demonstrations, the fair is a wonderful opportunity to experience the best of local farming, crafts, and culinary talents. Whether you’re participating or just visiting, the Sooke Fall Fair is a delightful event for all ages.

Expanding Your Business in Sooke

Are you looking to expand your business in Sooke? We invite you to explore the commercial real estate listings available in our community. Sooke offers a range of opportunities for businesses seeking to grow and thrive in a supportive and dynamic environment. View our commercial real estate listings here.

Directory of Resources

To support our local businesses and connect residents and visitors with essential resources, we have compiled a directory of key contacts and information:

By supporting local businesses and participating in community events, you contribute to the economic health and cultural vibrancy of Sooke. Together, we can continue to celebrate and nurture the unique spirit of our town. For more information, please visit our Business Resources Page.

Let’s celebrate Sooke’s local businesses and the events that make our community shine!

Community Economic Development Strategy

The District’s Community Economic Development Committee has developed a Community Economic Development (CED) Strategy and Action Plan (the “Strategy”), which was adopted on December 13, 2021.

Citizen, business and organization engagement was carried out over the summer of 2021, and the Strategy takes into account the feedback provided during the engagement. Development of the Strategy used a Low Carbon Resilience approach to analyze potential actions. The Strategy is nested in Climate Action.

VISION
Sooke’s community economy realizes environmental, social and economic co-benefits for all residents/citizens, is grounded in its vital partnership with the T’Sou-ke First Nation, and is Low Carbon Resilient, diversified, resilient and adaptable.

STRATEGIC GOALS
1. To attract new businesses and organizations that are Low Carbon Resilient. Definition of Low Carbon Resilient businesses are those that, to the greatest extent possible:

  • contribute to a circular economy,
  • protect natural resources and carbon sinks,
  • provide protection from climate risks,
  • lower GHG emissions,
  • identify social, environmental and economic co-benefits as part of the business vision.

2. To support existing businesses and organizations to grow, thrive and create jobs in Sooke.

3. To augment opportunities for all Sooke residents to contribute to, participate in, and benefit from, a healthy community and Low Carbon Resilient economy. Specific strategies and actions with timelines are included, to provide guidance on implementation, and to ensure that implementation begins following Council adoption of the Strategy.

See the final draft iteration of the plan and the Staff Report to Council (a final copy will be available in January 2022)

Checkout Bag Bylaw to Comes into Effect May 22, 2022

This bylaw was adopted at the November 22, 2021 Regular Council meeting and regulates the provision of bags provided to customers at the point of sale; including plastic bags, paper bags, and reusable bags.

This bylaw is in place to encourage consumers to bring their own reusable bags for retail transactions. Following provincial legislation, businesses must charge for paper and reusable checkout bags. The District’s bylaw sets a minimum of $0.25 for paper checkout bags provided at the point of sale, and a minimum of $2.00 for reusable bags.

With this bylaw, businesses are permitted to implement a “take a bag, leave a bag” program for plastic checkout bags to reduce the financial impact on customers for whom the minimum charges for paper bags and reusable bags are prohibitive.

Questions

Our frequently asked questions information sheet address many common inquiries >>

Printable Resources:

Links for Businesses