A two part event is coming to the Comox Valley that celebrates local agriculture and tourism.
The event will be put on by the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce, RLR Lawyers and Experience Comox Valley. It is described as a day of learning, connection, and celebration located at Smith Lake Farm.
"On Thursday, August 28, 2025, guests are welcome to join us at 1481 Larkin Road in Merville for a two-part event that showcases the richness of local agriculture and tourism," a release from the chamber says.
The day begins with the Agri-Tourism Roundtable titled Stories from the Field, running from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.. This session will feature a panel of local agri-tourism entrepreneurs who will share their personal journeys, challenges, and successes in building farm-based tourism experiences. Attendees will hear from Clea Adair of Smith Lake Farm, Twila Skinner of the Comox Valley Farmers' Market, Brenda Hetman-Craig of 40 Knots Winery, Fiona McQuillan of Fireweed Farmstead, and Craig Nichols of Rusted Rake Brewing. The roundtable will feature individual presentations from each panelist and a concluding Q and A session. This Roundtable is offered free of charge.
The roundtable will be followed by a complimentary bee tour on Smith Lake Farm. The tour starts at 3 p.m.
"Smith Lake Farm is committed to sustainable beekeeping practices and raises local bees with mite-resistant qualities," the release says. "The tour offers a chance to learn about the farm鈥檚 apiary and the critical role pollinators play in food security."
Space is limited to 10 participants per tour, and pre-registration is required. Guests are asked to wear closed-toe shoes and tie back long hair for safety.
Later in the day, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. will be the second annual Summer BBQ and Agri-tour. This gathering will feature a farm-fresh BBQ dinner prepared by LUSH Valley Catering using Smith Lake Farm products and locally sourced ingredients. Guests will also enjoy tastings from Natural Pastures Cheese Company and 40 Knots Winery, both Chamber Members known for their award-winning offerings.
During the BBQ event, guests will have another opportunity to tour the apiary with bee tours scheduled at 4:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.. These tours are complimentary for registered BBQ guests and open to guests ages three and up, with a maximum of 10 participants per tour. As with the earlier tour, pre-registration is required, and safety guidelines must be followed.
Partial proceeds from the BBQ event will support the Comox Valley Farmers' Market Association鈥檚 New Farmer Bursary, helping to nurture the next generation of local producers.
"Guests are encouraged to make the most of their visit by booking a glamping stay at Smith Lake Farm," the release says.
A 20 per cent discount is available for Chamber Members booking a two-night stay. Reservations can be made online, and early booking is recommended to secure a spot.
"This event is a celebration of community, sustainability, and the bounty of the Comox Valley," the release says. "Whether you're a seasoned agri-tourism operator, a curious visitor, or a local food enthusiast, the Comox Valley Chamber and Smith Lake Farm welcome you to connect, learn, and enjoy the beauty of the farm."
For more information and to register for both the Roundtable and the BBQ, please visit or call the Chamber Business Hub at 250-465-0019.
