Discover Surrey has launched Surrey’s Signature Experiences – Explore. Taste. Connect., a new initiative developed in partnership with eight independent local businesses. The program reflects a shift in how destinations are promoted, moving beyond marketing to the creation of immersive visitor experiences that celebrate Surrey’s culture, nature, and creativity.
The destination marketing organization has spent nearly two years collaborating with Surrey entrepreneurs to bring these experiences to life. Each offering has been developed to showcase a unique side of the city through food, art, adventure, and wellness, providing year-round opportunities for visitors to engage more deeply with the community.
At Mainland Whisky, The Art of Distilling – The Mainland Whisky Story takes guests behind the scenes to explore the whisky-making process and sample four distinct styles. Founder Steve Watts shares his journey from crafting corn whisky on a Texas ranch to establishing a Surrey distillery known for innovation.
Nature enthusiasts can join the Beginner Birding Experience with Birds and Brews, guided by local birder Kris Cu. Participants learn to identify species, use binoculars, and understand conservation while enjoying a local craft brew afterward.
At Mann & Co. Bakeshop, Food Network’s Is It Cake? champion Jujhar Mann hosts Cupcake Decorating with Jujhar, where guests use professional piping tools and toppings to create their own artistic confections.
The Honeybee Centre offers Honeybees 101, a seasonal experience with two versions: the hands-on Hive Tour in warmer months and Beeswax Creations workshops in the cooler season. Guests gain insight into the life of bees and the craft of candle-making using pure beeswax.
Wine lovers can book Lifestyle and Wine Tasting at Vinoscenti Vineyards, an immersive session combining vineyard tours, storytelling, and interactive tasting. The experience ends with a curated food pairing that highlights the vineyard’s commitment to sustainable practices.
At Healing Sounds Studio, Discover Sound Healing offers a restorative sound meditation using crystal singing bowls, gongs, and traditional instruments from around the world, designed to promote calm and balance.
Food enthusiasts can join Spice of Life – Surrey Spice Trail with Chew on This Tasty Tours, a culinary exploration of four local restaurants representing cuisines from along the historical Spice Route. Participants meet the families behind each business, taste regional dishes, and learn about the spices that define each culture’s cuisine.
Finally, The Bollywood Dance Experience with SHIAMAK immerses guests in the history and energy of Bollywood. Participants learn iconic moves, dance to classic and modern hits, and gain insight into the influence of film and music on Indian culture.
Marketing Director Jenny Mourad says the new experiences are designed to support independent businesses while offering visitors authentic ways to connect with Surrey. With six distinct neighbourhoods and a balance of city and nature, the initiative reflects a growing trend of local collaboration shaping the future of tourism in British Columbia.
Bookings for Surrey’s Signature Experiences – Explore. Taste. Connect. are now available directly through the participating businesses. More information can be found at Discover Surrey.