Residents in Sooke gathered to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the district’s incorporation as a municipality on Saturday.

The community celebrated the milestone at Woodside Farm with cupcakes, kids being able to pet animals like goats and donkeys, and hay rides through the farmland.

“Just celebrate what a great place Sooke is,” Maja Tait, District of Sooke mayor, said.

Tait said while the municipality is only 25 years-old, the district has a vast history.

In 1864 gold was discovered in the water where the Sooke River meets the Leech River, attracting thousands of people to the region.

Watch the full story in the video below:

Within two years the gold dried up, leading many to leave the area.

Tait said those who stayed ended up diversifying their industries.

“Fishing, logging, fa

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