Vancouver Island Community Calendar
Explore the vibrant tapestry of annual festivities, cultural showcases, and outdoor competitions on Vancouver Island. Plan your visit to coincide with awe-inspiring natural spectacles, captivating wildlife encounters, and engaging events that showcase the island's rich heritage. Whether you're drawn to outdoor music recitals, local art fairs, or historical exhibitions, Vancouver Island promises a captivating array of local festivities and entertainment.
Victoria Film Festival (February)
Experience the Victoria Film Festival, a carefully curated selection of films gathered from around the globe. Over ten days, this celebration not only offers a chance to view some of the year's best films but also provides a unique opportunity to engage with the filmmakers themselves. Consider Film Passes for daily screenings or opt for the convenience of 5-Film or 10-Film ticket packages.
For more information, visit: www.victoriafilmfestival.com
Pacific Rim Whale Festival (mid-March to early April)
Witness the awe-inspiring northward migration of 21,000 Gray whales along Vancouver Island's west coast during the Pacific Rim Whale Festival. Enjoy prime viewing spots as these magnificent creatures feed in shallow waters. Delve deeper into their world through educational programs presented by ocean scientists and whale researchers. For a closer encounter, embark on a whale-watching tour from Tofino or Ucluelet.
For more information, visit: Pacific Rim Whale Festival
Brant Wildlife Festival (April)
Celebrate the migratory stopover of over 20,000 Brant geese in Parksville and Qualicum Beach. The Brant Festival, held in early April, features nature talks, guided tours, photography workshops, and a birding competition, capturing the essence of this natural phenomenon.
For more information, visit: www.brantfestival.bc.ca
Swiftsure Sailing Race (May)
Experience the spectacle of the Swiftsure Sailing Race, the Pacific Northwest's longest-running yacht race. Hosted by the Royal Victoria Yacht Club, the race attracts around 200 boats, creating a vibrant display of sails across the Juan de Fuca Strait.
For more information, visit: www.swiftsure.org
Great Walk (June)
Participate in North America's toughest pledge walk, covering 63-1/2 kilometers along gravel forestry roads between Tahsis and Gold River. This annual walkathon attracts outdoor enthusiasts, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience while raising funds for charity.
For more information, visit: www.greatwalk.com
Jazz Fest International (June)
Immerse yourself in the sounds of Jazz Fest International as Victoria's stages come alive with performances by jazz artists from around the world. With more than 250 of the finest jazz, blues, and world beat artists, this 10-day festival transforms downtown Victoria into a musical haven.
For more information, visit: www.jazzvictoria.ca
Nanaimo Marine Festival (July)
Don't miss the world-famous Bathtub Race during the Nanaimo Marine Festival in late July. Experience the thrill as participants race across the Georgia Strait in outboard-powered bathtubs, showcasing both competitiveness and humor.
For more information, visit: Loyal Nanaimo Bathtub Society
Lake Town Shakedown (June 28-30, 2024)
The Lake Town Shakedown is an annual music festival that has become a highlight of Cowichan Lake's summer calendar. With its unique floating stage, this festival takes place right on the shimmering waters of the lake, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for music enthusiasts. Renowned artists from various genres grace the stage, captivating the audience with their electrifying performances. From rock and pop to reggae and hip-hop, the Lake Town Shakedown offers a diverse lineup that ensures there's something for everyone with absolutely huge lineup of famous stars, Have a look here https://www.laketownshakedown.com/lineup/
Sunfest Country Music Festival - (August 1 - 4, 2024)
Every summer, the Cowichan Valley comes alive with the twang of guitars and the
heartfelt lyrics of country music during the Sunfest Country Music Festival.
This internationally acclaimed event attracts country music fans from far and wide. With its star-studded lineup, including both established icons and rising stars, Sunfest promises an unforgettable experience for country music enthusiasts. The festival grounds, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Cowichan Valley, offer the perfect setting to kick back, dance, and create lifelong memories.
Check here for complete line up, https://www.sunfestconcerts.com/lineup/
Victoria Dragon Boat Festival (August)
Be mesmerized by spectacular dragon boats roaring into Victoria’s Inner Harbour, creating a colorful spectacle accompanied by onshore entertainment.
For more information, visit: www.victoriadragonboat.com
Symphony Splash (August)
Experience the grandeur of the annual Symphony Splash as the Victoria Symphony Orchestra performs on a floating stage in the Inner Harbour. Concluding with a resounding rendition of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, the event features a dazzling display of fireworks.
For more information, visit: www.victoriasymphony.ca
Filberg Festival (August)
Indulge in the best of the Pacific Northwest's Arts and Crafts at the Filberg Festival. Set in the gardens of Comox Valley's historic Filberg Lodge, this outdoor show and sale feature high-quality work by BC resident artists, accompanied by local entertainment.
For more information, visit: www.filbergfestival.com
Victoria Fringe Festival (September)
Over the Labour Day weekend, Victoria Fringe Festival brings together theatre troupes for captivating performances in various venues across the city. Enjoy the best in comedy, drama, dance, magic, music, and storytelling.
For more information, visit: www.victoriafringe.com
Victoria Classic Boat Festival (September)
On Labour Day weekend, witness around 100 classic sail and power boats gathering in Victoria’s Inner Harbour for the celebrated Victoria Classic Boat Festival. Open to vessels of traditional plank-on-frame construction built prior to 1956 or newer vessels designed to pre-1956 specifications.
For more information, visit: www.classicboatfestival.ca
Im sure there is hundreds more, If you or your organzation would like yours to be up on the site just go to contact and send me a message, thanks!