The Nanaimo events calendar is full of fun and unique activities throughout the year.
From festivals showcasing the best in Blues or Jazz music to weekends filled with water-themed fun and races, celebrations of French Canadian traditions and entertainment by the best fringe performers in the country.
Nanaimo knows how to bring people together to support good causes while sharing a great time at one of the many year-round festivals and events.
Some events happen every year while others are one-offs. Keep an eye on our EVENTS CALENDAR to make sure you don’t miss the fun.
Come and discover the community events that make Nanaimo so unique – whether it’s racing bathtubs, bustling street markets, midway fairgrounds or agricultural achievements, you’ll find them all here in Nanaimo.
Listed below are a few of the most iconic events that take place throughout the year in Nanaimo:
- February: Maple Sugar Festival (du Sucre d’Erable) – 3 days of French-Canadian inspired food and entertainment
- June: Nanaimo Pride Parade and Festival – Celebrating our diverse and inclusive community.
- June – August: Commercial Street Night Market – Vendors, food trucks and entertainment take over Commercial Street every Thursday night.
- July: Nanaimo Marine Festival and Great International World Championship Bathtub Race.
This unique weekend festival includes the ‘Sailpast on Wheels’ parade, free family entertainment and the world-famous bathtub race! - August: Nanaimo Blues Festival – 4 days and nights of family-friendly events and concerts celebrating the best in Blues.
- August: Nanaimo Fringe Festival – 10 days of performances from local and global artists
- September: Nanaimo International Jazz Festival – A 3-day celebration of Nanaimo’s Jazz Music roots and connections.
- September: Vancouver Island Exhibition – 3 days of agriculture, entertainment and exhibitions plus the Midway fair.