Missy Goes Boating

Flare Disposal Days
2025-05-03 - 2025-07-05 | Dan’s Nautical Shop with Windsor, 12237 Riverside Dr E, Windsor, ON, Canada
Expired marine flares are more than just clutter – they’re hazardous and illegal to discard improperly. That’s where CanBoat/NautiSavoir steps in with their annual Flare Disposal Days. These free events offer boaters a safe, eco-friendly way to dispose of outdated flares while brushing up on essential safety equipment knowledge. It’s a practical solution that keeps both your vessel and the waterways safe.
2025 Collection Dates & Locations

Date
Location
Address

May 3, 2025
Dan’s Nautical Shop with Windsor
12237 Riverside Dr E, Windsor, ON

May 3, 2025
Wye Heritage Marine Resort with Penetanguishene
3282 Ogdens Beach Rd, Midland, ON

May 3, 2025
Hully Gully Marine with London
1705 Wharncliffe Rd S, London, ON

May 3, 2025
Reed Point Marina with Port Moody
850 Barnet Hwy, Port Moody, BC

May 10, 2025
Queens Cove Marine with Midland
67 Juneau Rd, Victoria Harbour, ON

May 16, 2025
ELS Marine Supplies Ltd. with Avalon
51 Clyde Ave, Mount Pearl, NL

May 17, 2025
Bayfield Marine with Goderich
23 Fishermans Wharf Rd, Bayfield, ON

May 17, 2025
Bitter End Boaters Exchange with Sunshine Coast
1044 Seamount Way, Gibsons, BC

May 17, 2025
Lefroy Yacht Harbour with Barrie
727 Harbour St. Lefroy, ON

May 23–24, 2025
The Chandlery with Ottawa
367 Poulin Ave, Ottawa, ON

May 24, 2025
Lake’s Marine Supplies with Cowichan
5968 Trans-Canada Hwy, Duncan, BC

May 24, 2025
The Binnacle with Halifax
1065 Purcells Cove Rd, Halifax, NS

May 24, 2025
Robinson Home Hardware with Barrie
138 Penetanguishene Rd, Barrie, ON

May 25, 2025
L’Entrepot Marine with St Lawrence Montreal
379 Bd Harwood, Vaudreuil-Dorion, QC

June 7, 2025
Alberni Industrial Marine Supply with Vancouver Island North
3149 Kingsway Ave, Port Alberni, BC

June 7, 2025
Port Whitby Marine Supplies with Oshawa
1636 Charles St #2, Whitby, ON

June 7, 2025
Marina Del Rey with Orillia
4130 Bayview Ave, Ramara, ON

June 14, 2025
Bridgeview Marine Services with Sarnia
1 Marina Rd, Point Edward, ON

June 14, 2025
Collins Bay Marina with Kingston
1270 Coverdale Dr, Kingston, ON

June 14, 2025
MacDonald Turkey Point Marina with Port Dover
92 Clubhouse Rd, Vittoria, ON

June 14, 2025
Georgian Shores Marina with Blue Mountain
195 24th St W, Owen Sound, ON

June 28, 2025
Bridge Yacht Sales with Port Dover
49 Harbour St, Port Dover, ON

July 5, 2025
Mahone Bay Civic Marina with Bluenose
683 Main St, Mahone Bay, NS

* Dates and locations are subject to change. Check our site before you attend an event.

Safety Tips For Flare Disposal Days

Do Not Ignite: Flares are for emergencies only. Lighting them outside of distress situations is illegal.
Do Not Discard in Trash: Flares are hazardous waste and must not be thrown in regular garbage or recycling bins.
Do Not Throw Overboard: Flares contain toxic chemicals that can harm marine life and pollute waterways.

Support & Funding
With Transport Canada no longer funding flare disposal programs, the CPS Foundation has partnered with CIL to ensure these vital services continue. Their support covers costs associated with the safe collection and neutralization of expired flares, promoting safer boating practices nationwide.
Official Website
For the most up-to-date information and additional resources, visit the CanBoat Flare Disposal Days.

First quarter 1:52pm
2025-05-03 - 2025-05-04 | BC

Full moon 4:56pm
2025-05-11 - 2025-05-12 | BC

Beacon Brewing Vinyl Night
2025-05-15 13:00 - 23:00 (America/Vancouver) | Beacon Brewing, 9829 Third Street, Sidney, BC V8L 3A7, Canada, Canada
Trade your captain’s hat for a turntable this Thursday at Beacon Brewing Vinyl Night – a laid-back evening where your favorite LPs share the spotlight with local small-batch beers. Bring a cherished record, spin it front-to-back, and discover fellow vinyl obsessives over our pizza-and-pint special (hello, $2 off when you pair them!). It’s like swapping sea-shanty stories with your most organized, eco-conscious friend – only here, the only barnacles are on the records.
What to Expect

Bring & Play: First-come, first-served full-album spins—your record, your rules.
Dog-Friendly Patio: Your well-behaved pooch is welcome to chill while you groove.
Community Vibes: Snap a pic of your record’s grooviest cover art and swap stories with fellow music-lovers.

Tickets & Tips

Admission: Free – no ticket, just show up with your record (or come to linger and listen).
Pro Tip: Arrive around 6:45 PM to snag a cozy table and plug in your record before the queue fills.

Visitor Info For Beacon Brewing Vinyl Night

Location: 9829 Third Street, Sidney, BC (in the Oceanna building complex)
Parking: Street parking and nearby lots – easy hop from downtown.
Hours: Beacon’s tasting room opens at 1 PM; stay late ’til 11 PM on Thursdays.

For more on weekly themes and upcoming special events, drop anchor at Beacon Brewing.

Last quarter 11:59am
2025-05-19 - 2025-05-20 | BC

Swiftsure International Yacht Race
2025-05-23 10:00 - 2025-05-25 00:00 | Royal Victoria Yacht Club, 3475 Ripon Road, Victoria, BC V8R 6H1, Canada
The Swiftsure International Yacht Race is North America’s premier Memorial Day-weekend sailing event, launching everything from high-speed multihulls to classic monohulls into the fast-moving currents of the Juan de Fuca Strait. Expect edge-of-your-seat starts in Victoria’s Inner Harbor and a festive finish back at Clover Point – plus the occasional skipper quip (‘Mind that bow wave!’) to keep things lively.
Race Courses & Schedule For Swiftsure International Yacht Race

Long Courses (Lightship Classic & Cape Flattery):– Start Saturday, May 24 at 9:00 AM
Juan de Fuca Inshore Races:– Start Saturday, May 24 shortly after the long-course field
Registration & Skippers’ Briefing:– Opens May 22 at 2:00 PM, closes May 23 at 6:00 PM at Royal Victoria Yacht Club
Course Time Limit:– Midnight, Sunday, May 25

Spectator Tips

Best Vantage Points:– Inner Harbor Causeway for the pre-start hustle– Clover Point for panoramic views of the staggered starts
Perks:– Clover Point Lions Club pancake breakfast with live race commentary– Grab a latte at Ship Point and claim your bench early – binoculars highly recommended

Registration & Entry

Fees: Vary by division; early-bird discounts available

Pro tip: Pack sunscreen and a windbreaker – Victoria weather likes to keep you on your toes.
Official Website
For notices of race, sailing instructions, live trackers, and the full schedule, set your course for Swiftsure.

Spot Prawn Festival
2025-05-25 11:00 - 15:00 | False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf, 1505 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6J 1E8, Canada
Think of the Spot Prawn Festival as your annual excuse to wear a bib in public and call it “marine fashion.” This celebration of BC’s sweetest seasonal crustacean brings together top local chefs, live cooking demos, and fresh-from-the-dock prawns you can’t get anywhere else. It’s like chatting seafood secrets with your most organized, eco-savvy friend – who just happens to know every trick for peeling prawns without losing half your manicure.
Date & Time

Sunday, May 25: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PMPro tip: Arrive early if you’re chasing that perfect Spot Prawn Bisque – last year it sold out faster than a sun-soaked deck chair.

Tickets & Experiences

General Admission: Free
Includes dockside access, family-friendly activities, and live music floating off the wharf.
Spot Prawn Bisque: $10
A 10 oz cup of rich bisque so good you’ll forget you’re technically at a public event.
Spot Prawn Brunch: $79 (19+ only)
Six-course grazing menu starring spot prawns – paired with local beverages and enough sweet treats to consider dessert for breakfast.Secure your food-experience tickets in advance to avoid FOMO.

Highlights In Spot Prawn Festival

Live Chef Demos: Watch Vancouver’s finest whip up prawn-tastic dishes—bonus points if you pick up a peel-and-serve hack.
Fresh-Catch Sales: Buy live spot prawns straight from the fishers. (Bring cash unless you want to test that phone-signal-dependent card reader.)
Family Fun Zone: Hands-on stations where kids learn why prawns are the Beyoncé of crustaceans.
Waterfront Tunes: A chilled playlist to match the ebb and flow of the tides—and your post-brunch food coma.

Sustainability & Community
Proceeds fund scholarships and eco-initiatives through the Chefs’ Table Society of BC, so you can feel as good about your purchase as you do about your perfectly seasoned bisque.
Official Website
For the full lineup, chef bios, and RSVP details, drop anchor at spotprawnfestival.com.

New moon 3:02am
2025-05-26 - 2025-05-27 | BC

Ladysmith Heritage Boat Festival
2025-05-27 10:00 - 16:00 | Ladysmith Community Marina, 611 Oyster Bay Drive, Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A7, Canada
Dust off your sea legs and join us for a one-day dive into boating history at the Ladysmith Heritage Boat Festival. Climb aboard pristinely restored wooden tugs and vintage cruisers, swap clutter-busting tackle-box tips with fellow enthusiasts, and hear insider restoration stories from the volunteers who keep these beauties shipshape – all in a friendly, West Coast-inspired vibe.
Schedule

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Heritage vessel walk-throughs on the docks
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Meet-the-owners Q&A and restoration tales
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Shore-side demos (wood-splicing, traditional caulking)
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Parade of sail past Transfer Beach

Admission & Tips

Admission: Free
Pro Tip: Arrive by 10 AM to snag a front-row spot for the sail parade and walk-throughs.

Highlights

Heritage Vessel Walk-Throughs: Explore classic tugs, cruisers, and launches up close.
Restoration Demos: See volunteers coax old-growth timbers back to life.
Parade of Sail: Watch these vintage vessels glide past Transfer Beach under power.
Family-Friendly Scavenger Hunt: A fun, maritime-history quest for little deckhands.

Visitor Info For Ladysmith Heritage Boat Festival

Parking: Free lakeside lot; overflow at Oyster Bay Centre with shuttle service
Accessibility: Floating docks with ramp access—just let us know if you need assistance
Pets: Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome on shore; please keep them off the boats

Official Website
For last-minute updates and volunteer info, visit Ladysmith Maritime Society.

Venice Boat Show
2025-05-29 - 2025-06-02 | Arsenale di Venezia, Arsenale, 30122 Venice, Italy
The sixth edition of the Venice Boat Show (Salone Nautico Venezia) returns with a five-day exhibition showcasing the latest yachts for sale. Set in the historic of Venice and hosting over 270 exhibitors and 30,000 visitors, the event also features an E-Village dedicated to electric boats participating in the E-Regatta, starting with a parade along the beautiful Canal Grande. The show is an important one not only for the Italian market but also for the Eastern European market.
Hosted at the historic Venetian Arsenal, a symbol of Venice’s maritime heritage, the Venice Boat Show has established itself as a premier event in the international boating calendar.
Key Highlights

Diverse Exhibitions: Attendees can explore a wide array of boats and yachts, including the latest models from renowned shipyards, as well as marine accessories and services.
Historic Venue: The Arsenal’s rich history and unique architecture provide a captivating backdrop, enhancing the overall experience for visitors and exhibitors alike.
Cultural Integration: The event seamlessly blends maritime tradition with contemporary innovation, offering cultural exhibitions, workshops, and seminars that delve into the art and science of boat building.

Visitor Information

Dates: May 29 – June 2, 2025
Venue: Venetian Arsenal, Venice, Italy
Tickets: Details regarding ticket prices and availability will be announced closer to the event date. Prospective attendees are advised to check the official event website for updates and to purchase tickets in advance.

Why Attend?

Explore Innovations: Discover the latest trends and technologies in the boating industry, with opportunities to engage directly with manufacturers and designers.
Experience Venice: Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Venice, a city renowned for its maritime history and cultural richness.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry professionals, enthusiasts, and potential clients in a setting that fosters collaboration and business development.

Plan Your Visit
For comprehensive information on exhibitors, event schedules, and accommodations, please visit the official Venice Boat Show website.
Join Us at the Venice Boat Show 2025!
Be part of a celebration that honors the past, present, and future of nautical excellence in one of the world’s most iconic maritime cities.
For a glimpse into the event’s atmosphere, here’s a highlight from a previous edition:

First quarter 3:41am
2025-06-02 - 2025-06-03 | BC

Pender Harbor Blues Festival
2025-06-06 - 2025-06-08 | Pender Harbour Community Hall, 12975 Madeira Park Rd, Madeira Park, BC V0N 2H0, Canada
Pender Harbor Blues Festival ramps up summer with three nights of raw, rootsy blues across cozy venues – Community Hall, the Royal Canadian Legion, and the School of Music. From Brent Parkin’s swing-soaked riffs to Brickhouse’s gritty grooves, you’ll swap tips on snagging the best waterfront picnic spot and learn how to keep your gear sand-free (hint: a silicone zip pouch works wonders). It’s laid-back West Coast vibes with just enough insider banter to make you feel like a local.
Festival Lineup & Schedule

Friday, June 6 | 8:00 PM — Brent Parkin with The Grand Koolios @ Royal Canadian LegionVeteran Canadian bluesman Brent Parkin brings Chicago-style swing and roots rock for a night of toe-tapping energy.
Saturday, June 7 | 8:30 PM — Brickhouse Festival Dance @ Pender Harbour Community HallExpect classic blues anthems served up by Brickhouse, plus that infectious live-band buzz—all for $40 (+$1.40 fee).
Sunday, June 8 | 12:00 PM — Gospel Show: Marcus Mosely with The Grand Koolios @ Pender Harbour School of MusicSoul-stirring harmonies perfect for a midday pick-me-up. Tickets $25 (+$1.40 fee).
Sunday, June 8 | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM — Joyce’s All Star Jam @ Royal Canadian LegionAn all-star lineup led by Tim Hearsey, blending local talent and festival favorites for one big blues-family finale. Tickets $40 (+$1.40 fee).

Tickets & Tips

Single-Show Tickets: $35–$41.40 (plus $1.40 online fee)
Buy Early: Limited seating in intimate venues – secure your spot in advance.
Pro Tip: Pack a lightweight sweater – harbor breezes sneak up after sunset.

Visitor Info For Pender Harbor Blues Festival

Venues: All within easy walking distance or a quick boat hop between Community Hall, the Legion, and the School of Music.
Parking: Free lots at each venue; weekend passes available for nearby municipal lots.
Dining: Waterfront cafés and food trucks – perfect for a quick bite between sets.
Accessibility: Ramps at all venues; contact organizers for special-needs assistance.

Official Website
For full artist bios, ticket links, and last-minute updates, visit penderharbourbluesfestival.com.

Gibsons Landing Jazz Festival
2025-06-07 14:00 - 2025-06-15 22:30 | Heritage Playhouse, Gibsons, 662 N Rd, Gibsons, BC V0N 1V9, Canada
Gibsons Landing Jazz Festival kicks off with a full week of live music in local venues (June 7–12), then crescendos into a free, two-day “festival in the park” weekend (June 13–15) at Dougal Park in Gibsons and Winegarden Park in Sechelt.
Expect everything from teen big-band swing to intimate blues sets on the waterfront, plus those insider tips on keeping your phone sand and splash-safe (a zip-lock pouch is your new best friend). It’s community-run, volunteer-powered fun – your most organized, jazz-obsessed friend’s idea of a perfect West Coast weekend.
Tickets & Tips

Admission: Free for festival-park concerts; Jazz Week venue ticket prices vary (typically $10–$20).
Pro Tip: Download the festival app for real-time lineup updates – and bookmark your favorite acts so you don’t wander off mid-solo.
Accessibility: All outdoor stages are ramp-accessible; indoor venues vary – check ahead if mobility is a concern.

Visitor Info For Gibsons Landing Jazz Festival

Getting There: A 40-minute ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, then a short drive north. Ample on-site parking at each park.
Lodging: Quaint B&Bs in Gibsons and Sechelt fill up fast – reserve early.
Dining: Waterfront patios and local cafés all participate – think seafood poutine and cold-pressed cocktails.
Pets: Leashed dogs welcome at outdoor parks; indoor Jazz Week venues typically do not allow pets.

Official Website
For detailed schedules, performer bios, and volunteer opportunities, sail over to coastjazz.com.

Full moon 7:44am
2025-06-10 - 2025-06-11 | BC

Last quarter 7:19pm
2025-06-17 - 2025-06-18 | BC

Vancouver International Jazz Festival
2025-06-20 11:00 - 2025-07-01 22:00 | Granville Island, Granville Island, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Vancouver International Jazz Festival turns the city into a 10-day jazz playground, with free outdoor stages and ticketed concerts at venues ranging from Granville Island to the Orpheum Theatre. Dig everything from hip-hop-infused big bands to intimate solo piano sets, swap backstage tricks for snagging the best balcony view, and discover why biodegradable instrument wipes are the unsung hero of any musician’s kit.
Featured Highlights

Granville Island Plaza (Free): Daily headliners and community jams – bring a chair and catch sunset sets over False Creek.
David Lam Park (Free): Picnic-style lawn seating with family-friendly afternoon shows and food-truck fare.
Orpheum Theatre (Ticketed): World-class acts under the chandeliers – secure seats early to avoid the sold-out buzz.
Performance Works (Ticketed): Experimental collaborations in a black-box setting – expect the unexpected.

Tickets & Tips

Free Stages: No ticket required – just show up early for prime spots.
Ticketed Concerts: $25–$75; purchase via Showpass to snag bundling discounts.
Pro Tip: Download the Coastal Jazz app for real-time schedule updates and mobile ticket storage – goodbye, paper clutter.

Visitor Info For Vancouver International Jazz Festival

Getting Around: Ride the Seabus to North Vancouver stages, bike the False Creek seawall, or tap your Compass Card on SkyTrain – skip the parking scramble.
Accessibility: Most venues are wheelchair-accessible; check individual event pages for details.
Dining: Local favourites like granville island public market and gastown cafés participate – fuel up between sets with sustainable eats.
Stay Connected: Free Wi-Fi at major festival sites; look for the “CoastalJazzFree” network.

Official Website
For full lineup details, venue maps, and artist bios, visit coastaljazz.ca.

New moon 10:31am
2025-06-24 - 2025-06-25 | BC

First quarter 7:30pm
2025-07-01 - 2025-07-02 | BC

Comox Nautical Days in Marina Park 2025
2025-07-02 - 2025-07-04 | Marina Park, Marina Park Dr, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada, Canada
Comox Nautical Days Festival turns Marina Park into a free, family-friendly playground over the BC Day long weekend. Climb aboard the BC Day Parade floats, stroll the Vintage Car Show, or trade tips on snagging the best fireworks-viewing spot. With over 100 craft booths, food trucks dishing up local flavors, and splash-park fun for the kids, there’s a little bit of everything.
Key Weekend Events At Comox Nautical Days
Parade & Vintage Cars
Kick off Saturday morning with the BC Day Parade rolling down Comox Avenue, then explore gleaming classic cars at the Nautical Days Vintage Car Show – perfect for that sun-lit selfie.
Rides, Games & Splash Park
From inflatable rides and carnival games to the Rotary Splash Park and playground, little deckhands will be busy all day. Tip: pack a quick-dry poncho instead of wrangling soggy sleeves.
Market & Eats
Browse over 100+ artisan booths alongside food trucks serving everything from gourmet tacos to handcrafted gelato. If you’re “of an age,” don’t miss the VI Society for Adaptive Snow Sports’ Bistro Garden for a frosty craft brew.
Festival of Lights Fireworks
Monday night’s Quality Foods Festival of Lights lights up the bay at dusk. Arrive early to claim your waterfront spot – blanket, picnic basket, and reusable glow-sticks highly encouraged.
Visitor Essentials

Admission: Free entry all weekend
Parking & Closures: Boat launch and parking lot closures begin Friday, August 1 at 11:59 PM. Free street parking nearby; shuttle service links Filberg Festival and Nautical Days sites.
Accessibility: Ramp access to main festival areas; contact the Town of Comox for specific assistance.
Weather-Ready: A packable windbreaker and hat go a long way once the evening breeze kicks in.
Stay Connected: For the full event lineup, parade route, and vendor map, chart your course to comox.ca/nauticaldays.

Parksville Beer Festival
2025-07-05 11:00 - 17:00 | Parksville Community Park Outdoor Theatre, 193 Island Highway East, Parksville, BC V9P 2H2, Canada
Parksville Beer Festival pours five hours of craft-beer bliss into the heart of Parksville – with over 50 breweries, cideries, and distilleries serving up everything from hazy IPAs to brisk hard ciders. Think festival-floor hacks for token wrangling (spoiler: clip-on lanyards are your best friend), live tunes keeping the vibe mellow, and food-truck faves ready to tackle any beer-inspired appetite. It’s like swapping tasting notes with your most organized, beer-obsessed friend – minus the pretension.
Date & Time

Saturday, July 5, 2025: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
VIP Early Access: 11:00 AM ($85 ticket)

Tickets & Tokens

General Admission ($65): Includes 10 tasting tokens and a branded sample glass.
VIP Admission ($85): Early entry at 11 AM, 20 tokens, glass, merch, plus 10% off food.
Designated Driver ($40): No tokens or glass, but complimentary soft drinks and snacks.
Extra Tokens: 10 for $10, 20 for $15, 30 for $20 – grab ’em before they run dry.

Pro tip: Token samples run 1–4 tokens each; plan for hearty hops lovers to stock up early.
Highlights

Craft Showcase: Sample from a rotating lineup of local and touring breweries – keep an eye out for limited-release packs.
Live Music: Local bands spin blues, folk, and rock to match your mid-afternoon sips.
Food Trucks: Pair your pint with gourmet sliders, mac ’n’ cheese, wood-fired pizza, and more from Parksville’s top mobile kitchens.
Designated Driver Lounge: Complimentary soft drinks, snacks, and comfy seating – cheers without the hangover.

Visitor Info For Parksville Beer Festival

Age Restriction: 19+ only; ID required at entry.
What to Bring: Chair or blanket, ID, and a lanyard for your tokens.
No Outside Food/Drink: Support our food trucks; they accept cash and cards.
Parking: Free lots nearby fill fast – carpool or arrive early.
Pets: No pets allowed, except registered service animal.

Official Website
For full brewery line-up, FAQs, and ticket links, visit parksvillebeerfestival.com

Rock the Park Music Festival 2025
2025-07-08 - 2025-07-12 | Harris Park, 531 Ridout Street North, London, Ontario N6A 2P8, Canada
Rock The Park Music Festival lights up Harris Park for five nights of live music magic – think Hozier’s soulful crescendos, Kygo’s sunset-ready beats, and a curated mix of indie favorites in between. Stroll under festoon lights, refill your eco-friendly water bottle at zero-waste stations, and trade playlist hacks with your most organized, music-obsessed friend.
Lineup Highlights
Expect international headliners each evening alongside emerging talent. Rather than cram a schedule here, hop over to the official site for the full nightly lineup and set times – your one-stop guide to planning the perfect festival experience.
Tickets & Access

5-Day General Admission: CAD 249
Single-Day Passes: CAD 89–109
VIP Suites: Private lounge access, dedicated bar service, and shaded viewing (limited availability)

Pro tip: Buy early to lock in early-bird pricing and reserve nearby accommodations before they sell out.
Attendee Essentials

Getting There: Free festival shuttles from major London Transit hubs; bike racks on-site for eco-friendly arrivals.
Hydration: Refillable water stations are sprinkled throughout the park – bring your favorite bottle.
Stay Organized: Download the Rock The Park app for real-time alerts, site maps, and handy festival tips.
Weather-Ready: Evenings can cool down – pack a lightweight windbreaker and a trusty hat.

Official Website For Rock the Park Music Festival
For full lineup details, set times, site maps, and FAQs, chart your course to rockthepark.ca.
See you under the lights!

Full moon 8:37pm
2025-07-09 - 2025-07-10 | BC

Parksville Beach Festival
2025-07-11 - 2025-08-17 | Parksville Community Park & Beach, 193 Island Highway East, Parksville, BC V9P 2H2, Canada
Parksville Beach Festival blends sun-soaked fun with a dash of West Coast flair. Spend four days wandering artisan markets, sampling local eats, and catching live music on the lawn – all steps from the sand. Between sand-castle contests and sunset yoga, you’ll pick up pro tips on keeping sunscreen out of your cooler (hint: seal it in a reusable pouch) while soaking in that friendly beach-town vibe.
Highlights In Parksville Beach Festival

Sand-Castle Showdown: Teams compete for bragging rights and best-in-show trophy
Artisan Market: Handcrafted treasures from local makers – think driftwood décor and seashell jewelry
Live Music & Performances: From folk-acoustic sets to headliner bands under the open sky
Family Beach Activities: Paddleboard demos, kids’ crafts, and interactive storytelling by the shore

Tickets & Tips

General Admission: Free – just bring your sunglasses and best beach shoes
Sand Sculpting Exhibition Admission: By donation; proceeds support local non-profit organizations.
VIP Pass ($50): Priority seating for concerts, festival tote, and three drink tokens
Pro Tip: Pack a lightweight blanket for those lawn shows and arrive early on Saturday to snag front-row sandy seats

Visitor Info

Parking: Lots adjacent to Community Park; carpool or bike in for easier access
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible pathways and viewing areas throughout the festival site
Food & Drink: Multiple vendors offering sustainable eats and local brews; bring your refillable bottle for free water stations
Pet Policy: Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome – just keep them off the sand castle plots

Official Website
For the full schedule, vendor list, and volunteer sign-up, surf over to parksvillebeachfest.ca.

Nanaimo Dragon boat Festival
2025-07-12 08:00 - 2025-07-13 17:00 | Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo Harbour, 100 Comox Road, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3H7, Canada
Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival 2025 paddles in for its 22nd anniversary with family-friendly fun, fierce 500 m races, and community spirit on the waterfront. Whether you’re racing in the mixed, women’s, or Survivor Challenge divisions, you’re guaranteed four heats (weather permitting) plus plenty of onshore beats and local eats to keep you fueled.
Race Format & Challenges

Mixed & Women’s Divisions: Four guaranteed 500 m races per crew; advancement based on placement and time.
Breast Cancer Survivor’s Challenge: Two special races honoring survivors, with awards for top finishers.
Guts & Glory Challenges: Staggered starts (15 s intervals), enforced overlap rules, and time‐credit penalties keeping it fair and fierce.

Schedule For Nanaimo Dragon boat Festival
Saturday, July 12

8:00 AM: Team check-in & safety briefing
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM: Mixed & women’s heats
4:00 PM: Survivor’s Challenge races

Sunday, July 13

8:30 AM: Guts & Glory Challenge starts
10:30 AM – 2:00 PM: Finals and trophy presentations
3:00 PM: Closing ceremonies

Registration & Policies

Team Entry Fee: C$1,800 (early-bird)
Withdrawal Deadline: June 21, 2025 (25% administrative fee applies; no refunds after deadline)
Register: Visit the Fairway Gorge Paddling Club site for full details and online sign-up.

Highlights

Live DJ & Local Food Trucks: Keep your energy high between heats.
Family Zone: Kids’ paddle-demo area and face-painting by the park.
Vendor Village: Grab eco-friendly gear – think reusable water bottles and quick-dry performance wear.

Visitor Info

Parking: Free lots at Maffeo Sutton Park; arrive early on Sunday.
Spectator Viewing: Docksides and grassy terraces offer prime vantage points.
Accessibility: Waterfront pathways and viewing areas are wheelchair-accessible.
Contact: race@nanaimodragonboat.ca for any questions.

For complete festival details, course maps, and volunteer opportunities, paddle over to the official site: Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival

Last quarter 12:38am
2025-07-17 - 2025-07-18 | BC

Honda Celebration of Lights
2025-07-19 22:00 - 2025-07-26 23:30 | English Bay Beach & Surrounding Areas, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Honda Celebration of Lights Fireworks lights up English Bay three nights this July with jaw-dropping pyrotechnics choreographed to music, live DJ sets, and an unbeatable waterfront vibe. Pack a picnic blanket, follow the aroma of food trucks from Kits to Sunset Beach, and maybe splurge on reserved seating or a VIP lounge pass – your most organized, sea-obsessed friend’s tip for snagging that perfect view.
Fireworks Schedule

Saturday, July 19 | 10:30 PM start (country TBD)
Wednesday, July 23 | 10:30 PM start (country TBD)
Saturday, July 26 | 10:30 PM start (country TBD)

Admission & Seating

General Admission: Free; arrive early to secure a good viewing spot on the beach or surrounding areas.
Reserved Seating: Tickets available for purchase, offering premium viewing areas with added amenities.

Highlights In Honda Celebration of Lights

Spectacular Pyro-Musical Shows: Teams from around the globe compete over three nights, each 25-minute display set to a unique soundtrack.
Food Truck Alley: Local favorites dish up everything from gourmet tacos to craft ice cream – fuel for “ooh”s and “aah”s.
VIP & Bleacher Options: Book in advance for covered seating, bar service, and premium sightlines (insider tip: the Concord Lounge fills fast).
Live Broadcast: Fireworks are synced to 104.3 The Breeze; tune in on your radio for a fully immersive experience.

Visitor Info For Honda Celebration of Lights

Getting There: English Bay is transit-friendly – buses, Seabus and SkyTrain; bike or stroll the Seawall to avoid parking headaches.
Road Closures & Parking: Expect evening closures around Beach Ave and Denman; limited paid lots nearby – plan to arrive early.
What to Bring: A lightweight jacket (waterfront breezes are real), a portable chair or blanket, and a refillable water bottle.
Pet Policy: Leave furry friends at home – loud bangs and crowds aren’t their idea of fun.

Official Website
For participating countries, ticketed seating options, and up-to-date festival guides, set your course to hondacelebrationoflight.com

Annual Nanaimo Silly Boat Regatta
2025-07-20 08:00 - 16:00 | Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo, BC, 100 Comox Road, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3H7, Canada
Kick off midsummer with Nanaimo Silly Boat Regatta – where teams race homemade, cartoonish crafts through Maffeo Sutton Park’s waters for charity. It’s a spectacle of imagination, community spirit, and just enough playful chaos to keep you grinning (and maybe questioning your engineering skills). All funds benefit the Nanaimo Child Development Centre, so you can feel good cheering each splashy finish.
Event Schedule For Nanaimo Silly Boat Regatta

Race heats begin at 9:00 AM; final championship race around 2:00 PM
Awards ceremony and post-race festivities run until 4:00 PM

Time
Event

8:00 AM
Boat building begins throughout park

9:00 AM
Community Exhibition Vendor Booths open in Pavilion area

10:00 AM
Pavilion Stage Entertainment begins

10:15 AM
Children’s Mini Regatta: build foam boats & race them in rain gutters

11:00 AM
SBR Team/Boat Judging begins

1:00 PM
Races Begin

Time
Entertainment Pavilion Stage

10:00 AM
Opening Ceremonies

10:15 AM
Emcee Introduction to NCDC & Event

10:30 AM
To Be Announced

11:15 AM
To Be Announced

12:00 PM
To Be Announced

12:30 PM
To Be Announced

1:00 PM
Races Begin

* Schedule subject to change. Check the official event schedule before you attend.

Highlights

Creative Watercraft Parade: From bathtub boats to pirate ships built from recycled materials
Family Fun Zone: Face painting, balloon animals, and kiddie paddle races
Charity Auction & Vendors: Snag quirky regatta swag and bid on local art and experiences

Enjoy some highlights from the past!

Silly Boat 2019

Silly Boats 2017 & 2018

Registration & Tickets

Corporate Teams: Minimum donation of $500
Community Teams: Minimum donation of $250
Family Teams: Minimum donation of $100
Join an Existing Team: No donation required

Charity & Community
All proceeds support the Nanaimo Child Development Centre’s programs – turning laughs and splashes into vital services for kids with developmental needs.
Official Website
Dive into details, team rules, and the latest race results at sillyboat.com.

New moon 7:11pm
2025-07-23 - 2025-07-24 | BC

The Victoria Symphony Splash
2025-07-24 19:30 - 2025-08-03 23:30 | Victoria Inner Harbour, Victoria, BC, Canada
Victoria Symphony Splash returns for the 85th season of the Symphony in the Summer Festival, headlined by the free, two-day Symphony SPLASH! barge concert in the Inner Harbor over the B.C. Day long weekend. Enjoy everything from opera arias at Butchart Gardens to chamber performances at Christ Church Cathedral, then anchor up on the waterfront for those 25-minute pyro musical sets – think fireworks for your ears, no “ahoy” required.
Festival Schedule & Venues For Victoria Symphony Splash
Symphony SPLASH! (Free)

Saturday, August 2 (Afternoon & Evening) | Inner Harbor Barge
Sunday, August 3 (Afternoon & Evening) | Inner Harbor Barge

VS at The Butchart Gardens

Thursday, July 24 at 8:00 PM | Included with garden admission

VS at Christ Church Cathedral

Friday, July 25 at 7:30 PM

VS at Qualicum Beach

Sunday, July 27 at 7:00 PM

National Youth Orchestra of Canada

Friday, August 1 at 7:30 PM | Christ Church Cathedral

Tickets & Access

Symphony SPLASH!: Free – no tickets required (arrive early for best waterfront viewing)
Garden & Cathedral Concerts: Ticketed; on sale June 17 at 10:00 AM
Admission Tip: Book Butchart Gardens tickets in advance to secure concert-inclusive entry

Highlights

Barge Spectacle: Two sunset barge performances with the full Victoria Symphony and special guest artists
Diverse Programming: From opera stars to Latin jazz ensembles and youth orchestra showcases
Waterfront Vibes: Pack a picnic or grab snacks from wharf-side vendors – sip or snack, your call
Community Celebration: Free live broadcasts on 104.9 The Wave and synchronized radio soundtracks

Visitor Info

Getting There: Walk, bike, or transit to the Inner Harbor – no parking headaches on B.C. Day weekend
Accessibility: Waterfront boardwalks and seating areas are wheelchair-accessible; check venue pages for indoor concert details
What to Bring: Lightweight jacket (evenings can cool off), blanket or low-back chair, and refillable water bottle
Family Friendly: Free children’s concert zone on the quayside during SPLASH! performances

Official Website
For full program details, artist lineups, and arrival tips, set your course to The Victoria Symphony Splash.

Nanaimo Marine Festival & Bathtub Race
2025-07-25 10:00 - 2025-07-27 22:00 | Maffeo Sutton Park & Nanaimo Harbor, 100 Comox Road, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3H7, Canada
Nanaimo Marine Festival & Bathtub Race revs up the harbor city every summer with three days of waterfront fun – think epic bathtub-boat sprints, family-friendly zones, live music, and enough food trucks to fuel your next sea trial. Since 1967, this quirky world-championship race has drawn DIY tubbers and cheering crowds alike, all wrapped in that laid-back West Coast vibe (pro tip: pack a silicone pouch for your phone if you plan to lean over the rail).
Festival Schedule For Nanaimo Marine Festival & Bathtub Race
Friday, July 25 | 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Vendors, food trucks, kids’ zone, and a 19+ evening concert to kick off the weekend.
Saturday, July 26 | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
All-day vendors, food trucks, kids’ activities, Beer Garden (2:00–10:00 PM), and the Sailpast on Wheels Parade down Commercial Street at 10:30 AM.
Sunday, July 27 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Final marine market stalls, food trucks, kids’ zone, Beer Garden (1:30–6:00 PM), and the World Championship Bathtub Race starting at 11:00 AM with finish under the Frank Ney statue at Maffeo Sutton Park.
Highlights

World Championship Bathtub Race: DIY tubs roar from the harbor to Maffeo Sutton Park – don’t blink or you’ll miss a bow splash.
Sailpast on Wheels Parade: Float your own decorated cart or marvel at the world’s largest bathtub cruising downtown.
Live Music & Beer Gardens: Local bands and craft brews keep the energy high when you’re not ogling those fiberglass racers.
Family Fun Zone: Face painting, balloon animals, and interactive splash stations ensure the little deckhands stay happy.

Visitor Info For Nanaimo Marine Festival & Bathtub Race

Admission: Free for spectators – just show up with sunglasses and a sense of wonder.
Fee: $50 (cash only)
Late Entry Fee: Additional $25
Parking & Transit: Limited downtown lots; consider public transit or carpool to skip the gridlock.
Best Viewing Spots: Maffeo Sutton Park, Neck Point Park, and balconies along the Inner Harbor.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and a silicone pouch for your phone – waterproof is the new black.

For full details, volunteer opportunities, and the official event guide, sail over to the Loyal Nanaimo Bathtub Society.
