Region - Nanaimo
Nestled along the east coast of south-central Vancouver Island is the "Harbour City" of Nanaimo. As the second-largest city on the island and the sister city of Saitama Prefecture in Japan, Nanaimo blends rich culture, natural beauty, and urban conveniences.
Boasting some of the friendliest weather in Canada, Nanaimo is home to over 30 elementary and secondary schools, the main campus of Vancouver Island University, the Ice Centre (the city's hockey arena), and the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. The city features 200 green spaces and parks, including Maffeo Sutton Park, Neck Point Park, Piper’s Lagoon, Buttertubs Marsh, and Westwood Lake. The picturesque Harbourfront Walkway is lined with specialty shops and provides ferry access to Newcastle Island Marine Park.
Locals enjoy a variety of activities, including boating, kayaking, and exploring over 180 km of walking and cycling trails. For the adventurous, bungee jumping at WildPlay Element Parks is a popular attraction. Sports enthusiasts can cheer on the Nanaimo United Football Club (one of Canada’s oldest sports clubs), the Vancouver Island Raiders, and the Nanaimo Clippers. Additionally, Nanaimo is regarded as one of North America’s premier diving destinations, thanks to the artificial reef created by the sinking of the HMCS Saskatchewan near Snake Island.
For cultural entertainment, the Port Theatre offers a diverse lineup of performances, while local theatre companies stage productions at Nanaimo Centre Stage and the Vancouver Island University Theatre. The Nanaimo Art Gallery features engaging exhibits, and the city’s vibrant jazz and blues scene can be enjoyed in cafes, pubs, and nightclubs, as well as at the annual Nanaimo Summertime Blues Festival.
Among the city’s fabulous annual events are the Van Isle 360 International Yacht Race, the Nanaimo Marine Festival, the Festival of Lights & Music fireworks display, and the famous Bathtub Race, which earned Nanaimo the nickname "The Bathtub Racing Capital of the World."
Now one of the fastest-growing cities in British Columbia, Nanaimo truly offers something for everyone!
