In late March, the Pacific Rim Whale
Festival celebrates the annual return of
approximately 20,000 grey whales as they travel along the west coast of Vancouver Island on their annual migration route. Ucluelet, Tofino, and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve all participate in the festival and host a fabulous variety of family oriented events, including a parade, games, lectures, whale watching, entertainment, art exhibits, and interpretive displays.
May marks another wildlife event: the Shorebird Festival in Tofino, which offers a wide variety of fun, educational family activities. In June, the exciting 42-kilometre Edge to Edge Marathon runs from Ucluelet through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to end in Tofino. Ukee Days follows in July and features logger sports, children’s shows, family activities, and all the charm of a small town fair.
Port Alberni’s many annual highlights include the Port Alberni Go Kart Grand Prix in early July, featuring more than 100 racing vehicles roaring through the streets and a Golden Oldies Car Club display of vintage cars and lots of entertainment. In August, Thunder in the Valley is a thrilling two-day drag race at the Alberni Valley Airport on Coleman Road. Port Alberni’s famous Labour Day Salmon Festival is always a big event, drawing in excess of 4,000 people for a fishing derby and a huge salmon barbecue. The Alberni Fall Fair is also in September and features home-spun products, carnival rides, an art show, a 4-H competition, and the exciting Logger Sports Day. |
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