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There is still plenty of time and things to do to enjoy the last bit of summer! Experience local favourites at some of Nanaimo's iconic events before summer rolls into fall, go treasure hunting at local markets to find unique goodies, or take a seat and enjoy music from local musicians and those from abroad!
Here’s how we’re making the most of the last few weeks of summer vacay.
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Take Part in the Fun!
Step into a world of art with Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet! These two experiences (which, two tickets for the price of one, by the way) allow you to see the world through their eyes and step into the canvas. Immerse yourself in their works as the paintings come to life and surround you in colour and otherworldly beauty!
Or enjoy theatre magic at the Nanaimo Fringe Festival as local producers share their work on stage! With over 15 different productions, not only will you be sure to find one you love, but you’ll want to keep coming back for more!
Want to join in the fun with the local community? Cheer on contestants at the Hub City SoapBox Derby on August 15th! Watch as kids, families, and local businesses race down Wall Street in their homemade silly (and sometimes practical) soapbox cars!
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Search for Treasure
As summer begins to wind down, so does the Commercial Street Night Market, which runs until the last Thursday of August. Be sure to make your way on down for a night of shopping, eating great food, and live entertainment!
Not able to make it in time? Check out the Cedar Farmers Market, which runs every Sunday til the end of October. Here you can enjoy locally made art, fresh produce, and local entertainment! You can also enjoy fresh produce and locally sourced meats and seafood from Island Roots Farmers Market every Wednesday all year round!
And oh wait, there’s more. Looking for the perfect artisan piece to gift to a loved one (or yourself, we don’t judge!)? Then check out the Portside Market on September 5th!
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Sound of Music
Sit back and enjoy some live music in the sun. Sit by the water at the Waterfront Music Series or pack a picnic and make your way out to Concerts In The Park. Located all throughout Nanaimo and the surrounding area, there’s something special about live music in the park!
Exploring the Old City Quarter? Stop by the Sounds of Summer, which features five different artists with five unique styles of music throughout the summer!
Avid jazz or blues enthusiast? The Nanaimo Blues Festival and Nanaimo Jazz Fest might be your cup of tea! And lucky for you, they’ll be here August 6th-9th and September 19th, 25th, 26th, and 27th to enjoy live music at Maffeo Sutton Park. And why not enjoy one of Nanaimo’s tasty food trucks while you’re there! Seriously, does it get any better than this?
Enjoy a good dance party? Check out the Street Dance Fest, with dances from all different cultures, workshops, and more! Learn how to salsa dance, try out some hip-hop, and learn something new about Afro fusion dance. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or brand new to the craft, join in the fun and move your body!
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Enjoy the Summer!
Savour those last few moments of summer vacation here in Nanaimo. Whether you're enjoying live theatre, shopping at local markets, or learning to dance, there is no reason to rush into the fall or the back-to-school rush. Sit back, relax, and enjoy what's left of the sweet summer sun.
