Nanaimo as Cultural Capital of BC

Many Events Celebrate the City of Nanaimo, British Columbia

Mar 12, 2008 Lori Henry

Family friendly activities and events are happening all year in Nanaimo, the Cultural Capital of Canada.

This year marks Nanaimo, British Columbia as the Cultural Capital of Canada for 2008. Travel to central Vancouver Island for a wide array of interesting happenings: musical concerts, parades, dance performances, storytelling, art displays and cultural events.

Nanaimo, Cultural Capital of Canada

Four cities in Canada were given the title this year, Nanaimo proudly being one of them. This allows cities to host arts and cultural events throughout the year, supporting the benefits of these initiatives in each municipality. Above all, it’s a chance for Nanaimo to brag about its gorgeous scenery, rich heritage and thriving arts scene. Below are the special programs being put on this year.

Music for All Ages Program

The Capturing the Music events begin on March 16th, 2008, when the Nanaimo Chamber Orchestra takes the stage. They’ll perform Pergolesi and More, featuring guest vocalists Liz Lutz and Elizaeth Wilson. April sees the Nanaimo Concert Band perform on the 20th and students can participate in the April 22nd workshop. The grand finale performance will be held at the Port Theatre.

If you visit in May, the Empire Parade Day will also feature the Nanaimo Concert Band on the 18th. July revs up with the Drum Festival on the 4th and 5th, and the Nanaimo Concert Band plays for Canada Day on July 1st and for Concert in the Park on the 20th. August and September showcase the Sidewalk All-stars from August 15th-24th and a musical concert for the Port Theatre’s 10th Anniversary on September 10th.

Ending the year, the Capturing the Music program hosts the Nanaimo Concert Band on November 9th for the fall concert, November 11th for Remembrance Day, and December 14th for a charity Christmas concert.

Special Events in Nanaimo

Also worth checking out is the Alive with the Arts of Many Cultures. This includes Aboriginal Day on June 21st, Francophonie Day on June 24th, The Multicultural Festival on June 28th, “Living Our Culture” cabaret on June 28th and Canada Day celebrations on July 1st.

Not to miss is the Summer Street Theatre: From Coal Mines to Bathtub Races, from August 7th-10th, 14th-17th, and 21st-24th. In the fall, the Arts of Momentum event runs from November 4th-16th at the Nanaimo Art Gallery Downtown.

Not sure which events to attend? Touch base with the Nanaimo Cultural Capital committee to find out more: (250) 716-7877.

For assistance in planning your trip to the island, contact the friendly folks at Tourism Vancouver Island for itinerary planning and transportation suggestions: (250) 754-3500.

The copyright of the article Nanaimo as Cultural Capital of BC in W Canada Travel is owned by Lori Henry. Permission to republish Nanaimo as Cultural Capital of BC in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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