Long considered one of Vancouver Island’s most popular romantic getaway resorts, Tigh-na-Mara is perfect for romance and re-charging.  This fabulous escape located 30 minutes from Nanaimo on the water in Parksville includes two nights in a cozy Spa Bungalow Studio, a Touch of Romance Package at the Grotto Spa and one Breakfast for Two in the Cedar Room.  Subject to availability, taxes and gratuities not included.  And should you be travelling from the mainland, ferry passage for one undersized vehicle and two passengers is also included…compliments of BC Ferries!

Heading to Vancouver Island with BC Ferries!

Tigh-na-mara Seaside Resort & Spa, Parksville, BC

View the hotel at www.tigh-na-mara.com and www.bcferries.com.  Then, check out our review here.

Click here for full Contest Rules and Regulations

All entries must be received by:  Midnight, January 2, 2010.  Good Luck!

The Harbour Ferry boats, affectionately referred to as pickle boats, offer visitors and residents a trip to Newcastle Island or a 45-minute tour of the Nanaimo Harbour.

“They’re so unique in their design to give a lot of visibility and they’re such a fun ship,” said Bill Pollard, a pickle boat skipper.

A glossy green sheen of paint coats the outside of the boat and a plexiglass window offers unobstructed views of the surrounding water and landscape. The boats offer seating for about 14 passengers and passengers are allowed to take along their dogs.

Once the skipper casts off, the sound of the diesel engine is unmistakable and as the ship leaves the dock behind, the boat is sprayed with frothy white crests as it skims the surface of the water.

Wind plies the strands of hair on passenger’s heads as the boat roars forward toward the open waters of the harbour. Just outside the window birds use the wind to their advantage during their flight.

The pickle boats offer a unique view of the Harbour City. The buildings meld together, in shades of silver and gray against the skyline, nestled behind an expanse of waves and the people strolling along the Harbourfront Walkway.

A cool breeze touches the side of the boat and winds it’s way into the interior as the shores of Newcastle Island approach.

The first trips in the spring are to Newcastle Island, a popular spot for camping and walkers in the summer, and in May the harbour tours begin.

“Newcastle, of course, is such a quiet peaceful place to walk,” said Pollard. “The tours are real popular even with people from Nanaimo because they talk a lot about the history of Nanaimo and how we got to where we are now. It’s really a nice trip.”

Pollard said people love to take tours at sunset during the summer. The tours offer people a glimpse into Nanaimo’s past with the history of the First Nations, Nanaimo Bastion and discovery of coal.

While onboard listening to the skipper discuss the history of the city and area, nature tells it’s own story outside the boat. Marine mammals and birds are often seen on tours.

The trip to Newcastle Island takes about 10 minutes and costs $8 for adults and $4 for children. The 45-minute harbour tour costs $17 for adults, $15 for seniors and students and $9 for children.

People can board the pickle boats at the Fisherman’s Market pier, Maffeo Sutton Park pier and at Newcastle Island.

A full schedule is available online at www.nanaimoharbourferry.com.

For more information please contact 1-877-297-8526.

Few activities are more relaxing than getting out on a lake or stream and enjoying the outdoors.

There are more than 13 lakes within Nanaimo’s city limits and most are stocked with catchable size trout twice a year, which means good fishing spots are within a five-minute drive of almost any home in Nanaimo.

You also don’t need a boat, as some of the best fishing can be done right from the shores of most lakes accessible via Nanaimo’s extensive parks and trails system.

Westwood Lake is among the local hot spots for trout.

I haven’t been fishing since 1986 and I’ve never done any fly fishing, so Rick Passek, fly fishing instructor and author of The Freshman Flyfisher, A Beginners Guide for a New Generation, offered to come over from the Lower Mainland to take me out on Westwood Lake for the day.

Within a few minutes Passek had us out in his boat, rods assembled and trolling flies in the water. (I didn’t know you could troll with flies.)

A temperature reading of the water and a scan of the water’s surface told him chironomids (tiny pupae of the chironomid fly) were hatching and drifting up off the bottom.

“There’s usually two hatches a day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon,” said Passek. “They’re members of the midge family. Basically they’re non-biting mosquitoes.”

They’re also one of the most widespread insects, found in most lakes, streams, marshes and bogs.

Within minutes trout were hitting our flies. Passek brought one in and used a throat pump – essentially a tiny turkey baster – to suck some contents from the fish’s gullet to see what it had for breakfast. Chironomids – and from their degree of silvery colour, Passek estimated the depth the fish ate them – about six metres. The trout swam off.

But when chironomid mimics didn’t do the trick, he tried a couple different flies and before long he had trout hitting our lines like crazy.

Continued on page 43

“These fish were recently stocked in this lake,” said Passek. “We call them pellet pigs. They’re still schooling, moving around the lake and trying to figure out what they can eat.”

Passek’s fly – a bead-head, black, UV-dubbed, micro leech – must have looked pretty good because I was enjoying the thrill of having a fish on the line for the first time in 23 years. I even got the hang of basic fly casting techniques.

All told we got about 80 hits and brought 20 fish to the boat – all released. Anglers around us didn’t fair nearly so well and I didn’t feel the least bit guilty about my unfair advantage of relying on a professional flyfisher.

As sports go, flyfishing is relatively cheap to get into. A basic rod, reel, line and case combination package runs $160. Add a few flies and a fishing license and you’re off to the fishing hole.

“You can get started for under $300,” said Passek.

photos@nanaimobulletin.com

-30-

Sider: Local fly fishing supplies and information contacts

Gone Fishin’

www.gonefishinshop.com

Suite 600-2980 N Island Hwy

Nanaimo, BC V9T

(250) 758-7726

Canadian Tire Associate Store

6900 Island Highway North, Nanaimo – (250) 390-1500

Walmart Nanaimo

3200 Island Hwy N # 100

Nanaimo BC, V9T 1W1

Phone #: 250-758-0343

Island Angler Fishing Magazine

www.islandangler.net;

As I step forward on the wire, I leave the safety of the wooden platform further and further behind. The wire beneath my feet grows increasingly shaky.

With nothing to hang on to overhead but the small wire my harness is clipped to, the trapeze obstacle gives me the feeling of walking a tightrope, albeit not gracefully. The adrenaline is definitely pumping.

While my initial reaction was to turn around and head for solid ground, I forced myself to swallow my fear and continue onward.

This is what the TreeGO aerial adventure park is all about, says Jonathan Huitikka, site supervisor with WildPlay Element Parks.

He says the owners of the park, two former mountaineering guides from Victoria and Squamish, witnessed the changes as people faced their fears and climbed.

“They wanted to bring a similar experience to more people,” says Huitikka. “People find they get a real sense of accomplishment from completing the course. A lot of people are like, ‘Wow, that was really hard, but I made it!’”

The course boasts about 70 different obstacles in the trees from start to finish and takes about two hours for the average climber to navigate.

Before anyone is allowed to climb around on the aerial obstacle course, they must successfully make their way through a quick demonstration course.

After being shown how my harness and the rope clips work, I tried it out along with the rest of the group. The harness, while awkward for the first minute, was easy to figure out. You are clipped in to an overhead red safety wire at all times with two different ropes attached to your harness, with a third rope you use to attach yourself to the zipline pulleys.

On the green course, I quickly got into the rhythm of clipping and unclipping my harness ropes to the overhead safety line and tested my balance on the first couple of shaky bridges with relative success.

As I moved from the green course to the blue course, I tried out a variety of ziplines, wobbly bridges, ladders, rock climbing walls, tunnels and suspended logs I had to balance on.

The tarzan swing on the blue course was one of my favourite obstacles, and although high up and a little scary, the guide below me reminded me that I had the option to take an ‘easy route’ if I didn’t want to try it.

Continued on page 43

Huitikka says giving the clients options like this is one of the nicest things about the course. If the customer gets too scared, guides are trained to lower people at any point on the course and there are signs at the end of each section telling people to either climb down or continue onwards to the next level.

At the red level, I was climbing obstacles that truly challenged my abilities–the spider net crawl and rock climbing wall portion (I took the optional harder route) required a lot of upper body strength.

By the time I reached the final stretch, the black course, I was apprehensive about what was in store for me.

Huitikka says the course is different for everyone because it is all about how far each individual is willing to push him or herself.

“If you want to balance and push your skills to the limit, you can make it really challenging,” he says.

I opted to hang onto the overhead safety rope for dear life on many of the final obstacles instead of trying to complete the obstacles hands-free, by balance alone. Even many of the shaky, suspended bridges and log rolls on the first two levels had me gripping on above as the ground swam in my vision below me.

The final challenge was grappling–extremely ungracefully, I might add–with jumping from swinging log to swinging log and walking the tight rope mentioned above.

Once on solid ground, with shaky knees and a bit of a relieved feeling, I congratulated myself on my performance. The promised sense of accomplishment hit me and I reflected that I would definitely take a swing through the course again–if only for the multitudes of fun ziplines, each one longer and higher up than the last.

Huitikka says I am not the first to desire a return trip.

“It seems to be really catching on,” he says, adding the park averages about 200 visitors per day in the summer.

Plans to open five more parks in the next five years are also evidence of how popular this activity is becoming, says Huitikka. The locations of these parks are still being determined, but one will likely be built near Victoria.

Huitikka recommends that visitors with more climbing prowess visit the TreeGO park on weekdays or during the less busy months of May, June, September and October because large summer groups can slow progress through the course down.

Children wanting to complete the course must reach a height of 4 foot 7 for the childrens’ yellow course and to go on the adult course, they must be able to reach to a height of 5 foot 11.

Huitikka says people of all different ages can try out what the park has to offer, from seven-year-olds to their 86-year-old grandparents.

For more information, please go to www.wildplayparks.com.

reporter@nanaimobulletin.com;

My journey on the Nanaimo Historical Walking tour began and ended underneath this iconic symbol of Nanaimo’s past – each step in between on the concrete pavement bringing me a little bit closer to discovering the secrets and stories of the Harbour City.

The Nanaimo Historical Walking Tour is provided by Tracks Outdoor Adventures. Owner Paula Sandland is a second generation Nanaimoite and has given tours in the Harbour City for the past nine years.

“Some people just love history, and I’m one of them,” she said. “I love history and I love Nanaimo.”

She studies up on her Nanaimo history a number of ways.

“I read a lot of books, and the museum is excellent,” she said.

Sandland most enjoys talking about Nanaimo’s rich mining history, which spanned over the course of an entire century.

“There were coal mines on Protection Island, Newcastle Island, all in the inner harbour, and those were just the starting mines,” Sandland said.

Perhaps the most scandalous story on the tour is that of architect Francis Rattenbury, designer of the Nanaimo Courthouse. At 56, Rattenbury, famous for designing the Victoria Legislature and Empress Hotel, left his wife Florence and their two children for 27-year-old Alma Pakenham.

The couple fled to England, where Rattenbury would meet his demise years later at the hands of Pakenham’s 18-year-old lover.

Sandland says there is also a legend around Snake Island, just off the Nanaimo harbour. The story goes that a woman had eaten a posionous plant and it filled her body with snakes, so she was taken to Snake Island to die in isolation.

“They say, till this day, that the fish are filled with snakes who reside around Snake Island!” Sandland said.

The tour also touches briefly on the history of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, from whom Nanaimo got its name.

“They would move around different areas, from False Narrows to Mount Benson, and they would move with the seasons,” Sandland said.

Tour-goers often want to know what makes Nanaimo thrive, and ask about the city’s population, industries and pastimes, Sandland said.

“I think the knowledge of Nanaimo has never been quite well known,” she said. “Even to this day, a lot of people think we’re a small little fishing port. They don’t realize that we have over 80,000 people living here.”

The two-hour tour ends near the Bastion, usually just in time for the canon firing at noon. The tour also ends with a complimentary Nanaimo bar – a perfect chocolatey way to wrap up a truly Nanaimo experience.

For more information on the Nanaimo Historical Walking tour, please visit www.tracksoutdooradventures.com/

Participants should be sure to bring a camera, hat, and wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes with good tread.

A light-hearted sport, silly boats combine creativity and engineering, since each participating team has the job of planning, then building a winning water craft design that team members must paddle around a course in Nanaimo harbour, just outside Swy-a-lana Lagoon.

“Basically they’ve got four hours to build a boat from recycled materials – duct tape is a major component,” says Michelle Kocourek, Nanaimo Child Development Centre resource development assistant.

The annual event is the CDC’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and the centre has set a new target of $125,000 to signal the event’s 25th anniversary. Last year, teams and sponsors raised more than $100,000, with all proceeds going to programs and equipment for children with developmental needs and their families.

The centre has 400 children on its wait-list, waiting an average of 18-24 months for service – both speech and occupational therapy.

“Our main goal at the centre is to eliminate the wait-list by 2010,” says Kocourek. “We have to raise over $1 million to do that through lobbying and fundraising initiatives and the Silly Boat Regatta is one of the ways we’re going to do that.”

Organizers are expecting 50 or more teams again this year, all primed to make it to the finish line without getting wet.

But staying dry is hardly realistic once the splashing starts. And getting wet is a big part of the fun. After building the boats, that is.

“It’s limited to their creativity. Some of them use bike parts and mocked up paddle wheels. Many of them use inner tubes or Styrofoam – anything that floats. ”

For many Nanaimo businesses and organizations, entering the race is a shared staff experience.

“The huge thing is it’s team-building,” Kocourek said. “Everyone works together and it’s tons of fun.”

The fun actually starts weeks or even months in advance, when teams start planning boat design and materials. That’s where the team building begins.

“Ones that are seasoned prepare well in advance and their boats show it,” Kocourek said.

The Nanaimo Child Development Centre’s 25th Annual Silly Boat Regatta takes place July 18-19 at Maffeo Sutton and Swy-a-lana Lagoon parks. There is always lots to do for non-participants too – children’s entertainers, children’s games and plenty of food booths.

For more information or to register for the fun, please call Kocourek at 250-753-0251, ext. 227 or visit www.sillyboat.com to register online.

The community has hosted the Great International World Championship Bathtub Race for 43 years now, and the event – part of the Nanaimo Marine Festival – is as big as ever.

This year’s race goes at 11 a.m. July 26, with tubbers starting at the Nanaimo harbour downtown and arriving some two hours later at Departure Bay beach to throngs of appreciative spectators.

The four-day festival gets underway earlier in the week with the opening of the entertainment stage, food fair and Kiddies’ Karnival at Maffeo Sutton Park.

Lots of other events, like the World Championship Waiters’ Race and fireworks, accompany the races during the festivities. It’s one of Nanaimo’s biggest summer events.

Things ramp up July 25 downtown with the Sailpast on Wheels parade at 10:30 a.m. The day comes to a close with the Quality Foods Festival of Lights and Music fireworks show at 10 p.m.

As for the bathtub racing itself, the sport has changed significantly since the first race in 1967, when 200 tubbers attempted to cross the Strait of Georgia in vessels of varying seaworthiness. Now, some tubs are even tricked out to compete in the super-modified division.

But as the sport has changed with the time, the festival’s mandate has stayed steadfast – to accent the harbour.

This year’s event, July 10-12, will be the seventh annual in the Harbour City and is expected to be the largest yet.

Last year close to 80 teams participated – compared to 25 in the event’s first year – and some 7,000 people attended the festival at Maffeo Sutton Park and Swy-a-lana Lagoon.

Lots of folks come to watch the paddling action in the inner harbour, but the opening ceremonies and Sunday’s carnation ceremony also draw a crowd.

The carnation ceremony involves teams of breast cancer survivors casting pink flowers into the water in remembrance of those who died or in honour of others still fighting for their lives.

The carnation ceremony also reinforces the importance of the fundraising aspect of the dragonboat festival.

Nearly $225,000 was raised during the first six Nanaimo festivals.

All the money goes toward cancer diagnostic and rehabilitation equipment for Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.;

In March, I took three friends for a night on the town – beginning with dinner, followed by the ballet at the award-winning Port Theatre, and capped off with drinks at a swanky lounge in the heart of Commercial Street.

The Firehouse Grill is exactly like it sounds – located in Nanaimo’s old firehall on Victoria Road, the second floor is bright and airy with views of the city and the harbour, yet the tables are situated to give diners intimacy.

The four of us ordered very different plates, giving a cross-section example of the restaurant’s menu, which included appetizers like crab dip – which I’d definitely order again – soup, sandwiches and burgers, salads, pasta, seafood and steak, plus a separate sushi menu.

The restaurant also has an extensive wine list – the Penfold shiraz was sweet and smooth.

Most downtown restaurants feature executive chefs creating new dishes from fresh, local ingredients. Specials often feature items in season, like seafood, fish, vegetables or fruit, and for a very short time, offering even the most seasoned downtown diners something new to try.

Expect to pay the same at most downtown restaurants, anywhere from $15 to $30 an entree.

After dinner, we walked along Victoria Crescent, where you’ll find more restaurants like Aladdin’s Cafe, Armani’s Grill, Basque and the after-hours restaurants of Mambo’s Pizza and Pirate Chips. Cut through the China Steps and across the highway to the south entrance of the Port Theatre.

It’s best to park here and walk to dinner (everything in downtown Nanaimo is in a six-block radius). After the show, when it’s dark, your vehicle is just a short walk away.

The Port Theatre was built more than 10 years ago and hosts more than 250 shows annually. The Port Theatre Society operates the not-for-profit facility, ensuring that grant money is used to support the arts.

The spotlight series features culturally significant programs, such as the Nathaniel Dett Chorale, which performed at the Canadian Embassy in Washington during inauguration, Brent Butt, creator of Corner Gas, and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

These are shows which usually offer tickets for less than $40.

Popular events, like Bryan Adams’ solo acoustic show, 54-40 and Gordon Lightfoot sold out quickly, so check the theatre’s calendar of events and get tickets well in advance. The ballet is always a big draw in Nanaimo and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet sold out two shows of Peter Pan, but we were lucky to get tickets.

Having sat in nearly every section of the theatre, I can honestly say there isn’t a bad seat in the house.

As I settled in, having been directed to my seat by one of the legion of volunteers that take care of everything from ticket collecting to bartending, the lights dimmed and the heavy velvet curtain rose to show a quaint, 19th century English bedroom. The Royal Winnipeg spares no expense when telling classic stories, with elaborate sets, sumptuous costumes and special effects, sending Tinkerbell and Peter Pan flying across the stage on wires.

After the show, we headed to Commercial Street to 121 Lounge, a small martini bar with a dj spinning. The plush interior is perfect for relaxing conversation over classic cocktails. If you’re in the mood for something more energetic, Nanaimo’s bar scene is just a few store fronts away, with Club 241 on Skinner Street (just off Commercial at Wharf Street); Spice Lounge across from the conference centre; and across the highway on Victoria Crescent is the Cambie and the Queen’s, with each club boasting live music or dj’s spinning original mixes.

Smaller pubs and restaurants – like the Old City Station, Basque and the Vault – often feature live music. Check the News Bulletin’s weekly What’s On calendar for an up-to-date list of events and begin your exploration of Nanaimo’s most unique area.;

HARBOUR CITY HALF MARATHON – The News Bulletin helps present this annual run, re-launched in 2008 with more community focus, including a kids run and pre-event training clinics through the Running Room. For information and registration, please go to www.harbourcityhalf.ca.

Outrigger Canoe – The Nanaimo Canoe and Kayak Club hosts its annual outrigger canoe race on the second last weekend of February. Teams from all over the Island and Lower Mainland take part. Call 250-756-4054 for details.

environment lure diving enthusiasts from all over the world to Nanaimo’s waters. Snake Island, Orlebar Point and Neck Point are some hot spots, and artificial reefs like the sunken HMCS Saskatchewan, a 336-foot navy vessel, or the HMCS Cape Breton, sunk in 2001, are popular sites. For the best local knowledge call a dive shop or visit www.bcdiveguide.com.

10. Crabbing – Compete with some resident seals for supper at local crabbing hot spots. In many cases you don’t need a boa. One of the most popular places to catch crab is on the Harbourfront Walkway so you can relax and watch the busy activity while waiting for your dinner.

11. Hiking – In town or just outside Nanaimo, there are countless trails to hike. Try the six-kilometre loop around Westwood Lake, or challenge yourself with a hike to the top of Nanaimo’s backdrop, Mount Benson, where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Strait of Georgia and the Coast Mountains. A local favourite is the hour-long hike to the breathtaking Ammonite falls.

12. Walking – There are no shortage of walking trails in Nanaimo. In town you can find trails at Colliery Dam, Buttertubs Marsh, along the sea wall or the Parkway Trail, to name a few. Longer walks include Cable Bay Trail or Biggs Park. With more than 1,100 hectares of parkland and protected open spaces, there are many different ways to enjoy nature.

13. Cycling – Cycling is allowed in all of Nanaimo’s parks unless otherwise posted and there are a network of cycling paths like the Parkway Trail, E&N trail, Bowen Park and Westwood Lake around the city. Cycling is a great way to see Nanaimo. For routes, call the Greater Nanaimo Cycling Coalition for information at 722-4665 or visit www.thegncc.org.

14. Mountain Biking – World class mountain biking can be found just minutes from downtown Nanaimo. Local riders challenge themselves on technical singletrack at the Abyss, near the top of Harewood Mines Road, where challenging climbs, rocket-fast downhills and switchbacks test rider skills. The trails at Doumont Road (top of Weigles Road) offer a variety of terrain from fire roads to winding singletrack, as well as jumps and ladders. Your best bet is to tag along with the Nanaimo Mountain Bike Club who go on several rides a week to the best spots. Check out www.nanaimomountainbikeclub.com. The Island Cup mountain bike race series also visits Nanaimo in March and April.

15. Rock Climbing – For indoor rock climbing for all ages, contact the Romper Room at 751-7625 or visit www.climbromperroom.com for lessons from beginner to advanced.

16. Wild Play Adventure Park – What gets your adrenaline pumping? Maybe a leap off of North America’s only legal bungy bridge toward the roaring Nanaimo River? How about a two-hour treetop adventure on Wild Plays’ TreeGo course, where adventurists challenge themselves 30 feet off the forest floor against an aerial obstacle course. It’s safe, fun and a total rush. Call 1-888-668-7874 or visit www.wildplayparks.com

17. Bathtub Races – It’s a unique event to Nanaimo that attracts brave participants from all over. The 42nd edition of the International World Championship Bathtub Race is scheduled for the weekend of July 26. Nanaimo’s waterfront will be abuzz all weekend with the big race schedule for 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 27. The parade takes place on July 26 at 10:30 a.m. Lots of other events, like the World Championship Waiters’ race and fireworks, accompany the races during the festivities. It’s one of Nanaimo’s biggest summer events.

18. Skateboarding -The Nanaimo Skateboard Park can be found on the corner of Comox Road and Wall Street while the Pioneer Skate Park can be found behind the Canadian Tire in Nanaimo’s north end.

19. Golf – Golf can be played in Nanaimo almost year round, and with 19 courses within an hour’s drive of Nanaimo, there are no shortage of options. The Nanaimo Golf and Country Club, located in the heart of the city, is routinely rated as one of B.C.’s best. There are also several other 18-hole championship courses as well as nine hole or Par 3 courses. Beban Park also features a chip-and-putt course for those who want to work on their short game.

20. Ice Skating – The perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. Drop-in skating sessions are available throughout the summer at Cliff McNabb Arena, 2300 Bowen Road, and will start in mid-July at the Nanaimo Ice Centre at 750 Third Street. Call 756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca for session times.

21. Tennis – Tennis, anyone? Beban and Bowen parks both feature six public tennis courts that operate on a first-come first-served basis. Bowen also has three nighttime token-operated courts for nocturnal enthusiasts. Tokens cost $8 per hour and can be purchased at the Bowen or Beban Park offices or the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre.

22. Nanaimo Aquatic Centre – Stay in shape or just cool down, the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre has it all. A 52-metre pool, three water slides, a leisure pool, wave pool, steam room, hot tub, lazy river, spacious weight room and restaurant will keep you busy and healthy all day.

23. Beban Park Pool – This pirate-themed pool features a 61-metre waterslide, leisure pool and a unique pirate ship interactive play feature. The facility also has a 25-metre pool, weight room, hot tub and steam room. A great place to cool off or keep in shape. Call 756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

24. Floating Boat and Marine Trade Show – The fourth annual show takes place June 6-8 in 2008 at the Nanaimo Boat Basin. The event features new and used boats, charters, entertainment, yacht brokers, marine suppliers and more. Call 754-5053 or visit www.npa.ca.

25. Save-On-Food Dragon Boat Festival – Held in 2008 from July 11-13, the sixth annual festival features spirited celebrations and racing at Maffeo Sutton Park and at the downtown waterfront. Visit www.nanaimodragonboat.com.

26. EMPIRE DAYS CELEBRATION WEEKEND….May 16-18.This celebration starts off with a bang at the Port Theatre 7pm Friday evening with the historic May Queen Crowning ceremony and accompanying multi-cultural entertainment,Saturday the Queen and her Royal Party attend various city functions and activities,Sunday features the 1pm Downtown Parade and in the evening the 10pm Fireworks over the Downtown Harbour.Full info available at www.nanaimoempire days.com.

27. Arts – Nanaimo has a lively arts community. The Nanaimo Arts Council, the umbrella organization for visual and performing and creative arts, has its headquarters at Nanaimo North Town Centre. The downtown Nanaimo arts district, anchored by the Port Theatre, is home to many galleries. Please visit www.nanaimoartscouncil.ca.

28. Vancouver Island Military Museum – Memorials, medal displays, books and military records can all be found at the Vancouver Island Military Museum, located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Nanaimo has an important military past and it can all be learned and viewed at the museum. Call 756-2554.

29. Nanaimo Art Gallery – With so many local artists and exhibits the local art gallery has two locations at 900 5th St. on the Malaspina University-College Campus and downtown at 150 Commercial St. The Malaspina gallery features exhibits by local and international artists while the downtown location has items from more than 100 local artists. Works are available for rental or purchase. Visit www.nanaimogallery.com.

30. Nanaimo Artfest 2008 – Nanaimo’s originals only art show takes place mid-August at the Nanaimo Art gallery downtown and at the Pioneer waterfront Plaza. This year’s edition will feature displays of traditional forms of art, sculptures and musical entertainment. Call 754-1750 or visit www.nanaimogallery.com.

31. Federation of Canadian Artists exhibit – Runs from mid-June to the third week of July. A celebration and display of Canadian artists on the Malaspina University-College campus gallery. Call 740-6350.

32. Arts Alive Summer School of Fine Arts – Featuring arts, drama, music and dance Arts Alive is a low cost, high quality instruction for both beginners and intermediates of any age. Call 753-9423 or visit www.nanaimoartsalive.com for 2008 dates and prices.

33. Bastion Museum – Nanaimo’’s oldest building, the bastion is a former Hudson’s Bay Company fort built in 1853. The interpretive centre is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a canon firing ceremony starting at 11:45 a.m. every day from May to September. Call 753-1821 or visit 222.nanaimo.museum.bc.ca.

34. Nanaimo District Museum – Now found in its new state-of-the-art facility at the Port of Nanaimo Centre, the museum’s exhibits feature First Nations and Chinese history, coal mining, forestry, sports and other elements of Nanaimo’s history. The museum has permanent and changing exhibits and will also host some of Canada’s most popular touring exhibits. Call 753-1821 or visit www.nanaimomuseum.ca.

35. Vancouver Island Symphony – Nanaimo’s own professional symphony offers a season of concerts from September to May at the Port Theatre. For concert information call 754-0177. For tickets call the Port Theatre box office of go online at www.viso.bc.ca.

36. Port Theatre – Nanaimo’s 800-seat performing arts centre is located at 150 Front Street in downtown Nanaimo. With more than 250 scheduled events each year, the Port Theatre offers comedy, music, theatre, dance and film festivals. Call 754-8550 or visit www.porttheatre.nisa.com.

37. Oliver Woods Community Centre- Nanaimo’s brand new community centre features city programs and recreational facilities. Call 756-5200 or check the Leisure Guide for programs.

38. Nanaimo Theatre Group – In its 47th year, the NTG owns the 175-seat Bailey Studio on Rosstown Road where it presents a variety of theatrical productions year round. Call 758-7246 or visit online at www.bailey.nisa.com.

39. Theatreone – Nanaimo’s professional theatre company presents a Mainstage show, Just Kidding Series for kids and a Fringe Flicks film series. 754-7587 or www.theatreone.org.

40. Yellow Point Drama Group – The oldest theatre group in western Canada. Based at the Cedar Community Hall, the group offers shows in the spring and fall. Contact 245-7882.

41. Vancouver Island International Children’s Festival – After eight years and more than 100,000 audience members, the festivities will return May 11-13 in Nanaimo and May 14-16 in Victoria. Performers from around the world offer artistic excellence, cultural diversity and a wonderful learning experience for the kids. Visit www.childrensfestival.com.

42. Canada Day Celebrations – July 1 at Maffeo Sutton Park. Nanaimo celebrates Canada and its diversity with all kinds of music, food, live entertainment and family events. Call 756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

43. Old City Quarter Heritage Street Festival – May 20 this year. Live music, cultural demonstrations and family entertainment in the Fitzwilliam Street area. Call 754-8141.

44. Show ‘N Shine Car Show – An annual favourite for car enthusiasts takes place this year on Aug. 24. More than 100 hotrods and motorcycles are on display for this fundraiser for Volunteer Nanaimo. Visit www.nanaimodowntown.com.

45. Vancouver Island Exhibition – Nanaimo’s annual agricultural celebration and fair takes place Aug. 15-17. Crowds from around the island come to see the livestock exhibition with live music, carnival rides, games and other events at Beban Park. Call 758-3247 or visit www.viex.ca.

46. Celtfest 2008 – July 5-12 this year, Celtfest features a Celtic concert series of performing arts held at the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside resort in Parksville. Nightly recitals and concerts are open to the public. Visit www.celtfest.ca or call 758-0208 for more details.

47. Festival of Banners Tour – May 1 to Oct. 31. Artists create banners that reflect the chosen theme and they are displayed on street lamps throughout the city. The display is a symphony of colours that can be seen right through the fall season before being auctioned off to the highest bidder. Proceeds go to charity. 753-3245 or www.nanaimogallery.ca.

48. Summertime Blues – Aug. 15,16,17,23 and 24. Free live blues concerts featuring some of Canada’s hottest blues acts. This year’s edition will kickoff with a three-day weekend of outdoor performances at the Harbourfront Plaza. www.nanaimobluesfestival.com.

49. Bite of Nanaimo – Nanaimo’s 16th annual gourmet food fair presented by Theatre One at Beban Park is held each September. 754-7587 or www.theatreone.org.

50. Boating – Brechin Boat Launch near the B.C. Ferries terminal at Departure Bay is Nanaimo’s main public boat ramp. It provides easy access to Newcastle and Protection Islands. A smaller boat ramp is located off Hammond Bay road.

51. Freshwater Beaches – Long Lake, Westwood Lake, Brannen Lake and Colliery Dam all offer summertime swim locations. The Nanaimo River also has several swimming holes to cool off in on hot days.

52. Ocean Beaches – Nanaimo has lots of beautiful ocean beaches to explore, relax on or have a picnic. Neck Point, Piper’s Lagoon, Departure Bay, Newcastle Island and Gabriola Island are a few local favourites. Neck Point has some amazing snorkeling opportunities at high tide.

53. Maple Sugar Festival – A slice of francophone tradition comes alive each February with the Maple Sugar Festival. Popular French musicians and local talent, along with francophone traditions and entertainment make this Nanaimo’s most popular winter event. The maple sugar is shipped in from Quebec’s famous Maple Sugar Region. Visit www.francophonenanaimo.org.

54. Farmers’ Market – A relaxing way to find some of the Island’s freshest produce, food and crafts. The Downtown Farmers’ Market is open mid-April to early October on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Cedar Farmers’ Market, open from mid-May to October can be found at 2313 Yellow Point Road while the Shady Mile Market, at 3452 Jingle Pot Road is also open. Call 729-3801 for details. The newly created Bowen Road Farmer’s Market will take place from 4-7 p.m. from May 21-Oct. 8 every Wednesday at the Co-op on Bowen Road.

55. Nanaimo River Salmon Hatchery – October to December is the best time to visit the hatchery but juvenile salmon in their outdoor channels can be seen from February to May. The public is welcome to use the walking trails. Turn right on Beck Road just north of the Haslam Creek Bridge then go left on Rugby Road. 245-7780 or www.nanaimoriverhatchery.ca.

56. Fisherman’s Wharf – Fresh seafood right out of the sea can be found at the boat basin below Front Street.

57. Brewery Tour – Mmmmm, beer. The Longwood Brew Pub at Longwood station offers tours of its unique in-house process but you need reservations. Call 729-8225 or visit www.longwoodbrewpub.com and be sure to leave enough time to try some awesome entrees off the menu.

58. Historic Walking Tour – Take a walking tour of Nanaimo’s downtown core and Old City Quarter. Follow the posted heritage signs or make up your own route to view unique architecture and gardens.

59. Guided Tours – There are many ways to get around Nanaimo and its waterways. Various companied host guided tours of the area on foot, bus, boat or plane. Visit www.naturepark.com for some ideas.

60. Yellow Point Scenic Drive – Just south of Nanaimo, the rural communities of Cedar and Yellow Point offer some stunning countryside drives. There are lots of hobby farms and galleries to visit along the way. Driving tour maps are available from www.tourismnanaimo.com.

61. Stroll Through a Park – Nanaimo has many parks within its city limits to take a stroll through. For more of a nature feel try Bowen Park or Colliery Dam. For an urban feel try Maffeo Sutton Park in downtown Nanaimo along the sea wall or Pioneer Park. For a complete list of city parks visit www.nanaimo.ca.

62. Harbourfront Walkway – Buy and ice cream cone and casually stroll along the four-kilometre paved walkway along the harbourfront that extends from Cameron Island to Departure Bay.

63. Morrell Nature Sanctuary – A stunning network of nature trails on 112 hectares of second growth forest. There are 11 kilometres of trails that pass by Beaver Ponds, marshes and Morrell Lake. Lots of wildlife to see and there is an off-leash area under the power lines to the west.

64. Bird Watching – More than 250 bird species call the area home or return annually on migration routes. Buttertubs Marsh is a popular 18-hectare bird and wildlife sanctuary located adjacent to the Millstone River near Bowen Park. A popular spot for bird watchers and photographers. For other local favourites visit http://birding.bc.ca.

65. Cemetery Tours – The best way to learn about Nanaimo’s history is to get close to those who were there. Guided cemetery tours take place every Thursday in July and August with stories about Nanaimo’s earliest residents.

66. See a Movie – Nanaimo has several big screen theatres with comfortable seating and surround sound. Try the Galaxy Theatre at Nanaimo North Town Centre at 729-8000 and Avalon Cinema at Woodgrove Centre at 390-5021.

67. B.C. Canoe-Kayak Club – The club hosts several regattas over the summer at Long Lake. The club also hosts learn to paddle programs from May to September on Saturdays from 1-3 p.m. Call 741-1200 or visit www.nckc.ca for details.

68. Camping – Nanaimo has several camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether by the ocean, the Nanaimo River, one of the many local lakes or near the mountains, there are camp sites and RV sites for everybody.

69. Running – There are five popular running routes in Nanaimo. The Harbourside Walkway, Westwood Lake Trail Loop, Parkway Trail, E&N Trail and the Jack Point/Biggs Park route. Most of the local running clubs and specialty stores host drop-in groups, and some even run regularly to raise money for charity.

70. In-line skating – There are plenty of smooth, paved trails in the city to get out for an in-line skate. Try the E&N Trail, the Parkway Trail or the old Grandview Bowl racetrack.

71. Fitness Gyms – The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Gym and Beban Park Gym offer state-of-the art fitness equipment that include rowing machines, treadmills, stair climbers and universal gyms. Call 756-5200.

72. Disc Golf – An 18-hole disc golf course is located in Bowen Park. Borrow discs from the Bowen Park administration office Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

73. Bowling – A great activity for those rainy days. Brechin Lanes at 1870 Wellington St. E. offers five-pin bowling with automatic lanes and scoring, along with bumpers for the inexperienced or kids, call 753-2341. Splitsville at 171 Calder Rd. offers 10-pin fun, call 754-2442.

74. Squash – The Nanaimo Squash Club features four international squash courts, weight room saunas, public lounge and pro shop. Drop-in round robin tournaments are scheduled every Friday night. Call 754-3123 or go to www.nanaimosquash.com.

75. Horseshoes – A great way to spend an afternoon. Six public horseshoe pitches are maintained at Bowen park near the tennis courts. Pitches go by a first-come first-served basis.

76. Dining – Nanaimo has a wide variety of culinary options. From Indian or Thai food, sushi, Mediterranean or traditional burgers or wings, there are plenty of opportunities to explore. Check out restaurant listings at www.tourismnanaimo.com.

77. Shopping – When it comes to shopping Nanaimo has it all. For indoor shopping try Woodgrove Centre, Nanaimo North Town Centre, Country Club Centre, Port Place Centre or Harewood Mall. For plaza-style shopping check out Brooks Landing, Terminal Park, Longwood Station, Northridge Centre and Dickinson Crossing. To find unique boutiques and specialty stores, take in the charm of the Old City Quarter.

78. Dinghy Dock – Canada’s only floating pub is on Protection Island, a 10-minute ferry ride from the Nanaimo Boat Basin. Chow down on pub fare and seafood. The Protection Connection ferry leaves 10 minutes past the hour beginning at 7:10 a.m. weekdays, 8:10 a.m. Saturdays and 9:10 a.m. Sundays. A walk around Protection Island is a popular post-meal activity.

79. First Nations Culture – Learn about the first people to inhabit Vancouver Island at the Nanaimo District Museum or shop for aboriginal art at Art of Siem on Front Street at Hill’s Native Art on Bastion Street.

80. Explore the Islands – Gabriola Island, Protection Island and Newcastle Island are all just a short ferry ride away. Gabriola features parks, beaches and galleries, as well as a popular outdoor craft exhibit on weekend mornings in the summer. Newcastle features beaches and hiking trails as well as places to camp while Protection is a quiet residential community with several small parks.

81. Westwood Lake – Walk, jog or cycle the six-kilometre trail around the lake in this 106-hectare park. The popular swimming beach has a lifeguard on duty in the summer. No power boats are allowed, so the lake is ideal for rowboats, canoes, kayaks or small boats with electric motors.

82. Piper’s Lagoon Park – A trail leads to a rocky headland between a shallow lagoon and an outer beach. It features several lookouts across the Strait of Georgia and has several benches for watching marine life or birds. Swim, comb the beach or watch stunning sunrises or moon rises.

83. Jack Point/Biggs Park – Biggs Park starts with a trail along the water just west of the Duke Point Highway with excellent views of the Nanaimo River estuary and the City of Nanaimo. The pathway leads to a trail through woods and rocky shoreline to Jack Point.

84. Cable Bay Trail – A great place to spot sea lions from October to April or seals playing in the rapids at Dodds Narrows. The two-kilometre trail leads through mixed forest before crossing a small stream by the ocean. The parking lot to the trailhead is located at the end of Nicola Road in Cedar.

85. Chase River Estuary Park – Trails, viewing platforms and boardwalks for bird watching or views of the estuary at 1150 Island Highway, south of Haliburton Street.

86. Neck Point – This 14.5-hectare waterfront park features stunning views and a real west coast feel. A popular place for snorkeling in the summer, it also has benches and several lookout points. Parking lot is accessible from Hammond Bay Road.

87. Colliery Dam Park – This 28-acre park is a popular swimming and fishing area in the summer. The trail leads around the lake with several off-road trails networking throughout the park. Parking off Nanaimo Lakes Road or Wakesiah Avenue.

88. Diver Lake – Features a wooden walkway, playground and an area with jumps for bikes. Located off Labieux Road, between Bowen and Jinglepot roads.

89. Departure Bay Beach – Buy an ice cream and watch the ferries come and go at one of Nanaimo’s most popular areas.

90. Bowen Park – Use the tennis, lawn bowling, soccer, horse shoe or volleyball facilities or go for a walk along the cascading Millstone River. Lots of places to picnic or feed the resident ducks.

91. Beban Park – Nanaimo’s premier recreation facility offers swimming, skating, tennis, playgrounds and multi-use trails. Home to the Canadian national cyclocross championship in November and the Nanaimo Junior A Clippers also call Frank Crane Arena home.

92. Maffeo Sutton Park – Waterfront park includes basketball courts, giant chess boards and a nautical-themed playground. The park is used for many special events and outdoor concerts.

93. Parkway Trail – A 20-kilometre paved path known as the multi-use Parkway Trail. For a trail map, contact Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Culture at 756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

94. E&N Trail – This eight-kilometre trail runs alongside the E&N railway track from Rosehill Avenue in the south to Mostar Road in the north. Popular with walkers, runners and in-line skaters.

95. Petroglyph Park – A two-hectare provincial park featuring prehistoric sandstone rock carvings depicting mystical animal and human figures. Parking lot is off the Island Highway between Haliburton Street and Highview Terrace.

96. Concerts in the Park – Bring your lawn chair to the Lions Pavilion at Maffeo Sutton Park Sundays during July and August to enjoy free concerts.

97. Bowen Park 4H Barnyard – Late June to August provides youngsters an opportunity to interact with young farm animals. Special events throughout the summer.

98. Altrusa Park – An ideal place for kids to play and learn to ride a bike located at Beban Park off Bowen Road. Plenty of picnic areas.

99. Playgrounds – During July and August, playgrounds host free programs for children aged six to 12. Join in for games, sports and crafts. Call 756-5200.

100. Water Parks – Take the kids to chill out on a hot summer day at the Kiwanis Bay Water Park located near Departure Bay beach, the Haliburton Water Park near Princess Royal School or Harewood Mining Community Water park on Howard Avenue.

101. Read a Book – Visit the Vancouver Island Regional Library, grab a book, kick back and enjoy. The library also offers summer reading programs for children. For hours and information call 753-1154 (Harbourfront branch) or 758-5544 (Wellington branch).

Freshwater Fishing – People from all over the world come to Nanaimo to fly fish some of the globe’s best streams and rivers, including the Nanaimo River. Fly fisherman are on the rivers year-round and most local lakes are also annually stocked. Call a local retailer for the best fishing holes, or try the Nanaimo Fish and Game Club at 250-754-2846.

Crabbing – Get a licence and compete with some resident seals for supper at local crabbing hot spots. In many cases you don’t even need a boat to get these seafood delicacies. One of the most popular places in Nanaimo to catch crab is the crabbing dock on the Harbourfront Walkway where you can relax and watch the activity while waiting for dinner.

Floating Boat and Marine Trade Show – The fourth annual show takes place June 5-7 in 2009 at the Nanaimo Boat Basin. The popular event features everything for boat enthusiasts. Call 250-754-5053 or visit www.npa.ca.

Yellow Point Drama Group – The oldest theatre group in western Canada. Based at the Cedar Community Hall, the group offers shows in the spring and fall. Contact 250-245-7882.

Beban Park Pool – This pirate-themed pool features a 61-metre waterslide, leisure pool and a unique pirate ship interactive play feature. The facility also has a 25-metre pool, weight room, hot tub and steam room. A great place to cool off or keep in shape. Call 250-756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

Nanaimo Aquatic Centre – Stay in shape or just cool down, the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre has it all. A 52-metre pool, three water slides, a leisure pool, wave pool, steam room, hot tub, lazy river, spacious weight room and restaurant will keep you busy and healthy all day.

Nanaimo Multicultural Festival – Live music, cultural demonstrations and family entertainment in the Fitzwilliam Street area. June 27 in 2009. Call 250-754-8141.

Golf – Golf can be played in Nanaimo almost year-round, and with 19 courses within an hour’s drive of Nanaimo, there are no shortage of options. The Nanaimo Golf and Country Club, located in the heart of the city, is routinely rated as one of B.C.’s best. There are also several other 18-hole championship courses as well as nine-hole or Par 3 courses. Beban Park also features a pitch-and-putt course for those who want to work on their short game.

Sailing – Sheltered waters or open seas, it’s your choice. The sailing around Nanaimo is world class. If you’re just starting out and looking for lessons, adventure packages or charters, call Tourism Nanaimo or visit www.tourismnanaimo.com.

Van Isle Sailing Co-op – The non-profit group owns the sailboats and members get to sail on them, learning by crewing with experienced sailors. For more information, visit www.vanislesailing.ca.

Scuba Diving – Clear water, colourful marine life and a rich underwater environment lure diving enthusiasts from all over the world to Nanaimo’s waters. Snake Island, Orlebar Point and Neck Point are some hot spots, and artificial reefs like the sunken HMCS Saskatchewan, a 336-foot navy vessel, or HMCS Cape Breton, sunk in 2001, are popular sites. For the best local knowledge call a dive shop or visit www.bcdiveguide.com.

Rock Climbing – For indoor rock climbing for all ages, contact the Romper Room at 250-751-7625 or visit www.climbromperroom.com for lessons from beginner to advanced.

Vancouver Island Symphony – Nanaimo’s own professional symphony offers a season of concerts from September to May at the Port Theatre. For concert information call 250-754-0177. For tickets call the Port Theatre box office 02 go online at www.viso.bc.ca.

Cans Food Festival – An annual fundraiser for the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank. A donation of canned food buys participants a taste of yumminess from one of several Nanaimo restaurants. Also featuring the Cans Structure Challenge. Early September. Call 250-754-8141.

Boating – Brechin Boat Launch near the B.C. Ferries terminal at Departure Bay is Nanaimo’s main public boat ramp. A smaller boat ramp is located off Hammond Bay road.

Ocean Beaches – Nanaimo has lots of beautiful ocean beaches to explore, relax on or have a picnic. Neck Point, Piper’s Lagoon, Departure Bay, Newcastle Island and Gabriola Island are a few local favourites. Neck Point has some amazing snorkeling opportunities at high tide.

Maple Sugar Festival – A slice of francophone tradition comes alive each February at the Maple Sugar Festival, with popular French musicians and local talent, along with francophone traditions and entertainment.

Yellow Point Scenic Drive – Just south of Nanaimo, the rural communities of Cedar and Yellow Point offer stunning countryside. Maps are available from www.tourismnanaimo.com.

Camping – Nanaimo has several camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether by the ocean, the Nanaimo River, one of the many local lakes or near the mountains.

Running – There are five popular running routes in Nanaimo. The Harbourside Walkway, Westwood Lake Trail Loop, Parkway Trail, E&N Trail and the Jack Point/Biggs Park route. Most of the local running clubs and specialty stores host drop-in groups, and some even run regularly to raise money for charity.

Hiking – In town or just outside Nanaimo, there are countless trails, such as Neck Point Park or Morrell Sanctuary, to hike. Try the six-kilometre loop around Westwood Lake, or challenge yourself with a hike to the top of Nanaimo’s backdrop, Mount Benson, where you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of the Strait of Georgia and the Coast Mountains. A local favourite is the hour-long hike to the breathtaking Ammonite Falls.

In-line skating – There are plenty of smooth, paved trails to get out for an in-line skate. Try the E&N Trail, the Parkway Trail or the old Grandview Bowl racetrack.

Fitness Gyms – The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Gym and Beban Park Gym offer state-of-the art fitness equipment that include rowing machines, treadmills, stair climbers and universal gyms. Call 250-756-5200.

Summertime Blues 2009 – Aug. 20-23. Free live blues concerts featuring some of Canada’s hottest blues acts. This year’s edition will kick off with a three-day weekend of outdoor performances at the Harbourfront Plaza. Visit www.nanaimobluesfestival.com.

Stroll Through a Park – Nanaimo has many parks within its city limits to take a stroll through. For more of a nature feel try Bowen Park or Colliery Dam. For an urban feel try Maffeo Sutton Park along the seawall or Georgia Park. For a complete list of city parks visit www.nanaimo.ca.

Harbourfront Walkway – Buy an ice cream cone and casually stroll the four-kilometre paved walkway along the harbourfront that extends from Cameron Island to Departure Bay.

Dinghy Dock – Canada’s only floating pub is on Protection Island, a 10-minute ferry ride from the Nanaimo Boat Basin. Chow down on pub fare and seafood. The Protection Connection ferry leaves 10 minutes past the hour beginning at 7:10 a.m. weekdays, 8:10 a.m. Saturdays and 9:10 a.m. Sundays. A walk around Protection Island is a popular post-meal activity.

Oliver Woods Community Centre – Nanaimo’s brand new community centre features city programs and recreational facilities. Call 250-756-5200 or check the Leisure Guide for programs.

Bowling – A great activity for those rainy days. Brechin Lanes at 1870 East Wellington St. offers five-pin bowling with automatic lanes and scoring, and bumpers for the kids. Call 250-753-2341. Splitsville at 171 Calder Rd. offers 10-pin fun, call 250-754-2442.

Cemetery Tours – A great way to learn about Nanaimo’s history. Guided cemetery tours take place every Thursday in July and August with stories about our earliest residents.

SPring Art Feature – The Spring Showcase is a display of art from Nanaimo and area painters, photographers, potters, sculptors and others. The show can be viewed during April at the Nanaimo Arts Council gallery in Nanaimo North Town Centre.

Ferries – Spend an afternoon aboard a vessel that’s part of one of the largest ferry fleets in the world. B.C. Ferries has one of its largest hubs in Nanaimo, with major terminals at Departure Bay and Duke Point, as well as the smaller Gabriola Island route.

Fisherman’s Wharf – Fresh seafood right out of the sea can be found at the boat basin below Front Street.

Skateboarding – The Nanaimo Skate Bowl Park can be found on the corner of Comox Road and Wall Street while the Pioneer Skate Park can be found behind Canadian Tire in the north end.

Westwood Lake – Walk, jog or cycle the six-kilometre trail around the lake in this 106-hectare park. The popular swimming beach has a lifeguard on duty in the summer. No power boats are allowed.

Nanaimo River Salmon Hatchery – October to December is the best time to visit the hatchery but juvenile salmon in their outdoor channels can be seen from February to May. The public is welcome to use the walking trails. Turn right on Beck Road just north of the Haslam Creek Bridge then go left on Rugby Road. 250-245-7780 or www.nanaimoriverhatchery.ca.

Horseshoes – A great way to spend an afternoon. Six public horseshoe pitches are maintained at Bowen Park near the tennis courts.

Neck Point – This 14.5-hectare waterfront park features stunning views and a real West Coast feel. A popular place for snorkeling in the summer, it also has benches and several lookout points. Parking lot is accessible off Hammond Bay Road.

Cable Bay Trail – A great place to spot sea lions from October to April or seals playing in the rapids at Dodds Narrows. The two-kilometre trail leads through mixed forest before crossing a small stream by the ocean.

Chase River Estuary Park – Trails, viewing platforms and boardwalks for bird watching or views of the estuary at 1150 Island Highway, south of Haliburton Street.

Bird Watching – More than 250 bird species call the area home or return annually on migration routes. Buttertubs Marsh is a popular 18-hectare bird and wildlife sanctuary near Bowen Park. For other local favourites visit http://birding.bc.ca.

Dining – Nanaimo has a wide variety of culinary options. From Indian or Thai food, sushi, Mediterranean or traditional burgers or wings, there are plenty of opportunities to explore. Check out restaurant listings at www.tourismnanaimo.com.

Festival of Banners Tour – May 1 to Oct. 31. Artists create banners that reflect the chosen theme and they are displayed on street lamps throughout the city. The display is a symphony of colours that can be seen right through the fall season before being sold. Proceeds go to charity. 250-740-6350 or www.nanaimogallery.ca.

See a Movie – Nanaimo has several big screen theatres with comfortable seating and surround sound. Try the Galaxy Theatre at Nanaimo North Town Centre at 250-729-8000 and Avalon Cinema at Woodgrove Centre at 250-390-5021.

Nanaimo Theatre Group – In its 48th year, the NTG owns the 175-seat Bailey Studio on Rosstown Road. Call 250-758-7246 or go to www.bailey.nisa.com.

Explore the Islands – Gabriola Island, Protection Island and Newcastle Island are all just a short ferry ride away. Gabriola features parks, beaches and galleries, as well as a popular outdoor craft exhibit on weekend mornings in the summer. Newcastle features beaches and hiking trails as well as places to camp while Protection is a quiet residential community with several small parks.

First Nations Culture – Learn about the first people to inhabit the Island at the Nanaimo District Museum or shop for aboriginal art at Art of Siem on Front Street or at Hill’s Native Art on Bastion Street.

Brewery Tour – Mmmmm, beer. The Longwood Brew Pub at Longwood Station offers tours of its unique in-house process. Call 250-729-8225 or visit www.longwoodbrewpub.com and be sure to leave enough time to try some entrees off the menu.

Vancouver Island Military Museum – Memorials, medal displays, books and military records can all be found at the Vancouver Island Military Museum, located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Nanaimo has an important military past and it can all be learned and viewed at the museum. Call 250-756-2554.

Tennis – Tennis, anyone? Beban and Bowen parks both feature six public tennis courts that operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Bowen also has three nighttime token-operated courts for nocturnal enthusiasts. Tokens cost $8 per hour and can be purchased at the Bowen or Beban Park offices or the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre.

Nanaimo Canoe-Kayak Club – The club hosts several regattas over the summer at Long Lake. The club also hosts learn to paddle programs from May to September on Saturdays from 1-3 p.m. Call 250-741-1200 or visit www.nckc.ca.

Water Parks – Take the kids to chill out on a hot summer day at the Kiwanis Bay Water Park located near Departure Bay beach, the Haliburton Water Park near Princess Royal School or Harewood Mining Community Water Park on Howard Avenue.

Bite of Nanaimo – Nanaimo’s 17th annual gourmet food fair presented by Theatre One at Beban Park will be held on Sept. 24 in 2009. Call 250-754-7587 or visit www.theatreone.org.

Disc Golf – An 18-hole disc golf course is located in Bowen Park. Borrow discs from the administration office Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Squash – The Nanaimo Squash Club features four international squash courts, weight room saunas, public lounge and pro shop. Call 250-754-3123 or go to www.nanaimosquash.com.

Maffeo Sutton Park – Waterfront park includes basketball courts, giant chess boards and a nautical-themed playground.

Parkway Trail – A 20-kilometre paved path. For a trail map, contact Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Culture at 250-756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

Nanaimo Art Gallery – With so many local artists and exhibits the local art gallery has two locations at 900 5th St. on the Vancouver Island University campus and downtown at 150 Commercial St. The VIU gallery features exhibits by local and international artists while the downtown location has items from more than 100 local artists. Works are available for rental or purchase. Visit www.nanaimogallery.ca.

Saltwater fishing – May to September is the best time to fish for the area’s indigenous species that include salmon, halibut, ling cod, sole, rockfish and crab. A copy of the B.C. Freshwater and Saltwater Sports Fishing Guide is handy and a valid fishing licence is mandatory. There are also many deep sea charters available. Visit www.bcfishing.com.

Vancouver Island International Children’s Festival – After nine years and more than 100,000 audience members, the festivities return June 7-9 in Nanaimo. Performers offer artistic excellence, cultural diversity and a wonderful learning experience. Visit www.childrensfestival.com.

Short film summer academy – Learn how to make a film from story idea to finished product. Three-day process includes how to shoot, develop a story and edit with digital software. June 12-14. Contact the Nanaimo Arts Council at 250-729-3947.

Concerts in the Park – Bring your lawn chair to the Lions Pavilion at Maffeo Sutton Park Sundays during July. and August.

EMPIRE DAYS CELEBRATION WEEKEND – The annual May long weekend celebration starts off at the Port Theatre 7 p.m. Friday with the historic May Queen Crowning ceremony and accompanying multi-cultural entertainment. Saturday the Queen and her Royal Party attend various city functions and activities, Sunday features the 1 p.m. downtown parade and in the evening the 10 p.m. fireworks over the harbour. Full information is available at www.nanaimoempiredays.com.

Walking – There are no shortage of walking trails in Nanaimo. In town you can find trails at Colliery Dam, Buttertubs Marsh, along the sea wall or the Parkway Trail, to name a few. Longer walks include Cable Bay Trail or Biggs Park. With more than 1,100 hectares of parkland and protected open spaces, there are many different ways to enjoy nature.

Beban Park – Nanaimo’s premier recreation facility offers swimming, skating, tennis, playgrounds and multi-use trails. Home to the Vancouver Island Exhibition every August, with the Nanaimo Junior A Clippers calling Frank Crane Arena home.

Guided Tours – There are many ways to get around Nanaimo and its waterways. Various companies host guided tours of the area on foot, bus, boat or plane.

Farmers’ MarketS – A relaxing way to find some of the Island’s freshest produce, food and crafts. The Downtown Farmers’ Market is open mid-April to early October on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Cedar Farmers’ Market, open from mid-May to October, can be found at 2313 Yellow Point Rd. The Bowen Road Farmer’s Market will take place from 4-7 p.m. late May to early October every Wednesday at the Co-op and the Neighbourhood Farmer’s Market at Nanaimo North Town Centre begins May 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Petroglyph Park – A two-hectare provincial park featuring prehistoric sandstone rock carvings depicting mystical animal and human figures. Parking lot is off the Island Highway.

between Haliburton Street and Highview Terrace.

Departure Bay Beach – Buy an ice cream and watch the ferries come and go at one of Nanaimo’s most popular areas.

Art in the garden 2009 – Nanaimo’s original artwork only show takes place mid-August throughout selected city parks. This year’s edition will feature displays of traditional forms of art, sculptures and musical entertainment. Call 250-740-6350 or visit www.nanaimogallery.ca.

E.J. Hughes Celebration – May 14 to June 7. A tribute to this famous local painter through documentary films, auctions and the unveiling of his historic Malaspina mural. Call 250-774-1750.

Wild Play Adventure Park – What gets your adrenaline pumping? Maybe a leap off of North America’s only legal bungy bridge toward the roaring Nanaimo River? How about a two-hour treetop adventure on WildPlay’s TreeGo course, where adventurists challenge themselves 30 feet off the forest floor against an aerial obstacle course. It’s safe, fun and a total rush. Call 1-888-668-7874 or visit www.wildplayparks.com

Arts Alive Summer School of Fine Arts – Featuring arts, drama, music and dance, Arts Alive is a low cost, high quality instruction for both beginners and intermediates of any age. Call 250-753-9423 or visit www.nanaimoartsalive.com for 2009 dates and prices.

Nanaimo District Museum – Now found in its new state-of-the-art facility at the Port of Nanaimo Centre, the museum features all elements of Nanaimo’s history. There are permanent and changing exhibits. Call 250-753-1821 or visit www.nanaimomuseum.ca.

Bowen Park 4H Barnyard – Late June to August provides youngsters an opportunity to interact with young farm animals. Special events throughout the summer.

Vancouver Island Exhibition – Nanaimo’s annual agricultural celebration and fair takes place Aug. 21-23. Crowds from around the Island come to see the livestock exhibition with live music, carnival rides, games and other events at Beban Park. Call 250-758-3247 or visit www.viex.ca.

Mountain Biking – World class mountain biking can be found just minutes from downtown Nanaimo. Local riders challenge themselves on technical singletrack at the Abyss, near the top of Harewood Mines Road, where challenging climbs, rocket-fast downhills and switchbacks test rider skills. The trails at Doumont Road (top of Weigles Road) offer a variety of terrain from fire roads to winding singletrack, as well as jumps and ladders. Your best bet is to tag along with the Nanaimo Mountain Bike Club who go on several rides a week to the best spots. Check out www.nanaimomountainbikeclub.com. The Island Cup mountain bike race series also visits Nanaimo in March and April.

Jack Point/Biggs Park – Biggs Park starts with a trail along the water just west of the Duke Point Highway with excellent views of the Nanaimo River estuary and the City of Nanaimo. The pathway leads to a trail through woods and rocky shoreline.

Diver Lake – Features a wooden walkway, playground and an area with jumps for bikes. Located off Labieux Road.

Canada Day Celebrations – July 1 at Maffeo Sutton Park. Nanaimo celebrates Canada and its diversity with all kinds of music, food, live entertainment and family events. Call 250-756-5200 or visit www.nanaimo.ca.

Bowen Park – Use the tennis, lawn bowling, soccer, horse shoe or volleyball facilities or go for a walk along the cascading Millstone River. There are lots of places to picnic or feed the resident ducks.

Colliery Dam Park – This 11-hectare park is a popular swimming and fishing area in the summer. The trail leads around the lake with several off-road trails networking throughout the park. Parking off Nanaimo Lakes Road or Wakesiah Avenue.

E&N Trail – This eight-kilometre trail runs alongside the E&N railway track from Rosehill Avenue in the south to Mostar Road in the north.

Outdoor recreation – With one of the warmest climates in Canada, Nanaimo has always been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From the ocean to the mountains, there is something here for everybody. For the best local knowledge on any outdoor activity, visit www.nanaimoinformation.com/forum.

Morrell Nature Sanctuary – A stunning network of nature trails on 112 hectares of second growth forest. There are 11 kilometres of trails that pass by beaver ponds, marshes and Morrell Lake. Lots of wildlife to see and an off-leash area for dogs under the powerlines.

Playgrounds – During July and August, playgrounds host free programs for children aged six to 12. Call 250-756-5200.

Port Theatre – Nanaimo’s 800-seat performing arts centre is located at 150 Front Street downtown, with more than 250 scheduled events each year. Call 250-754-8550 or visit www.porttheatre.com.

Piper’s Lagoon Park – A trail leads to a rocky headland between a shallow lagoon and an outer beach. It features several lookouts across the Strait of Georgia and has several benches for watching marine life or birds.

Van Isle 360 – The 10th anniversary of the Save on Foods Van Isle 360 is June 6-21. For more information or to read about other boats entered this year’s race please visit www.vanisle360.com.