Summer is in full swing, and August in Nanaimo is absolutely buzzing with fantastic events for everyone! From thrilling mountain biking to soulful blues and vibrant night markets, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the sunny days and warm evenings on Vancouver Island. Get ready to mark your calendars and dive into the heart of our community’s lively spirit!
Here’s a look at what’s happening in Nanaimo this August:
RW Invitational
Dates: August 1-2, 2025
An action-packed weekend of freeride mountain biking featuring a whip-off contest, best trick competition, and an official after-party. Witness the world’s best free ride mountain bikers compete!
More Info: Eventbrite Link
Nanaimo Blues Festival – 20th Anniversary
Dates: August 8-10, 2025 (Kick-off party August 7)
Location: Maffeo Sutton Park (Kick-off at The Queens)
Celebrate the 20th anniversary of this beloved festival! Enjoy a fantastic lineup of blues artists, from R&B and boogie-woogie to blues-rock and gospel, all set against the scenic Inner Harbour. Food trucks, vendors, and refreshments will be on-site.
More Info: Events.com Link, Tickit Link
Nanaimo Blues Festival – 20th Anniversary
Dates: August 7-17, 2025 (Fringe Founders Talk Back on August 16)
Immerse yourself in the unique and diverse performances of the Nanaimo Fringe Festival. Discover new talent and enjoy a variety of theatre productions.
More Info: Nanaimo Fringe Festival Website, Eventbrite Link for Talk Back
Nanaimo Museum Featured Exhibit: Dinosaurs of BC
Dates: Runs until September 1, 2025
Location: Nanaimo Museum
Dig into prehistoric British Columbia and get up close with “Buster,” the Iron Lizard of the Sustut River, and other dinosaurs that once roamed the province.
Family Fun Nights
Dates: August 22, 2025 (4:30 PM – 7:30 PM)
Location: Maffeo Sutton Park
A free program for ages 5-12, offering games, crafts, and sports with enthusiastic playground leaders.
Concerts in the Park
Dates: Various dates in August (6 PM – 7 PM unless otherwise noted)
August 6: Bowen Park Amphitheatre
August 12: McGregor Park
August 22: Maffeo Sutton Park (6 PM – 8:15 PM)
August 27: Westwood Lake
Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy free concerts featuring local talent against the beautiful backdrop of Nanaimo’s parks.
Bastion Lighting
August 4, 2025: Red, Blue, White, Green, and Gold for British Columbia Day
August 7, 2025: Pink and Yellow for World PVNH Awareness Day
August 28-31, 2025: Orange for Autoinflammatory Awareness Month
See Nanaimo’s iconic Bastion lit up in special colors for various observances.
Errington Farmers Market
Dates: Saturdays, August 2, 9, 16, 2025
Location: Errington (short drive from Nanaimo)
Visit the charming farmers market nestled in the trees for local produce, crafts, and more.
Glow in the Dark Skate
Dates: Sunday, August 17, 2025 (3 PM – 4:30 PM)
Location: Nanaimo Ice Centre
A fun glow-in-the-dark skating experience for all ages.
