Nanaimo never runs out of enlightening and entertaining events to enjoy year-round. Let the music move you in the summer with the Nanaimo International Jazz Festival or support local vendors at the seasonal Nanaimo Night Market. On the other hand, winter offers an opportune time to make local purchases at the Kringle Kris Holiday Craft Market and Cedar Yellow Point’s Artisan Tour. Many more events will be happening this winter and below are just a few ways to celebrate the season.
Milner Christmas Magic
The invigorating music and festival of lights at Milner Gardens, Qualicum Beach has something great in store this holiday. Feel free to take a stroll around the lighted trails and enjoy the Santa’s Den, Teddy Bear Cottage, and Gingerbread House display. What is more, you’re likely to love the Christmas gift shop, storytelling, and local musicians at the Milner House.
Venue: 2179 West Island Highway, Qualicum Beach
Date: Happening on three consecutive weekends (November 30th to December 2nd, December 7th to 9th, December 14th to 19th) starting from 5 pm to 8:30 pm.
Peter Pan by Echo Players Live Theater
Many might be familiar with the story of Peter Pan, a roguish boy with flying abilities and who refuses to grow up. He prefers to enjoy adventures with tick-tocking creatures, fairies, and pirates in a mysterious place known as Neverland. With all the song and dance on offer, this is an event that every member of your family is sure to fall in love with. Visit http://echoplayers.ca/ to purchase tickets.
Venue: Village Theatre, 110 W 2nd Ave, Qualicum Beach
Date: December 13th to 30th, 2018
Christmas On The Farm
When was the last time you enjoyed Christmas the good old-fashioned way? If this is something you miss, the Morningstar Farm is the place to be this holiday season. In addition to the live music, wagon rides, crafts, and wagon rides, there will be sweetened wine tasting, popcorn, and hot cocoa, as well as a bonfire and marshmallows. Take in the merriment of the season without breaking the bank at this event as admission will be free!
Venue: 403 Lowry’s Road, Parksville
Date: December 15th, 2018 from 10 am to 3 pm
Magical Nights Of Light
Enjoy an elegant laser light display at the North Island Wildlife Recovery Center. Just like last year, this will be a magical display that every family member will delight in. There will be plenty of hot chocolate and you will be glad to know that Santa might show up! Get your tickets early at the Bear Den Gift Shop (NIWRA) as admission will be on pre-purchase basis only.
Venue: 1240 Leffler Road, Errington
Date: December 7th to 22nd, 2018 (6 – 8 pm). Friday and Saturday evenings only.
Christmas season comes only once a year, so get the most out of it while it lasts. The above are great ways to get started, so plan ahead and take in all the seasonal wonders Nanaimo has to offer.