Dress like a pirate in Nanaimo!

Photo by Kris Krüg under creative commons license

Nanaimo is gloriously weird. Full of street names like “Dingle Bingle Hill,” “Giggleswick Place” and “Twiggly-Wiggly Road” (all these names were supplied by the children of an eccentric former mayor) you can tell we don’t take ourselves too seriously. We have fun here in Nanaimo, and that’s especially true throughout March when it’s Nanaimofest!

Nanaimofest is a series of semi-related events that showcase just how much fun it is to be here. Here are some of the ones we’re excited about!
 

DAVID GOGO’S BIRTHDAY BLUES BASH

Local musician David Gogo is turning 50 next month, and he’ll be celebrating it with his most talented friends on stage. Nanaimo’s music scene is heavy, featuring incredible talent that’s world-class in every way. Catch David and friends at the Port Theatre on March 16!
 

EAST COAST STYLE ST. PADDY’S DAY

The next night on the 17^th, you can catch Newfoundland Celtic artists the Derina Harvey band at the Port Theatre! They play classic foot stomping, kitchen partying traditional tunes that will make you want to party – all in the name of St. Patrick!
 

PIRATEFEST

Remember that eccentric Mayor we mentioned? His name was Frank Ney, and one of the things that made him memorable was that he would dress up like a pirate for public events. In most cities, that would be grounds for dismissal; in Nanaimo, he was Mayor for 21 years. Told you we were weird.
Nanaimo recognizes Ney’s legacy with the tradition of Piratefest, a family-friendly event where you’re encouraged to put on an eye-patch and shiver your timbers! Games, music, fun and more! It’s a blast that your kids will love. It’s absolutely free and it takes place on March 29! YAAAAR!

If you’re visiting Nanaimo, stay in the heart of the harbour and book a room at the Best Western Dorchester Inn. We’re steps from the city’s most popular attractions and the scenic waterfront!