Enjoy one of a kind experiences in Nanaimo!

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MATS GUSTAFSSON

Nanaimo’s music scene is incredible and largely under the radar. Still, heavy players come to Nanaimo to share their incredible music, and if you’re in the know you can see some truly astounding live shows on the cheap!

One of the first things you need to know is The White Room. This is one of Nanaimo’s newest, and most beloved, venues. A combination recording studio, art space and concert hall, The White Room hosts intimate shows with incredible musicians.

On Sunday, June 23 legendary saxophonist Mats Gustafsson will be playing at The White Room! While he isn’t exactly a household name, his name is renowned among high caliber musicians. Part of Chicago’s influential free jazz movement years ago, Gustafsson has since played with luminaries like Sonic Youth, Four Tet and many, many more. His playing is wild, belligerent and fully improvised, making his live shows truly incredible.

Opening for Gustafsson will be Nanaimo’s own Dream Daddy, an act helmed by local hero Paul Carpenter that focuses on lushly organic synth.
 

NANAIMO DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

Dragon boating is some of the most fun you can have on the water! This dynamic form of boating requires teams of paddlers pushing themselves to the limits to achieve incredible speeds racing against the water.

On July 5-7, you can watch dozens of teams compete to be the best in the waters off the shore of Nanaimo’s gorgeous Maffeo Sutton Park. Every year this is incredible fun in the sun! With great activities for the kids and a beer tent for the adults, it’s a great excuse to get outside and catch up on your vitamin D.

Nanaimo is well worth exploring. Book a stay at the Best Western Dorchester Inn and use us as your home base for exploring! Traveling with your furry family member? Ask about our pet-friendly rooms!