Nanaimo, BC: a place for ravers, runners, and big ol’ nerds

Photo by Mauricio Mascaro

SHAMBHALA PRE-PARTY

Shambhala is a BC tradition. One of the biggest electronic music festivals in North America, this four-day event is a celebration of art and music in nature. If you love dancing and good feels, chances are you’ve already heard of Shambhala.

If you can’t wait until August to feel the vibe of incredible DJs spinning the music of the universe, don’t worry – you can come to Nanaimo for an official Shambhala pre-party at the Queen’s on June 14! Featuring Victoria’s Neon Steve, Jennay Badger, and The Fruit Stand, this is going to be one of the year’s best dance parties. Bring your glow sticks.
 

CANADA BEER RUN

Pub crawls are a classic bit of fun, but they’re a little embarrassing. Now, what if you could combine the sociable beer tastings of a pub crawl with some sociable exercise! Now that might be a little more fun!
The Canada Beer Run is a 9.1 km “race” (it doesn’t matter who finishes first) that starts and ends in Downtown Nanaimo and has several stops at local microbreweries along the way! It’s meant to be fun and silly, and costumes are definitely encouraged. Bring some friends and offset some of beer’s calories at this ridiculous, and ridiculously fun, event!
 

GEEKCON 2019

A grassroots fan convention, GeekCon returns to Nanaimo! A celebration of games, comic art, cosplay and geek and nerd cultures of all kinds, It takes place at the Nanaimo Harbourfront Library and will be a ton of fun! Come hang out with fellow fans and take part in video game and Magic: The Gathering tournaments, fun green screen photos, virtual reality demos and much much more! Whether you’re a casual Dr. Who fan, a sometimes tabletop gamer or a hardcore Funko Pop collector you’re going to find fun at this year’s GeekCon on June 22!

Whether you’re a raver, a fitness and beer fanatic or a big ol’ nerd, you’re going to find something fun to do in Nanaimo – and if you’re looking for accommodations nearby each of these events, book a room at the Best Western Dorchester Hotel near Nanaimo’s scenic waterfront!