Nanaimo: home to the arts!

Vancouver Island is an oasis of talent; artists flock here to enjoy the quieter pace of life and the natural beauty of the area. Come visit Nanaimo to take part in these incredible performances!
 

MID-ISLAND COMEDY COMPETITION

Vancouver Island has its own perspective on life, the world, and everything – and that makes for great comedy! That’s why you should watch the finals of the 2^nd Annual Mid-Island Comedy Competition, where local stand-up comics vie for the title of the funniest person in Nanaimo! The first two rounds take place March 22 with semi-finals on April 5 but the main show will be on April 19! That’s your chance to see the best of the best go toe to toe, with a professional headliner (TBA) batting clean-up on the whole show. It’s going to be absolutely hilarious, and a chance to support the local arts! Find out more here!
 

CONCERTS AT THE VAULT

One visit to The Vault café in downtown Nanaimo and you’ll know instantly that this is a hub for creativity in Nanaimo; nearly everyone here is a painter, or a musician, or a writer, or WHATEVER and the air is charged with creative vibes.

The Vault gets its name from the fact that the building formerly housed a bank, and the kitchen actually uses part of the huge safe in the back. It’s quirky, cool, and totally local. Great food, quality drinks, and good people. It’s also one of Nanaimo’s premier music venues, a great place to see touring bands and local virtuosos performing with great sound and enthusiastic crowds.

Drop into the Vault any night and you’re likely to see a great show, but we recommend you visit April 12 to see ambient-organic group Colliding Canyons with up and coming composer Dream Daddy playing support. It’s going to be a warm and wonderful show that showcases the talent you can find in Nanaimo.
When staying in Nanaimo, stay in affordable luxury at the Best Western Dorchester Hotel. Just steps from Nanaimo’s gorgeous waterfront, we offer top-notch service and comfort at a reasonable price. Book one of our pet-friendly rooms and bring your furry friends, too!