Returning for it's 28th year, the Pacific Rim Whale Festival is back! Come on out to the West Coast from March 15 through 23rd for a series of fun events, activities, educational seminars - and of course, the return of the majestic Gray Whales! Here's a snapshot of just some of the fun events that will be coming to the Tofino/Ucluelet area:
On March 11th, head to the Wickanninnish Inn for a Silent Auction to raise funds for the festival. The tickets are $110/person and include dinner and wine pairings - and 100% of the ticket sales and auction sales will benefit the festival.
Back again to kick off the festivities is the West Coast Photo Showdown on March 15th. Come check out the work of some the most talented coastal photographers in the region. Vote for your favourite works and see which photographer's work wins the people's choice! Admission $5 at the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.
There are some great daily events during the festival as well. Come see a variety of family-friendly documentaries filmed and produced by marine wildlife researches on the migrations of Gray, Humpback, Killer and Sperm whales. Check out the daily screenings at
Remote Passages. The
Pacific Coastal Mermaids' event runs daily from 10am-6pm at the Reflecting Spirit Gallery in Ucluelet and features a variety of local artists who draw their inspiration from the sea.
The festival also includes many incredible one-time events will be on during specific dates during the festival. A full listing of events is available at the
pacificrimwhalefestival.com,
B-Bob Fitness & Wild Pacific Trail Walk
On Sunday March 16th, join 'Oyster Jim' on a guided walk of the beautiful Wild Pacific Trail. Last year's hike was fourtunate enough to be able to view the whale migration from the shoreline! As one of the main visionaries for the Wild Pacific Trail, Oyster Jim will provide an unforgettable experience to both first-time and returning trail users.
18th Annual Chowder Chow Down
What could possibly be better then sampling some of the best chowder from the region's best chefs, using some of the freshest seafood in the country!? How about adding live music and getting to vote for your favourite. Come down to the Ucluelet Community Centre on Sunday March 16th for your chance to crown the champion. Tickets $10 ($5 children).
Whales & Hot Springs Cove
Set sail for an incredible day on the seas. Watch for migrating whales and other marine wildlife while en route to the Hot Springs Cove, which features a breathtaking walk through coastal rainforest and a natural hot springs with a variety of natural pools along the rugged coastline.
Marine Mamal Research Day - 'Help a Researcher'
Lend a hand to local marine mammal researcher Wendy Szaniszlo for a day in the life of a researcher! You'll travel by Zodiac and you'll learn about the role of marine mammals in the unique ecosystem of the Pacific Rim National Park
These are just a sampling of some of the many events taking place during the festival. For specific information about events during your stay, be sure to check out the
calendar of events on the Pacific Rim Whale Festival site.
