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I spent a good part of the weekend on Snuneymuxw First Nation’s lands enjoying and documenting some of the festivities, especially the war canoe races, that were part of Snuneymuxw Days 2025. 

Aside from taking photos of the races, which you can see at the link below, I also soaked up the sunshine, ate an amazing Indian taco from Hungry Bubbas Food Truck and spoke to community members who were all very friendly and welcoming.

I have to admit, after living in Nanaimo for years this was one of the few times I’ve been to Snuneymuxw’s Reserve #1 even though it is right next to downtown Nanaimo. Attending Snuneymuxw Days for the first time was an experience that I won’t forget but am sure to repeat in following years. I’m already looking forward to next year and hope to see you there!

Huy ch q'u,

Mick Sweetman

In photos: Snuneymuxw Days 2025

Third annual Snuneymuxw Days featured canoe races, a longhouse jam and basketball and brought the community together

🖊️ What you said ⌨️

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“Love all the local news — it's so well presented. Makes Nanaimo like a real hub of activity.”

— Mike, from our newsletter survey

🔎 Watch for 🔍

Thursday, July 31, 5 p.m.: A launch party for Salt Spring Island-based artist Germaine Koh’s new exhibit, League Nanaimo, will be held at the Nanaimo Art Gallery. During the launch party, visitors will have a chance to try some games with Koh and enjoy refreshments in the Art Lab. 

Got the inside scoop of an event you think should be shared? 

Let us know by sending Mick an email.

🎵 Listen 🎤

Wednesday, July 30, 6 p.m.: Clanna Morna will play Celtic folk music at Harewood Centennial Park as part of the City of Nanaimo’s free Concerts in the Park series. 

Wednesday, July 30, 7:30 p.m.: The National Youth Orchestra of Canada will play at The Port Theatre as part of the Vancouver Island Symphony Series. Tickets start at $29. 

Thursday, July 31, 9:30 p.m.: Camille Miller and The Guilty Birds Band will play a selection from Cameille’s new album, Shadows and Lines, at The Nanaimo Bar. Tickets cost $15.

Friday, August 1, noon: The Sol Aravena Soft Latin Ensemble will perform at Heritage Mews as part of the Old City Quarter’s Sounds of Summer concert series. 

Friday, August 1, 7 p.m: DeathProof, Heretic and Dispösal will play an all ages metal show at The Globe Live Studio. Tickets cost $15.

Friday, August 1, 9 p.m: The Magic Triangle and Dry Goods will play some outside jazz, free improv and funky psych at The Vault Cafe. Tickets cost $15.

Saturday, August 2, 7 p.m: The Shit Talkers, The Daisy Stranglers and C U Next Tuesdays will play an all-ages punk show at The Globe Live Studio. Tickets cost $20. 

🎭 View 🖼️

Thursday, July 31, 5 p.m.: A launch party for Salt Spring Island-based artist Germaine Koh’s new exhibit, League Nanaimo, will be held at the Nanaimo Art Gallery. During the launch party, visitors will have a chance to try some games with Koh and enjoy refreshments in the Art Lab.

⛹️ Meet 🎲

Thursday, July 31, 5 p.m.: The Commercial Street Night Market features artisan vendors, food trucks, musical performances, a vibrant kids’ zone and a new inclusive zone creating a festive family atmosphere.

Friday, August 1 to Sunday, August 3: The Nanaimo NightOwls play the Kamloops Northpaws at Serauxmen Stadium on Friday and Saturday nights at 6:35 p.m and on Sunday at 1:05 p.m. Tickets cost $10-25

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