July 2nd to July 8th

Well, the long weekend is officially over and I know how depressing it can be trying to get yourself back in the habit of doing work. Thankfully, celebrations in Campbell River don't end at Canada Day so there is plenty of opportunities still to get out and stay motivated. For example, did you know that the Resident Orcas tend to reach the area in July? Pretty good reason to celebrate if you ask me!
Here is the list of events for this week, enjoy!

Tuesday, July 3rd:
There is going to be another fantastic Lunch in the Square on Tuesday featuring the musical talents of Anela Kahiamoe! Anela is going to be one of the many performers playing at the Vancouver Island MusicFest, as has worked with many of the top singers in Hawaii, Japan and the far east spreading Hawaiian music and Hula. His repetoire of musical instruments includes bass, guitar, Hawaiian lap-steel guitar, ukulele, and vocals. Interested yet? The show will run from 11:45am to 1:15pm at the Campbell River Spirit Square, so make sure to grab a take-out lunch and head on down to enjoy some great, island inspired music!

Wednesday, July 4th:
Serious Coffee in Willow Point will be hosting their weekly Jam Night on Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Whether you are a musician or just enjoy listening to some local entertainment, this is a great opportunity to relax and have a social, easygoing night to discuss music and share tips. Just make sure you arrive early as seats tend to fill up fast! If you would like some more information on this weekly event, you can give Serious Coffee a call at 250-923-1312.

Thursday, July 5th:
99.7 River Concerts presents Auntie Kate and the Uncles of Funk, a groovy band with a groovy accordian player! From 7pm to 9pm in the Campbell River Spirit Square, come down and jam out to some acoustic blues, cajun, and R&B against a backdrop of high-voltage outfits, dark glasses, and cheap suits! For more information, you can go onto the Spirit Square website at http://www.spiritsquare.ca/.

Looking for something a little more laid back? You're in luck! Coastal Community is bringing back Movies in the Park this summer, with the first movie playing this coming Thursday at 7:30pm to 9pm. Grab a blanket or pull up a lawn chair, and join the crowd at the Sportsplex field to watch Dr. Seus' The Lorax!

Saturday, July 7th:
The Annual Garden and Art Tour will be happening this Saturday and Sunday throughout the Campbell River area. Participants are offered the chance to view up to 12 private gardens that encompass a wide range of styles, sizes, and themes while still containing that unique, personal touch that sets them out from the rest. There are also going to be artists at work in many of the gardens to demonstrate techniques as they capture the scene. The proceeds from this weekend event will support the children's summer program of art classes and workshops.
At $15 a person, tickets include garden descriptions and a map, and are available at the CR Art Gallery, Willows Farm & Market Centre, the CR Visitor Centre, and the Comox Valley Art Gallery in Courtenay. For more information, please call the Art Gallery at 250-287-2261.

The 10th Annual Cops for Cancer Golf Tournament will also be taking place on Saturday at the Storey Creek Golf Course in support of the Tour de Rock and the Canadian Cancer Society. Entry into the tournament is $135 per person, which includes golf, a shared power cart, dinner, a tee gift package, and a chance at the various prizes. Registration will start at 11am, with tee-off at 1pm.
To donate a prize or auction items, to volunteer, or for more information please call Tom at 250-205-0801 or Erica/Ray at 250-286-0744.

This week's Super Saturday Art Class theme is Recycled Robots! Use found and recycled parts to build your very own mini robot sculpture. The class runs at the Campbell River Art Gallery from 1pm to 3pm, and admission is by donation. All materials are provided for participants, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, you can call the Art Gallery at 250-287-2261.

Sunday, July 8th:
The weekly Pier Street Farmers' Market will be held again this Sunday by the front entrance of the Discovery Fishing Pier from 10am to 2:30pm. This is an open-air market that offers a wide selection of farm products, processed foods, an array of crafts and arts, fun, and entertainment. Customers of the market can spend their morning wandering through the booths before heading onto the unique Discovery Pier to enjoy an ice cream or warm drink. To find out more about this great market, you can go onto the website at http://www.pierstreet.com/.

The Biralee Boys, a young choir from Australia, will be performing at the Campbell River United Church on Sunday from 8pm to 10pm. Tickets for the show are $10 each and can be picked up at the Campbell River Visitor Centre, or at the door on Sunday evening.

Well, that's it for this week! I hope you have a great time and enjoy the events offered, and that the weather doesn't hold you down too much. After all, the sun is on the way!

If you have an event you would like added to our blog or calendar, just let us know by sending an email to info@visitorcentre.ca or calling us at 250-830-0411 ext. 1.

June 25th to July 1st - Canada Day Special!!

I can't believe it's almost the end of June already! Better get those bills paid off soon before they start collecting interest I guess...
Well, with the end of June there is always at least one thing that Campbell River looks foward to - the build up to Canada Day! With events beginning at early as June 27th, no one will be left bored and wondering what to do with themselves, I can promise you that. And, with such a great crew once again putting together our Canada Day celebrations it's no wonder that the day is going to be just as awesome, if not better, then all those years previous!

Here is this weeks list of events, with all of your Canada Day information included:

Monday, June 25th:
Serious Coffee in Willow Point will be holding an Open Mic on Monday evening from 6-9pm. This is a great event to have fun and show off your talent while a group of viewers cheer you on the entire show! Not into singing? Then just come down to enjoy the event and show your support while enjoying a nice, hot cup of coffee. If your looking for more information on this event, you can call Serious Coffee at 250-923-1312.

Tuesday, June 26th:
Ready for another great musical performance? This week's Lunch in the Square performance will be featuring the musical talents of songwriters Bruce and Judy Wing. These two amazing musicians present to you an eclectic repetoire that combines folk, jazz, county, and refurbished oldies, as well as complementary muscial styles that are gauranteed to appeal to many different audience groups. The Wings also perform original music. featuring intertwining guitar parts and vocal harmonies and occasionally spice up with a mandolin, bass, or keyboard.
Interested? Then grab your lunch and head on down to the Spirit Square between 11:30am and 1:15pm to enjoy this great, free performance!

The Women Empowering Women seminar will be taking place at the Royal Coachman Carriage Room on Tuesday from 5:30pm to 9pm. This will be presented by the Campbell River Business & Professional Women's Network, and will be a sort of speed networking with dinner. Come out and make more business contacts in one night then you would in a month!
For more information on this opportunity, you can call Tucker at 250-204-3343.

Wednesday, June 27th:
Serious Coffee will be holding thier weekly Jam Night on Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 8:30pm.
Every Wednesday evening a group of musicians sit around and share music in an informal, relaxed setting. Everyone is welcome to come and join in, or just sit and listen. Just remember to come early as seats tend to fill up fast! For more information, you can call Serious Coffee at 250-923-1312.

Transformations on the Shore starts on today! For those or you new to Campbell River, this is a yearly chainsaw carving competition that takes place at the Frank James Park in Willow Point. And this year, they've pumped up the entertainment! For a complete schedule of the events, you can check the Transformations on the Shore write-up at the end of this blog.

There will be a Cha Cha Dance Workshop at the Native Sons Hall in Courtenay on Wednesday evening from 7pm to 9pm. For just $20 you can become a better cha cha dancer! All levels are welcome, and to register you can either call 250-338-9279 or go online to http://www.valdance.com/.

Friday, June 29th:
The Senior's Canada Day Celebration will be taking place on Friday at these various locations:
10 am - Ironwood Place
11 am - New Horizons
1pm - Evergreen Care
2pm - Yuculta Lodge

Boon Dock will be playing live at the Quinsam Hotel on Friday evening. For more information on the show, you can call them at 250-286-9811.

Saturday, June 30th:
Presented by River Spirit and BraveHearts dragon boat teams, Campbell River's second annual Race the River Dragon Boat Regatta will be taking place on Saturday at the Dick Murphey Park on the Tyee Spit from 9am to 4pm. This wonderful family event will include the excitement of dragon boat racing, a delicious salmon barbecue, local entertainers, food vendors, and face painting. Head on down and join the fun!

 The Flash Peace Walk will be taking place at the Robert Ostler Park from 10am to 12pm. In support of the Vancouver Walk for Peace March, this family event will be an opportunity to show your support in the need for change the world is facing. Everyone is invited to dance, sing, put on costumes, grab noisemakers, attention grabbers, and signs, and show their support for a world of peace. You can find more information on this walk at http://commonground.ca/about/walkforpeace/.

As it is officially almost Canada Day, the traditional Nite B4 Concert and Grieg Seafood BBQ is going to once again be held at the Campbell River Spirit Square! The BBQ will be starting at 6pm (yum!), with the concert featuring the Sean Hogan Band running from 7pm to 9pm.

The Bonsai Club's 4th Annual Show is to be held on Friday at the Sybil Andrews Cottage Gardens from 10am to 4pm. Admission to the show is free, and everyone is welcome to visit the beatiful venue.

Sunday, July 1st: CANADA DAY!!!
Here is your calendar of events to keep you busy and having fun throughout the day!

8am to 11am - The day starts off early with the Quality Foods Firefighters Pancake Breakfast at the Frank Jame Park in Willow Point.

9am to 12pm - After enjoying a delicious breakfast, it's time to head over the the Discover Fishing Pier to check out the Huck Finn and Small Fry Fishing Derby!

10am to 3pm - E&B Helicopters will be offering Helicopter Rides during this time, leaving from their base in Campbellton.

10:30am to 2:30pm - The Home Hardware Belt Sander Races, an event unique to Campbell River, are going to be held on Shoppers Row

10:30am to 3:30pm - The Shoppers Row Market

11am to 3:30pm - The Quality Foods/Daybreak Rotary Kid's Fest will be held at the Community Centre and on 11th Ave. They will also be doing an Animal Exhibit beside the Visitor Centre.

11am to 3pm - The Mike McInnes Salmon City Jam - Skateboarding will be held at the Skateboard Park at the Sportsplex in Willow Point.

11am to Dusk - Canada Day celebration at Ostler Park! Enjoy the craft and food market, bounce-a-rama. face painting, and family activities ALL DAY!

11am to 2pm- Come to the Spirit Square to enjoy the Local All-Stars Stage - live music continuing on throughout the day!

11am - the Hospital Foundation/Daybreak Rotary Canada Day Bed Races will be starting at the time on Shoppers Row

12pm - The Willow Point BIA Canada Day Cake will be cut at noon at Frank James Park, accompanied by the Legion Pipe Band

12pm to 2pm - Canada Day Crafts will be held at the Campbell River Art Gallery

1pm - The Marine Harvest/Firefighters Salmon BBQ will providing a delicious lunch option at the Long House in Robert Ostler Park.

1pm to 2:30pm - Celebrate Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee at the Museum at Campbell River's Royal Tea

2:30pm to 3:30pm - Campbell River's own "Who is Barbosa" will be playing live at the Eagle Telus Stage

4pm - The Rotary Salmon Festival Parade! This year, the parade will be starting at Steve Marshall Ford and will go along Shoppers Row  to 10th Ave, then onto Cedar St to return to Steve Marshall Ford.

5:30 pm - Opening Ceremonies and Canada Day Cake at the Eagle Telus Stage in Robert Ostler Park, as well as the arrival of the Skydivers!

6pm to 10pm - Live Music at the Eagle Telus Stage at Ostler Park! The line up will be as follows: Ellisa Hartman and Luke Blu Guthrie; XLR8; The Left; Cruel Young Heart

10:22pm - Campbell River's Quality Foods Festival of Lights! The Fireworks will be fired on the Discovery Passage across from Robert Ostler Park.

To see the schedule online, just click on this link: http://www.crcanadaday.com/schedule.html.

On a side note, DQ will be having bringing back their Canada Day special of red and white ice cream!

Transformations on the Shore Schedule:

Wednesday, June 27th: Carving from 7am to 7pm at the Frank James Park in Willow Point.

Thursday, June 28th: Carving from 7am to 7pm
                               Ally Choo will be performing on the Entertainment Stage from 7pm to 8:30pm

Friday, June 29th: Carving from 7am to 7pm
                            Fiftieth Parallel will be performing on the Entertainment Stage from 7pm to 8:30pm

Saturday, June 30th: Carving from 7am to 7pm
                               Quick Carve from 1pm to 2pm
                               Silent Auction Bids Start
                               Larry Hanson will be performing on the Entertainment Stage from 7pm to 8:30pm

Sunday, July 1st: CR Firefighter's Pancake Breakfast at 8am
                           Carving from 8am to 11pm
                           The Silent Auction for the Quick Carvings goes from 8am to 2pm
                           Carving ends at 11am
                           Pacifica Ukes will be performing on the Entertainment Stage from 1pm to 2pm
                           And finally, at 2pm to 3pm the awards will be presented, the win-a-carving raffle draw    will be held, winning bids will be called for the quick carvings, and the silent auction will be announced.

And there is your Canada Day week laid out for you! If you have any questions, or would like to have your event added to our schedule, you can contact the Campbell River Visitor Centre by calling 250-830-0411 ext. 1, or emailing us at info@visitorcentre.ca.

Have a great week and enjoy the celebrations!

June 18th to June 24th

Hello Campbell River!
I hope everyone has had a great week and the opportunity to participate in at least some of the great events that have been taking place. Saturday was a busy day in Campbell River, and everyone that we ran into seemed to be having a great time taking in the celebratory attitude!
Thank you to everyone that participated in Saturday's  Discover Campbell River Day, and we hope that you had as good of a time as we did. The weather may not have been ideal, but as strong Campbell Riverites, we held through (and kept a good grip on our tents) in order to make it work!
Well, on to the important information I suppose. Here is what is happening in Campbell River this week!

Tuesday, June 19th:
There will be a Sandal Making Workshop held by Healthy Feet, Happy Feet, where participants are given the opportunity to choose their own colours, and tools and materials are all provided for them. The cost of this session is $224, and you can find out more about it by calling 250-914-0728.

The BC Hydro Public Consultation "The Big Decision" is on Tuesday from 1-3pm. This is a great opportunity for businesses to get matched up with investors, and takes place in the Coast Disovery Inn & Marina. To make a reservation, you can call them at 1-888-747-4832, or check out the website at integrated.resource.planning@bchyrdo.com.

This week's Lunch in the Square will be featuring local singer/songwriter Birgit Kuit! From 11:30am - 1:15pm, head on down to the Spirit Square with your lunch and enjoy the great music and lively crowds. Birgit is known for singing a rich blend of folk, blues and pop music with delicious instrumentals and soaring harmonies, and her music is sure to blow you away. If you would like to know about this artist, or hear a sample of her music, you can go to her website at http://www.birgitkuit.com/#

April Point Resort will be hosting another Jazz at the Point this Tuesday from 7-9pm. This is a great chance to get together with friends and family and have a relaxing, fun evening at the April Point Dining Room as you have a great meal and listen to the musical talents of - for this week - Jazberry Jam. To book a reservation for this event, you can call 250-285-2222. There is also a free water taxi service available that can take you from Painter's Lodge over to April Point Resort so you don't have to worry about catching the ferry!

Wednesday, June 20th:
The Geneology Society will be holding their Geneology Society Lunch Brunch on Wednesday at noon for all society members. If you plan to attend this event, you will need to call Judy by Monday at 250-287-4364.

The Willow Point Serious Coffee will be holding their weekly Jam Night on Wednesday evening from 6:30-8:30pm. Every Wednesday evening, a group of musicians sit around and share music in an informal, relaxed setting. Everyone is welcome to come and join in, or to just sit and listen to the great local music. However, make sure you come early as seats are taken fast!

Savage West will be playing live at the Quinsam Pub on Wednesday evening. For more information, you can call 250-286-9811.

Thursday, June 21st:
Aboriginal Day is here again, and a huge celebration has been planned to take place at the Spirit Square throughout the day!
National Aboriginal Day is celebrated with the Laichwiltach Family Society, and is open to absolutely everyone. This year's opening presentation will begin at 10am, with an evening program of music and dancing from 5pm - 8pm. This is a great cultural event to join in on, and I hope everyone has a chance to come down to the Spirit Square and participate!

The Tidemark Theatre will be hosting the show Stepping Through the Decades, which is to be put on by CR Dance Xtreme. This is a great presentation where viewers and dancers are given the chance to look back on the music, fashion, and dance moves that have been present over the last 100 years. The show will begin at 7pm on the night of the 21st, 22nd, and 23rd, and tickets are $21 each.  For more information of the show or on tickets, you can call 250-286-3376 or go onto the Dance Xtreme website at http://www.crdancextreme.com/.

Friday, June 22nd:
Strathcona Gardens is hosting a Wet & Wild Summer Kick-off on Friday evening from 6:30pm to 9pm. This is going to be an awesome, free event that will include face painting, a Jello-slide, dunk tank, ice cream, and a big water snake! Grab you friends and family, and get ready to have a blast! To get more information, you can call Strathcona Gardens at 250-287-9234.

Join the dragon ladies of River Spirit Friday for an evening of fun, frolic, intrigue, and murder at the Deadwood Dance Hall and Saloon (the Maritime Heritage Centre). Come in western costume - cowboys cowgirls, and dance hall gals - and be ready to help solve the River Spirit Murder Mystery Fundraiser! Bring along a grubsteak so you can bid on fabulous adventure packages and cool silent auction items while you enjoy refreshments and the company of lovely dancehall ladies.
This evening of mystery will run from 6pm to 10pm, and tickets can be picket up for $35 at Coho Books, or from any team member. Sign up now before tickets run out!

Saturday, June 23rd:
The CR Twinning Society will be presenting a Drum Concert in Campbell River's Spirit Square from 1pm to 3pm on Saturday afternoon. This is a Japanese based concert, so is sure to be full of interesting beats and great cultural experiences.

Campbell River Art Gallery will be hosting another Super Saturday Art Class for all interested, and this week's theme is going to be Wax Engraving! From 1pm to 3pm, work on scraping away the surface in order to reveal a world of colours and design! Admission for the art class is by donation, and all children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, please call the Art Gallery at 250-287-2261.

The band Fiftieth Parallel will be playing live on Saturday evening from 7pm to 10pm at the Island Style Creative Studio. For more information on the event, you can call the studio at 250-286-3286.

Also on Saturday, Campbell River will be extending a warm welcome to Victoria's Starlight Pops Choir as they present a variety of classic country hits. The 80-voice choir is supported by a four-piece combo, and the concert includes special performances by small ensembles and soloists, including a solo by Doman herself - an accomplished vocalist.
The concert will be held at the Campbell River United Church  (415 Pinecrest) from 7:30pm to 9:30pm, and tickets will be sold at the door for $15. For more information on the choir, you can head onto their website: http://www.starlightpopschoir.com/.

Sunday, June 24th:
The weekly Farmers' Market will be taking place on Sunday from 10am to 2:30pm in the parking lot of the Maritime Heritage Centre and Discovery Fishing Pier. This is a great, open-air market that offers a wide selection of farm products, processed foods, and an array of arts and crafts. There is also entertainment provided at the market every week in order to give those attending a chance to sit down and enjoy their baked goods and coffee and they listen to the music.

This year's River Fest will be taking place once again down at the Haig Brown House this Sunday, 12-9pm. Come and enjoy an amazing day with your friends and family beside the flowing Campbell River. Relax and be entertained from 16 different acts featured on two different stages. Wander through an enticing artisan market after starting off the day at noon with an outdoor Zumba class! Supervise your children as they place with other kids in the Kid Zone . This will be a lazy and exciting afternoon for you and your family to remember!
Adult tickets are $10, with children under 10 free. For more information, you can call Ellisa at 250-895-9661.

June 11th to June 17th (Father's Day Special)

Hello again from the Campbell River Visitor Centre! I hope you have enjoyed the beautiful weekend and all it has had to offer. Although we started off with some rain, things quickly seemed to clear up just in time for the end of the work week (to the joy of many, I'm sure!).
Here is what is going on in Campbell River for the next week. I hope you find something that interests you, and enjoy your week!

Monday, June 11th:
The Ladies CTC Tournament (Club Team Championship) will be taking place at the Storey Creek Golfcourse on Monday, with tee time starting at 8:30am. For more information on this event, you can call 250-923-3673.

Kevin O'Leary of CBC's Dragon's Den will be holding a Investment Presentation on Monday evening at the Crown Isle Golf Course in Courtenay. Tickets for the event are being sold for $35, with $25 of each ticket going towards Community Foundations. Hosted by Alitis Investment Council Inc., doors for the event will open at 7pm. For more information on the talk, you can call Donna at 1-800-667-2554.

Tuesday, June 12th:
The second Lunch in the Square of the summer will be this Tuesday, 11:30am to 1:15pm in the Campbell River Spirit Square. Bring you lunch down and find a comfy spot to sit in order to enjoy the musical talents of Doug Folkins. Doug defines his music as a smooth-rolling americana with an Irish chaser - a mix between Tom Petty and The Pogues, and has played at many venues across Campbell River. We can't wait for him to play for us again!

Photo courtesy of the Campbell River Spirit Square

April Point Resort will be holding a Jazz at the Point event on Tuesday evening, 7pm to 9pm. The concert takes place in their dining room so guests can enjoy great tunes, a fresh menu and an incredible view all at the same time. The performance this week features the Thieven Brothers. Reservations for the event can made by calling 250-285-2222, and you can get over to April Point through the use of the free water taxi at Painters Lodge.

Wednesday, June 13th:

The weekly Jam Night at Serious Coffee will be once again held on Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. This is a chance for local musicians to get together and share their music in a relaxed, informal setting. Everyone is welcome to attend this event and either join in, or just sit and enjoy the music.

There will be a Tango Dance Workshop taking place at the Native Sons Hall in Courtenay from 7pm to 9pm. This is a great chance to have some fun and become a better dancer, and all levels are welcome to join in. Registration is $20, and you can register by either calling 250-338-9279 or going online to valdance.com.

Thursday. June 14th:

The Heart and Stroke Big Bike will be in town on Thursday! This is one of the most FUN-raising fundraising events you can ever be a part of. The 30 seat bicycle is travelling across BC in order to raise funds, attention, and laughs. To sign up your team (for free), you can call 250-754-5274 or email smazzei@hst.bc.ca. It only takes about 20 minutes to ride the bike, but it will be an experience you will never forget! The bike will be based around the Tyee Plaza, and will be going from around 8am to 8pm if you are interested in coming down to watch.

Friday, June 15th:

Charlie Wells will be playing live on Friday evening at the Quinsam Hotel. For more information on the event, you can call them at 250-286-9811.

Saturday, June 16th:

Get ready for Discover Campbell River Day!! The Campbell River Visitor Centre will be hosting this great event where local buisnesses and adventure companies from all over town will be coming down to the Spirit Square in order to show both residents and visitors just what Campbell River has to offer. As well, there will be a bounce-a-rama and face painting for the kids, and the Art Gallery will be holding a craft table for all interested. The event will go from 11am to 3pm and everyone is welcome to join in!

If you are interested in having a booth, or in creating a coupon for our coupon program, you can contact the Visitor Centre at 250-830-0411 ext. 1.

The Rod Brind'Amour Golf Classic will be taking place again this year at the Storey Creek Golf Course. Rob has been supporting Cystic Fibrosis in Campbell River for over 10 years, and as a part of it hosts an annual golf tournament (the Rod Brind'Amour Charity Golf Classic) at Storey Creek. For more information on this great event, please visit http://www.crcf.ca/rod-brindamour-golf-classic.htm.

The Diversity Health Fair will also be taking place this Saturday at Strathcona Gardens. This year's general theme for the event will be "Cancer Prevention and Early Detection," and over 40 exhibitors are expected to come and support the cause. You can find out more about the event by visiting the Immigrant Welcome Centre website at http://www.crmisa.ca/diversityhealthfair.

It is World Wide Knit in Public Day, and from 11am to 2pm the Needle and Arts Centre on Pier Street will be inviting those interested to join them infront of the store with a knitting or crochet project, as well as a chair to sit in. If you have any questions about this, you can contact Jurgen at 250-286-9717.

The Sunfest Festival will be held once again this year from 9am to 4pm. This is basically a mile of market madness as stores, starting from 11th Ave around to Pier Street, will be putting on great sales as they turn out thier tables into the streets and show you what they have to offer. As an added benefit...no HST!!!

In the Comox Valley, the BC Shellfish Festival is due to be held on Saturday in the Marina Park. This is an all day event that includes a wide range of food kiosks, live music, competitions, cooking demos, and much more! For more information on this great event and all it has to offer, you can check out their website at http://bcshellfishfestival.ca/

Sunday, June 17th - Father's Day!:

The 45th Annual Rotary Father's Day Pancake Breakfast will begin this year at 8am and go until 12pm at the Campbell River Community Centre. Come out and enjoy a delicious breakfast and some great live music! Entrance is $6 for adults, and $3 for kids.

The weekly Pier Street Farmers' Market will be going this Sunday by the Discovery Pier in the parking lot. From 10am to 2:30pm, you can head down to this open-air market to enjoy some live music and great food while browsing through the market for a wide selection of farm products, processed foods, crafts, art, and much more. Afterwards, head out onto the Pier to enjoy a nice, cold ice cream with your Dad! You can find out more about the market by heading to http://www.pierstreet.com/.

Strathcona Gardens will be putting on a Father's Day Swim Special during the day from 12:30pm to 4pm. During this time, they will have some great prizes and draws for Dads to win while spending some quality time with the family. If you would like more information on this, you can contact Strathcona Gardens at 250-287-9234.

Salmon Point Resort & Pub will be doing a Don't Forget Dad! Night at the restaurant, where they will putting out a special menu just for the day. To make reservations or find out more about this menu, you can call Trish at 250-923-7272.

The Quay West restaurant would also like to pay thier respects to Dads by hosting a "Do it fo Dad" Steak Night just for them. This includes a great Steak Night at the restaurant for families to enjoy, as well as a special Father's Day Brunch menu for those wanting to have a good meal before heading out to enjoy a day of family time. As an added bonus, if you 'Like' Quay West on Facebook, you will be entered to win a free dinner for dad. To make a reservation, call 250-286-9988.

The BC Family Fishing Weekend is going to be held this weekend at the Courtenay and District Fish & Game Property from 9am to 4pm. This is a great chance to grab your Dad and spend some quality time fishing for trout in the pond. Then, enjoy hot dogs and a drink compliments of Thrify Foods for lunch.

The Longlands Golf Course will be hosting a Golf for Father's Day event on Sunday to provide a great place for families to bring their Dads. To make the day even better, they will be opening up their patio BBQ and firing it up to prepare some great meals for guests to enjoy, and to provide you with a great Golf & Lunch Special to partake in. For more information, you can call the golf course at 250-339-6363.

Because of the large amount of snow still hanging around up at Mount Washington, they have decided to reopen the hill for Father's Day Skiing/Snowboarding! This is a great chance to take advantage of the hill at least one more time before they officially close up until next season.

Have a great week and enjoy spending time with your families!
The Campbell River Visitor Centre

If you are interested in having your event posted on our blog, you can either send an email to the Campbell River Visitor Centre at info@visitorcentre.ca, or call us as 250-830-0411 ext. 1.

June 4th to June 10th

Hello again Campbell River, and welcome to another week as we slowly move closer to the summer months. It's finally June, which means things are really starting to pick up in town! Summer events seem to be starting this month, and it has become quite apparenent here at the Visitor Centre that tourist season has once again hit us. We couldn't be happier!
Here is a list of some of the events happening this week for you to get involved in:

Monday, June 4th:
The Carihi Music Competition Showcase will be taking place at the Paramount Music Hall from 6-9pm on Monday evening. This event is held in order to showcase all of the students' talents and works from over the year. All ages are welcome, and there will be NO liquor available. Tickets for the show will be $10 at the door, or $7 if you get them in advance from The Music Plant, Serious Coffee, or Moxies. All proceeds will go towards the Carihi music program equipment.
For more information, you can call Kyell at 250-926-0088.

The Little Big Band will be playing at the Royal Coachman beginning at 7:30pm Monday evening. This is an amazing band to experience, with a 5 piece sax section, a horn section including 3 trombones and 3 trumpets, a rhythm section including a guitar, piano and drums, and an amazing vocalist! There is a reason that this band has had so many great reviews!

Tuesday, June 5th:
The first Lunch in the Square will be held this Tuesday from 11:30 am to 1:15 pm! Bring your lunch down to the Spirit Square and get ready to welcome the band Cat & Cal Kalyniuk as they start off our summer music season!

It's Britches and Hose 1st year Anniversary, and they want you to come celebrate with them! Throughout the day they will be offering great sales on their retro clothing and accessories, as well as treats and cupcakes to munch on while you shop. Customers will also be given the opportunity to pop balloons for discounts of up to 50%! Live music will be performed by Cassidy Wogan and her guitar, and partial proceeds from the event will be donated to the Campbell River SPCA. For more information, you can call the store at 250-914-0914

Wednesday, June 6th:
The Campbell River Museum will be putting on an Intertidal Walk on Wednesday from 12-2pm. Join them for a fascinating exploration of the mysterious intertidal zone of Campbell River! Biologist Sandra Milligan will lead the journey up to the tip of Willow Point. The cost of this event is $15, and you can call the Museum to register at 250-287-3103.

Serious Coffee's weekly Jam Night will be once again taking place on Wednesday evening from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the Serious Coffee in Willow Point. Come join local musicians as they gather around to share their music in a relaxed, informal setting. Everyone is welcome to come join in or to just sit and enjoy. But remember, space is limited so make sure to arrive early! For more information on this event, you can call Serious Coffee at 250-923-1312.

Thursday, June 7th:
The Genealogy Society will be holding a meeting beginning at 7pm in the Maritime Heritage Centre Library. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Friday, June 8th:
There will be a Trinity Presbyterian Benefit Concert taking place on Friday night from 7:30pm to 9pm at the Trinity Presbyterian Church on Simms Road. In this show, Campbell River residents will be treated to a very special concert put on by 4 young pianists: Carter Johnson, and Ryan, Nathan, and Matthew Krell. The funds from the concert will go towards the church as it plans to expand its facilities. Admission for the event is by donation.

Tidemark will be holding their end of the year show, "Summer Heat,"  on Friday evening beginning at 7pm. This performance will be presented by Urban Dance Connection, and will include a variety of dance styles for guests to enjoy. Tickets for the show are $18.50 and can be bought at the Tidemark Theatre. This show will also be held on June 9th at 2 and 7pm.
For more information, you can call the Tidemark Theatre at 250-287-7465 or visit their website at http://www.tidemarktheatre.com/performance/summer-heat.

Brenda Hanson will be performing live at the Quinsam Hotel on Friday evening. For more information on the performance, you can give them a call at 250-286-9811.

Saturday, June 9th:
The Ripple Rock Gem and Mineral Club Show and Sale is back for another year! On Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, the club will be set up at the Timberline High School Gymnasium on Dogwood street just waiting for you to come by! The show is going to include:
-displays
-demos
-dealers (including jewelry dealers)
-a concession stand
-gold panning
-and soap stone carving
Visitors to the show are also encouraged to bring in a rock and "ask the experts!" You can find out more information on the show by logging onto the Ripple Rock Gem and Mineral Clubs' website at http://www.ripplerockgemandmineralclub.com/.

Photos courtesy of the Ripple Rock Gem and Mineral Club (2011)

The Campbell River Art Gallery will be holding another of their Super Saturday Art Classes this week from 1-3pm. This theme for this week is Light Catchers - celebrate longer brighter days by making a beautiful light catcher to hand in your window! Admission for the class is by donation, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information on these classes, you can contact the Art Gallery at 250-287-2261.

Relay For Life is coming back to Campbell River for another year of fundraising, so gather your teams and find yourself some sponsers! This is an opportunity to join with thousands who have decided it is time to fight back at an event that celebrates cancer survivors, and honors loved ones who haven't made it. There will be plenty of laughter, fun, joy, and sorrow, but mostly a conviction that cancer can be kicked out of our lives and communities - if we act together! The money raised by participants will be invested into cancer research to save lives.

To register yourself or your team, please visit: http://www.relaybc.ca/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=480776 

The Daybreak Rotary Club's 3rd Annual Wine & Blues Festival will also be taking place on Saturday at the Martime Heritage Centre from 7-9:30pm. This event will feature wine tastings from up to 11 different wineries and appetizers to pair with your them. For entertainment, Juno winning Kenny "the Blues Boss" Wayne will be performing with special guests.

Tickets for this event are $50 and are available at the Campbell River Visitor Centre, the Coachman Liquor Store, and the Merecroft Liquor Store. Prepare yourselves for a great night!

The hard-hitting rock band "The Might One" will be performing live at the Paramount Hall on Saturday night with doors opening at 10pm. This staunt, gut-crushing rock band is based out of Vancouver and uses thick, powerful chords, virulent melodies, and strong lyrical themes to catch the attention of their audience. For more information on the show, you can either contact the Paramount at 250-287-8686 or on their website at http://www.paramountmusichall.ca/.

Sunday, June 10th:

The weekly Pier Street Farmers' Market will be taking place in the Maritime Heritage Centre parking lot on Sunday from 10am to 2:30pm. This is an open-air market, offering a wide selection of farm products, processed foods, an array of arts and crafts, and fun and entertainment. Customers can spend their Sunday morning at the market, enjoying a walk and ice cream on the Discovery Fishing Pier, or stroll the adjacent harbour where they can buy fresh seafood off the docks. You can check out the market's website at http://www.pierstreet.com/.

The Strathcona Gardens will be holding a Father's Day Swim Special this upcoming Sunday. Spend the afternoon with Dad at the pool! Admission is only a toonie for the event, and there will be prize draws in order to give dad a chance to win something. For more information, contact Strathcona Gardens at 250-287-9234.

As you can see, there is lots going on this week in Campbell River! (As there seems to be every week...) If you would like your event added to our blog, send us an email at info@visitorcentre.ca.

Enjoy your week!