Canada Day in Campbell River

Canada Day events at Robert V. Ostler Park

          Every year Campbell River offers some of the most exciting Canada Day festivities on the island, and this Wednesday is no different. Everywhere from Frank James Park in Willow Point to the Shoppers Row downtown, there is something for everyone.

A spectacular view of fireworks from Robert V. Ostler Park

          Kicking off the day's events is the annual Pancake Breakfast sponsored by Quality Food and the Campbell River Fire Fighters at 8am to 10:30am. After a few pancakes, why not head on over to E&B Helicopters for a spin up in the air (unfortunately this event costs money -- but is well worth the price) or have a free tour of the HMCS Whitehorse at the cruise ship dock. Whitehorse is assigned to the Maritime Forces Pacific and is homeported in Esquimalt, on the Island's southern tip.
           At 10:30, take a stroll down Shoppers Row for to the Canada Day Marketplace.  From there, feel free to venture over to Robert V. Ostler Park to see everything from skydivers to fireworks in the evening.
          Throughout the day there will be various other events in and around the town, some of which include crafts at the Art Gallery, salmon BBQ, entertainment (The Impalas, The Sugar Maples, How Could I, and Theo the Band, as well as local talent).
          All in all, it's going to be a fun-filled day so join us downtown for excitement galore!

Part of the Canada Day parade

Attraction: Discovery Fishing Pier & Area

People enjoying a sunny day on the Discovery Fishing Pier

          You know those days where you just need a giant cream cone? Those days when your every fibre just needs some of that dang chocolatey goodness? And a small one just won’t do? We know just the place to satisfy your ice cream dream. Head on down to the Discovery Fishing Pier where a one-scoop cone will fill you up to brim… that being said, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, go ahead and ask for that second scoop. 

          Six hundred feet long and extending 150 feet from shore, the Discovery Fishing Pier is Canada’s longest public saltwater pier, not to mention the first. Its idyllic setting is perfect for watching marine traffic, wildlife, or trying your luck casting a line. Don’t sweat it if you don’t have your own equipment, because rod and gear rentals are available – but kids under 16 fish for free. Another bonus for the kiddos is that if they snag something (that something has to have gills – it can’t be limp and green), you get an ice cream on the house.
         The pier’s handy built-in rod holders are great if you want to grab a bite between casts. The concession boasts some of the city’s best fish and chips, as well as hot dogs, wraps, sandwiches, and various other treats. Concession is open daily between 7am and dusk, May through October, but the pier itself is open 24 hours year round and makes for a nice evening promenade if you have the time.
          If you’re in the area, stopping by the Discovery Passage Aquarium for a hands-on sea life experience is a great way to entertain children and adults alike. Touch a starfish, explore the makings of kelp beds, or simply take in how life goes down under the sea.

Maritime Heritage Centre

     Visit a National Historic site and home of the BCP45, which graced the back of the Canadian 5 dollar bill from ’72-’86 at the Maritime Heritage Centre.

          On Sundays from 10am-2:30pm during the summer months, browse around the Pier Street Market where local artisans proudly display their products. They have everything from candles to jelly to beautiful handmade jewelry. 

 

          All in all the Discovery Fishing Pier has a ton to offer for folks of every age. Be sure to set aside at least an hour and half for checking out the entire area.

June 26th to July 2nd

Friday, June 26^th  

• “Believe” is a creative collaboration of Hoopnosis Hoop Dance, On The Mark Theatre, AcroCity, Rhythmic Ribbon Dance and Artistic Dance. Find out more at www.tidemarktheatre.com  250-287-7465 (tickets are $20). 
• Live Music in the Tyee Pub at Painter’s Lodge, 8pm. 
• Friday Night Jam at Super Mario’s Bar & Lounge featuring “Pnut Gallery” 8pm-12am; 250-926-0606. 
• Entangados is a theatrical fiesta of dance-friendly genres on tour from Argentina – they’ll be keeping things lively at the Heriot Bay Pub! $12 (250-285-3322).

Saturday, June 27^th

• Race the River Dragonboat Festival at Dick Murphy Park, 9am-5pm; www.racetheriver.ca 
• Bonsai Club Annual Show at Sybil Andrews Cottage from 10am-4pm (2131 S. Island Hwy); Rain or Shine! 
• Lego Days at the Museum from 1-2:30pm – help us build a Lego Reef! With a theme ‘Discover the Passage’ the Aquarium will be on site with a travelling touch tank! $5, parents are free; 250-287-3103 to register. 
• Apocalypstick Pride Party at the Tidemark Theatre with the Queen of East Van & friends, 8pm; 250-287-7465 
• Motocross Championship Series Final Race! 10am start at the local track (Hwy 28), Saturday & Sunday – www.campbellrivermx.com 
• Mount Washington Mile High Scenic Chairlift will be running today – open at 11am! Dining and Shopping will also be open. Daily Summer Operations will begin June 28^th; www.mountwashington.ca 
• Quadra Island Farmers’ Market & Bazaar, 10am-2pm 
• A weekend retreat of hands-on culinary classes with Chef Takashi Mizukami at Taku Resort; 1-877-285-8258 
• Racing at Saratoga Speedway! www.saratogaracing.ca 
• Live music at the Royal Coachman Pub, 8pm, with ‘How Could I’ and friends; 250-286-0231

Sunday, June 28^th                                     

• Vancouver Island Cello Ensemble with Helena Jung, 2:30pm at Trinity Church; tickets available at the Visitor Centre ($20/$10) 
• Mount Washington Daily Summer Operations Begin! In addition to the Mile High Scenic Chairlift rides there will be a Bungee Trampoline, mini-golf, kids’ games, play area and a newly designed disc-golf course. For more info on the opening and summer events visit www.mountwashington.ca  
• Community Potluck with the Centre for Spiritual Living at 516 S. Dogwood. 10am Mediation, 10:30am Celebration, and 11:45am Potluck – everyone welcome whether you bring something or not; 250-287-1350  
• Auditions for Theatre Quadra’s Fall Production: Rocky Horror Picture Show! 1pm for those interested in backstage/behind the scenes, and 2pm for those wishing to perform. Meet at the Quadra Island Legion on West Road in Heriot Bay. 
• Pier Street Farmer’s Market from 10am-2:30pm 
• Jazz & Blues event at the Royal Coachman pub from 1-4pm every Sunday! 250-286-0231

Tuesday, June 30^th

• Summer Puppet Theatre is back at the Museum! Every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30am & 1:30pm ($2 admission); Twenty-minute shows followed by a craft! 250-287-3103 www.crmuseum.ca 
• Lunch in the Square with Heather Hutchison; 11:30am-1:15pm. www.spiritsquare.ca    
• It’s the “NiteB4” in Spirit Square! Salmon BBQ with Grieg’s Seafood at 5pm, Car Show & Live Country Music Concert with “Backstage Whiskey” from 7-9pm, Western Duds Contest at 7:45pm! 
• Open Stage Tuesdays at Misty Fin’s Eatery & Lounge, 7:30pm (Free Entry); 250-287-4320 
• "Music at the Point” featuring the Dave Blinzinger Trio! Every Tuesday, 6:30-9:30pm, at April Point Resort. To make a reservation call 250-285-2222

Wednesday, July 1^st  

• CANADA DAY! Visit www.crcanadaday.com to find out detailed information about what, where and when. Lots of entertainment! Activities and events throughout the day at Frank James Park, the Sportsplex, Downtown and at Robert Ostler Park. See the last page for ‘Events at a Glance’.

Thursday, July 2^nd   

• Puppet Theatre at the Museum! 10:30am & 1:30pm ($2 admission); 250-287-3103 
• New Art Exhibitions at the Gallery: ‘The Man Who Never Was’ mixed media installation and ‘The Walking Giants’ inflatable works creating a homage to the terracotta army; www.crartgallery.ca

UPCOMING

July 3^rd – The Wiebes Live in Concert at Discovery Community Church, 7pm.

July 3^rd – Mount Washington’s Annual Beer Festival, ‘Tapped’; www.mountwashington.ca

July 4^th – Scar Wars: An Epic Roller Derby Bout at Strathcona Gardens; www.tidemarktheatre.com

July 4^th – Cedar Pull & Weaving with Wayne Bell at the Museum; 250-287-3103

July 8^th – Croquet & Tea at Haig-Brown House from 1-4pm; Pre-register with 250-287-3103

July 9^th – River Concert Series in the Square kicks-off with Tillers Folly (bluegrass/folk), 7-9pm

July 10^th-12 – Sand Sculpting Competition/Exhibition www.parksvillebeachfest.ca

Canada Day Events ‘At A Glance’:

Frank James Park in Willow Point:

8am-10:30am - Pancake Breakfast

10am-2pm - Entertainment (singers, face painting, dancers and more!)

12pm start - Canada Day Cake at Frank James Park with the Legion Pipe Band

2pm-3pm - PWA Wrestlers at the Lion's Hall

Sportsplex in Willow Point:

11am-3pm - Mike McInnes Memorial Cup skateboard competition

Downtown Campbell River:

9am-12pm - Huck Finn & Small Fry Fishing Adventure at the Discovery Pier

10am-3pm - E&B Helicopter Rides at E&B Hanger

10:30am-3:15pm - Canada Day Marketplace on Shoppers Row

11am-3:30pm - Quality Foods Kids Fest at the Community Centre

11am-Dusk - Canada Day Festivities at Ostler Park (crafts, food, face-painting)

11am-2pm - Local All-Star Stage at Spirit Square

12pm start - Salmon BBQ at Ostler Park Longhouse

12pm-3pm - Entertainment on Shoppers Row (roller derby/square dancing/scooter race)

12-2pm - Canada Day Crafts at the Art Gallery

1-2pm - Seniors Tea at the Museum

2:30pm-10pm - Eagle stage at Ostler Park

4pm start - Rotary's Canada Day Parade!!

5:30pm - Opening Ceremonies & Cake at Ostler Park (with skydivers!)

10:22 - Quality Foods Festival of Lights at Ostler Park!!

June 19th to 25th

Friday, June 19^th  

• Golden Girls Tea for ladies over 72 at the Community Centre, 2-4pm. RSVP to 250-923-3495 
• Live at the Tidemark: 21 and under showcase. Featuring “Off To Sea”, “Keisja Cox”, “Alannah Clark”, “Castra Nova” and “Bed Rock”; 7:30pm, $20/adult, $20/student  www.tidemarktheatre.com 
• This year’s Relay for Life has a “Carnival” theme! 6pm-12am at Phoenix Middle School; www.relayforlife.ca 
• Live Music in the Tyee Pub at Painter’s Lodge, 8pm. 
• Friday Night Jam at Super Mario’s Bar & Lounge; 250-926-0606.

Saturday, June 20^th

• June 20^th & 21^st – BC Family Fishing ‘No Licence’ Weekend! www.bcfamilyfishing.com 
• Mount Washington Mile High Scenic Chairlift will be running today – open at 11am! Dining and Shopping will also be open. Daily Summer Operations will begin June 28^th; www.mountwashington.ca 
• Camp Homewood Open House – come try the activities, peek in the tents and tour the property! Staff will be on hand to answer questions from 9am-5pm and the bus will be meeting the 8:20, 9:30, 10:15 and 11:15 ferries (returning passengers for the 5pm). Hot dog lunch available for purchase. More at www.camphomewood.com 
• “Stars of Tomorrow”, presented by Kathy Mascia School of Dance, 2pm & 7pm at the Tidemark. Disney theme for the first half and performances that include tap, ballet, jazz and pointe; 250-287-7465 for tickets. 
• Annual Kusam Klimb – Are you tough enough? www.kusamclimb.com 
• Gospel Singing at the Discovery Community Church – everyone welcome! (250 -10^th Ave) 
• Quadra Island Farmers’ Market & Bazaar, 10am-2pm 
• Racing at Saratoga Speedway! www.saratogaracing.ca 
• Midsummer Festival at the Black Creek Community Centre, 5-10pm; 250-337-5190 
• Live Music at Super Mario’s Bar & Lounge in Willow Point, 8pm-12am; 250-926-0606 
• Live music at the Royal Coachman Pub, 8pm, with ‘How Could I’ and friends; 250-286-0231

Sunday, June 21^st           HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!            

• Bring dad down to the Community Centre for pancakes and sausages with coffee, tea or juice and live entertainment, 8am-12pm. $6/adult, $3/child, Seniors are FREE! 
• Mount Washington Mile High Scenic Chairlift will be running from 11am-5pm today - Free Ride for Dad! 
• Pier Street Farmer’s Market from 10am-2:30pm 
• Jazz & Blues event at the Royal Coachman pub from 1-4pm every Sunday! 250-286-0231

Tuesday, June 23^rd

• Cameryn’s Cause Celebration at Merecroft Village Plaza – there will be a Bounce-a-rama, face-painting, Celebrity Dunk Tank, Food and lots of fun!! 11am-7pm; all proceeds go to Cameryn’s Cause for Kids Society. 
• Lunch in the Square with Doug Folkins; 11:30am-1:15pm. www.spiritsquare.ca    
• Ian Howard Reid will be appearing at Foggdukkers coffee shop at 7pm! 
• “Music at the Point” featuring Jazzberry Jam! Every Tuesday, 6:30-9:30pm, at April Point Resort. To make a reservation call 250-285-2222 
• Join the Quadra Island Outdoor Club for three days and two nights of kayaking, hiking and camping at Carrington Bay on Cortes; www.qioutdoorclub.org 

Wednesday, June 24^h

• Let the chips fly! “Transformations on the Shore 2015” is on at Frank James Park in Willow Point – awards ceremony held on Sunday, June 28^th.

Thursday, June 25^th 

• “Behind the Gold Veil”, 7pm at the Art Gallery: artist talk and exhibition (artwork by Rande Cook) moderated by Andrea Walsh (UVic); 250-287-2261

UPCOMING

June 26^th – “Believe” at the Tidemark Theatre; 250-287-7465

June 27^th – Apocalypstick Pride Party at the Tidemark Theatre, 8pm; 250-287-7465

June 27^th – Bonsai Club Annual Show at Sybil Andrews Cottage from 10am-4pm

June 27^th – Race the River Dragonboat Festival at Dick Murphy Park

June 27^th & 28^th – Overnight historic tour of the Northeast Coast with the Museum; 250-287-3103

June 28^th – Vancouver Island Cello Ensemble with Helena Jung; tickets at the Visitor Centre ($20/$10)

June 30^th – NiteB4 Concert in Spirit Square

July 1^st – CANADA DAY!!

Supernatural British Columbia: Klamahtossaurus

     She may not be as celebrated as the Ogopogo, or as widely known as Caddy, but Campbell River does have its very own resident sea serpent. Known locally as simply “Klamahtossaurus”, she unfortunately has yet to be given an official name as catchy as those previously mentioned. A story was published in February of 1962 in the local newspaper speaking of a “strange monster sighted close to shore”, where a couple watched eagerly with their binoculars. The creature has been described as both “like a big dragon” and “a weather beaten boat”. Back in 1973, a local family was out on an RCMP boat and spotted her. The then 10 year old daughter, now 52, was the only one who didn’t get a clear view.
     “The one day I forget my glasses,” she sighs. “What I do know is it was between 20 to 30 feet long, and my family was going on about it for a good long while. Who knows if she’s still out there or if she’s moved on.  I’d be interested to know.”