July 30th to August 5th

The last month of summer already?! That's just not possible!
Alright, so maybe 'not possible' isn't the right phrase, but it sure feels like it doesn't it? However, the summer isn't over yet and I'm planning to take full advantage of it right till the end! Thankfully, Campbell River seems to have the same idea and has filled up the month with events and attractions that can't be missed.
So here it is - this week's events taking place around town. Enjoy!

Monday, July 30th:
Strathcona Gardens Recreation Centre will be hosting the Coolest Game on Earth children's camp on Monday. Offered for children 6 to 12 years old, this camp is designed to teach basic hockey skills both on and off the ice from 10:30am to 3pm. For more information or to register your child, you can contact Strathcona Gardens at 250-287-9234.

Tuesday, July 31st:
Looking for something to do with the kids? Puppet Theatre at the Museum will be taking place on Tuesday at the Campbell River Museum at both 10:30am and 1:30pm. Captain Vancouver and his friends will be peforming shows based on true historical events centred around town. Each show runs for about 20 minutes and is followed by a craft activity.
The cost for this great performance is $2 per person, with children 3 and under free. Please contact summer.programs@crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103 for more information.

This week's Lunch in the Square will feature Nicole Potvin, a young local musician with a large voice! Grab your lunch and head over to the Campbell River Spirit Square from 11:30am to 1:15pm  to listen to some great, free music and enjoy the sunshine.

Strathcona Garden is holding a Pond Hockey event on Tuesday evening from 6-8pm. Everyone is welcome to join in on the FREE activity! For more information, please call 250-287-9234.

Wednesday, August 1st:
Serious Coffee in Willow Point will be holding their weekly Jam Night on Wednesday evening, 6:30 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! For more information, you can call Serious Coffee at 250-923-1312.

Thursday, August 2nd:
This week's 99.7 The River Concert will feature the musical talents of Tim Williams - one man, one guitar, BIG music! This blues-based singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist is inspired by hillbilly and western swing music, but has found his passion in the traditional blues style.
From 7-9pm, head on down to the Campbell River Spirit Square for some great, free entertainment! Just make sure to get there early as the square fills up fast!

Friday, August 3rd:
The Campbell River Museum will be putting on an Oyster River Heritage Walk on Friday from 10:30am to 2:30pm, starting at the Fisherman's Pub. Guests will be entertained by stories of the past as they follow the forested trail along the riverbank, then proceed along the shoreline towards Salmon Point Pub. Here the group will stop to enjoy their picnic lunches on the beach before returning to Fisherman's. The cost for this walk is $5 per person, but space is limited so be sure to book now!
You can book or find out more information about this walk by contacting the Museum at summer.programs@crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103.

Photo by Robin Rivers

Saturday, August 4th:

The Campbell River Museum's Puppet Theatre at the Museum will also take place on Saturday at both 10:30am and 1:30pm. At these shows, Captain Vancouver and his friends will be peforming plays based on true historical events centred around town. Each show runs for about 20 minutes and is followed by a craft activity.

The cost for this great performance is $2 per person, with children 3 and under free. Please contact summer.programs@crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103 for more information.

The Campbell River Art Gallery will be holding another of their weekly Super Saturday Art Classes on Saturday, with this week's theme being Under the Watercolours. Paint an octopus' garden in the shade or whatever scene you can imagine by using a watery pallet of fun watercolour paints! Admission is by donation, and all children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, please call the Campbell River Art Gallery at 250-287-2261.

The Campbell River Dog Show will also be taking place this weekend on both Saturday and Sunday, 9am to 4pm. There will be 4 rally obedience trials for anyone interested in watching dogs and handlers put through a variety of obedience moves. There will also be a junior handling competition scheduled during the evening. To get a schedule of the event, you can either go onto the webiste at www.campbellriverdogfanciers.com, or contact Lynda and she will send you one (pannache@shaw.ca).

Sunday, August 5th:

As a part of the Campbell River Dog Show, there will be a Dog Olympics show put on Sunday evening, 6:30 to 8:30pm. This is a fun event for children 16 and under to participate in, and the event is completely free! There will be many different events and age categories to choose from, and children can enter as many events as they would like. Prizes will be provided!

For more information or to volunteer, please contact Lisa Tremblay at landmtremblay@shaw.ca or visit www.campbellriverdogfanciers.com.

The Campbell River Museum will be hosting another Historic Boat Tour on Sunday. This week's destination will be the ever beautiful Desolation Sound!

Desolation Sound is actually now one of the premier cruising destinations of North America, which ironically in the late 1700s Captain Vancouver and his crew found ominous and oppressive. On the way there, you will pass Mitlenatch Island, which has the largest seabird colony in the Strait of Georgia! Then comes the Twin Islands where British Royalty once visited.

The cost for this trip is $130 per person plus tax. For more information or to make a reservation for a trip, you can contact the museum at 250-287-3103.

The weekly Pier Street Farmers' Market will be taking place this Sunday right in front of the entrance to the Discovery Fishing Pier. This is an open-air market that offers a wide selection of farm products, processed foods, an array of arts and crafts, and plenty of entertainment! You can check out the market's website at www.pierstreet.com.

That's all the events for this week! I hope that you find a chance to enjoy at least a part of all that this beautiful town has to offer.

Just remember, if you have any events that you would like added to our blog or community calender, you can contact us at either info@visitorcentre.ca or 250-830-0411 ext. 1

Have a great week and start the new month with a bang!

July 23rd to July 29th

The last week of July already, can you believe it? It seems like the days are just flying by us as the summer and sunshine continue.
As always, Campbell River has got you covered when it comes to 'things to do.' From music to puppets, events, and charities, you're in the right place! To prove it, here are a few of the things taking place this week:

Monday, July 23rd:
Strathcona Gardens Recreation Centre will be putting on quite a few summer camps over the week for kids.

• The Little Rascals Hockey Camp will go from Monday to Friday, 9am to 11:30am. Throughout the week, kids age 3-5 will be taught basic hockey skills though the use of on and off ice training.
• Babysitter Super Star will run from 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday. This is a great opportunity for kids 11 or older to learn their Junior Lifeguard Skills as well as get their Red Cross babysitters certificate.
• Ice Quest will go from 1:30pm to 4pm, and is a learn to skate program for kids age 3-5+ years.
• The Multi Adventure Challenge Summer Camp runs from 10am to 3pm all week for kids ages 6-12+. This camp will include daily off-site excursions, swimming and skating, and a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.
• For more information on any of these camps, you can contact Strathcona Gardens at 250-287-9234.

Still Water Books will be hosting a "Meet the Author" event at 7:30pm Monday evening. Christine Cohen Park, author of the novel "A Key to Lock Out Cougars," will be presenting three interlocked stories to bring to life the history of Cortes and Twin Islands. The event will be taking place in a tent just outside of the store, and refreshments will be provided for guests.

Tuesday, July 24th:
The Campbell River Museum will be putting on their Puppet Theatre at the Museum show on Tueday at both 10:30am and 1:30pm. Captain Vancouver and the gang invite kids to join them for a lively show based on real events from Campbell River's history. The show generally runs for 20 minutes, and is followed by a craft activity. The cost for the show is $2 per person, with children 3 years old and younger free.
Please feel free to contact summer.programs@crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103 for more information.

There will be another Lunch in the Square performance this Tuesday from 11:30am to 1:15pm in the Campbell River Spirit Square. Performing this week is Roy Ashdown, a musician who proves to only get better with time. Pack your lunch and grab your lawnchairs, and head on down to listen to some great music while enjoying the weather!

Wednesday, July 25th:
Serious Coffee in Willow Point will be holding their weekly Jam Night on Wednesday eveing from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. This is a chance for musicians to sit around and share their music in an informal, relaxed setting, as well as for music lovers to gather for some local, lively music. Everyone is welcome to come down and either join in on playing or just sit back and listen to some tunes while enjoying a cup of coffee.

Thursday, July 26th:
It is World Hepatitus Day, and the Spirit Square will be marking the day by joining up with AIDS Vancouver Island to host a BBQ. Head down to support a great cause!

There will be another River Concert this week at the Campbell River Spirit Square, 7pm to 9pm. The Boom Booms, a Vancouver-based six-piece rock-pop band, has won a number of awards for their music and they have even been featured on Much More Music and an episode of 90210! Make sure you arrive early to find your seat, and get ready to enjoy a brilliant ensemble of world groove dance music!

Friday, July 27th:
There will be a Croquet & Tea at the Haig-Brown House on Friday afternoon, 1:30pm to 4pm. Travel back to a more regal time with a high society afternoon of tea, lemonade, crumpets, and a spirited match of croquet. The cost for the afternoon is $7 per adult, and $3 per child. If your groups consists of four adults or more, the cost is reduced to $6 each. For more information, please contact the museum at summer.programs@crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103.

Saturday, July 28th:
The Campbell River Museum will be putting on their Puppet Theatre at the Museum show on Saturday at both 10:30am and 1:30pm. Captain Vancouver and the gang invite kids to join them for a lively show based on real events from Campbell River's history. The show generally runs for 20 minutes, and is followed by a craft activity. The cost for the show is $2 per person, with children 3 years old and younger free.
Please feel free to contact summer.programs@crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103 for more information.

The Campbell River Pink Salmon Festival is going to be held this Saturday from 12pm to 4pm at the Robert Ostler Park!
This event is hosted by the Pacific Salmon Foundation, a group that raises funds that are then directed towards grassroots, volunteer and community-driven projects focused on the conservation and recovery of Pacific Salmon. Members of the public will be treated to a Salmon BBQ by the Kinsman Club of Campbell River, as well as entertainment, family activities, and information displays. And there is no admission fees!!

The First Annual Campbell River Arts Festival is also going to be taking place on Saturday at the Campbell River Spirit Square! From 11am to 4pm, over 100 artists will be displaying and selling their work in the Spirit Square, or setting up booths on Shoppers Row. The event will also be featuring kid's art activities, as well as a new piano for the town to paint! On the entertainment front, violinist Blaine Waldbauer and local band 50th Parallel will be keeping energy and spirits high.
The entry fee for artists is $30, with tents and awnings available on a first come basis. For more information, or to register, please call Impressions Gallery at 250-286-1612 or Stillwater Books & Arts at 250-850-3103.
As one of Stillwater's contributions to the art's event, they will be presenting two local writers in the afternoon! First, Stillwater will be hosting a book signing and discussion event with David Esson Young, the author of "The Uchuck Years," a historic look at West Coast fishing lines. He will be infront of the store at 1pm. An hour later, wildlife biologist John A. Bindernagel will give an interactive talk about the Sasquatch.

The Campbell River Hospice Society will be holding a Fundraising BBQ on Saturday from 11:30am to 1:30pm at Coastline Mazda's new location. Marine Harvest will be providing some amazing salmon burgers while 99.7 The River keeps the music rolling. If you would like to test drive a Mazda, Coastline will even buy you your burger! Or, if you would just like to support the Hospice Society, burgers will be sold for $8 (which includes a drink and salad). The Hospice Society will also be selling raffle tickets at the BBQ for their latest Summer Time Raffle - a Mazda 2 and free gas for a year! More details on the raffle can be found at http://www.crhospice.org/.

Mt. Washington will have their Bike Park Opening Day on Saturday! Trails for all ages and abilities, lessons, and rentals will all be available.

Also at Mt. Washington will be a Inukshuk Building Contest from 11am to 7pm. This event will continue on through to Sunday, July 29th.

Sunday, July 29th:

The Campbell River Museum will be doing another of their famous Historic Boat Trips on Sunday, with this week's destination being Sonora Island. It takes about half an hour to reach Sonora Island by boat from Campbell River crusing up the Discovery Passage past Quadra Island and through Seymour Narrows, and going over the famous site of the Ripple Rock explosion.

This trip includes a lunch stop at Dent Island, and the cost is $150 per person. For more information or to make a reservation, please contact the Museum at 250-287-3103.

The weekly Pier Street Farmers' Market will take place at the entrance to the Discovery Fishing Pier and Martime Heritage Centre on Sunday from 10am to 2:30pm. This open-air market offers a wide selection of farm products, processed foods, an array of arts and crafts, as well as fun and entertainment! Customers can spend their morning enjoying the market before taking a walk down the Discovery Fishing Pier or strolling along the adjacent harbour where they can find fresh seafood to buy. Check out the market's website at http://www.pierstreet.com/.

And there's your schedule for this week!

I hope everyone has a great week and is able to enjoy all that Campbell River has to offer you.

If there is anything you would like added to our events blog or calendar, please send us an email at info@visitorcentre.ca, or give us a call at 250-830-0411 ext.1

July 16th to July 22nd

Can you believe that it is already half way through July?! The summer seems to be just racing by this year with no plans of stopping. Well, you know what they say: "time flies when you're having fun."
To keep the good times rolling, here is this week's events in beautiful Campbell River.

Monday, July 16th
Strathcona Gardens Recreation Centre will be hosting a couple of week long activities for kids starting on Monday.
The first day camp, Girl Power, is going to be held for girls aged 10 to 13 and will go from 10am to 3pm right through until July 20th. Each day, the group will take part in fun, energetic activities such as Zumba, Aquasize, learning CPR, and much more.
The second day camp available is Dash & Splash, which will also be going through until July 20th. This camp is for all kids ages 6 through 12, and from 10am to 3pm they will be participating in both swim and skate lessons.
For more information about either of these camps or how to register, you can contact Strathcona Gardens at 250-287-9234.

Tuesday, July 17th
The Campbell River Museum is going to be restarting their popular summer event Puppet Theatre at the Museum this week. Twice every Tuesday and Saturday, at 10:30 am and 1:30pm, Captain Vancouver and the gang invite kids to join them and they perform entertaining plays based on real events from Campbell River's past. The plays generally run for 20 minutes, and are followed by a craft activity for the kids!
Expect favorite characters such as rockin' Ripple Rock, tempermental Captain Vancouver, and gullible Fred Nunns (recognize any of the names?).
The cost to attend the show is $2 per person, with children 3 and under attending for free. Please contact summer.programs@crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103 for more information.

Ready for another fabulous Lunch in the Square performance? This Tuesday, get ready for the musical talents of Doug Folkins as he plays for the lunch time crowd, 11:45am to 1:15pm, in the Campbell River Spirit Square. Just sit back and relax to the mix of smooth-rolling Americana and Irish beats!

Wednesday, July 18th
Serious Coffee will be holding their 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 a relaxed, informal setting. Everyone is welcome to join in, or even just to sit back and listen to some great local music.

Thursday, July 19th
The Tyee Plaza Charity Jazz and Blues Weekend is this weekend!! The Sam Hurrie Band will be kicking off this event with some steaming blues in support of the Special Olympics. Bring your lawn chairs down to the Spirit Square from 7pm to 9pm to support this great charity!

Friday, July 20th
The Tyee Plaza Charity Jazz and Blues Weekend continues on Friday with David Vest, the "Boogie-Woogie Starchild," performing his blues renditions in support of COPS for Cancer. This performance will also be taking place in the Spirit Square from 7pm to 9pm, and is by donation.

Saturday, July 21st
There will be a Willow Point Community Clean-up taking place on Saturday morning from 10am to 12pm. This is a volunteer event, and everyone interested in participating is just asked to meet at the Frank James Park at 10am. All equipment will be provided, as well as complimentary refreshments. For more information, you can contact Lois Hill at 250-923-4899.

Jill Rody and Perrin Sparks will be putting on a Plein Air Workshop on Saturday from 10am to 2pm. This instructional team has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and would love to coach you over the rough patches of Plein Air painting so you too can paint outdoors in emotional freedom! Participants are welcome to paint one or more pieces, and are asked to bring their own oil, watercolour, or pastels.
For more information, or to register for this class, please call the Campbell River Art Gallery at 250-287-2261.

Also beginning at 10am will be a Straw Bale Gardening introducation put on by the Compost Education Centre on South Dogwood Street. This is a chance to learn how to create a raised garden in your backyard without all the work of a permanent raised garden bed! "As an urban gardener, you can create biodegradable equivalent or a raised bed."

The Museum's bi-weekly Puppet Theatre at the Museum will be put on again on Saturday at either 10:30am or 1:30pm. The show is fun for all ages, as well as a great opportunity to learn about our town's history. Admission is $2 per person, with children 3 and under free, and includes craft time after the performance!

The Ladies Crystal Open will be held on both Saturday and Sunday at the Storey Creek Golf Course, with the shot-gun tee off scheduled for 8:30am. If you are interested in participating in this event, you can pre-register on July 20th from 5-7pm for $145. This cost also goes towards a breakfast buffet at 7am, a luncheon, and draw prizes! For more information, you can go onto Storey Creek's website at http://www.storeycreek.bc.ca/, or give them a call at 250-923-3673.

A Wine Tour, Tasting, and Appetizers is giong to be held as a fundraiser for the Tidemark Theatre on Saturday! Coastal Black will be hosting his great event, with tickets being sold for only $25! From 4pm to 7pm, enjoy some great wine and appetizers while taking a wine tour around the area. Tickets are limited though, so make sure to pick your's up early! For more information, you can call 250-287-7465 ext. 1.

Finally, the Tyee Plaza Charity Jazz & Blues continues on through the weekend, with Saturday's performance being led by the Gerry Barnum Band! As a well seasoned artist, Gerry Barnum's songs move the heart and soul with a captivating groove. Gerry is an acomplished musician on guitars, the harmonica, and vocals, and his compositions and arrangements of classic songs are completely unique to him. From 7pm to 9pm, bring down your lawn chairs and a donation in support of the MS Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada in order to hear this band in full swing!

Sunday, July 22nd
The Campbell River Museum will be holding another of their Historic Boat Tours on Sunday, with this weeks destination being the ever popular Desolation Sound. Desolation Sound is one of the premier cruising destinations of North America, which ironically in the late1700s Captian Vancouver and his crew found ominous and oppressive....
On the way over, guests will also pass by both Midlenatch Island and the Twin Islands before arriving at Refuge Cove at Desolation Sound. The cost for the tour is $130, and the trip will be led by a guide who will be able to teach guests about all of the historic and interesting features seen on the way. To make a reservation or recieve more information on the trip, you can call the Museum at 250-287-3103.

The weekly Pier Street Farmers' Market is held every Sunday of the summer in front of the entrance to Discovery Fishing Pier and Maritime Heritage Centre. The Pier Street Farmers Market operates as an open-air market, offering a wide selection of farm products, processed foods, an array of crafts and arts, fun and entertainment—always fresh. Customers can spend their Sunday morning on the market before enjoying a walk and ice cream on the unique Discovery Pier, or stroll the adjacent harbour where they can buy fresh seafood. Check out their website at http://www.pierstreet.com/!

Well, that's all for now folks! Enjoy your week, and let us know if you have any more events to add to our list.

July 9th to July 15th

Hello Campbell River! Enjoying the sun?
After a good couple months of cloud and rain, the long awaited summer seems to finally have arrived! (not that we don't like a good day of rain sometimes to keep things green...). Already the seawalk and hikes around town are seeing more action, and smiles are growing larger every day.
Here are this week's events to help keep those smiles going!

Monday, July 9th
The Kenyan Boy's Choir Showcase is taking place on Monday at the Quadra Island Community Centre, and will begin at 7pm. This choir features 24 young men, 14 to 25 years old, who have come from different tribes in Kenya as a chance to change their lives through performing live music and dance. Tickets for the show will be available at the door, and will cost $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, or $20 for the family.
For more information, you can call either 250-285-3737 or 250-285-2580.

Strathcona Gardens will be holding a Lifesaving Sport Camp from July 9th to July 13th for children age 8 to 12. From 10am to 3pm, participants will be taught first aid, CPR, water rescue techniques, and more. For more information on price and space available, you can contact Strathcona Gardens at 250-287-9234.

Tuesday, July 10th
This week's Lunch in the Square will be featuring the musical talents of Ellie Hart! Grab your lunch and come enjoy one of Campbell River's most talented singer/songwriters from 11:30 am to 1:15 pm at the Campbell River Spirit Square.

Wednesday, July 11th
97.3 The Eagle and Children's Charity will be holding a Variety Radiothon on July 11th and 12th at Thrify Foods. Come and support this great charity by buying a delicious hotdog or hamburger from their booth!

Interested in learning how to drum? Then check out the Hand Drummers group! Everyone is welcome to join in no matter their tradition or level of experience for a fun-filled experiment in rythm making. For more information on this group, you can send an email to jzagroba@hotmail.com or call 250-923-6858.

Serious Coffee will be holding their weekly Jam Night on Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. This event is put on in order to provide musicians with a calm, easy going setting where they can share their music with others and talk about their interests with fellow musicians. However, the event is also open to anyone just wanting to sit back and enjoy some local music!

Thursday, July 12th
The Paramount Foam Party will be taking place at the Paramount Music Hall at 9pm Thursday evening. Make sure to bring extra clothes as this summer kick-off party involves a lot of water! Cover is $5, and you can get more information by calling 250-287-8686.

This week`s River Concert will feature the band Reunion. This local band is sure to keep things rocking, so grab the kids and lawn chairs and head down to the Campbell River Spirit Square for a guarenteed good time! The concert will begin at 7pm, but make sure you get here early to grab your seat.

Friday, July 13th
Looking for a way to celebrate the beginning of the weekend? Mt. Washington has got you covered! The Mount Washington Suds & Scotch Festival is the place to be this Friday, especially if you enjoy scotch and beer. Suds & Scotch is a tasting experience offering guests a chance to sample spirits and interact with experts to learn more. The event goes from 6pm to 9pm at the Raven Lodge, and will also include live music from violinist extremist Kytami and a delicious BBQ dinner (for an additional cost). Admission cost is $25, and tickets go fast so make sure to book your spot early!

Saturday, July 14th
There will be a Dog Spa SPCA Fundraiser at the Campbell River SPCA on Saturday. Stop by the shelter and the SPCA volunteers will bathe your canine friend, while Kathy Merrithew gives pedicures all by donation. Coffee and Timbits will also be provided for all human visitors. For more information of this event you can call the SPCA at 250-286-6131.

The Compost Education Centre will be doing a Ladybug Release on Saturday from 10am to 2pm. This release allows the centre to welcome thousands of ladybugs to the organic gardens in order to get rid of common pests without the use of pesticides. Bring your camera and join them for some fun and a great learning experience!

Sunday, July 15th
The Campbell River Museum will be holding another of their amazing Historic Boat Tours on Sunday, with this week's destination being Sonora and Dent Island. From 8:30am to 1:30pm, participants will enjoy the great scenery and wildlife while out on the water, as well as a lunch stop at the famous Dent Island Lodge. Book your spot early as space runs out fast!

The weekly Pier Street Farmers' Market will take place at the entrance to the Discovery Fishing Pier and Maritime Heritage Centre from 10am to 2:30pm on Sunday. This is an open-air market that offers a wide selection of farm products, processed foods, and array of arts and crafts, and great entertainment.

Master Yodler Kerry Christensen will be performing at the Sportsplex from 2pm to 4pm Sunday afternoon. Tickets for the performance are $12 and can be purchased at the Music Plant or at the door. For more information, you can check out Kerry's website at www.kerrychristensen.com, or call Edie at 250-287-4220.

Have a great week and make sure to enjoy the sunshine and all Campbell River has to offer!

If you have an event you would like added to our events calender or to this blog, please feel free to contact us and let us know!
Phone: 250-830-0411 ext. 1
Email: info@visitorcentre.ca

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.