National Day for Truth & Reconciliation: Wellness Unites

Join the community on September 30 for Wellness Unites, a day of connection, recreation, and reflection with free family-friendly activities across Nanaimo.

The day begins at 9:30 am at Deverill Square Park with a traditional blessing by Snuneymuxw Elder Lolly and the unveiling of Noel Brown’s artwork. From 10 am to 2 pm, families can enjoy sport-themed inflatables, basketball, hockey and lacrosse activities, children’s games and toys, interactive community stations, food trucks and more.

Enjoy an Everyone Welcome Swim and access to the Beban Pool Weight Room from 11 am to 3 pm, or lace up for Everyone Welcome Skates at Frank Crane Arena, with free skate rentals available from 11 am to 12:45 pm and 1 pm to 3 pm. T-shirts featuring artwork by Snuneymuxw artist Noel Brown will also be available for purchase at both venues ($14 while supplies last).

A special thank you to Country Grocer for providing cookies for attendees at Deverill Square Park. Come together to learn, connect and celebrate community through wellness and recreation.

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Luminous Paths Micro-Grants

Tourism Nanaimo, in partnership with the City of Nanaimo, is offering micro-grants to businesses in Downtown Nanaimo and the Old City Quarter to encourage creative participation during Luminous Paths 2027 (February 15 – March 12, 2027), Nanaimo’s winter festival celebrating light, art, land, and community.

Downtown and Old City Quarter businesses can apply for micro-grants of $200 to $300 to create illuminated storefront displays or host creative, festival-inspired activities that help extend the festival experience throughout the downtown core. Participating businesses will also receive promotional festival materials to help attract visitors and encourage exploration of local shops and services during the festival. The initiative is intended to extend the festival experience into the downtown, giving visitors more reasons to explore local businesses while enjoying the event.

Applications are due by November 15, 2026.

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Are you Prepared?

October is Emergency Preparedness Month in Nanaimo. This is the seventh year we have designated this month to bring important messaging about how to prepare for a number of emergency situations. Everyone should be ready for anything from fires and earthquakes to storms and power outages.

The month begins with Fire Prevention Week from October 4 to 10. This year's theme is “Charge Into Fire Safety™. Safe Charging Is a Superpower” which focuses on the everyday charging habits that can help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and keep homes and communities safe. On October 15 at 10:15 am, prepare to drop, cover and hold on during the Great BC ShakeOut earthquake drill. During this time, the City will also be testing our emergency alert system, Voyent Alert.

For more information on being prepared, visit the Personal Preparedness page on the City website.

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Cleaning Catch Basins

Fall has arrived and with it, is the chance for heavy rain. Make sure to check storm drains, culverts, ditches and catch basins around your property and clear away any debris blocking them. Thanks for your help in reducing the risk of flooding, Nanaimo.

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