Last Week of Summer Fun

It’s the last week of August, which means summer vacation is almost over! We hope you’ve had a fun-filled break full of sunshine, adventure and relaxation. As you get ready to head back to normal routines, take time to enjoy the final days of summer—whether it’s a swim at the lake, a bike ride or a picnic in the park. Next week, make sure to slow down in school zones and watch for students all their way to school.

Final Week of Free Summer Programs

This is our final week of the Playground Program for the summer. Join us at Country Hill Park from August 25 to 27 and Mansfield Park on August 28 to 29 from 10 am to 4 pm. Of course, we are also on site at Departure Bay Centennial Park from 9:30 am to 4 pm until August 29

End of Summer Splash

Join us for our End of Summer Splash as we say goodbye to summer. It will be held at Westwood Lake on Wednesday, August 27, 5 to 7 pm and will feature water safety tips with our water safety education team, games and crafts, swimming lesson assessments with our lifeguards as well as our final Concert in the Park from 6 to 7 pm featuring the musical stylings of Kevin’s Bacon.

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Final Week of Aquatic Adventures

The final Aquatic Adventure event will occur on Thursday, August 28, 12 to 2 pm at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. We're wrapping up the summer with an exciting Aloha Pool Party theme, featuring vibrant tropical-inspired arts, crafts, and games for all ages. Dive into the fun with island vibes, colorful decorations and engaging activities. Regular admission rates apply.

Recycling

Make sure your recyclables are clean, dry and free of food residue before placing them in your blue cart. Items like plastic containers, paper and tin cans are accepted—but no plastic bags, styrofoam or greasy pizza boxes!

When in doubt, check the City of Nanaimo’s Waste Wizard tool online to see what goes where. Recycling properly helps reduce contamination and keeps our community’s waste stream running efficiently. Let’s all do our part!

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Labour Day

All City offices and rec centres will be closed on Monday, September 1 for the Labour Day holiday. Lifeguards will be on duty at Westwood Lake.

Have a fun and safe long weekend, Nanaimo!

Water Parks

As we head into another week of warm weather, take the opportunity to bring the kids to our four water parks in Nanaimo located at Deverill Square Park, Departure Bay Kiwanis Park, Harewood Centennial Park and Mansfield Park.

Water parks are open 9 am to 8 pm, seven days a week.

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Bowen Park

Bowen Park is one of Nanaimo’s most beloved green spaces, and our City gardeners go above and beyond to keep it stunning year-round. The park features a vibrant rhododendron grove with over 350 species, a peaceful duck pond, and a picturesque waterfall along the Millstone River. Visitors can enjoy beautifully maintained flower beds, native plantings, and seasonal blooms that make every visit feel special.

Whether you're walking the trails, enjoying a picnic, or simply soaking in the scenery, Bowen Park offers a perfect blend of nature and care.