The hectic pace of summer is beginning to slip into the memory, the days are slowing down, and the darker evenings of fall are taking hold. Locals are coming out of our summertime burrows and it is time to re-connect with the friendly faces that make living in Tofino and Ucluelet such a pleasant experience.  Fall is our time to get together with friends and celebrate our coastal living and the things that we value. Nature is at the centre of our world and we all love to step into it, be fed and nurtured by it, and show our care for it.  Keep reading to learn a bit about the gatherings and festivals that help bring people together during the fall and early winter to celebrate our communities, the natural environment, and coastal life.

We begin on October 18th when one of our key local environmental stewards, The Pacific Rim Surfrider Foundation, presents their annual film festival.  This event celebrates environmental activism as seen through the work of up and coming filmmakers who have, at their heart, a commitment to showcasing the positive aspects of our amazing planet.  This one day film fest features local, national, and international short films from a variety of cultural perspectives that highlight the positive steps being taken to protect the oceans and beaches that provide sustenance to us all and unbridled joy to the countless numbers who ride the waves around the planet. This is a true celebration with local musicians and great food creating an enlivening experience for the festivals attendees. Tickets go fast and can be obtained through Caravan Beach Shop in Tofino and The General Store at Mackenzie Beach Resort where the festival takes place.

Two days later, on October 20th, Ucluelet hosts the quintessential run through nature, The Edge to Edge half marathon and 10k runs.  Whether you happen to be an avid athlete in your prime or a plodder in your gumboots, this event will be a fun run that will leave you awestruck as the The Edge to Edge course takes you through the magnificent Wild Pacific Trail that hugs the coastline before darting into pristine old growth forests. Your legs may ache and you may be breathing hard and hoping for the finish, but your body will appreciate the fresh air and beauty of your surroundings. The locals will be out in force to cheer you along and carry you to the rest tent should you require it. Get your best runners polished, grab your Ipod and get set.

On November 23rd we have the return of the massively popular Clayoquot Oysterfest Gala in Tofino. This celebration of the bountiful bivalve population and the local industry it sustains is Tofino’s once a year extravaganza of fresh and cooked oysters. The oysters are served up in a variety of deliciously conceived and executed dishes by Tofino and Ucluelet’s top restaurants and their chefs. You are encouraged to eat your fill of unlimited oysters throughout the night and the chefs will continue to provide their own delicious oyster creations as they vie for the coveted People’s Choice Oyster Trophy.  Live music, wine, and beer all make for a great night of celebration with friends, locals and visitors lucky enough to obtain a ticket. The event takes place at the Tofino Community hall on November 23rd and it starts promptly at 6.00pm. Tickets for the Gala can be obtained here or in person at The Mermaid Tales bookstore next to The Shed restaurant in Tofino.

On the 29th of November we have the start of The Winter Lights at the Tofino Botanical Gardens. This is a wonderful family friendly event and runs through till January 5th 2020. Purchase a ticket and it lasts for the duration of the festival. This celebration is a great way to keep the kids and adults enthralled as they come together to enjoy the lights and themes of the holiday season as well as special events like movie nights and story time. Music and delicious hot drinks will keep your spirits high and your hands warm as you wander through the picturesque and tranquil setting of the gardens.  Check our events listing to see details of the special evenings as they are announced.

As we approach the holiday season both Tofino (Jingle into Christmas) and Ucluelet (Midnight Madness) have a special night set aside for locals and visitors to do some late night shopping. Along with picking up great gifts for your family and friends, shoppers are actively encouraged to enjoy the various forms of food and beverage hospitality generously provided by the participating businesses. These are fun, happy nights to be on the local streets, supporting local businesses and enjoying a true social evening. Time to smash the piggy bank and set off to your favorite store.

Keeping with the spirit of Christmas, on Saturday December 14th, the Tofino Fish and Loaves Society, with the generous help of local businesses, goes all out to provide a substantial Christmas Feast for the whole community.  This annual celebration of community aims to make sure that no one goes without the opportunity to experience the caring and sharing that the holiday season truly represents. Volunteer opportunities to help with food preparation, hall set up and tear down, and general cleaning are available. Contact John Enns at jcenns2b@yahoo.ca to offer your services.