Tofino Events Calendar

Next Event: December 5, 2013: Andrew Giesbrecht, Didier Cardyn & Duncan Booth Live at the Driftwood Café

Andrew, Didier and Duncan have collectively lived in Tofino for years, but only recently have combined their individual musical prowess to form a guitar, percussion and harmonica trio.  Gleaning inspiration from their wide variety of musical tastes, the trio plays an assortment of jazz, gypsy, and boss nova tunes, along with Americana and classic country ballads.  With each member bringing experience and sophistication to the table, they serve up a genuine feast for the ears. Join them Thursday, December 5th between 6:30pm and 9:00pm for a relaxing evening of live music at the Driftwood Café, off Chesterman Beach, in the Wickaninnish Inn's Beach Building. Complimentary event, no tickets required.

All October: Blue Mountain Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation Promotion

With the help of Okanagan Falls BC's Blue Mountain Vineyards, we're thrilled to offer the Blue Mountain Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation promotion in celebration of those affected by breast cancer. For every glass or bottle of Blue Mountain Rosé sold at the Inn in the month of October, partial proceeds will be donated to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation BC/Yukon Region. Cheers to your health! 

October 5 & 6, 2013: Queen of the Peak

Inspired by the pioneers of female surfing in Tofino, Shelter Restaurant and Surf Sister combined forces to celebrate our local ladies and offer them the chance to show their stuff! This third annual women's surf competition has grown to be the largest of its kind in Canada, and one of the largest in North America, attracting athletes from all over the Pacific Northwest. Though you may not be ready to carve a wave (perhaps another lesson with Surf Sister first...) fun events leading up to and during the competition are open to the public. For more information visit the Queen of the Peak website.

October 10, 2013: Smalltown Empire Live at the Driftwood Café

Smalltown Empire is an acoustic duo comprised of singer/songwriters Ron and Anne Weeks. The pair have been delighting audiences with their folk-rock harmonies on the West Coast for over 5 years. Join them Thursday, October 10th between 6:30pm and 9:00pm for a relaxing evening of live music at the Driftwood Café, off Chesterman Beach, in the Wickaninnish Inn's Beach Building.Complimentary event, no tickets required.

October 13, 2013: Artist in Action Alison Tremain at the Henry Nolla Gallery

“I live and work in the rainforest on the western edge of Canada. This place provides a landscape for me to creatively depict the land and sea, and flora and fauna. I try to capture the colours, textures, and movement of what I see as my moments out here. This is my way to share this extraordinary beauty and attempt to translate how dynamic this place is on paper. My current work is produced by a technique called reduction cut relief printmaking.” Based in Ucluelet, BC, Alison is well known in the area for her colorful works, and has been a feature artist for the Pacific Rim Whale Festival. Drop by to meet her (and perhaps sip on a latte) October 13th from 11:00am to 3:00pm in the Henry Nolla Gallery, off the Driftwood Café on Chesterman Beach. 

October 24, 2013: Geoff Johnson Live at the Driftwood Café

Geoff Johnson's adventure in music began with The Beatles and always seems to return to the music of their time. While he can often be heard playing raucous rock and roll up and down the coast and spinning tracks on the local radio station he loves to sit down in a quiet room with an acoustic guitar to play the melodic 60s and 70s tunes that turned him and so many others into music lovers. In addition to The Fab Four expect some Neil Young, Jimi Hendrix, Van Morrison and the like as well as an original tune or two. Join Geoff Thursday, October 24th between 6:30pm and 9:00pm for a relaxing evening of live music at the Driftwood Café, off Chesterman Beach, in the Wickaninnish Inn's Beach Building. Complimentary event, no tickets required.

November 7, 2013: Duncan Booth Live at the Driftwood Café

Duncan Booth has honed a variety of musical talents since he was 10 years old growing up near Detroit, Michigan where the Motor City was a large influence on his musical tastes.  As a solo performer he boasts a variety of material, playing original and cover tunes that range from jazz standards and fingerpicking delta blues to hard strumming classic rock and modern indie pop classics.  Duncan currently plays with Tofino band Prester John's Gone, and produces music for film and commercials.  Join Duncan Thursday, November 7th between 6:30pm and 9:00pm for a relaxing evening of live music at the Driftwood Café, off Chesterman Beach, in the Wickaninnish Inn's Beach Building. Complimentary event, no tickets required.

November 8, 2013: Westcoast Winter Music Series Presents The Bills

In it's 14th season, the Westcoast Winter Music Series showcases a wide range of talent, from classical to jazz and roots. All concerts are held at the intimate Clayoquot Sound Theatre, starting at 7:30 pm. On November 8th, The Bills take the stage! This extraordinary quintet is renowned among folk music fans of all ages for their instrumental virtuosity, lush vocal arrangements and exuberant live performances. Email westcoastwintermusic [at] gmail [dot] com (Westcoast Winter Music) or call 250-725-4455. Single tickets will be for sale the week before each concert at Mermaid Tales Bookshop.

November 13-16, 2013: Clayoquot Oyster Festival

We just love this annual tribute to our favorite bivalve! This is a week-end festival of entertaining talks, oyster farm tours, and tasty events like The Oyster Gala where local chefs present their own interpretation of our locally-farmed oysters. Our signature Oysters with the Oysterman event on November 15 is sure to delight, an there's also the Mermaids' Ball with its slurping contest and (dare we say) outrageous costumes...

November 21, 2013: Candace Dawne Live at the Driftwood Café

Influenced by classic artists such as the Beatles, Neil Young, the Eagles, BB King, and Willie Nelson, Candace recognizes the importance of creating a catchy tune, as well as telling a story, and sending a meaningful message. Her unique style includes folk, reggae, blues, flamenco, and gypsy-jazz, all spiced with a light to medium dose of comedy. Candace encourages everyone in life to ‘Laugh Out Loud’. “Life is short; laugh often, love always!” Join Candace Thursday, November 21st between 6:30pm and 9:00pm for a relaxing evening of live music at the Driftwood Café, off Chesterman Beach, in the Wickaninnish Inn's Beach Building. Complimentary event, no tickets required.

November 30, 2013: Westcoast Winter Music Series Presents Musica Intima

In it's 14th season, the Westcoast Winter Music Series showcases a wide range of talent, from classical to jazz and roots. All concerts are held at the intimate Clayoquot Sound Theatre, starting at 7:30 pm. On November 30th, Musica Intima, an internationally renowned vocal ensemble with a warm and engaging stage presence and impeccable musicianship will delight audiences. Email westcoastwintermusic [at] gmail [dot] com (Westcoast Winter Music) or call 250-725-4455. Single tickets will be for sale the week before each concert at Mermaid Tales Bookshop.

December 19, 2013: Ucluelet Glee Club Live at the Driftwood Café

Inspired by the talented West Coast youth who banded together to produce the September production of “Fruitcake and Destiny”, programmers KK Hodder and Sarah Hogan formed the Ukee Glee Club in the fall of 2013. This eclectic group of 5 – 18 year olds will be charming guests of the Driftwood Café with an evening of mulled wine, cheer and Christmas Carols. From 6:30pm to 9:00pm, sit and sip at the driftwood bar or by the stone fireplace – you might not be able to resist joining in on a song or two! Complimentary event, no tickets required. 

December 23 , 2013 - January 2, 2014: Holidays at Wickaninnish Inn

For years, guests from around the globe have retreated to the Inn, for a holiday experience that gives back. “Each holiday season The Wickaninnish Inn attracts visitors who want to use this time of year to recharge and renew,” says the Managing Director Charles McDiarmid. “For couples, families and even extended families, Christmas and New Year's at the Wick is a bonding experience, spent at a safe distance from hectic holiday activities and Boxing Day sales.”

January 1-24, 2014: Annual Wickaninnish Inn Closure

We appreciate your patience as we take this time to buff, primp, and prime the Wickaninnish Inn, ready to welcome you back at 4pm on January 24th.

January 25, 2014: Westcoast Winter Music Series Presents Kelby MacNayr 

In it's 14th season, the Westcoast Winter Music Series showcases a wide range of talent, from classical to jazz and roots. All concerts are held at the intimate Clayoquot Sound Theatre, starting at 7:30 pm. On January 25th, Kelby MacNayr presents great jazz with special guest artists. As is often the case with this genre famous for improvisation and innovation, the final group of artists will be announced closer to the performance date.. Email westcoastwintermusic [at] gmail [dot] com (Westcoast Winter Music) or call 250-725-4455. Single tickets will be for sale the week before each concert at Mermaid Tales Bookshop.

February 22, 2014: Westcoast Winter Music Series Presents Lorraine Min

In it's 14th season, the Westcoast Winter Music Series showcases a wide range of talent, from classical to jazz and roots. All concerts are held at the intimate Clayoquot Sound Theatre, starting at 7:30 pm. On February 22nd, Lorraine Min takes the stage! This critically acclaimed pianist has impressed audiences worldwide for her artistic brilliance and virtuosity. Email westcoastwintermusic [at] gmail [dot] com (Westcoast Winter Music) or call 250-725-4455. Single tickets will be for sale the week before each concert at Mermaid Tales Bookshop.

Mid March 2014 dates TBD: Pacific Rim Whale Festival

Join us for a whale of a time during the 26th annual festival, when 20 000 Pacific Gray Whales migrate past our shores on their journey from Baja to Alaska. The Festival offers over 70 events for the young and young at heart, from a plethora of whale sightings to hands-on education about whales and the whaling tradition within the Nuu-chah-nulth people of the West Coast. The Wickaninnish Inn hosts the much-anticipated winemakers dinner and silent auction, with 100% of proceeds donated to further education on these ancient creatures. Click www.pacificrimwhalefestival.com.

April 5, 2014: Westcoast Winter Music Series Presents Rebecca Caine

In it's 14th season, the Westcoast Winter Music Series showcases a wide range of talent, from classical to jazz and roots. All concerts are held at the intimate Clayoquot Sound Theatre, starting at 7:30 pm. On April 5th, soprano Rebecca Caine accompanied by pianist Robert Kortgaard presents an evening of musical theatre, with songs from Broadway and the opera. Emailwestcoastwintermusic [at] gmail [dot] com ( Westcoast Winter Music) or call 250-725-4455. Single tickets will be for sale the week before each concert at Mermaid Tales Bookshop.

April 19-20, 2014: Easter at the Inn

We are tickled pink, blue, and all other pastel tones to offer you our annual Easter themed brunch Sunday, April 20th at The Pointe Restaurant, 8:00am to 2:00pm. Call 1.800.333.4604 for details.

April 2014 date TBD: Dining Out for Life

The Pointe Restaurant participiates in AIDS Vancouver Island's 8th Annual Dining out for Life program. Twenty-five percent of all food sales at The Pointe on April 25th will be donated to the charitable organization, which raised over $35,000 in 2012 through the program. Making a difference never tasted so good! For reservations at The Pointe, please call 250.725.3106.

Late April 2014 date TBD: Brunch for the Birds

You don't need to be a birder to treat yourself to a delicious brunch in support of the Raincoast Education Society and the 17th Annual Tofino Shorebird Festival. This event is sponsored by the Wickanninish Inn and The Pointe Restaurant with all proceeds supporting Raincoast Education Society programs. Tickets are $40/pp, event runs from 11:00am - 1:00pm. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Raincoast Education Society at 725-2560 orinfo [at] raincoasteducation [dot] org ( info AT raincoasteducation.org)

May 1-31, 2014: Feast Tofino

Tofino may be a small town, but it is big on offering a world-class culinary experience. Feast is an Oceanwise endorsed month-long celebration of the best Tofino has to offer the discerning epicurean.

The festival highlights boat-to-table cuisine practices embraced by Tofino’s top restaurants, including the renowned Pointe Restaurant at the Wickaninnish Inn, a mainstay on the culinary scene here for many years. Prix fixe menus, Inspirational Chef’s Tables, on the water activities and a Dock Festival event during Feast will allow guests to experience the bounty of the very waters the Pointe overlooks with its 240-degree view. For emerging details on the Inn's events check back on our Feast Tofino landing page

May - September 2014

Make your way to the Village Green (Campbell & 3rd Street) every Saturday and explore our market. You will find beautiful photographs, unique crafts, and a variety of creations, all while meeting some of our colourful local residents.

May 2014 dates TBD: Tofino Shorebird Festival

Come birdwatching with the guidance of seasoned birders, learn how to better photograph birds and wildlife, enjoy a walk on the Tofino Mudflats and more- with the help of Tofino's Raincoast Education Society in this annual event! www.raincoasteducation.org

May 11, 2014: Mother's Day

Flowers and chocolate are okaaay, but why not treat her (and yourself!) to our annual Mother's Day Brunch, at the Pointe Restaurant from 8:00am to 2:00pm. Scrumptious details include smoked wild salmon, bennies, and house-baked treats. Walk-ins welcome. Parties of five or more please call 250-725-3106 for reservations.

Early June date TBD: Rip Curl Pro Tofino

Get immersed in surf culture (we're talking skate ramp, live DJ and general beach fun) on neigbouring Cox Bay Beach while watching some great surf talent! Find more info here.

June 6-8, 2014: Tofino Food & Wine Festival

An eclectic community makes for a delicious combination of people and flavours on this lauded week-end in June. The Wickaninnish Inn hosts a multi-course opening dinner with a guest BC winemaker, and the week-end continues with a series of delectable events. Visit www.tofinofoodandwinefestival.com. Event dates for 2014 are June 6-8. 

June 8, 2014: Edge to Edge Marathon

Run the course in Ucluelet at this annual event - and Boston Marathon qualifier - attracting visitors from across the continent!  www.edgetoedgemarathon.com

July 1-15, 2014: Pacific Rim Summer Festival

This  annual event celebrates entertainment throughout Tofino, the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, and Ucluelet with everything from dance, foreign films, live music, and even spoken word. Find more info on the Pacific Rim Arts Society website.

Nightly Summer - Early Fall 2013: Classics in the Gardens

Enjoy the music of Mozart, Bach, Vivialdi and more while sipping wine on the Darwin's Cafe Patio or meandering through the award-winning Tofino Botanical Gardens. A high quality audio system set near the front of the gardens brings you a different classical artist each evening from 8:00pm - 9:30pm.  If you prefer a lighter background sound, wander through the garden paths until you reach the grounded boat at the silent Tofino Mudflats.  Tickets - including garden admission - are $10 and valid for three days. Offered nightly unless closed for private events. Please call 250-725-2247 to confirm. 

July 9, 2013: Trio Dinicu Live at the Driftwood Café

Trio Dinicu is a Los Angeles based string trio, featured in this year's nearby Music by the Sea event in Bamfield, BC. They will be joining us in the Driftwood Café on July 9th for a Tofino interlude during their performances at Bamfield's Rix Centre for Ocean Discoveries. Each member brings their individual personality to the ensemble, conversing in an inventive and improvisatory language associated with jazz while delivering the technique of prolific classical players. Their sound honours a select circle of musicians from the Parisian-Russian cabarets and clubs of the 1950's to the late 90's. Join them Tuesday, July 9th between 6:30pm and 9:00pm for a relaxing evening of live music at the Driftwood Café, off Chesterman Beach, in the Wickaninnish Inn's Beach Building.

July 26-28, 2013: Ukee Days

Drive down Highway 4 to our neighbouring coastal community of Ucluelet for some small-town fun, including the ever-popular logger sports competition. Weekend details can be found on the Ukee Days website.

August 3, 2013: Food Day Canada

Founded by Canadian food pioneer Anita Stewart, this is a day-long, coast-to-coast celebration of Canada’s rich culinary heritage. Enjoy a special Food Day dinner tasting menu at The Pointe Restaurant and Inn guests, join us for a Crab Cookout special event!

August 18, 2013: Tofino Lantern Festival

We love this magical night, when creatively handmade lanterns adorn the winding paths of the Tofino Botanical Gardens. Past guests have even made their lanterns at home for this special event, which is the largest annual fundraiser for the local Raincoast Education Society (Photo credit Jacqueline Windh for Raincoast Education Society).

September 6, 2013: Wickaninnish Inn Pro Am Golf Tournament

Every year, we play the scenic Long Beach Golf Course with a number of golf pros traveling from throughout BC for this special event. All proceeds go toward the Ucluelet Secondary School's athletics program - including golf, of course! To date, over $140,000 has been raised for our local students.

August 30-September 15, 2013: Carving on the Edge

This celebration of our traditional and contemporary West Coast wood carvers makes its encore with carving demonstrations, forums, exhibit and family programs throughout Tofino and Ucluelet. Find more information on the Festival website or drop by Henry Nolla's Carving Shed on Chesterman Beach.

September 26, 2013: Prester John's Gone Live at the Driftwood Café

Prester John's Gone was formed in 2009 by Chris Dolphin and Joel Gray. They combined with a mutual passion for bluegrass and country roots music and now perform with fervor. Join them Thursday, September 26th between 6:30pm and 9:00pm for a relaxing evening of live music at the Driftwood Café, off Chesterman Beach, in the Wickaninnish Inn's Beach Building. Complimentary event, no tickets required.