The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer, which means that spring is right around the corner. And what better way to celebrate the changing of the seasons than with avisit to the 2019 Brant Wildlife Festival?
With a history dating back more than 25 years, the festival is a celebration of the season built around the thousands of birds, mammals and marine species that migrate to the area every Spring.
Taking flight from March 18 to April 20, it’s a fantastic excuse to explore Parksville and Qualicum Beach. Filled with endless shorelines, beautiful vistas and welcoming communities, it’s one of Vancouver Island’s most beloved regions. But if that’s not enough to convince you to stop by this spring here are five more reasons why you should check out the 2019 Brant Wildlife Festival.
1. Enriching Events
Away from the natural world, there’s a kaleidoscope of cultural events for visitors to enjoy as these small coastal communities open up their doors to visitors. From art shows and nature films to authentic local dining experiences, it’s a chance to connect with local people who will welcome you with open arms. One of the highlights of the annual event is the weekend-long Pacific Brant Carving and Art Show, where some of the island’s best artisans gather to demonstrate their skills and sell their wares.
2. Get Active
Those looking to brush off the cobwebs after a long winter can get out in the fresh sea air and enjoy all of the outdoor activities that the region has to offer. From world-class hiking along endless shoreline trails to some of the best mountain biking, the west coast has to offer, there’s something to set everyone’s pulse racing. For those looking for something a little more sedate, the festival’s Foraging for Wild Edibles event on April 20th gives you a chance to get active while learning about how you can live off of the land with the help of local wildlife experts.
3. Reconnect with Nature
If you’re looking to reconnect with nature then you’ve come to the right place. Timed to coincide with the burst of activity that comes with the annual herring spawning, the area comes alive with natural wonders during the festival. Alongside the black and white geese from which Brant Wildlife Festival takes its name, birdwatchers can enjoy an aerial extravaganza of gulls and eagles. Meanwhile, the water is filled with the barking of sea lions and, if you’re lucky, the occasional humpback or killer whale. It’s like a real-life nature documentary unfolding right in front of your eyes!
4. Rediscover Vancouver Island
Looking to lose yourself on an endless expanse of sandy beach? Then this is the event for you. Set against the backdrop of the area’s tranquil shorelines you can enjoy picture postcard views of the aquamarine ocean and clean crisp salt air. Away from the coast nature is in full bloom and the Brant Wildlife Festival offers a host of events to help you to make the most of it. On March 23rd, for example, you can join an expert birder to learn about the winged wonders that you’ll find on the island’s wetlands, while on April 6th you can enjoy the perennially popular Eagle release hosted by the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre.
5. Rejuvenate, Relax and Rejuvenate
Brant Wildlife Festival offers the perfect opportunity to take a break from the stress of day-to-day life. A world away from the hustle and bustle of your nine-to-five, Parksville Qualicum Beach is the ideal destination for those who want to get away from technology and spend some time enjoying authentic experiences that will live long in their memories. To that end, the festival has set up a range of events that are specially designed to help you unwind. Take March 24th’s Forest Bathing, for example, an event that promises to help you unplug from the world and experience a slow-paced and sedate experience in the heart of the island’s forests.
Visit www.brantfestival.bc.ca to find out more about the 2019 Brant Wildlife Festival, or check out www.visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com for all of the information you need to enjoy this extra special area.
