Get ready for a day packed with fun, music, heritage, and community spirit as Celebrate PA! takes over Harbour Quay on Canada Day – Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Celebrate PA! is a free, family-friendly event. Powered by local organizations, artists, performers, and volunteers, this unique celebration reflects the heart of Port Alberni—diverse, welcoming, and full of pride.
“This event is all about community,” says Mayor Sharie Minions. “Celebrate PA! is powered by the incredible efforts of local groups and volunteers who care deeply about bringing people together and celebrating what makes Port Alberni such a special place.”
The day will begin with a land acknowledgment and opening ceremony by Aaron Watts of Tseshaht First Nation and Brandy Lauder of Hupacasath First Nation, recognizing the unceded traditional territory of the Tseshaht and Hupacasath peoples. From there, Harbour Quay will transform into a lively hub of activity featuring:
• Live performances by XiXi and The Bandit, Old Time Fiddlers, and more
• Hands-on kids’ fun: puppet theatre, face painting, chalk art contests
• Art in action with the Grove Gallery and Community Arts Council
• Heritage experiences from the Alberni Valley Museum, Port Alberni Maritime Heritage Society, and Western Vancouver Island Industrial Heritage Society
• Vintage vehicles, RCMP photo ops, a “Best Dressed Canuck” contest, and a selfie station
• Alberni Pacific Railway rides (tickets available at albernipacificrailway.ca)
The Alberni Valley Rock and Gem Society will have an outdoor rock show happening all day at Harbour Quay.
This vibrant day will be brought to life by an amazing team of community partners. Admission is free Whether you’re a longtime resident or first-time visitor, come Celebrate Port Alberni—and Canada—in a way that’s all our own.
