Artsplash! Pacific Rim Arts Society's Annual Spring Art Show
Showcasing the talents of West Coast Artists and Artisans Saturday March 17- Sunday March 25 / Black Rock Resort, Ucluelet, B.C. 10:00am - 10:00pm Daily Come and see what's new in the local art scene!

Winter Wave Photo Showdown: Competition for the Best Winter Wave Photos!
Opening Exhibition and Viewing: Saturday, March 17-20, 2012
Opening 7pm / March 17, Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, Ucluelet 
Admission $5 Live Music in the Float Lounge All of the photos that will appear in the Showdown have been taken right here along our coastline between Ucluelet and Tofino. The winning photos will be chosen by You, in a People’s Choice style vote by ballot.

Jamie’s Whaling Station’s Westcoast Passport To Adventure Contest
On your own time all throughout Whale Festival, visit participating locations to answer quirky & educational interpretive questions and collect PRWFS Stamps to enter the draw for great prizes. Complete your Answer Sheet and enter the draw to win a grand prize at Closing Day Celebrations! Thank you Jamie’s for organizing this annual educational & interactive Festival activity!

Vancouver Island: Barkley to Clayoquot by Matt Maran Wildlife & Landscape
Photography Exhibit
Humanity, 150 Fourth Street Tofino
Vancouver Island, Barkley to Clayoquot is a photographic document of Vancouver Island’s west coast by award-winning photographer Matthew Maran. 
Divided into three main sections — Ocean, Coast, and Forest.

Deep Sea Observatory Kwisitis Centre, PRNPR
10:00am - 4:30pm Come explore the mysterious world of the deep sea with Rick Searle in this fun, interactive display from Ocean Networks Canada.

Tofino Fire Brigade Community Breakfast!
Saturday March 17, 2012: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
The Schooner Restaurant - Outdoor Patio, Tofino Admission: $10.00
Come and join Tofino's Volunteer Firefighters for this delicious pancake breakfast, sponsored by The Schooner Restaurant, Tofino. The eats start early at 8:00am, so make sure you arrive early to get your fill of fried eggs, sausage and hot cakes - served up with butter and syrup! This is a famous local family recipe - so don't miss out! * This event is a fundraiser for the Volunteer Tofino Fire Department.

Lone Cone Hike & Trail
Saturday March 17, 2012: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm
Blue Tofino Fish Dock, 200 Grice Rd. Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Admission: $39 (adult) – $35 (student) – $30 (youth)
Kick start the festival with Tofino Water Taxi by travelling to Lone Cone mountain and hiking the rugged terrain to the top to see mystical views of Clayoquot Sound! This tour includes return boat shuttle to the foot of Lone Cone Mountain on Meares Island. (A Short 15 minutes each way.) The hike to the summit and back is approximately 4-6 hours. The entire trail is marked with flagging tape and requires at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

Parade of Whales and Wonders
Saturday March 17, 2012: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
The Wickaninnish Elementary School, Tofino, Tofino
This event often kicks off the Whale Festival! Businesses and organizations work hard for weeks to decorate floats that capture the spirit of the Pacific Rim Whale Festival. Long Beach Radio broadcast the 2012 parade right on site! This year, we would like to see the children decorating their parents for this occasion, as well as parents riding their childrens bikes. All things whacky and wonderful, this day is filled with fun. The parade floats depart from the Wickaninnish Elementary School. Please no balloons on your floats - there are many natural ways to decorate.

Frogs and Salamanders of BC’s Coastal Rainforest
Sunday March 18, 2012: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Dr.Barb Beasley at the Kwisitis Visitors Centre, PRNPR  
If you’ve wondered about the frogs you hear singing in the spring or the salamanders you uncover in your woodpile, come listen to a talk about B.C.’s coastal amphibians. Starting with examples from the early fossil record, this slideshow will explore how amphibians make the best of both worlds where they live – on land and in water. Learn about the fascinating characteristics such as slimy skin, sticky toes, poison glands and projectile tongues that make every 10-year-old want to carry a frog around in his/her pocket. WhaleFest is the time of year when our local species begin breeding and you’ll hear all about how frogs and salamanders mate and lay eggs, and what happens when the tadpoles grow up. You’ll also learn about some of the trials and tribulations faced by amphibians, and what is being done to rescue them from the immediate threats to their survival. Hear about some easy ways that you can help too.

16th Annual Chowder Chowdown
Sunday March 18, 2012: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Ucluelet Community Centre, Ucluelet Admission: $10.00
Sample the best of the Pacific Northwest from local Tofino and Ucluelet chefs! Gourmet secrets, mom & pop specials, traditional family recipes. Have a taste of numerous samples and favour your flavour. Which chowder will win your vote this year?! Featuring live maritime tunes!

Meares Island Naturalist Guided Tour
Sunday March 18, 2012: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
Ocean Outfitters, Tofino Admission: $30.00
The magnificent back drop to picturesque Tofino Village is pristine Meares Island. From Tofino you may take a 10 minute boat cruise aboard the “Re-Joyce” to the Big Tree trailhead.
In the early 80’s Meares Island was in immediate danger of clear cut logging. Concerned Tofino residents, environmentalists and Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations joined together to face off the big timber industry. This initial battle ground gave birth to BC’s “War of the Woods” which spread up to the Queen Charlottes and culminated into the largest act of peaceful disobedience in Canadian history!
These trees, aged between 800 and 1300 years, are something to marvel at. Take your time to explore the fern carpeted forest floor and to hug some of the hugest and oldest life forms on this precious planet.
The Big Tree trail has two parts. The trail begins as a boardwalk leading you past many features of special interest to the Hanging Garden Tree which has a circumference of 18.3 meters and a height of 42.7 meters! The board walk is 620 meters in length and takes approximately 1.5 hours return to enjoy. If you prefer a longer hike you can continue on and do a loop trail (no board walk and often very muddy!) for a total distance of 3163 meters.
Self-Guided: Adults $30.00 per adult + $5 per ticket payable to the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations.  Seniors/students $25  Children 2yrs. – 12yrs. $15 Dogs Free!

Storytelling with artist Roy Henry Vickers
Sunday March 18, 2012: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Eagle Aerie Gallery, Tofino
Renowned First Nation artist Roy Henry Vickers intimately shares personal stories of coastal life and inspirations, in his own longhouse gallery.  Roy will be available for signing following the storytelling. Everyone welcome!

Artist in Action with Allison Tremain
Sunday March 18, 2012: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Wickaninnish Inn, Salal Room, Tofino
Join our 2012 poster artist and printmaker Allison Tremain as she unveils the mystery of print making in this artist demonstration. Allison will have copies of her poster for sale, to sign aswell as original works on display.

Marine Mammal & Bird Watching - Interpretive Walk
Sunday March 18, 2012: 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Amphitrite Light House & Wild Pacific Trail, Ucluelet
Join naturalist Oyster Jim in Ucluelet for a local interactive land-based viewing through of marine mammals and birds at Amphritrite Point Lighthouse. Historically a traditional whale-spotting point on the peninsula, there is lots to see. Enjoy the trail & come armed with binoculars & questions! Did we mention rain or shine?

The Mysterious Sea by Ellyn Davidson
Sunday March 18, 2012: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve Kids/Family Fun
Join Ellyn Davidson from Ocean Networks Canada as we explore all life aquatic. 

Stories of the West Coast
Sunday March 18, 2012: 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Wild Heather Bookstore, Ucluelet
Join local female author Adrienne Mason for an introspective look into tales of the life on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, with readings from contemporaries. 

“Build A Whale” Strawberry Island Marine Research Society
Sunday March 18, 2012: 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
150 Fourth Street, Tofino
Build a Whale is an initiative of Strawberry Island Marine Research Society. It is a travelling hands-on educational display that consists of a complete orca (killer whale) skeleton, that is assembled upon an ingenious and unique mounting system that both supports the bones and shows how the skeleton and internal organs of the whale are positioned. The hands-on lab features O120, a real killer whale skeleton that participants assemble like a giant puzzle. The presentation has a good environmental message and the skeleton is a stand-alone exhibit between workshops.

Open Group Mediation – Healing the Ocean
Sunday March 18, 2012: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Humanity, 150 Fourth Street, Tofino
Join Eliot May for an open meditation, focusing and honoring our connection with the ocean, planet and all things living.

A Call for Humanity
Sunday March 18, 2012: 8:00 pm - 12:00 am
Humanity, 150 Fourth Street, Tofino
" A Call for Humanit " Family Friendly Local performers and spoken word poets come to free-style and sing out loud for this all ages show. Make your own Sundae on Sunday! Delicious and healthy alternatives.

Be-Bop Fitness & Wild Pacific Trail Discover Walk
Monday March 19, 2012: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Wild Pacific Trail Parking Lot, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Meet 'Oyster Jim' Martin who will take you on a guided walk on & off the Wild Pacific Trail. Hikers from last year’s B-Bop Walks came away with wonderful footage spotting migrating whales from the trail. This is a once-a-year opportunity to experience the trail with the visionary behind its existence! This will be an invigorating forest walk - bring your walking shoes and athletic spirit, and breathe in the fresh air!

‘Flukes & Feathers’ Whale & Bird Watching Tour
Monday March 19, 2012: 9:30 am - 12:00 pm
51 Wharf Street, Tofino Admission: $89.00 Call 250-725-3330 to Book.
Join guest guide & local birder Artie Ahier (ask him about The Big Year)
It’s the perfect time of year for an exciting adventure where our guides take you touring into stretching inlet waters and along the outer coast of Clayoquot Sound seeking coastal and inlet birds and migrating grey whales all in one experience! An inspiring daytrip for most ages with informative and engaging guides! Thanks to Remote Passages Marine Excursions for continued Festival support!

Family Story time at Sea
Monday March 19, 2012: 10:00 am - 11:00 am Jamie's Whaling Station - Ucluelet, Ucluelet
Join author Sheryl McFarlane for this exciting event. Sheryl has written more than a dozen books for children and teens. We will be boarding the Leviathan II and although we won't be leaving the shore, what would be better then being read a story by the author herself and sitting on a big boat and being served hot chocolate!

Sharks & Skates - Jennifer Yakimishyn
Monday March 19, 2012: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Learn about the exciting world of sharks and skates, their relationship to their environment, and the delicate balance of their lives.

Storytelling with artist Roy Henry Vickers
Monday March 19, 2012: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Eagle Aerie Gallery, Tofino
Renowned First Nation artist Roy Henry Vickers intimately shares personal stories of coastal life and inspirations, in his own longhouse gallery. He will be releasing Limited Edition prints and Roy will be available for signing following the storytelling. Everyone welcome!

Schooner Trail Rainforest Walk with Dan Harrison
Monday March 19, 2012: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Pacific Rim National Park, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Dan Harrison with the Raincoast Education Society for a Rainforest Walk on the Schooner Trail in the Pacific Rim National Park. Our backyard is a lush coastal temperate rainforest, complete with rain, large coniferous trees with moss-laden branches, nurse logs and much, much more! Discover some of the ‘ingredients’ that make this ecosystem so unique. Please bring appropriate outdoor gear; sturdy shoes recommended gumboots not necessary. We will be meeting at the mouth of the Schooner Trail for this walk.

Beach Seine Interactive Specimen Collecting!
Monday March 19, 2012: 3:00 pm - 4:30 am
Terrace Beach, Ucluelet What is seining, you ask?
Join Ucluelet Aquarium curator Dave Hurwitz 'in his shoes' for an actual Aquarium-bound specimen collection from Terrace Beach. Oh! The life in our own backyard! A net, chest waders, some biologist friends, and you. Dave will be joined by Ucluelet Aquarium staff for some seining fun. All ages welcome and boots recommended.

Author of "Cougar Annie’s Garden" - Margaret Horsfield
Monday March 19, 2012: 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Wild Heather Bookstore, Ucluelet
Join this local author for an exciting look into the past of Cougar Annie!
Join this local author for an exciting look into the past of Cougar Annie! A remote garden blooms at the head of Hesquiat Harbour on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Surrounded by rainforest and mountains, this garden has endured for over ninety years. It is powerful with story!

Orca Applique Quilt – Sewing Class
Monday March 19, 2012: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Sew Tuff Quilting Co. 451 Main Street, Tofino Admission: $40.00
Part 1 Sew Tuff Shop, Tofino
Students will learn to applique using simple Orca-shaped appliques that are satin stitched onto blocks creating a lovely, complex patterns when the finished blocks are sewn together. Part 2: March 26th, 2012.

Sweet Indulgence - Dessert Reception!
Monday March 19, 2012: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Ucluelet Community Centre, Ucluelet Admission: $10.00
Sweet Indulgence All you can eat dessert affair! 
Ucluelet Community Centre
An evening of decadence that featuring favorites from family recipe archives from up and down the coast. All-you-can-eat desserts & People's Choice Awards, and so much more. This event features live musical guests. Sweet Indulgence gives locals the chance to shine and show off their baking skill and gives the rest of us the chance to come and enjoy those incredibly tasty treats! Sweet Indulgence originally sold tickets at the door but due to its popularity and the huge lineups, advanced tickets have been sold in the last few years, selling out each time! Even after adding multiple seating times! SAVE Advanced pre-sale tickets for sale here. Family Rates Apply! 
Advance tickets only: $10 adults/$5 kids 12 & under.

Movie Night featuring 'The Whale'
Monday March 19, 2012: 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Clayoquot Sound Theatre, Tofino Admission: $10.00
The Whale tells the true story of a young, wild killer whale - an orca - nicknamed Luna, who lost contact with his family on the coast of British Columbia and turned up alone in a narrow stretch of sea between mountains, a place called Nootka Sound.
Orcas are social. They live with their families all their lives. An orca who gets separated usually just fades away and dies. Luna was alone, but he didn’t fade away. There weren’t any familiar orcas in Nootka Sound, but there were people, in boats and on the shore. So he started trying to make contact. And people welcomed him. Most of them. This contact did not turn out to be simple. It was as if we humans weren’t ready for him.
Inspired by myths, we look into the sky, not the depths, for others who might think and dream like us. We train radio telescopes on the stars, and listen for code in the static of space. But maybe we’re looking in the wrong place. So far, space just crackles, but the sea whistles back. And, in Nootka Sound, it sent us an open-hearted child.
This story is about what happened then. For many years we have been curious about what it will be like when an extraterrestrial appears among us. Will things be chaotic? Will they be exciting? Will they be dangerous? Will there be controversy? How will we recognize this stranger? What will we share? Will this be joyful? Will it be sad? Will it be the best thing that ever happened?
Maybe it will be all those things. Maybe it will be just like what happened when a little lonely whale tried to make friends with us lonely humans in a place called Nootka Sound.
The Whale celebrates the life of a smart, friendly, determined, transcendent being from the other world of the sea who appeared among us like a promise out of the blue: that the greatest secrets in life are still to be discovered.

Birds of the Rocky Coast - Guided Walk with Pete Clarkson
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Peter Clarkson and learn about the diverse and lofty life of birds!
Every year from late April through May, flocks of sandpipers, plovers, Whimbrels, and many other shorebirds pass through the Tofino area . Thousands stop here to feed and rest as they make their impressive journey from South and Central America northward to their Arctic breeding grounds. The protected forests, expansive mudflats, long sandy beaches, and rocky shorelines of this area create the right combination of habitats to draw over 40 species of shorebirds to the area, including the largest migratory concentrations of Whimbrels anywhere in British Columbia and impressive flocks of Western Sandpipers, Dunlin and more. The threatened Red Knot is also a regular visitor each spring, as well as Rock Sandpiper in winter. In 2010, local bird expert Adrian Dorst listed at least 30 species of shorebirds!

Wet & Wild’ Marine Research on the West Coast
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Remote Passages Marine Excursions, 51 Wharf Street, Tofino
Marine mammal biologist and independent researcher Wendy Szaniszlo shares her adventures studying whales and sea lions in local waters. Curious which whales hang out in Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds? Wonder why Long Beach rocks are so important for Steller sea lions? Follow the Wharf St. boardwalk to 'the big red boathouse' to find out!

Storytelling with artist Roy Henry Vickers
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Eagle Aerie Gallery, Tofino
Renowned First Nation artist Roy Henry Vickers intimately shares personal stories of coastal life and inspirations, in his own longhouse gallery. He will be releasing Limited Edition prints and Roy will be available for signing following the storytelling. Everyone welcome!

‘Assist a Researcher’ Boat Tour Whales & Sea Lions
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 11:30 am - 2:00 pm
Remote Passages Marine Excursions, Tofino Admission: $89.00
Still want to learn more about marine mammals in a hands-on environment? Reserve a place on this special boat tour with marine mammal biologist Wendy Szaniszlo. Join an interactive, research-oriented trip and see how the science gets done. Participants will assist with data collection, and are encouraged to ask lots of questions!


Exploring Living Streams - Guided Walk
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Walk in the Forest Trail, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Jessica Hutchinson MSc. in Ecological Sciences and Executive Director of Central West Coast Forest Society on this insightful and informative look at the life of streams and the delicate balance of our eco-system at the Pacific Rim National Park!

Whaling, An Ancient Tradition in Barkley Sound
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
This presentation will discuss the ancient whaling activities of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations in the Barkley Sound region. Combining ethno historic, ethnographic, and archaeological data an overview of this high status pursuit will be presented, outlining a reality somewhat at odds with longstanding conceptions regarding this vital and unique activity, central to Nuu-chah-nulth traditional culture.

Cedar Weaving with Rose Wilson
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve Admission: $15.00
Come and learn the traditional art of weaving by local First Nations artisan Rose Wilson and family. Tickets available at the door, limited student capacity of 40 seats. Cedar and supplies included. This is a festival fundraising event.

Sea Creature Cookie Decorating!
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Common Loaf Bakery, Tofino Fun for all ages!
Come and decorate delicious cookies, with icing, sprinkles and candy at Tofino's local bakery, The Common Loaf. This is a free event! Children under 6 yrs of age must be supervised.

Martini Migration! “The Final Wave”
Tuesday March 20, 2012: 8:00 pm - 12:00 am
Tofino Community Hall, Tofino Admission: $45  2 Pieces of I.D. Required For Entry (No exceptions.)


KUTAPIRA Percussion Marimba Band "Sirens & Sailors Unite!"

This is a ‘Foot Friendly Event’ - No Large bags allowed. Join us for the party of the year at the 7th Annual Vodka & Gin Cocktail Competition. Music by Kutapira, world renown percussion and marimba band! Local mixologists will compete for the coveted title of the best Whale Festival Martini & decorated booth. Come shake, stir and vote for your version of the best coastal martini, and the most festivalized costumes in attendance! Dress for the theme - "Sailors & Sea Nymphs"

Be-Bop Fitness & Wild Pacific Trail Discover Walk with Oyster Jim
Wednesday March 21, 2012: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Wild Pacific Trail Parking Lot, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Meet 'Oyster Jim' Martin who will take you on a guided walk on & off the Wild Pacific Trail. Hikers from last year’s B-Bop Walks came away with wonderful footage spotting migrating whales from the trail. This is a once-a-year opportunity to experience the trail with the visionary behind its existence! This will be an invigorating forest walk - bring your walking shoes and athletic spirit, and breathe in the fresh air!

Wildlife Adventure Cruise on the Inlet
Wednesday March 21, 2012: 10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Jamie's Whaling Station Tofino. Admission: $39 Adults, $25 Youth, Children <6yrs  free.
Join our crew for a special 2.5-hour Tofino harbor/inlet cruise, with possible marine wildlife sightings ! Join Jamie's Whaling Station and step aboard our large 40 passenger covered zodiac for a comfortable, calm cruise around Tofino’s Inlet and Meares Island.  Learn some fun facts about the area and its wildlife inhabitants, take some photos, and enjoy the beautiful scenic ride. There is an excellent chance of spotting bald eagles and other birds, seals and sea lions….and you never know what else we may find!  Minimum 12 Passengers required for departure.

Wreck of the Valencia with Silva Johansson
Wednesday March 21, 2012: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Silva Johansson for a look into the graveyard of the Pacific Ocean, and the infamous shipwreck of the Valencia in 1906. Relive the drama of this tragic 1906 sinking that lead to the creation of the West Coast Trail.

Adrienne Mason “Long Beach Wild”
Wednesday March 21, 2012: 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Long Beach Lodge Resort, Meeting Room Downstairs, Tofino
Join the author Adrienne Mason as she reads from her soon to be released book entitles, "Long Beach Wild". Long Beach, on Vancouver Island’s west coast, has been many things to many people.  For the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations, it has always been home. More recently, it has attracted wave after wave of people: gold miners, loggers, WW II airmen, back-to-the-landers, surfers, artists, entrepreneurs, dreamers.

Surfing with the Whales! Zodiac Tour
Wednesday March 21, 2012: 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Remote Passages Marine Excursions, Tofino Admission: $89.00
Whales & Surfers - A Natural Connection!  See beach breaks from a whale's-eye view; learn where and why the best waves happen from a veteran local surfer. All while observing migrating Grey Whales off the coast of Tofino!

In the Trees: Rainforest Walk with Jordan Odney
Wednesday March 21, 2012: 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Pacific Rim National Park, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Jordan Odney is a resident of Ucluelet and a Parks Canada interpreter. Schooner Cove trail is a short, relatively easy boardwalk trail that leads you to the very northern end of Long Beach. At the end of the trail you can turn right, which will take you to the secluded beaches of Schooner cove, or left, where you can walk to entire expanse (10 km) of Long Beach.

Wild Coast: Following the West Coast Cougar
Wednesday March 21, 2012: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Danielle Thompson for in this exciting journey into the world of cougars!
The cougar, the largest wild cat native to British Columbia, is an imposing but evasive member of our wildlife. His secretive habits, and sometimes astounding predatory abilities (the cougar is capable of killing a 600 pound moose or elk), have resulted in a wealth of human misconceptions and irrational fears. In some instances, "control" programmes responding to these fears placed severe and unwarranted hunting pressure upon cougar populations. Learn more about this amazing cat and how it survives in the wild woods of British Columbia.

The Secrets of Clayoquot - Slide Show!
Wednesday March 21, 2012: 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Clayoquot Sound Theatre, Tofino
Friends of Clayoquot Sound Non-profit Society presents a photographic slide show of the beauty and wilderness around Clayoquot Sound. Entrance by donation. 

‘From Forrest to Sea’ with Dan Harrison
Thursday March 22, 2012: 9:30 am - 11:00 am
Cox Bay, Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Dan Harrison for a Rainforest Tidal Walk Raincoast Education Society
in Cox Bay, Tofino!
Our backyard is a lush coastal temperate rainforest, complete with rain, large coniferous trees with moss-laden branches, nurse logs and much, much more! Discover some of the ‘ingredients’ that make this ecosystem so unique.

Whales N’ Tales - Whale Watching Tour
Thursday March 22, 2012: 9:30 am - 11:30 am
Ocean Outfitters, Tofino Admission: $89.00
Come onboard for an exciting 2.5 hour adventure where our captain & guide takes you into Clayoquot Sound in search wildlife which could include whales, black bears, seals, sea lions, puffins, sea otters, bald eagles (aerie too!) and inevitably miles of gorgeous coastline and beaches. An amazing daytrip for all ages with an informative and engaging guide! Partial proceeds to local research efforts. Each child receives a free voyage gift bag, so step aboard!

Kayaking Demo: Fun for Everyone!
Thursday March 22, 2012: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Majestic Ocean Kayak's, Ucluelet call (800) 889-7644.
1167 Helen Road
Majestic Ocean Kayaking is hosting a Kayak Demo Day! Come and test the speed, edging, maneuverability comfort and fit of a wide array of kayaks. At our Kayak Demo Day you can test one kayak against another.

Nuu-chah-nulth Eyes on the Sound - Hot Springs Boat Tour
Thursday March 22, 2012: 11:00 am - 5:30 pm
Remote Passages Marine Excursions, Tofino Admission: $120.00
Travel to Hot Springs with Tla-o-qui-aht guide Randy Frank. Learn about daily life in Clayoquot Sound from the perspective of the Nuu-chah-nulth -- the "People from the mountains and the sea." Randy shares stories from a lifetime of working on local waters. Pack lunch and gear for a soak in the hot pools.

March 22: Barnacle Blues
Thursday March 22, 2012: 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
A fun and fund-raising evening of music! Last year acclaimed musician Jim Byrnes and opening act Headwater made this a toe tapping good time! Watch for announcements later this year for the 2012 performers! Raffle-style auction with lots of amazing prizes; includes gourmet savouries & 2 drink tickets. Prices are subject to change. Black Rock Resort.

6th Annual Vessel Parade & Blessing of the Fleets!
Friday March 23, 2012: 9:00 am - 10:00 am
First Street Dock, Tofino
Join method marine for this traditional Blessing of the Fleets! This is a sight to see as ships and boats float through Tofino harbour in a marine procession to 1st Avenue Dock for their annual maritime blessing, keeping the ships and all aboard safe from harm! The Blessing of the Fleet is held at coastal fishing communities throughout much of the world.

Mudflats Interpretive Walk with Kim Johnston
Friday March 23, 2012: 10:00 am - 11:30 pm
Darwin’s Café - Tofino Botanical Gardens, Tofino Admission: $10.00
The Tofino Mudflats are more than just mud; they’re one of the little-known jewels of Clayoquot Sound. Thousands of migrating shorebirds depend on these mudflats, and migrating grey whales use them too! Come down to the Tofino Botanical Gardens and join marine biologist Josie Osborne for a 60 minute exploration of the Tofino Mudflats. Great for families, kids and mud-enthusiasts of all ages. Sturdy shoes are recommended; gumboots are not necessary as we will walk NEXT to the mud but not ON the mud. Thanks to the Tofino Botanical Gardens Foundation.

Marine Mammal Research Day
Friday March 23, 2012: 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Subtidal Adventures, Ucluelet Admission: $79.00
Join local naturalist and marine mammal researcher Wendy Szaniszlo for a fun-filled research trip in Barkley Sound. We will be travelling by zodiac with Brian Congdon, a former Park Warden of Pacific Rim National Park

‘The Grey Wolf’ with Todd Windle
Friday March 23, 2012: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Coastal Wolves on the West Coast of Vancouver Island:
This talk will touch on the history of wolves on Vancouver Island including extirpation of Vancouver Island wolf, ecology of local wolves including linkages with marine environment, background and trends in human-wolf interactions, and what people can do to help maintain healthy populations of wolves in the region.

“Top 40” Amazing Creatures of the Ocean with Aylin Ullman
Friday March 23, 2012: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Aylin Ullman for an look at the North Pacific's most fascinating species!

Maritime Kids' Day Tofino
Friday March 23, 2012: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Tofino Community Hall, Tofino Free!
Join us for an all-out afternoon of fun, art, science, and music. Activities for all ages! There are games, arts & crafts, face painting and so much to do we have to host this event in each town! The Ucluelet Aquarium, Parks Canada, The Rainforest Education Society and the Bamfield Marine Science Centre are just a few of the many organizations with booths. A free concert for children with music and dancing just for them!

Northwest Aquatic Marine Educators Workshop
Friday March 23, 2012: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Ucluelet Community Centre, Ucluelet
Educators’ PD Workshop Friday, March 23rd, 1 – 4 PM, Ucluelet Community Centre
We will delve into the topics of aboriginal science, traditional ecological knowledge and their place in education. "People tend to think that indigenous knowledge is only for aboriginal students, but it is of importance to everyone," says Snively. "It incorporates ecological wisdom in a very strong, holistic way, which is a key concept that all students should be learning." It is of particular importance to educators. Free - must pre-register by sending an email with your name to Anne Stewart astewart@bms.bc.ca

Calamari and the Meaning of Life with Josie Osborne
Friday March 23, 2012: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
A Story of One Marine Biologist and 500 Humboldt Squid
On the evening of September 13, 2008, a single Humboldt squid washed ashore at dusk on Chesterman Beach, Tofino. Overnight, the tides washed away the carcass of this four foot long squid with human-like eyes the size of golf balls. What on earth were these Central American cephalopods doing in Canadian waters, and why have they not been back? Come listen to this fascinating story of how one local marine biologist delved deep into the squid carcasses to learn more about these incredible creatures and why they washed ashore in Tofino.

Wave Rider: The Pacific White Sided Dolphin
Friday March 23, 2012: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Kwisitis Visitors Centre, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Join Erin Rechsteiner and learn about the Pacific White Sided Dolphin. Pacific white-sided dolphins are so named because of the white colouration on their sides and underneath. They are dark grey on top and have a pale gray streak along each side that starts narrow above the eyes and then widens towards the tail. They have small dark beaks and dark rings around their eyes.

Mind of a Snail Puppet Show
Friday March 23, 2012: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Tofino Community Hall, Tofino
Presenting THE MIND OF A SNAIL PUPPET SHOW! This troupe will be performing a piece all about the migration of the Gray Whale and all of the creatures in the sea. This event will be filled with laughter, joy and learning!

Facing the Facts: Global Fishing Expansion & Climate Change
Friday March 23, 2012: 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Clayoquot Sound Theatre, Tofino Admission: $5.00
Dr. Daniel Pauly is a French citizen who completed his high school and university studies in Germany; his doctorate (1979) and habilitation (1985) are in Fisheries Biology, from the University of Kiel.

Headwater @ The Float Lounge!
Friday March 23, 2012: 9:00 pm - 12:00 am
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, Ucluelet Admission: $25.00
Hearing this band is like listening to the West Coast of Canada in song. Freewheeling, fierce, sentimental and sexy, the Vancouver, B.C., quartet has earned its reputation as one of the finest acoustic roots groups around the old-fashioned way - working for it! Come and dance it up with the festival's wonderful volunteers!

Marine Mammal Research Day, Ucluelet
Saturday March 24, 2012: 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Subtidal Adventures, Ucluelet
Join local naturalist and marine mammal researcher Wendy Szaniszlo for a fun-filled research trip in Barkley Sound. We will be travelling by zodiac with Brian Congdon, a former Park Warden of Pacific Rim National Park

Humpback Songs & Wandering Grey Whales
Saturday March 24, 2012: 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Remote Passages Marine Excursions, Tofino
Presented by Dr. Jim Darling. 
Current whale research in the North Pacific.
The haunting songs of Humpback Whales fire our imaginations, while Russian Grey Whales are found swimming off our coast, and whale bones from an ancient midden begin to tell their stories through genetic analysis. Jim Darling, a long-time Tofino resident who has led independent whale research projects for over 25 years, presents on recent work from the field.

Cedar Weaving with Rose Wilson
Saturday March 24, 2012: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Tofino Community Hall, Tofino Admission: $15.00
Come and learn the traditional art of weaving by local First Nations artisan Rose Wilson and family. Tickets available at the door, limited student capacity of 40 seats. Cedar and supplies included.

Drawing Nature with Allison Watt
Saturday March 24, 2012: 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Blue Tofino Fish Dock, 200 Grice Rd. Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Come and draw nature in this professional life drawing workshop with Artist Allison Watt. Set on the dock, this classroom is the perfect setting to meditate on the simplicity of line, colour, and form. Water colour paints will be used. Please bring a hot beverage and snacks with you, as this is a longer more in-depth art class!

Big Tree Trail Boat Shuttle, Meares Island.
Saturday March 24, 2012: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Tofino Water Taxi, 200 Grice Rd, Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Admission: $30 (adult) – $25 (student) – $20 (youth)
Return boat shuttle to Meares Island for a stroll through an impressive old growth rainforest where you will see some of the world’s largest Western Red Cedar Trees. The boat shuttle is 10 minutes to the head of the trail. The first part of the trail, which has a boardwalk, features the biggest trees. Walking the boardwalk takes approximately 15 minutes one way. For the adventurous, the trail continues on in a large clockwise loop back to the beginning. The entire loop trail takes approximately 2 hours.

Live Dive Screening - The Bamfield Marine Centre
Saturday March 24, 2012: 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Tofino Theatre, Tofino
Streamed simultaneously to Clayoquot Community Theatre and Ucluelet Community Centre!
From the subsea direct via internet to the theater audience with the team and expertise of the Bamfield Marine Science Centre! The Live Dive is an innovative way to explore the subsea by streaming the video to land locations. Two divers and a videographer dive into the waters of Barkley Sound and with the help of their support team and Naturalist helping guide you through this adventure! Feel like you are the one diving!

Annual Rubber Fish Race and Hatchery Tour
Saturday March 24, 2012: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Thornton Creek Hatchery, Port Albion
The Race is on in Port Albion! Buy your rubber fishes today.
$3 each or $5 for 2 racing fish - with prizes to be won. Event organized by The Wickaninnish Community School.

Life on the Edge: The Changing Culture of Coastal Communities
Saturday March 24, 2012: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Long Beach Lodge Resort, Meeting Room Downstairs, Tofino
The ocean provides more than just livelihoods, food, and recreation for coastal communities, it affects the very culture of our communities. We are truly living “life on the edge” – the edge of the North American continent and the edge of the Pacific Ocean. At this interface, we are affected daily by the ocean whether we realize it or not, from the weather to the smell of the air to the “background noise” of waves and seabirds. Yet we know that the oceans are changing, affecting obvious things like our food resources, erosion of ocean-front properties, and the arrival of debris on local beaches. But how are the changing oceans affecting the human culture of our communities? Join us for this discussion in the 2nd Annual Sea Change Panel.

Mix and Mingle - Sea Change Panel Reception
Saturday March 24, 2012: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Long Beach Lodge Resort, Meeting Room Downstairs, Tofino
Join us for the wrap up party as scientific minds mingle in a social soiree of light refreshments, cocktails and intoxicating jazz performances. A relaxing and exciting way to spend your evening meeting the locals!

Be-Bop Fitness & Wild Pacific Trail Discover Walk with Oyster jim
Sunday March 25, 2012: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Wild Pacific Trail Parking Lot, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Meet 'Oyster Jim' Martin who will take you on a guided walk on & off the Wild Pacific Trail. Hikers from last year’s B-Bop Walks came away with wonderful footage spotting migrating whales from the trail. This is a once-a-year opportunity to experience the trail with the visionary behind its existence! This will be an invigorating forest walk - bring your walking shoes and athletic spirit, and breathe in the fresh air!

Whale Watching Safari with Tofino Water Taxi
Sunday March 25, 2012: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Tofino Water Taxi, 200 Grice Rd, PRNPR Admission: $79(adult) – $75 (student) – $65 (youth)
Come and join the adventure! We guarantee whale sightings. In addition to Grey, Humpback, and Orca Whales, we often see Sea Lions, Seals, Sea Otters, Bald Eagles, and many species of birds.

A Walk in Time with author Adrienne Mason
Sunday March 25, 2012: 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
St. Columba Church (110 2nd Street), Tofino
A historical walking tour of downtown Tofino with Adrienne Mason! Adrienne combines her experiences as an interpreter and writer to provide this entertaining look back into the history of Tofino.

The Sounds of Whales – Breaking the Silence
Sunday March 25, 2012: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Humanity, 150 Fourth Street, Tofino
In her presentation, Janie Wray speak about northern resident and transient orca, humpback whales and fin whales along the north coast of BC.
" With orca I speak of the strong family bond between matrilines and play recordings of the different dialects from one pod to another. I also mention transient orca and the differences between the two, the main one being diet and call types. We have seen a strong increase in the number of sightings of humpback whales along the north coast and now have a large resident group of humpbacks that come back year after year. We are fortunate in our research area as humpback whales bubble net feed in large groups. The whales are also extremely vocal during this event so I would share both pictures and live recordings of this magnificent display.In recent years we have established that humpback whales also sing on their feeding grounds. This song is amazing to listen to as it changes and evolves from year to year. So I would also speak about this song display as well play a few recordings. The other baleen whale that has us all surprised with the its come back is the fin whale. We spotted our first fin whale in 2006 and every year since their has been a increase in the number of sightings. The purpose of the speech is to inspire awareness to a growing population of whales along the coast of BC and that certain locations that should be considered critical habitat for these spectacular creatures of the sea."

Pacific Rim Festivities – First Nations Wild Salmon BBQ & Performances!
Sunday March 25, 2012: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
The Tin Wis Resort - Best Western / Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve Admission: $10.00
Join us for an afternoon of honoring the First Nations of Tofino and Uclulet, and surrounding areas! This community gathering is a chance for us to acknowledge, and pay tribute to the beauty of the area, the arts, the culture and people that have made this festival a success! This event will feature a welcome by Levi Martin, respected elder of the
Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations, performances by Ta'Kaiya (10 year old Sliammon environmental activist), dances and song by Tseshaht First Nation Dancers from Port Alberni, BC, art by Marika Swan and local artisans, Nuu-chah-nulth linguist Naomi Fraser, and a delicious Wild Salmon BBQ.