Nanaimo has many good bars with live music, various lounges, and pubs. The Port Theatre is great for live performances. There are also annual cultural events and outdoor festivals and a fantastic waterfront harbour.

Annual Events in Nanaimo:

• Nanaimo's Bridal Exhibition - February
• Maple Sugar Festival - February
• Vancouver Island Short Film Festival - February
• Nanaimo Global Film Festival - February
• Symphony of Roses - March
• Upper Island Musical Festival - March/April
• Nanaimo Beer Festival - April
• Empire Days" Celebration - May
• Floating Boat & Marine Trade Show - May/June
• Nanaimo Festival of Banners - May to Oct
• NALT's Sea to Summit Celebration - June
• Nanaimo Bathtub Races & Marine Festival - July
• Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival - July
• Nanaimo Blues Festival ("Summetime Blues") - August
• Vancouver Island Exhibition - August
• Bite of Nanaimo - September
• Nanaimo Home Expo - spring and fall
• Annual Nanaimo Pumpkin Festival - October
• Fringe Flicks - Oct. to April
• Festival of Trees - November