Tuesday, March 2, 2010

island festivals celebrate spring


Spring happens in a big way on the island with wildlife migrations of epic proportions. 10,000 gray whales are making their way up the coast to their summer feeding grounds after spending the winter months in the warm waters off the coast of Baja California. This 12, 000 mile round trip journey is the longest migration of any mammal on earth. Joining them are swarms of herring on their annual run along the east coast of the island looking for ideal conditions to spawn. Waterfowl are also on the move, as the Brant goose returns to the island in the tens of thousands.

There are two great island festivals celebrating these natural wonders. The Brant Wildlife Festival occurs from March 5 to April 28 at various mid-island locations with a variety of events from author readings and nature viewing to farm tours and culinary events. The Pacific Rim Whale Festival is happening from March 6-14 in Ucluelet, Tofino and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Expect food, music, films, First Nations culture and much more while enjoying the beauty of the wild and wet west coast. Both festivals have plenty of family-friendly events and are well worth the drive. What better way to celebrate these awe-inspiring annual events happening in our own backyard.

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