Arts and Culture in Nanaimo, BC
Located on central Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is a bustling port city with a rich cultural heritage and a diverse arts community. From Indigenous art and music to contemporary galleries and performing arts venues, the city offers a wide range of cultural experiences for all ages.
With events, public art, and creative hubs throughout the city, Nanaimo invites locals and visitors to connect through creativity. Browse the listings below to discover the arts councils and cultural centres that help shape the city’s vibrant cultural identity.
Nanaimo is situated on the east coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. One of the main things to do in downtown Nanaimo is a visit to the Nanaimo Museum, located in downtown on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw Nation. The museum offers a variety of critically acclaimed exhibits including the ones being brought from the Canadian History Museum, the National Gallery and the Vancouver Art Gallery. Other art attractions include the Nanaimo Ceramic Arts - Studio & Gallery which showcases ceramics, paintings, jewelry and fibre arts. The studio also offers 1-2 day workshops for all ages. Apart from museums, the city also has the Port Theatre, which is an 800-seat theatre located downtown. Additionally, the city also hosts the annual Jazz Festival that showcases many local artists Beautiful scenery and a rich local culture make downtown Nanaimo a great destination for art enthusiasts.
