The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer, which means that spring is right around the corner. And what better way to celebrate the changing of the seasons than with a visit to the 2020 Brant Wildlife Festival?
With a history dating back more than 25 years, the festival is a celebration of the season built around the thousands of birds, mammals and marine species that migrate to the area every Spring.
Taking flight from March 21 to April 19, it's a fantastic excuse to explore Parksville and Qualicum Beach. Filled with endless shorelines, beautiful vistas and welcoming communities, it's one of Vancouver Island's most beloved regions.
If that's not enough to convince you to stop by this spring here are five more reasons why you should check out the 2020 Brant Wildlife Festival.
IT’S A HANDS-ON WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Photo: Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism
Away from the natural world, there’s a kaleidoscope of cultural events for visitors to enjoy as these small coastal communities open up their doors to visitors. From art shows and music events to authentic local dining experiences, it’s a chance to connect with local people who will welcome you with open arms. One of the highlights of the annual festival is Brant in the Bay on March 29. View Brant geese and other birds through spotting scopes at Parksville Community Park and view interesting displays provided by the Arrowsmith Naturalists.
YOU CAN GET ACTIVE
Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours – Photo: Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism
Those looking to brush off the cobwebs after a long winter can get out in the fresh sea air and enjoy all of the outdoor activities that the region has to offer. From world-class hiking along endless shoreline trails to some of the best mountain biking, the west coast has to offer, there’s something to set everyone’s pulse racing. For those looking for something a little more sedate, the festival offers a number of walking tours led by local wildlife experts and conservation groups.
YOU’LL DEFINITELY RECONNECT WITH NATURE
Photo: Grace Furman – photo courtesy Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism
If you’re looking to reconnect with nature then you’ve come to the right place. Timed to coincide with the burst of activity that comes with the annual herring spawning, the area comes alive with natural wonders during the festival. Alongside the black and white geese from which the Brant Wildlife Festival takes its name, birdwatchers can enjoy an aerial extravaganza of gulls and eagles. Meanwhile, the water is filled with the barking of sea lions and, if you’re lucky, the occasional humpback or killer whale. It’s like a real-life nature documentary unfolding right in front of your eyes!
YOU’LL DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW ON VANCOUVER ISLAND
Photo: Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism
Looking to lose yourself on an endless expanse of sandy beach? Then this is the event for you. Set against the backdrop of the area’s tranquil shorelines you can enjoy picture postcard views of the aquamarine ocean and clean crisp salt air. Away from the coast nature is in full bloom and the Brant Wildlife Festival offers a host of events to help you to make the most of it. On March 29th, for example, you can join an expert birder to learn about the winged wonders that you’ll find on the island’s forests and wetlands. Then on April 18th, the 5th annual Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Bioblitz lets you dabble in citizen science by helping conduct a survey of plant and animal species. Whether you are new to Bioblitzing and would like to gain skills, or you are experienced and want to contribute your expertise to biodiversity research, this event is for you.
YOU’LL ACTUALLY RELAX
Photo: Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism
The Brant Wildlife Festival offers the perfect opportunity to take a break from the stress of day-to-day life. A world away from the hustle and bustle of your nine-to-five, Parksville Qualicum Beach is the ideal destination for those who want to get away from technology and spend some time enjoying authentic experiences that will live long in their memories. To that end, the festival has set up a range of events that are specially designed to help you unwind. Take March 28th’s Forest Bathing, for example, an event that promises to help you unplug from the world and experience a slow-paced and sedate experience in the heart of the island’s forests.
Visit brantfestival.bc.ca to find out more about the 2020 Brant Wildlife Festival, or check out visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com for all of the information you need to enjoy this extra special area.
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