First day of summer arrives Friday, June 20 – let’s make the most of it!

Hello neighbours! Kirk here, your local real estate agent for Parksville and Qualicum Beach. Nothing says summer’s here quite like the longest day of the year on Friday, June 20, and I’m thrilled to share a lineup of events, local adventures, and home highlights for a weekend brimming with community spirit and seaside charm.

Weekend Forecast

Expect a mild coastal weekend, great for being outdoors:

• Friday (June 20) – Cloudy, high 18°C, low 11°C
• Saturday (June 21) – Cloudy, high 19°C, low 11°C
• Sunday (June 22) – Partly sunny, high 20°C, low 12°C
  Quiet coastal days, perfect for exploring beach trails, farmers’ markets, and celebrating the start of summer.

Kick‑Off Summer: Friday, June 20

First Day of Summer - Strolls & Choir Info Sessions

Begin summer at Rathtrevor Provincial Park or Parksville Beach where endless sandy stretches await your footprints. The calm, shallow water is ideal for a relaxing evening walk—or a splash if you bring layers!

In Parksville, head to the McMillan Arts Centre from 7–8:30 pm for the starter session of the Oceanside Pops Choir—a wonderful way to connect with our community and lift your voice together.

Picnic in the Plaza & Food Trucks Begin

Downtown Parksville’s Picnic in the Plaza will roll out music, blankets, and leisurely chatter starting June 10, now in full swing. From 5:30–8 pm, local food trucks set up shop along Craig Street for a lively evening bite.

Bright First Weekend of Summer – Saturday, June 21

Qualicum Beach Farmers’ Market

Head to 644 Veterans Way, 8:30 am–noon. Around 100 local vendors—produce, baked goods, crafts—plus live music and kids’ activities create a vibrant, friendly atmosphere.

Antiques, Art & Heritage Walks

Wander Heritage Forest and experience guided history tours, then drift over to The Old School House Arts Centre (TOSH) for exhibitions and craft shopping. Nearby, the Village Theatre may have a matinée—be sure to check its summer schedule.

Sand Walks & Beach Playtime

Take advantage of low tides on Rathtrevor’s wide tidal flats—collect shells, fly kites, or enjoy an early-summer picnic on the BeachFest beach boardwalk.

Golfers & Charity

For golf enthusiasts, Fairwinds Golf Club in Nanoose hosts their Tee-Off for NCS Charity Golf Tournament Friday into Saturday—supporting kids and teens in need. 

Family Fun & Fitness – Sunday, June 22

Qualicum Beach Triathlon

Watch or participate! The QF Qualicum Beach Triathlon celebrates 26 years of local health and achievement. Races include various distances and offer coastal scenery and summer camaraderie.

Classic Car Culture

The annual Seaside Cruizers Show & Shine lights up Qualicum Beach Sunday morning with 500+ vintage & custom rides: cruise nights, street festivals, and a pancake breakfast at the Legion.

Beach & Mini‑Golf

Enjoy the sun’s return on Sunday—join in at Rathtrevor or head to Paradise Fun Park or Riptide Lagoon Adventure Park for family mini-golf, bumper boats, snacks, and arcade fun.

Explore Local Treasures Beyond Events

• Rathtrevor Provincial Park: 2 km shimmering sand, warm shallow waters, tidal pools, camping—Vancouver Island's golden gem.
• Top Bridge Regional Park: Hidden forest canyon with swimming holes, trails, petroglyphs—bring a picnic basket and sense of adventure.
• Milner Gardens: Explore estate gardens, woodland paths decked in early summer blooms—ideal for quiet reflection.
• Little Qualicum Falls: A splash-worthy half-day excursion with cascades and forested walks.
• Coombs “Goats on the Roof”: A quirky, must-see local stop—good eats, unique items to buy, and, yes, goats!
• Heritage Forest & Village Theatre: Stroll some heritage trails, then catch an indie performance.

Where to Eat & Sip

• Food trucks & The Plaza: Grab tacos, local brews, ice cream or seafood—perfect for casual al fresco dining.
• Downtown cafés: Charming patios await for coffee, brunch, or a post-market snack.
• Seafood & waterfront fare: Choose from waterfront dining with ocean views—we can’t go wrong.

Kirk’s Insider Tips

1. Start early Saturday with the farmers’ market, then stretch your legs along Heritage Forest and TOSH before lunch.
2. Bring beach gear Friday and Sunday—warm temps mean perfect beach weather.
3. Triathlon & Car Show overlap Sunday—plan to arrive before noon or stick to beach/family amusements later.
4. Reserve spa time if you prefer unwinding over sightseeing—Bayside’s Ocean Blue Spa is open and rejuvenating.

Real Estate Reflection

Summer’s lazy rhythm makes it a perfect time for showings and open houses. Buyers respond to beachside listings where the lifestyle speaks for itself. Homes near Rathtrevor, with views and outdoor access, tend to move fast—if you’re thinking of selling, I’d love to walk you through the process.

Connect with Me

Curious about market trends in our seaside villages? Thinking about a summer move? I’d be delighted to help. Contact me anytime!

Enjoy an unforgettable first weekend of summer—see you out there!

— Kirk