Saturday, October 18 

12 to 4 pm

Whether you're thinking about becoming VIU a student or you're just looking for something fun to do with the family, you won't want to miss VIU Fest. 

Fun activities are planned for every corner of the Nanaimo campus. You can check out the live music, explore the pumpkin patch, take part in hands-on activities and enjoy delicious food and beverage options. 

New this year: pop-up-classroom experiences

This year we are adding pop-up classes to the festival. Pop-up classes are for ages 15 to 25. 

Pop-up classroom experiences are a chance to get inside a classroom and experience what hands-on learning is like at VIU.

Check out pop-up classes

Food trucks at VIU Fest

There will be a beer garden on the patio upstairs in the cafeteria where you can check out the best view in town. 

We can’t wait to see you there!

A girl with face painted like a butterfly looks into a microscope.

Coming from out of town?

If you're coming from out of town, you can get to VIU on two BC Ferries routes, and there is also now Hullo, a walk-on ferry from downtown Vancouver to downtown Nanaimo. 

Harbour Air offers float plane service to Nanaimo, and there are many flights to Nanaimo airport. 

If you plan to stay the night, there are many Nanaimo hotels and motels to choose from, including the Coast Bastion Hotel, the  and the Courtyard Marriott.

Are you a local?

If you're coming from town, you should know that parking will be free, but we do recommend bussing, cycling or carpooling if you can. Parking is limited and we don't want you to miss out on the fun because you couldn't find a spot to park. 

Questions?