10th ANNUAL CLAYOQUOT SALMON FESTIVAL

AUGUST 23 – SEPTEMBER 2

From August 23 – September 2 there will be a variety of events, with something for everyone. The Clayoquot Salmon Festival is timed to coincide with the return of the salmon for spawning on the west coast. Anyone who has witnessed salmon hurling themselves upriver and over obstacles during the spawn knows their tenacious and inspiring drive to give life to the next generation. The Festival always prioritizes celebrating the salmon return together as a community with creative spirit. For the 10th Annual Clayoquot Salmon Festival, we have an awesome lineup of live music including Handsome Tiger, Downtown Mischief, Wave Dalton, Crazy Fish and DJ Cypress Che, Mountain of Wires, Kieran Campbell, Brothers, Berlin, a night for the poets, and probably a couple surprises.

Clayoquot Salmon Festival aims to offer residents and visitors an opportunity to reflect upon, and build an active appreciation for, the irreplaceable value of salmon in Clayoquot Sound. Salmon are essential to protecting a way of life rooted in the Pacific northwest environment, which is why salmon protection is a central theme for the Festival. Come learn about the salmon forest ecosystems during a Guided Salmon Forest Walk with Raincoast Education Society. Come participate in a Washed Up Wednesday Beach Clean, and learn about ocean protection with Surfrider Pacific Rim.

At least 137 different species depend on the marine-rich nutrients that wild salmon provide. As a keystone species, salmon support coastal life including orcas, bears, wolves, and eagles while providing nutrients to the ancient rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. But salmon are also under significant stress in the environment from climate change and water pollutants from industry. We are offering free screenings of some incredible films – called “Coextinction”, “Warrior Spirit”, and “Salmon Warriors” – about salmon protection for a special presentation of the Tofino Night Market’s Gust of Wind series.

Indigenous Nations continue to lead society in upholding a vibrant, life-sustaining relationship with salmon. This year, Ahousaht and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation introduced conservancies, nearly doubling the protected forest area of Clayoquot Sound. These remaining intact salmon watersheds are composed of free-flowing rivers and dense forests that shelter clean drinking water for Tofino and absorb global carbon emissions, helping to guard against the most severe impacts of climate change to us humans, salmon, and all life. The ancient salmon-forest ecosystems of Clayoquot Sound and across the west coast need to be protected. On September 2, at Voices for Salmon, Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks will share songs, stories, and dances about salmon, their interconnected role in a healthy ecosystem, and important perspectives on salmon protection and solidarity. This is not to be missed!

Thanks to the District of Tofino, contributing organizations, and all the sponsoring businesses. To stay up to date about events and location specifics, please check the Festival website www.focs.ca/salmonfestival or Clayoquot Salmon Festival on Facebook. And to volunteer for the Clayoquot Salmon Festival contact the organizers at salmonfestival@focs.ca or (250)725-4218.

See you there!

Event Schedule

Coming Events

Past Events