Community Events Calendar
Annual Events
There are too many events happening each year in Vanderhoof, to be able to list them here. Below are just some of the main events that take place throughout the year that are fun for visitor and resident alike. Please see the Community Events Calendar or contact us for more information.
Sterling Sturgeon Film Festival (February)
The Sterling Sturgeon Film Festival is becoming a popular event in Vanderhoof. The Sterling Sturgeon Film Festival shows no less than four Canadian and international award winning films over a three day period. For more information contact Reel Alternatives.
Migrating Birds (spring and fall) - Bird Sanctuary Riverside Park
The Migratory Bird Sanctuary, located on the Nechako River at Riverside Park, is a major migratory stopping grounds for thousands of Canada Geese along with many other species of birds including Trumpeter Swans, Northern Pintails, and sandpipers. Even Caspian Terns have been seen in the Sanctuary. A definite stop for avid bird watchers to add to their life list. Contact us for more information.
Wild Goose Chase (May)
Runners come together to chase the great goose in Vanderhoof. Choose either a 5km or 8km run, jog, walk through Vanderhoof which is becoming a bigger and bigger event each year (about 300 participants in 2009). From running enthusiasts, to the occasional jogger, to those who just want a good walk all come together in this great annual event to support good health and sport in Vanderhoof. Opportunities for volunteers. Contact us for more information.
Hooterville Hoot (early June)
The Hooterville Hoot is the car enthusiasts dream come true. Classic cars from around the area come together for this one day show and shine in Vanderhoof. Always a crowd pleaser, these cars are on display for all to enjoy.
Canada Day Celebrations (July 1st) -
Vanderhoof Community Museum
The Vanderhoof Community Museum hosts the annual Canada Day celebrations on July 1st. No matter where you come from, Canada Day is a great day to spend with fellow Canadians. Pancake breakfast, entertainment, BBQ lunch and fun games for the whole family are traditions at the Vanderhoof Heritage Museum Canada Day celebrations. Stop by the Visitor Centre to learn more. Download the 2010 Schedule of Events.
Vanderhoof Days! (3rd week in July)
Check with the District of Vanderhoof (567-4711) or the Chamber of Commerce (567-2124) for a Schedule of Events Booklet for the Vanderhoof Days Week (as well as all the other summer activities).
2010 Vanderhoof Days:
July 16 - Kids of Steel Triathalon
July 16-18 - Drag Racing Extravaganza
July 17 - Summer Sizzler Dance
July 18 - Church in the Park
July 19 - Museum Tour, Hiking the Telegraph Trail
July 20 - Kids in the Kitchen, Movies at the Grande Reo Theatre
July 21 - Waterslide Vanderhoof Style
July 22 - Farmers' Market, Project Wild, Highpoint Hiking, Free Picnic at Riverside.
July 23 - Fort St. James Historical Site Tour
July 24 - Heritage Parage, Old Tyme Engine Show, 3D Archery Tournament
July 25 - Friends of the Library Garden Tour & Tea.
Nechako Valley Exhibition / Fall Fair (third weekend in August)
The third weekend in August is always busy at the Nechako Valley Exhibition Grounds. Equestrian riders, cattle breeders, pie bakers, and candy-apple eaters come together and enjoy this weekend filled with animals, agricultural events and education, home baking and crafts and fun events for the kids. All are welcome to enter an exhibit and/or come to the fair; there is something for everyone and fun for the whole family. Contact the Nechako Valley Exhibition Society for more information.
Pumpkin Walk (October 31st) - Riverside Park
Halloween is a community event in Vanderhoof. The Vanderhoof Chamber of Commerce hosts this magical night of jack-o-lanterns and sparkling fireworks. School children and seniors carve the pumpkins, which are then placed along the roads through Riverside Campground in the annual Pumpkin Walk on October 31. Candy and hot chocolate are given out by volunteers to children and adults alike. After the pumpkin walk, the community fills Riverside Park for the fireworks show. It is a safe and fun way to spend Halloween night.
Parade of Lights and Midnight Madness (first Friday in December)
The Vanderhoof Parade of Lights, hosted by the Vanderhoof Chamber of Commerce, is one of the largest of its kind in BC. Businesses and clubs in Vanderhoof adorn floats and trucks with hundreds of sparkling Christmas lights. The parade runs through the main streets of Vanderhoof and is enjoyed by residents and visitors from the area. Following the parade many downtown stores remain open until midnight, offering large discounts for late night shoppers.
