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Winter 2015

Celebration

Welcome sign at the entrance of Ucluelet in the west coast of Vancouver Island, Canada

I live in a small town on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The name of the town is Ucluelet. Every year, on the last weekend of July, the people in my town participate in a three day festival. The festival is called “Ukee Days” and is a celebration of west coast life.

The festival features logger sports (demonstrations and competitions), live music and other performances such as the “Eco Elf Show” and the “Sharkey Balloon Bubble Show”. There is also an eclectic parade, workshops and lots of interesting contests including the Ukee Keg Toss, Poker tournaments, the Pudding Eating contest and the signature Nail, Sail, Bail event. For this event, contesters have to design and make their own boats out of materials such as plywood and tuck tape to traverse a short course.

There is a special zone set up for kids with a lot of fun activities. They include the Tiger Lily Farm Petting Zoo with pony rides, the Romper Room, the Climbing Wall, the Bounce A Rama foam Pit, the Swing Ride, and the Bounce A Rama Slide. In addition, there are Games and storytelling sessions.

For twelves dollars, you can get a “Pancake Breakfast” or a “West Coast BBQ meal”. If you are thirsty, there is a large beer garden. For people who want to shop, there are local retail vendors selling hats, clothes, hammocks, natural beauty products, candles, jewellery, etc.

It is a lot of fun for the locals. It is also a great opportunity for everyone to spend time together. Visitors are welcome to join in the festivities.