Vancouver Island Events This Weekend: What to Do September 3 to 6, 2026
Published: September 3, 2026
Last updated: September 3, 2026
By: Magnus Reaper
Magnus Reaper covers Vancouver Island business, events, attractions, and community developments for Roaring Coast.
The Labour Day long weekend brings a full range of Vancouver Island events, from classic boats and agricultural displays to live performances, motorsport, skateboarding, golf, and community arts.
This guide covers confirmed events taking place from Thursday, September 3 through Sunday, September 6, 2026. Some events continue on Monday, September 7. Schedules, admission, tickets, registration requirements, and weather plans can change, so check the linked organiser information before travelling.
Thursday, September 3
Circus Osorio at Cowichan Expo
Circus Osorio is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, at Cowichan Expo, 7380 Trans Canada Highway, North Cowichan.
The touring circus describes the show as a family-friendly production featuring aerialists, motorcycle stunts, international performers, concessions, and novelty attractions. The ticket listing shows prices ranging from $0 to $55, depending on ticket type and availability.
This is a ticketed event, so check the official Circus Osorio ticket page before leaving. Allow extra time for parking and entry at the expo grounds.
An Evening on the Farm in Parksville
An Evening on the Farm begins at 5 p.m. on September 3 at Little Qualicum Cheeseworks, 403 Lowry’s Road, Parksville.
The event listing describes a one-night celebration of Little Qualicum Cheeseworks’ 25th anniversary. Listed plans include a grazing table with farmstead cheeses, local drinks, live music, trivia, door prizes, and a four-course dinner inspired by the farm’s cheeses. The event is listed as 19-plus.
These details come from the event listing on Happening Next. The listing states that tickets were available through the organiser’s website or store until August 20, so anyone without a ticket should contact Little Qualicum Cheeseworks before travelling to confirm whether space remains.
Friday, September 4
Classic Boat Festival in Victoria
The Maritime Museum of BC Classic Boat Festival runs September 4 to 6 at Victoria’s Inner Harbour and Ship Point.
The festival offers a chance to see classic boats gathered along the waterfront, with related maritime programming throughout the weekend. Admission to the docks is by donation, with the museum suggesting $5 per person. Cash, debit, and credit are accepted.
One of the weekend’s highlights is the traditional sail past, which travels from the Inner Harbour towards Clover Point. The museum recommends viewing it from locations along the route, including Fisherman’s Wharf. The sail race takes place between Clover Point and Ogden Point.
Visitors using wheelchairs or motorized chairs can access the docks, although the route includes a long ramp. The museum also notes that its regular gallery at 744 Douglas Street is closed during the festival because operations move dockside.
Par-Tay on the Fairway at Saratoga Beach
The fourth annual Par-Tay on the Fairway charity golf tournament takes place Friday at Saratoga Beach Golf Club. The event runs from noon until approximately dusk.
Presented by 100.7 The Raven and GFL Environmental, the tournament raises funds for MARS Wildlife Rescue, which rescues and rehabilitates injured and orphaned wildlife.
The registration fee is listed as $50 plus GST per golfer and includes a round of golf, scheduled activities, food, contests, prizes, and giveaways. Spectators are welcome at no charge. Golfers should reserve tee times directly through Saratoga Beach Golf Club.
The event is scheduled to proceed rain or shine, although the organisers may delay, modify, suspend, or cancel portions of the tournament if conditions become unsafe. Read the official event information from The Raven before attending.
VIKA GAIN Group Series Race 3
The Vancouver Island Karting Association’s GAIN Group Series Race 3 takes place over the Labour Day weekend at Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit in Cowichan.
The event listing identifies Friday, September 4, as the practice day and Saturday, September 5, as race day. Gates are scheduled to open at 7 a.m., with registration at 8 a.m. and a mandatory drivers’ meeting at 9 a.m. The posted race-day schedule is tentative and includes practice, qualifying, pre-finals, and finals.
This is primarily a participant-focused event. Driver registration, safety waivers, transponder requirements, pit access, and spectator passes apply. The listing indicates a $10 spectator pass and advises that final schedules will be announced after registration closes. Confirm access and timing through MotorsportReg before making the trip.
Saturday, September 5
Topaz Thrash III in Victoria
Canada Skateboard presents Topaz Thrash III at Topaz Park in Victoria on September 5 and 6. The event runs from 10 a.m. Saturday until 6 p.m. Sunday, according to the organiser’s event page.
Saturday programming includes Learn to Skate sessions, U13 street and bowl jams, opportunities to skate with Canadian professionals, and the Men’s and Women’s Open Bowl events. Sunday focuses on the Open Street competition.
General spectators can attend for free. Competition entry is listed at $45 plus a service fee, while some introductory sessions have separate registration requirements. The event page also lists First Roll sessions where equipment, helmets, and pads are provided for participants.
See the Canada Skateboard event page for registration, ticket availability, timing, and programme updates.
Saanich Fair
The 158th annual Saanich Fair runs September 5 to 7 at the Saanich Fairgrounds, 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton.
Although the fair continues through Monday, Saturday and Sunday are the main weekend opportunities for visitors. The agricultural fair traditionally combines livestock, food, displays, competitions, entertainment, vendors, and family activities.
The official Saanich Fair website should be your first stop for 2026 gate hours, admission prices, programming, parking information, and any changes. Published listings indicate that admission and daily hours may vary by age group and day. Confirm the details before travelling, particularly if you are planning a longer visit from elsewhere on Vancouver Island.
Sunday, September 6
Willow Point Arts Fest in Campbell River
The Willow Point Arts Fest takes place Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ken Forde Park in Willow Point, Campbell River.
The organiser’s event post describes a community arts day with booths from artists and craftspeople, demonstrations, free art activities for all ages, live music, and food trucks. Additional portable washrooms are planned for the event area.
The festival is organised on behalf of the Willow Point Business Improvement Association, with support from a City of Campbell River grant. It is a useful option for families and visitors looking for a community-focused event rather than a ticketed show.
Bring weather-appropriate clothing and allow time to find parking around Ken Forde Park. Check the organiser’s post or the linked Facebook event for last-minute updates.
Planning your Labour Day weekend
Vancouver Island weekend events are spread across the region, so avoid building an itinerary that depends on crossing the Island several times in one day. The Victoria-area boat festival, Topaz Thrash, and Saanich Fair can work well together over a multi-day visit. Cowichan offers circus and karting options, while Parksville and Campbell River provide different choices for food, arts, and community programming.
Before leaving home:
- Confirm the event is still proceeding and check the latest schedule.
- Buy or reserve tickets through the official organiser where possible.
- Check ferry, road, and parking conditions if travelling between regions.
- Bring layers and rain protection for outdoor events.
- Review age restrictions, accessibility information, and equipment requirements.
- Allow extra time at popular Labour Day weekend attractions.
For more local coverage, visit the Roaring Coast blog.