Pacific Rim Whale Festival 2018
It’s nearing that time of year where hibernating Tofino locals begin to make their way outside again. There’s only one reason to end this winter snooze in early March: The return of the gray whales and the 32nd annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival!
Beginning on March 10th, PCWF will do it again, bringing an event jam-packed two weeks to both Tofino and Ucluelet BC to celebrate the 20,000 gray whales that pass by the coast. They’re on their way up north to the Arctic to feed in what is one of the largest mammal migrations on Earth. After spending sometime in the warm waters of the Baja, the whales bring their babies with them on the adventure of a lifetime in order to put some meat back on their bones. The whales don’t eat for the duration of their time in the sun! Join in on the fun and partake in some winter whale watching. There are numerous activities for any taste, including the opening parade and the Chowder Chow-Down.
Photo by: Anthony Gilbert
More than just fun and games, however, the Pacific Rim Whale Festival is also dedicated to education and teaching locals and visitors alike about the beautiful west coast, and how best to keep it safe and clean. Keynote speakers will be giving presentations throughout the festival’s duration, and there are plenty of stations to teach about west coast ways. This includes First Nations crafts and traditions, too!
While celebrating on land can be a ton of fun, it’s also a great time to get out on the water for a whale watching charter! With so many gray whales frolicking close to the coast, you’re bound to have a great show. Not to mention, the waters surrounding Tofino and Ucluelet are healthily filled with tons of marine creatures, so you’re likely to spot other animals like seals, sea lions, porpoises and marine birds. With such an adventure available so close to home, there’s no wonder it’s a top thing to do in Tofino BC.
