How to Celebrate Canada Day in n̓ačiqs | Tofino 2026
On July 1, we celebrate coming together and learning from one another.
The land along the Esowista Peninsula and the surrounding area of Clayoquot Sound is home to the Nuu-chah-nulth people - namely Tla-o-qui-aht, Ahousaht, and Hesquiat peoples in this region (though 'Nuu-chah-nulth' refers to 14 different Nations up and down the coast). When you visit, you are visiting unceded territories that have been stewarded for millennia, and with that invitation of welcome comes the expectation of leaving this place better than you found it and leading with respect.
The ʔiisaak Pledge introduces four Tla-o-qui-aht teachings and laws that have helped protect and shape this beautiful place, the haḥuułi (Territory) of the ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht) ḥaw̓iiḥ (Hereditary Chiefs), and its people over many generations. You can learn more about and sign the ʔiisaak Pledge here. These are teachings that you can take home with you and implement as you walk through other parts of your life.
Feel Connected
Many different events are happening on July 1 this year that can help you deepen your connection to West Coast and Indigenous culture:
Historical Walking Tours with the Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum
Join the Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum every Wednesday for a guided walk through n̓ačiqs | Tofino’s waterfront and town centre. Along the way, we’ll explore the people, places, and stories that helped shape the community.
Tours begin at the Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum.
Tour times:
Tour 1: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Tour 2: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Tickets are $10 per person and are available at the museum.
Washed Up Wednesday Drop-In Beach Clean: tinwis
This weekly Wednesday beach clean is a drop-in event that rotates to different beaches every week from July 1 to August 19 this year. This is a free, drop-in event to help collect and record beach debris to help keep the environment plastic-free!
Follow the main path from the parking lot to the beach (on July 1, that will be from Hellesen Dr.), where you’ll find us at the Tourism Tofino tent. Folks are encouraged to walk, bike, or take the Free Tofino Shuttle bus to reduce emissions and parking congestion.
Gloves and buckets are provided (to borrow), plus you and your youth can pick up a free beach scavenger hunt and Junior Ocean Protector sticker.
Bonus points for doing a good deed? Participants can enter to win a complimentary 3-night stay for two at the award-winning Wickaninnish Inn. The draw will take place at the end of the summer. One participant per party is eligible and must be the age of majority (19 years old).
Canada Day BBQ in the Park
Bring the family and friends to enjoy a Canada Day BBQ in the Park at the Tofino Village Green from 11:30 AM to 2 PM for an afternoon of food, treats, games, and community spirit.
The Tofino Volunteer Fire Department will host a barbecue fundraiser in support of its new training ground and will also have a fire truck on site.
Cake and treats will be generously provided by the Tofino Co-op, and fun community games will take place throughout the afternoon.
Youth Day and Mural Painting
The Pacific Rim Arts Society is hosting the Summer Festival - their annual series of events in early July. Join in the fun at the Village Green in Ucluelet for live music by local youth artist, Berlin Milken, mural painting and a more fun starting at 12 PM.
Yoga and the ʔiisaak Pledge
Broaden your understanding of the ʔiisaak Pledge - the Tla-o-qui-aht worldview - and its parallels to Yoga with a free 60-minute practice of thoughtfully sequenced, all-levels Hatha Yoga led by Heidi MacPherson.
Classes are 6:30 PM to 8 PM, and held at the Tofino Visitor Centre on July 1 and July 4.
You will leave feeling grounded through yoga and the pulse of traditional song and drumming as Leah Morgan shares the principles of the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks ʔiisaak Pledge and the teaching his-shuk-nish-tsa-waak - everything is one - the Tla-o-qui-aht worldview and its parallels to Yoga.
Reflect on the backdrop, “Everything Through Natural Law”, a new, permanent art installation along the windows by Tla-o-qui-aht artist Marika Swan that represents core elements in the ʔiisaak Pledge
There will be a limited number of yoga mats available, so please bring your own mat and props if possible. Click here for more details and to register.
Salmon Secrets Film Screening
Join Clayoquot Action at the Clayoquot Sound Theatre this summer for a free weekly screening of the award-winning documentary SALMON SECRETS.
Every Wednesday in July and August (from July 1 to August 26)
Doors open at 7:30, event starts at 8 pm.
Door prizes!Don’t miss this entertaining, informative and inspiring evening, featuring Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations guest speaker and our award-winning local documentary. Everyone welcome! On July 1, Tla-o-qui-aht master carver and activist Joe Martin will be speaking.
Wednesday Night Karaoke at the Dirty MAQ Pub
Looking for a midweek reason to let loose in Tofino?
Every Wednesday night, from 9 PM until late, the Dirty MAQ comes alive with karaoke, good energy, and a crowd that's always up for a good time. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a shower singer, all are welcome — come as you are and sing your heart out in one of Tofino's most spirited local hangouts.
It is also a day to celebrate the vast diversity of cultural backgrounds that make up the fabric of this country and our community. We all come from somewhere and carry those stories with us to this country we are lucky to call home.
For more details and all upcoming events, visit our Events and Festivals page.
