Upcoming Events & Calls for Artists/Poets

Find events and opportunities for artists including calls for public art. Find events and opportunities related to our Poet Laureate programs.

Upcoming Events:

Read, Write, Reflect
Wednesdays, October 1, November 5, and December 3 | 6 - 7pm
FREE | North Nanaimo Library Board Room (6250 Hammond Bay Rd.)
A poetry workshop about Savouring, Wondering, and Daring facilitated by Poet Laureate, Neil Surkan.

Poetry in the Harbour
Wed., December 10 | 7 - 8pm
FREE | Drop-in | Nanaimo Tourism Visitor Centre (Entrance at 101 Gordon St. at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre)
Join Poet Laureate, Neil Surkan, and special guests for an evening of poetry. More details to come.

Current Calls for Artists/Poets:

Call for Temporary Public Art 2026 - Now Open!

Deadline: 11:59pm Pacific Time, October 26, 2025
The Temporary Public Art Program offers artists of diverse backgrounds and skillsets the opportunity to create artwork for public spaces in Nanaimo. More info.

Call for 2026 Culture Award Nominations - Now Open!

Deadline: 11:59pm Pacific Time, December 1, 2025
The City of Nanaimo is seeking nominations from the community for the 2026 Culture Awards. These awards honour outstanding organizations, groups and individuals who have made significant contributions to the city’s vibrant arts, culture and heritage communities. More info.

Questions?

Please reach out to the Culture & Events team using the info below.

Contact Us

Culture & Events
250-755-4483
cultureandevents@nanaimo.ca

Last updated: October 20, 2025

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