Have you ever wondered how far you could toss a firefighter’s gumboot? Maybe you’re curious how you’d fare in a logger sport contest – those lumberjacks don’t look so tough, right?!
For a local festival that reflects both Island history and a community’s welcoming sense of fun, Ukee Days is a must-experience event for Islanders and visitors alike. Hosted July 25 to 27, the annual event offers three days of family-friendly festivities, music, food and a whole lot more Ucluelet.
“Ukee Days was first created to bring everyone together and to celebrate community,” explains Barb Gudbranson, Recreation Programmer with the District of Ucluelet. Early festivities recognized the community’s history as a logging and fishing town, then “they started adding these quirky events that were a hit with everyone.”
Get to know the Ucluelet locals know and love during Ukee Days, July 25 to 27. Geoff Johnson photo
While herring skiff races were a highlight in decades past, today the community salutes its seafaring legacy with the Nail, Sail and Bail contest – your chance to design and build your own boat out of materials such as plywood and tuck tape, then paddle a short course to test its seaworthiness. Spoiler alert: you may get wet, but it’s all in the name of entertainment!
For many years, professional logger sports were a key attraction, but today’s events let everyone get involved with events like axe throwing, nail driving, a handsaw competition and choker races. Both kids and adult categories ensure plenty of fun for everyone!
“It’s a really special celebration,” Gudbranson says. “People who’ve moved away often come back for Ukee Days weekend, sharing stories and memories with friends and family and connecting with the community, but we encourage our visitors to join the fun, too – there’s no better way to get to know Ucluelet!”
Other activities include Ukee’s Got Talent, a baby crawling contest, a pudding eating contest, kids’ activities, vendors and – if that gumboot toss was too easy – the Ukee Days Keg Toss, an adults-only challenge to toss a 50-litre beer keg as far as you can for the chance to win sweet swag from Ucluelet Brewing Company.
Axe throwing is a hit among all ages at Ukee Days, in Ucluelet July 25 to 27. Geoff Johnson photo
The parade and pancake breakfast are highlights, along with Saturday night music performers including roots / reggae band Phonosonics.
Of course, a festival without food is no fun, so be sure to head to the Village Green, in front of the municipal offices, for a Friday salmon barbecue, or take in the delicious offerings from the food trucks on-site at the festival grounds. And of course, you can also sip local craft beer and other refreshments at the beer garden.
Plan your Ukee Days experience
Friday’s festivities take place at Ucluelet’s Village Green, 200 Main St., while Saturday and Sunday events are at the Fairgrounds, 160 Seaplane Base Rd.
Fairgrounds admission is just $10 for a weekend pass, or $7 per day, with those three and younger free. Opt for a $40 family weekend pass for two adults and up to four kids. Note that no ATM is available at the Fairgrounds site, so please bring cash.
You don’t have to be a local to register for the contests! Click here to see the full list and how to enter.
Stay up to date with the latest news at ukeedays.com and follow on Facebook for updates!
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