June is always a fun time in Chemainus... lots of bustle, colour and things to do. Of course for first time and even repeat visitors, the murals are top priority and cameras click in the sunshine. And if it dares to rain, that's when the hunt is on for a take-home piece from the antique and collectibles stores.
Eliza Hemingway, in her little studio place on Willow Street, which is brimful of interesting treasures, is now inviting local artists and craftspeople to spend time showcasing their work outside her store. It's a neat idea. Call her at 250-416-0363.
Our official celebration of the summer equinox starts on June 20 at Waterwheel Park, when Aboriginal Day promises a feast of traditional food and entertainment. The day after is the Rotary annual Summer Fest from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Also in the park. It's a great family fun day, and of course includes a parade! Details for both events at 250-246-3944.
The Legion's Twilight Shuffle takes place on June 24 at 7 p.m. It's a 5km run/walk fundraiser which Dee Kinnee, at the Business Improvement office tells me is celebrating its thirtieth year! Call 250-595-2378 for details. If you're more leisurely minded, there's the Jutta Kaiser painting exhibit which opens on June 18 in the Gallery at the Theatre. The theatre's production of Les Misérables opens on June 20 and promises to be a stellar show.
If you're into choral singing, don't miss the Medford Choir, performing in the Seniors Centre on June 8 (250-246-2111). Don't miss the last event in the Chemainus Classical Concerts Society's season, which takes place on June 15 in St. Michael's church. It will showcase the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music's Youth Harp Ensemble, plus performances by other award winning young musicians, playing music from the Renaissance to the 21st century. They're a talented group of young people who are always a firm favourite with Island audiences. The concert starts at 2 p.m. and tickets can be obtained at the door. Or you can save five bucks and buy yours prior to the event, at outlets around town. Call 250-748-8383 for details.
There's a big party planned for later in the day on June 20 at the Waterwheel to celebrate the Shop Chemainus Grand Draw. The lucky winner will be announced and there'll be lots of family entertainment, including limbo and twist contests, and music provided by Tropic Mayhem. The fun starts at 5 p.m., after the Aboriginal celebrations. And for those of us with an eye for a bargain remember that the Legion's Sunday morning Flea Market is always a popular attraction, alongside the Sunday market in the Chemainus Foods parking lot just around the corner.
And last, but by no means least, is the weekly Waterwheel Wednesday Market. So many stalls, and so many interesting people offering great crafts, homemade goodies and locally grown produce. It gets underway, rain or shine, at 10 a.m. and wraps up at 4 p.m. The Market is well worth a visit, and always a great day out in our friendly little town, with lots of neat little places to enjoy a tasty bite at lunchtime, or a lavish dinner in the evening, before heading home.
Have an event to report in Chemainus Happenings? Email Bill at badger32@shaw.ca