Each summer, Ucluelet—the rugged gateway to BC’s wild west coast—comes alive with Ukee Days, a lively festival celebrating community spirit, outdoor adventure, and local culture. Held over a jam-packed weekend, Ukee Days throws open the doors to an array of events from live music and artisan markets to beach volleyball and forest hikes. The event pulses with an inviting energy, rooted not in overwhelming spectacle, but in authentic experiences that connect visitors with the fierce coastal environment.

Set against the backdrop of whispering Douglas firs and the restless Pacific, Ukee Days invites you to embrace the lively rhythm of the town. Expect a weekend where salt air tangles with the scent of BBQ, and every corner offers an opportunity to meet locals and adventurers alike. The festival’s signature events include a kayak race through the calm arms of Ucluelet Inlet, artisan craft fairs showing off Indigneous and local talents, and community-run dinners showcasing West Coast flavors.

Practical factors matter here: parking is limited, so early arrival or biking is recommended. Most festival events take place in central Ucluelet, a compact town that’s easy to navigate on foot. Dress in layers—you’ll want a windbreaker for the ocean breeze but lighter clothes for afternoon sunshine. Hydration stations and local food vendors are plentiful but bringing a reusable water bottle helps reduce waste.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate guided nature walks circling nearby Wild Pacific Trail segments, where the forest exhales around you and the ocean dares you closer with its crashing surf. The terrain is rugged but accessible, with well-maintained boardwalks and viewpoints offering chances to spot eagle nests or glimpse sea lions playing offshore. These paths move in harmony with the land’s sharp angles and natural curves, challenging you just enough to keep the spark of adventure alive without overwhelming.

Timing your visit on a weekend during late June or early July maximizes both festival energy and mild weather. Early mornings tend to hold fog that lifts with the sun, sharpening the deep greens and ocean blues, which also means prime opportunities for clear skies and landscape shots. Ukee Days strikes a balance between celebrating community roots and the untamed coastal environment—adventurous, vibrant, and decidedly real.

Gear up for a weekend where every event is threaded with the coastal forest’s pulse and the ocean’s restless embrace. Ukee Days isn’t just a festival; it’s a chance to engage—actively and respectfully—with one of BC’s most dynamic coastal towns.