Vanislander / Festivals and Events / Anniversary of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere

The 25th Anniversary of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere

A Milestone Celebration on Vancouver Island’s Wild West Coast

What does it mean when a place is recognized as one of the world’s most important natural and cultural landscapes? On Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, that recognition has guided communities, protected ecosystems, and shaped how people connect with the land and sea for a quarter of a century. Now, in 2025, The 25th Anniversary of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere will bring people together in Tofino to celebrate this extraordinary journey—and you’re invited to be part of it.

Event Overview

Occasion: 25th Anniversary of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere

Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025

Time: To be announced (check back for updates closer to the event)

Location: Wickaninnish Community School Field, Načiks / Tofino, Vancouver Island, BC

Admission: Free community celebration (donations encouraged to support the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust)

Why This Anniversary Matters

Ecological Sanctuary

Clayoquot Sound encompasses some of the world’s last remaining old-growth temperate rainforest and diverse ecosystems—lush forests, rugged coasts, rivers, estuaries, and rare species thriving in a globally significant refuge.

Indigenous Stewardship and Cultural Legacy

This region lies within the traditional territories of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations, whose Indigenous knowledge and stewardship have shaped and sustained Clayoquot Sound for generations.

A Symbol of Sustainable Collaboration

Designated in 2000 as one of Canada’s few UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, Clayoquot Sound exemplifies the balance between conservation, sustainable development, and community resilience—a living laboratory of cooperation. Read more on UNESCO about Clayoquot Sound.

A Milestone in a Shared Journey

The 25th-anniversary isn’t just a commemorative date—it marks a quarter-century of cultural, ecological, and community collaboration across Tofino, Ucluelet, and surrounding Nuu-chah-nulth territories, embodying shared values and a vision for the future.

What Visitors Can Expect

The anniversary celebration is planned as a family-friendly community gathering. While the full schedule of activities will be released closer to the date, visitors can look forward to:
✅ Cultural Performances – Honouring the voices and traditions of the Nuu-chah-nulth Nations.
✅ Local Food and Music – Showcasing the flavours and talents of the region.
✅ Community Connections – Opportunities to meet local residents, environmental stewards, and visitors from around the world.
✅ Educational Displays – Learn about the past 25 years of the biosphere and its vision for the future.

Tips for Attending

Plan Ahead

September in Tofino is a busy time. Book accommodations early if you plan to stay overnight.

Getting There

Tofino is accessible by car from Nanaimo (207 km) or from Victoria (317 km), with routes offering stunning views of Vancouver Island’s mountains, forests, and coastlines. For a faster option, visitors can fly into Tofino-Long Beach Airport (YAZ) from Vancouver or Victoria.

What to Bring

This is an outdoor event—dress in layers, bring rain gear just in case, and pack a reusable water bottle.

Support the Cause

Donations to the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust help sustain ongoing conservation and community initiatives.

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