Vanislander / Festivals and Events / Clayoquot Salmon Festival

Clayoquot Salmon Festival 2025

Where Legends of the Wild Come Alive

Imagine stepping into a world where ancient forests whisper stories of tenacious salmon battling upstream, and every note of music and brushstroke of art reflects the heartbeat of a living ecosystem. This year, the Clayoquot Salmon Festival 2025 marks its 11th Annual gathering—a celebration that weaves together culture, conservation, and community. But the full story unfolds only for those ready to journey deeper, to discover the true spirit flowing through Tofino at summer’s end.

Event Overview

Dates: August 29 – September 1, 2025
Location: Tofino, Vancouver Island, BC (Village Green Park and surrounding venues)
Organiser: Friends of Clayoquot Sound (FOCS), a respected grassroots conservation non-profit based in Tofino, focused on protecting Clayoquot Sound’s ancient rainforest and salmon ecosystems

What's On: Highlights at a Glance

1. Salmon Fest Kickoff Concert

A night under the stars to ignite the festival spirit with Sonic Alley (Caleb Hart’s new band) and Sangria, hosted by Friends of Clayoquot Sound and Tuff City Radio.

2. Upstream Shakedown Party

High-energy rhythms from Nesto, Parab Poet, and friends will get you dancing—presented with Tofino Tea Party and FOCS.

3. Salmon Forest: Big Tree Trailbuilding & Restoration Excursion

Join an immersive, hands-on conservation experience led by Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks and FOCS. Help restore trails on Meares Island and learn about the vital salmon-forest relationship. Registration required—spaces limited.

4. Family Fun Beach Day

Build epic sandcastles, clean the shoreline (with silent disco headsets!), and embrace beachside community spirit. Music, vendors, and prizes await—from best creations to most marine debris collected.

5. Salmon Print Workshop

From 1 pm–4 pm, join Ivy Cargill-Martin for a hands-on workshop, carving and printing your own salmon art. Supplies provided, limited registration.

6. Spawn Til Dawn Dance Party

Cap the evening with irresistible rhythms courtesy of Tofino Tea Party and The Maq—free and fierce, echoing the salmon’s spirited journey.

7. Voices for Salmon: Cultural Showcase

On September 1, the Tla-o-qui-aht Cultural Group presents songs, stories, and dances that honour salmon’s integral place in ecosystems—and in First Nations culture. Unmissable.

Why It Matters

A Keystone Celebration

Salmon sustain at least 137 species—from bears to ancient forests—making this festival an ode to the web of life that depends on these remarkable fish.

Cultural and Environmental Bridges

Indigenous leadership and conservation action converge, rooted in centuries of stewardship and respect for interconnected ecosystems.

Fun with a Purpose

Whether you're dancing, creating art, cleaning a beach, or restoring a trail, every activity fuels both joy and ecological renewal.

Disclaimer

Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

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