Nanaimo's 2025 World Championship Bathtub Race

Every summer, the tranquil waters of Nanaimo Harbour transform into a high-octane arena where bathtubs become racing vessels, and the city pulses with excitement. The World Championship Bathtub Race isn't just an event—it's a testament to human ingenuity, community spirit, and the thrill of the unexpected. From July 25 to 27, 2025, prepare to be captivated by a weekend where tradition meets adrenaline, and every splash tells a story.

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What Is the World Championship Bathtub Race?

Originating in 1967 as part of Canada's Centennial celebrations, the World Championship Bathtub Race has evolved into a cornerstone of Nanaimo's cultural identity. Participants, affectionately known as "tubbers," pilot custom-built, motorized bathtubs across a challenging 60-kilometre course through the Salish Sea. This unique blend of maritime engineering and spirited competition draws spectators and racers from around the globe, all eager to partake in this one-of-a-kind nautical spectacle.

2025 Bathtub Weekend Schedule

The festivities span three days, offering a diverse array of activities for all ages.

Date	Time	Activity
Friday, July 25	1:00 PM – 10:00 PM	Vendors, Food Trucks, Kids Zone at Maffeo Sutton Park
Friday, July 25	5:00 PM – 10:00 PM	19+ Concert featuring local bands (TBA)
Saturday, July 26	10:00 AM – 10:00 PM	Vendors, Food Trucks, Kids Zone
Saturday, July 26	10:30 AM	Sailpast on Wheels Parade along Commercial Street
Saturday, July 26	All Day	Free Concerts (Artists TBA)
Saturday, July 26	2:00 PM – 10:00 PM	Beer Garden
Sunday, July 27	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM	Vendors, Food Trucks, Kids Zone
Sunday, July 27	11:00 AM	World Championship Bathtub Race
Sunday, July 27	1:30 PM – 6:00 PM	Beer Garden

Date

Time

Activity

Friday, July 25

1:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Vendors, Food Trucks, Kids Zone at Maffeo Sutton Park

Friday, July 25

5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

19+ Concert featuring local bands (TBA)

Saturday, July 26

10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Vendors, Food Trucks, Kids Zone

Saturday, July 26

10:30 AM

Sailpast on Wheels Parade along Commercial Street

Saturday, July 26

All Day

Free Concerts (Artists TBA)

Saturday, July 26

2:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Beer Garden

Sunday, July 27

10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Vendors, Food Trucks, Kids Zone

Sunday, July 27

11:00 AM

World Championship Bathtub Race

Sunday, July 27

1:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Beer Garden

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.

The Race Course

The 2025 race challenges tubbers to navigate from Nanaimo Harbour, circumnavigate Entrance Island and the Winchelsea Islands, and return to the finish line beneath the iconic Frank Ney statue at Maffeo Sutton Park. This grueling course tests the limits of both engineering and endurance, with racers contending with open sea conditions and the ever-unpredictable Salish Sea.

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Weekend Highlights

Sailpast on Wheels Parade

Live Entertainment

Family Fun Zone

Culinary Delights

Visitor Information

Location

Maffeo Sutton Park, 100 Comox Road, Nanaimo, BC

Admission

Free for most events; select concerts may require tickets.

Transportation

Accessible via public transit, with parking available nearby.

Accommodations

Early booking is recommended due to high demand during the festival weekend.

Experience the fusion of tradition, innovation, and community spirit at Nanaimo's World Championship Bathtub Race 2025. Whether you're a seasoned spectator or a first-time visitor, this event promises memories that will last a lifetime.
For detailed information, ticket purchases, and volunteer opportunities, visit the official website: bathtubbing.com

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