Island Festivals

Each of the communities of Haida Gwaii hosts one or more exciting festivals each summer.

Sandspit
Loggers Sports Day (usually in August) is a celebration of the logging heritage of Sandspit. Events test chainsaw skills, axe-throwing accuracy, and even the competitors' talents at log-burling (staying on top of a rolling log in a pond). Also includes a basketball tournament. Contact Moresby Island Management Committee office for more information (250) 637-2466.

Queen Charlotte
Hospital Days is a long running event (now over 100 years old) that was created to raise funds for the local hospital. The day starts off with a parade and continues with a wide variety of events and competitions, a baseball tournament, a paper airplane competition in which you can win an Air Canada flight, and then later on a dance. Held in June. Hospital Day

Skidegate
Skidegate Days (mid-July) is a celebration of Haida culture and a chance to paddle a traditional canoe in the exciting canoe races. It also includes a baseball tournament, kid's activities, and traditional Haida games.
Another Skidegate event is the anniversary of the opening of the Haida Heritage Centre, marked by an impressive clan parade in August.

Tlell
The Edge of the World Music Festival, held on the first weekend in August, is a well-attended festival which brings performers from all over the world as well as locals together for  a weekend of great music. Edge Festival
The Tlell Fall Fair in early August is a showcase of local agriculture and also has great live music. Both are held at the Tlell fairgrounds. Tlell Fall Fair

Port Clements
This community hosts Canada Day (July 1st) with a parade, baseball tournament, and other events. The highlight is the popular mud-bog races in which competitors from all over the islands bring their toughest trucks and cars to race through a winding, mud-filled track. Port Clements

Masset
Harbour Days in May celebrates the marine heritage of Masset with a parade, lots of kids events, a barbecue, chainsaw carving, and a baseball tournament. Masset BC

Suggested itinerary
Attend one of the festivals. Better yet, volunteer to help out with organization or ground-work for one of the festivals to get an inside perspective. Interview organizers to learn about the history of the festival, and have fun!