South End Day happens Saturday, June 13 at Deverill Square Park on Irwin St., a staple event for the south Nanaimo neighbourhood over the last four decades. (Image Credit: South End Community Association)

By Alex Rawnsley

community spirit

South End Day returning to Nanaimo park for 34th year

Jun 13, 2026 | 5:54 AM

NANAIMO — A longstanding event will add another chapter to its over 30-year history on Saturday.

Formerly known as the Miner’s Picnic, the 34th annual South End Day will be hosted by the South End Community Association on Saturday, June 13, at Deverill Square Park on Irwin St., from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Co-organizer Allison Ainsley said they’ll start things off with a pancake breakfast before launching a full slate of events and entertainment around 10 a.m.

“It was established to support the community and have a space of gathering. One of the biggest elements of it is that everything is free for everybody, so we’re having a pancake breakfast, hot dogs and veggie dogs, we’ve got bouncy castles and activities for kids, and face painting.”

Between 400 and 600 people are expected throughout the day at the park, mainly from Nanaimo’s south end neighbourhoods, however others from north Nanaimo and Ladysmith also regularly attend, Ainsley said.

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She told NanaimoNewsNOW the longevity of the event speaks to how the neighbourhood owns the event.

“It’s always had a very wide social demographic makeup in the neighbourhood, and it’s a space that anybody and everybody can come out and gather, be a part of the community. I think the passion and the time that the board put into planning the event and the support from volunteers and local businesses…has just been incredible.”

Ainsley said the overarching goal is to put on a fun, family-friendly event which draws people to the area.

“It’s a really lovely space, and I think it’s been a tough year for this neighbourhood, probably 18 months, with some of the things that have been happening, and this is just a space that is positive and celebrates the diversity of the neighbourhood and everyone in it.”

More details on South End Day are available on the Community Association’s Facebook page.

by Alex Rawnsley

South End Day returning to Nanaimo park for 34th year

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