ACTIVE LIFE is a monthly series in the Nanaimo News Bulletin contributed by City of Nanaimo Staff.

What a privilege it is to call Canada home. I know it’s been a few weeks since we celebrated our nation’s birthday, but I always reflect on how lucky we are during this time of year. Each time I get the opportunity to sing O Canada, I find it hard to stop the emotions this song evokes within me.

It also got me thinking about this wonderful city we live in. There are so many amazing things to do at this time of year that are free and great for the whole family. Here are a couple:

Concerts in the Park – These free outdoor concerts have been part of the city’s July and August schedule for many years now, and this year is no exception. Performances are held Mondays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Maffeo Sutton Park; Wednesdays in July, 6-7:30 p.m., at the Bowen Park Amphitheatre and Wednesdays in August, 6-7:30 p.m. in Maffeo Sutton Park. This year’s entertainment lineup encompasses a variety of genres, including folk, country, Latin, pop, rock, jazz and even an orchestra performance. I don’t want to miss any!

Picture above: Bowen Park Amphitheatre

Pictured above: Lions Pavilion, Maffeo Sutton Park

Playground Program – This awesome program has also been part of Nanaimo’s summer for several years. It is a great way for children between the ages of 5 and 12, along with their parents, to play games, make crafts and more, all under the direction of a very enthusiastic leader.

This year’s program has incorporated some evening options so all families have an opportunity to participate. Check them out: Monday to Friday until August 28, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Harewood Mining Community Water Park; Monday and Tuesday until August 25, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Mansfield Park, Carmanah Park and Fairview Community School; Thursday and Friday until August 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Rock Ridge Park, Country Hills Park, Mansfield Park; Wednesdays in July, 3-8 p.m., at Country Hill Park, Carmanah Park and Mansfield Park; Wednesdays in August, 3-8 p.m. at Fairview Community School, Mansfield Park and Rock Ridge Park.

If you’re looking for more details on summer activities in Nanaimo, please visit www.nanaimo.ca or call 250-756-5200.

This summer, take a moment with Parks, Recreation and Environment!