September 25th, 26th, & 27th, 2026
The Vancouver Island Exhibition Association is proud to welcome you to Nanaimo’s 2026 Country Fair — where community, tradition, and celebration rise From the Ground Up.
For 132 years, the VIEx has been built on agriculture and grown by community. What began as a showcase of local farming and craftsmanship has flourished into one of Vancouver Island’s most anticipated annual events, welcoming more than 20,000 visitors each year. In 2026, we celebrate our roots while continuing to grow toward an exciting future.
This year’s theme, “From the Ground Up,” honours the farmers, ranchers, growers, makers, performers, and volunteers who form the foundation of our fair. It’s a tribute to the land that sustains us, the hands that build our community, and the shared traditions that keep us strong.
Get ready for three unforgettable days packed with:
Thrilling main stage entertainment
High-energy performances and family-friendly shows
Interactive agricultural exhibits and competitions
Local food, artisan vendors, and community showcases
Classic fair fun for all ages
From the barns to the midway, from the grandstand to the exhibition halls, every corner of the VIEx tells a story of hard work, heritage, and heart.
The VIEx wouldn’t be possible without our dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, talented exhibitors, and loyal fairgoers. You are the reason we continue to grow stronger each year.
Whether you’re here to celebrate agriculture, enjoy world-class entertainment, reconnect with community, or create new family traditions, we can’t wait to welcome you.
Join us as we celebrate 132 years strong — and still growing.
See you at the fair! 🌾
Thank you to our Major Sponsors! Click on logo to learn more about these amazing sponsors! To learn more about Sponsorship at the VIEx click HERE
The VIEx is made possible through the generous support of our top sponsors, including BC Gaming, the Canadian Heritage Grant, the City of Nanaimo, and the BC Tourism Grant. Their contributions play a vital role in helping us continue to deliver meaningful programs and opportunities for our community.
The Vancouver Island Exhibition takes place September 19–21, 2025 at Beban Park in Nanaimo, BC.
Tickets are available online at click here and at the gate during the fair.
Mainstage concerts, the SuperDogs, Global FMX Freestyle Motocross, Vancouver Island Pro Wrestling, family shows, kids’ zone, exhibits, midway rides, and much more! Full schedule at www.viex.ca.
General Admission, Youth, Child, Senior, and Family passes are available.
Ticket Prices (Fair Entry)
Adults (19-64) $15
Seniors (65+) and Youth (13-18) $10
Children (7-12) $5
Children (6 & Under) Free.
Friday is “Seniors & Persons with Disabilities Day” – where it’s $5 for entry with 1 n caregiver free.
Ride Wristbands sold separately. $45 in advance or $52 in person. Fast passes may also be purchased on site for an additional $20
Ride wristbands can be purchased on the West Coast Amusements website: https://westcoastamusements.com/event/nanaimo-bc-viex-2025/
All ticket sales are final.
Will Call is at Gate 2, near the Beban Park Pool slide.
Yes, the fairgrounds and most exhibit buildings are wheelchair accessible. Accessible parking is available on-site.
Certified service animals are welcome. Please note that pets are not permitted on the grounds or left in vehicles. Please leave your pets at home, safe.
Yes, parking is available at Beban Park, but is very limited and on a first come, first served basis.
Yes! Free shuttle service runs between Beban Park and Nanaimo North Town Centre. The shuttle will begin at noon each day and run until everyone in line at 11:30pm gets back to their vehicles. NOTE* You must be in line by 11:30pm at the Shuttle Drop Off located near gate 1 for a guaranteed ride back to your vehicle.
A wide variety of food trucks and vendors will be on-site, including classic fair treats, international foods, and local favorites. A full list of vendors is available here: https://viex.ca/concessions-vendors/
Sign up HERE or visit the Volunteer Station during fair week. Volunteers who work a minimum of 4 hours receive a free weekend pass, t-shirt, and a meal.
Yes, ATMs will be available in the midway area.
The VIEx runs rain or shine! Most activities take place outdoors, so please dress for the weather. Entertainment and programming will continue unless conditions are unsafe.
Visit the Info Booth located on the grounds or email info@viex.ca.
The Vancouver Island Exhibition takes place each September at Beban Park in Nanaimo. Join us and celebrate the best in agriculture, local food, and entertainment from across Canada.
Office Hours
Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday – Sunday: Closed
Closed on all Stat Holidays
#4 – 2300 Bowen Road Nanaimo, BC V9T 3K7
Mailing Address:
Box 37087 Country Club P.O. Nanaimo, BC V9T 6N4
If you have any questions or comments that you would like to share, please feel free to reach out directly or fill out the form on our contact page.
BUY TICKETS CLICK HERE!
The Vancouver Island Exhibition respectfully acknowledges that we are held on the traditional and unceded territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. We also recognize and honour the many Indigenous Nations across Vancouver Island who have cared for and stewarded these lands since time immemorial.
We are grateful to gather, celebrate, and share community on this land together.
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Phone: (250)758-3247 Email: Info@Viex.ca