BY STEVE MARTINDALE
For Salish Sea Inter-Island Transportation Society
The annual Tour des Îles festival takes place on June 21 and 22, featuring inter-island travel via water taxi, celebrating the unique culture of the Southern Gulf Islands.
With small passenger vessels connecting Pender, Mayne, Saturna, Galiano and Salt Spring, this is a great opportunity to explore the beauty and diversity of our islands, each with its own special charm.
Featuring local artists and musicians, this year’s Tour des Îles promises to be the best yet, offering a delightful blend of art, music, food, outdoor recreation, markets and more.
“This is a fantastic excuse to explore the islands just next door,” said Melody Pender, executive director of the Salish Sea Inter Island Transportation Society. “This year, I’m especially excited for the Tasting Tour on Pender Island, where Pender Chocolates will be offering specially paired chocolates to complement a drink at each venue: Sea Star Winery, Twin Island Cider and the new Bee Wild Distillery.”
Visitors to Pender can also enjoy the Saturday Farmers Market at the Community Hall from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by live music at the Driftwood Centre from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days, as well as live music at Hope Bay. Visitors to Galiano, meanwhile, can enjoy live music at the Galiano Inn both days from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. and the Saturday Market is on at Lions Field on Saturday from 10 am. to 2 p.m.
In addition to the world-famous Salt Spring Saturday Market in Centennial Park, visitors to the largest of the Southern Gulf Islands are invited to join locals in enjoying two free afternoons of music at Mateada from noon to 4 p.m., with a focus on Indigenous musicians on Sunday in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples Weekend.
Enjoy a coffee on the wrap-around deck of the Saturna General Store or stroll the Saturday Market from 10 a.m. to noon, serenaded by local musicians. The Boot Cove Bookstore across the street will also open for the event. On Sunday morning, walk the Whale Trail at Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, with a whale talk by a Parks Canada interpreter from 11 a.m. to noon. On Sunday afternoon, Saturna’s Fog Alarm Building at East Point will feature live music from noon to 2 p.m., co-sponsored by the Saturna Heritage Centre, followed by local musicians at Dee’s Dairy Bar from 4 to 5 p.m.
Whether you’re a seasoned island-hopper or a first-time visitor, there’s something for everyone at Tour des Îles. For more info and tickets, visit tourdesiles.ca.