150th Anniversary

On June 18, 1873, North Cowichan was incorporated and 2023 marks our 150th anniversary, and the start of a year-long community celebration. You are invited to share the excitement as we celebrate our future!

Join us on June 18

The 150th celebrations kick off with a free community event on Sunday, June 18 from 11 am to 3 pm at Waterwheel Park in Chemainus. The event will feature birthday cake, family activities, entertainment, plus VIP speeches. This event is being organized with the support of the Chemainus BIA and Chemainus Chamber of Commerce.

Get involved

Share what you love about North Cowichan! There will be opportunities for people to share photos and ideas, both online and in person at community events.

  • On Instagram, tag photos and videos of your favourite North Cowichan places and activities with #NorthCowichan150
  • Coming soon: Share photos or words about your favourite North Cowichan places on an interactive map. Visit www.connectnorthcowichan.ca/MNC150 to share what you love, and see what others have shared.
  • Community groups and organizations are encouraged to find ways to mark the 150th anniversary through unique grassroots celebrations. A shareable 150th anniversary logo and brand is available to use, and a North Cowichan pop-up activation team is available to participate in your event. Email mnc150@northcowichan.ca to learn more

 Events

Date Event Location Sponsored by Details
June 1 to 30 (special event June 18) Art exhibit celebrating North Cowichan's 150th Anniversary Cowichan Valley Museum (Duncan Train Station) Cowichan Historical Society

Temporary exhibit featuring the work of 24 artists past and present.

June 18 event includes a classic car display and cake.

Check the museum website for hours of operation.
Sunday, June 18 | 11am to 3pm 150th Anniversary Kick-off Waterwheel Park, Chemainus North Cowichan, Chemainus BIA, Chemainus Chamber of Commerce Free community celebration with birthday cake, entertainment, and family activities.
 Sunday, August 20 | 10am to 4pm  Forest Discovery Centre 150th anniversary event  Forest Discovery Centre, 2892 Drinkwater Road Forest Discover Centre

Birthday cake, hats and horns! plus live entertainment, BBQ, scavenger hunt, kids activities
October 10 to November 10, 2023 Cedar: A Celebration CVAC Gallery, 2687 James Street, Duncan Cowichan Valley Arts Council  Join a Contemplative Tour with a First Nations Knowledge Keeper and an art historian. 

 

The Municipality of North Cowichan sits on the traditional territories of the Quw’utsun First Nation, which includes the Cowichan Tribes, the Halalt First Nation, the Lyackson First Nation, the Penelakut Tribe, and the Stz'uminus First Nation. The Municipality also sits on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation.

Truth and reconciliation with Indigenous communities is an important and ongoing journey, and this milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the long and rich history that extends for millennia, far before 1873. We encourage everyone to explore the diverse cultures, voices, experiences and stories of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

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