Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Parksville Qualicum Beach

During the day on New Year’s Eve, spend time exploring the region’s abundant winter activities and attractions with the family. In the evening, dress to impress as you head to local restaurants, resorts and attractions throughout Parksville Qualicum Beach for thrilling New Year’s bashes and exclusive multi-course meals that close out 2023 in style.

Below are a few suggestions to make the most of your New Year’s Eve in Parksville Qualicum Beach. More events and activities are being added so be sure to check the events calendar and our specials for updates.

Spend the Day Exploring the Great Outdoors

Make the most of the final day of the year and get a head start on those fitness-focused New Year’s resolutions by exploring the beautiful parks and natural areas throughout the region. Outdoor activities are enjoyable and accessible year-round thanks to our temperate climate, meaning you can easily spend the day hiking or biking through one of our lush parks, like Cathedral Grove at MacMillan Provincial Park or Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. The winter season also tends to result in our beautiful beaches being free of crowds, leaving more room for you and your family to explore tide pools and observe local wildlife.

End 2023 on a Delicious Note at a Local Restaurant

Known for locally sourced ingredients and globally inspired menus, the Parksville Qualicum Beach culinary scene stands ready to fuel your New Year’s festivities. During the day, grab coffee and snacks from a local café, visit a local farmers’ market, or tour the region’s breweries and distilleries. For dinner, reserve a table at a local restaurant for a memorable New Year’s Eve feast with the family. Several eateries may even feature special prix fixe menus or other New Year’s-exclusive offerings in honor of the holiday, such as the 4-course dinners offered by Cedars Restaurant and Lounge at Tigh-Na-Mara and Deez Bar and Grill, and 5-course meals at Nanoose Bay Cafe and The Bayside. Click here for the latest deals and holiday specials from local restaurants.

Countdown to 2024 with the Family

Happy Noon Year

Families are invited to put on their festive attire and have a Happy Noon Year at Memorial Plaza. This free celebration begins at 10:30 a.m. and features fun crafts, cookie decorating, face painting, dancing, and a magician. The festivities culminate in an exciting countdown followed by a spectacular balloon drop.

New Year's Eve Family Celebration

Kicking off at 5 p.m. and featuring a kid-friendly countdown at 8 p.m., the free New Year’s Eve Family Celebration at Oceanside Place Arena is an ideal option for those looking to skate into the New Year before bedtime. Guests of all ages can enjoy an assortment of family activities throughout the evening at the dual ice rink and activity center, including pond hockey, disco light skating, a cupcake walk, crafts and more. Free tickets for the event are required and can be picked up beginning December 4 at the Oceanside Place Arena.

Savour a 7-Course Feast at Qualicum Beach Café

Returning for 2023, Qualicum Beach Café’s annual New Year’s Eve Gala & Dinner invites revelers to join them for six hours of dining, music and entertainment. Beginning at 7 p.m., the black tie event features a seven-course chef’s tasting menu as well as live music, a DJ, dancing, and more. At midnight, raise a complimentary glass of champagne for a toast to welcome in 2024 just off the shore of the Strait of Georgia.

Party It Up All Night Long

Celebrate the arrival of 2024 with an evening of music and dancing at Rod & Gun's New Year's Party. Invite your friends to join you for an unforgettable evening featuring live performances of the best rock hits by Parksville's Vinyl Feedback. The party starts at 10 p.m. and goes until close.

Dive Into the New Year at the Annual Polar Bear Splash

One of our region’s chilliest yet most beloved annual traditions occurs each New Year’s Day, as hundreds of daring divers take a brief, frosty plunge into the cold waters of the Strait of Georgia along the shores of the Parksville Community Park Beach. Hosted by the Regional District of Nanaimo’s recreation department since 1990, the free, frigid event kicks off promptly at 12 p.m. on January 1, with on-site signup beginning at 11:30 a.m. In addition to rousing cheers from a crowd of spectators, participants will receive a commemorative button, a chance at prizes, hot chocolate and plenty of warm towels once they return to shore.