Brant Festival’s 33rd Annual Carving, Woodworking & Art Show
Each spring, something special happens on the mid-Island. Wood shavings replace winter rain, conversations turn to grain and finish, and creativity takes centre stage. This year, that energy comes together again at the Pacific Brant Carving, Woodworking & Art Show — an event that has become a quiet favourite for artists, makers, and anyone who appreciates skilled hands and beautiful work.
Held on April 11 and 12, 2026, at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, this show has earned its reputation as one of the top carving and woodworking competitions in Western Canada. Walk through the doors and it becomes clear why. Tables and displays are filled with carefully carved birds, figures, bowls, furniture, and art pieces that reflect hundreds of hours of patience and practice. Some works are bold and dramatic, others subtle and finely detailed, but all share a respect for wood as both material and teacher. The nature-themed art show added in recent years brings even more excitement.
There is something a bit intimate about the event. There are stories behind the gouges, lathes and paint brushes. Visitors often pause beside a piece, lean in, and quietly ask how something was done. Just as often, the artist is happy to explain, sharing tips, lessons learned, and the occasional hard-won mistake. That openness is part of what has kept the show thriving for more than three decades.
For those who want to go deeper, seminars will be running throughout the weekend. These sessions cover a range of carving, turning, and woodworking techniques, offering practical insights whether someone is just starting out or has been working with wood for years. Watching a skilled woodworker demonstrate a cut or explain why a piece cracked can feel like standing beside a master mechanic with the hood open — suddenly, things make sense in a new way.
The show is also designed to be welcoming and fun. Door prizes and draws add a sense of anticipation, and there is always a bit of friendly excitement as names are called. It is not unusual to see people arrive “just for a quick look” and stay far longer than planned, pulled in by conversation, craftsmanship, and the warmth of the community.
The event is hosted by three organisations deeply rooted in the local arts scene: the Mid-Island Woodworkers’ Guild, the Oceanside Wood Carvers, and the DeCosmos Fine Arts Society. Together, they bring a mix of experience, passion, and volunteer effort that keeps the show grounded and authentic. It is a reminder that events like this do not happen by accident; they are built over time by people who care about craft and community.
The Pacific Brant Carving, Woodworking, & Art Show is not just for woodworkers or artists. It is for anyone who enjoys seeing what patient hands and creative minds can do with a natural material. It is for those looking for inspiration, a conversation, or simply a good way to spend a spring weekend along with the other events happening as part of the Brant Wildlife Festival.
The Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, located at 747 Jones Street, provides an accessible and comfortable setting, making it easy to drop in, wander, and enjoy. Whether arriving with a notebook full of questions or simply curiosity, visitors are likely to leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of working with wood or paint — and perhaps a new reason to mark April on the calendar. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and students. Kids 12 and under are free. We look forward to seeing you there!
