Whether you're sticking close to home and looking for fresh ideas or travelling to Vancouver Island searching for fun things to do during March break, Parksville is a lovely family destination this time of year.
Being the shoulder season and a smaller community, you have endless opportunities to really connect with one another and make long-lasting memories that don't involve screen time. Learn about and interact with local wildlife, zip around on go karts, do some local shopping, or challenge each other to a friendly round of mini golf.
Here are several ideas for what to do in Parksville this spring, no matter your interests.
1. Brant Wildlife Festival
April 10 – April 13, 2026
This popular annual birders' festival celebrates Pacific Black Brant Geese. As the geese make their seasonal migration back up north for the warmer months, thousands of them stop off in Parksville, eating, resting and recharging on our beaches. Over the course of the weekend, attendees can sit in on conservation talks, go on guided nature and bird-watching walks, check out local art exhibits, watch wood carvers work, and participate in kid-friendly nature activities. If you're looking for more engaging, educational things to do during March break on Vancouver Island, this should be at the top of your list.
2. Science in the Park - Signs of Spring
March 8, 2026, 11:00am to 2:00pm.
Held at Errington Community Park, this family event includes a short nature walk and hands-on activities for all ages. Parents are encouraged to participate with their children as they learn to identify local plants and spot evidence of wildlife at the beginning of this transitional season. This event is free and registration is not required; simply drop-in.
3. Spring Farmers' Markets
Year-round
Although the Qualicum Beach Farmer's Market operates year-round, spring is widely considered the start of "market season" (which makes perfect sense with everything in bloom and starting to wake up from winter slumber!). This long-running Saturday morning market features dozens of vendors that grow or make every item they sell. It's a true one-stop shop, where you can grab a coffee and a baked treat, then stroll around and buy everything from fresh produce to meat, flowers, dog treats, and even home decor.
4. Play Board Games—and a Round of Golf
Weekends and holidays
Get your game face on, literally, and head to Paradise Fun Park. In addition to two themed 18-hole courses (Treasure Island and Turf & Surf), the park also hosts family-friendly board game afternoons every Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Bring $5.00 per person, and local Parksville business Railyard Games provides everything you need for a fun-filled, screen-free afternoon. Paradise also has an arcade and onsite cafe for snacks and drinks. Note it's open on weekends and holidays this time of year, outside of the summer season.
5. Fast Time Amusements
If you're looking for high-energy things to do during March break as a family, look no further. Fast Time Amusements opens for the season every March, offering fun, competitive activities like go karting, batting cages, axe throwing, laser tag, and archery tag. Note that children must be at least 11 years old to drive their own go-kart; otherwise, they can ride as passengers starting at age eight.
6. The Bunny Trail at Milner Gardens
April 3 – 4, 2026
Over the long Easter weekend every year (April 3 and 4 in 2026), Milner Gardens hosts its ever-popular Bunny Trail. Kids and kids at heart can participate in an Easter Bunny-themed scavenger through the park, while also having the bonus of checking out spring floral displays and gardens. Be sure to stop by the Welcome Centre on your way in to collect an activity sheet for your child to complete. Once they do, you can turn it in for a special prize!
7. Parksville Museum
We enjoy our fair share of pleasant days here on Vancouver Island (that's why we’re here!), but it's a smart idea to have an indoor backup for the occasional spring showers. The Parksville Museum, open Thursday through Monday during winter hours (October through April), hosts a number of special events throughout the year, as well as rotating exhibits that change periodically in addition to its core historical exhibits. Check the events calendar to see what the museum has on during the timeframe you'll be in town.
Spring Into Adventure at The Beach Club
We've told you about some of the exciting family events going on around Parksville attractions, but we haven't even touched on the beach! The Beach Club Resort puts you mere steps from the beach, making it one of the best places to stay on the island. Come back after activity-packed days to a beach sunset and enjoy amenities including an indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness centre, complimentary secure underground parking, and onsite dining. You can even reserve a private heated dome to enjoy a memorable dinner overlooking the beach.
Book your March break stay today—see you soon!
