The Island of Creative Expression
With one of the highest number of artists per capita in Canada and many art-centred events, Gabriola has earned its moniker, ‘Isle of the Arts’.
Whether you’re the creator, admirer, or participant, enjoy the island’s rich cultural landscape year-round.
Art, Music & Theatre Festivals
For more events and to see what’s happening while you’re here, check out our Gabriola Events website.
Gabriola Museum
The Gabriola Museum is run by the Gabriola Historical Society and is the place to discover island stories.
The Museum is located on South Road, a comfortable (1.2 km) walk or a short drive up the hill from the ferry dock at Descanso Bay. It is open from May to December.
Visit their website for hours, events and exhibits.
Yellow Flag Art Studios
If the yellow roadside flag is flying, the artist’s studio is open!
The yellow flag program is a Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce initiative. See where inspiration and creativity come alive in makers’ spaces.
Arts & Culture
The island fosters creativity for all, making it an essential part of life on Gabriola!
Our artists, creators, makers and cultural centres are busy year round and would love to share their passion with you.
Vancouver Island Regional Library
Categories
Community Organizations Indoor Recreation Arts & Culture
About
Pre-1999, there were two library options for residents of Gabriola Island: a bookmobile at the south end of the island, and a very popular books-by-mail service. That all changed in 1999 when a dedicated library opened in the bustling Gabriola Folklife Village. Over the years, the library has expanded in size and scope and has firmly established itself as a vital cornerstone of island life. As a regional system, Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) covers a vast geographic area, from Sooke and Sidney in the south to Port Hardy, Haida Gwaii and the Central Coast. Our system, the fifth largest in British Columbia, totals more than 42,0000 square kilometres and includes a mix of urban, rural, and remote communities that work together to ensure exemplary library services for all our members. Gabriola Island Branch Information: #5 575 North Road Gabriola BC V0R 1X4 Jeff Strain, Librarian gabriolaisland@virl.bc.ca 250-247-7878 Nanaimo Harbourfront Branch Information: The next closest branch is Nanaimo Harbourfront which provides some of VIRL’s central services. 90 Commercial Street Nanaimo BC V9R 5G4 Jason Kuffler, Sales and Marketing Officer jkuffler@virl.bc.ca 250-753-1154 ext. 246