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Our Roots

In 1894, the Nanaimo District Agricultural and Horticultural Society applied for membership under the BC Agricultural Societies Act and Amending Act. The society was founded with a mission to support and enhance agriculture, industry, and community life in the Nanaimo region. Its objectives were:

• To encourage the proper cultivation of the land, improvement of livestock, and overall agricultural development within the Nanaimo District.

• To foster innovation in mechanical and household arts, enriching the quality of home life.

• To organize public exhibitions that showcase local achievements and promote growth in these fields.

• To carry out activities that align with the society’s mission of supporting agriculture, arts, and the community.

The first fairs provided a platform for farmers to display their livestock and crops, while local artisans and craftspeople showcased their skills. As the years passed, the event grew to incorporate entertainment, food vendors, carnival rides, and live music, transforming it into a full-scale family fair while staying true to its agricultural roots.

A Legacy of Community and Growth

Over the decades, the VIEx has adapted to the changing times while maintaining its core purpose: to bring people together in celebration of agriculture, local talent, and community spirit. Today, the exhibition continues to offer an exciting mix of traditional competitions, interactive exhibits, live performances, and family-friendly activities, ensuring that the legacy of the original society’s mission lives on.

Through generations of dedication from volunteers, exhibitors, and attendees, the VIEx remains a highlight of Nanaimo’s annual events calendar—where history, heritage, and hometown pride come together.