Join八十一 upcoming events being held in Nanaimo. Nanaimo is a picturesque coastal city on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities including hiking, biking, and kayaking, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a rich history reflected in its historic downtown and popular attractions like the Bastion, the Bathtub Races, and the many culinary delights of the Nanaimo Bar Trail.