NIC Fest will once again take over North Island College campuses this March for the annual event.
At the Comox Valley campus, NIC Fest 2026 is set for Thursday, March 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Eagle will be on location to broadcast. (The event follows one in Campbell River March 12, while Port Alberni holds one March 26.)
The free, open-house-style event allows people to experience campus life directly, talk with faculty and staff about what is available or look first-hand at the opportunities NIC offers.
“NIC Fest invites you to imagine what future becomes possible when you take the next step in your post‑secondary journey,” said Erin Kenny, Associate Director, Marketing & Future Students. “Whether you’re a high school student planning your future, returning to learning mid‑career, or dreaming up a business of your own, this event showcases the many opportunities to learn, grow and succeed, right here in your community.”
The college began holding the event around the North Island in 2023. Previously, NIC had held dedicated sessions for secondary students, but NIC Fest was created to appeal to a wider audience. For some, this means transitioning from secondary school into post-secondary for the first time. For others, it provides an opportunity to consider their next career step.
People can sign up for tours of tul'al’txw, the new housing on campus. They can also visit classrooms, shops, student lounges, Indigenous gathering spaces and other locations at the campus. They can connect with instructors who are experts in their field and meet current students and alumni to find out about their experiences at NIC. The Info Fair will also provide a place for potential future students to learn about programs, services and supports aimed at helping students succeed.
There will be free refreshments at the event, as well as chances to win prizes using an interactive passport-stamping scavenger hunt. You can even receive a code to waive the fee for applying to NIC.
Feel free to bring along a friend or family member and find out what is in store for your future at North Island College. There is more information on NIC’s Events page.