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General News · 12th July 2026
Mansons Hall
Saturday, July 18, 2026 Smelt Bay Provincial Park Waterfront

Something extraordinary is coming to Cortes Island this summer!

Cortes Day 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting celebrations yet, with a very special visit from the New Old Time Chautauqua! This year’s event will bring together island traditions, live performances, music, creativity, and community connection for a full day of unforgettable fun.

For the full schedule, event details, and updates, visit the official Cortes Day webpage at mansonshall.org/cortes-day.

The New Old Time Chautauqua Comes to Cortes Day!
Get ready for a celebration filled with colour, music, laughter, and surprises as the New Old Time Chautauqua joins us for Cortes Day 2026.

Known for their joyful mix of music, theatre, circus arts, and old-fashioned community celebration, the Chautauqua brings people together through the magic of live performance. Their arrival on Cortes Island will make this year’s celebration extra special.

The day begins with the Cortes Day Parade at 11:00 AM, featuring a very special land and sea parade with the New Old Time Chautauqua performers joining the festivities. Expect music, creativity, colourful characters, and plenty of surprises as the parade makes its way through the community and down to the waterfront.

The celebration continues into the evening with a FREE community performance at Manson’s Hall at 7:00 PM. Bring your friends and family for a memorable night of entertainment, laughter, and connection. Everyone is welcome!

A Full Day of Cortes Day Traditions
Alongside our special guests, Cortes Day will continue the traditions that make this one of Cortes Island’s favourite annual celebrations.

The festivities begin at 11:00 AM with the parade, followed by an afternoon of activities at beautiful Smelt Bay Provincial Park Waterfront.

Enjoy:
Live music throughout the day
Local artisans and craftspeople
Pulled pork sandwiches, grilled veggie sandwiches, coleslaw, homemade pie, and ice cream
The famous Chicken Poop Contest
Family-friendly activities
The legendary Nail, Sail & Bail competition

Nail, Sail & Bail Returns!
One of Cortes Day’s most entertaining traditions is back!

Teams will begin building their creative boats at 12:30 PM, using teamwork, imagination, and a little island ingenuity. Boat building wraps up at 3:30 PM, when the excitement moves to the water for the Nail, Sail & Bail Regatta.

This year’s competition features two categories:
Adult Division
Youth Division

Whether you’re competing or cheering from shore, it’s always one of the most memorable moments of the day.

Registration details and updates can be found on the Cortes Day webpage at mansonshall.org/cortes-day.

Keep the Celebration Going — Sunday, July 19
The community celebration continues into Sunday with a special gathering featuring a community project, potluck, and open mic performances at the Village Commons.

Join neighbours and friends for another day of connection, creativity, and community spirit. More details will be announced soon.

Join Us for Cortes Day 2026!
Whether you’re a longtime island resident or visiting Cortes Island for the first time, Cortes Day is a celebration of the creativity, kindness, and community spirit that make this place so special.

Mark your calendars and visit mansonshall.org/cortes-day for the latest schedule, event information, and updates.

Saturday, July 18, 2026
Smelt Bay Provincial Park Waterfront
New Old Time Chautauqua Performance — 7:00 PM at Manson’s Hall

We can’t wait to celebrate with you!