Port Alberni Salmon Festival and Derby

The Port Alberni Salmon Festival and Derby is a long-standing annual event scheduled for September 4-7, 2026, coinciding with Canada's Labour Day weekend. The festivities take place at Tyee Landing, located at 3300 Harbour Rd. in Port Alberni, British Columbia, and have been a community tradition since 1972.

A central feature of the festival is its renowned salmon fishing derby. Anglers compete for a total prize pool of $45,000, which includes a $15,000 grand prize for the largest salmon caught. Fish are weighed and displayed at the official weigh station by the marina entrance at Tyee Landing, with derby winners announced on Monday, September 7. The derby also supports local bay cleanup efforts and contributes all proceeds to salmon enhancement projects and infrastructure needs.

Beyond the fishing competition, the festival offers a vibrant atmosphere with live music performances and the popular "Alberni’s Got Talent" contest on the mainstage. Attendees can enjoy a variety of offerings from vendors and food trucks, with a dedicated salmon dinner zone operating from Friday through Sunday. Family-friendly activities include a bullhead derby for children. For the 2026 event, new additions include an expanded area for alcohol consumption with a 19-plus wristband system and a display of historical photos from past festivals along the Somass River.