Gabriola - Events in May

As we approach May we have some exciting events happening around Gabriola, here are a few things that we thought are worth mentioning:

On Friday, April 30th the Surf pub, will re-open for the summer season with a party including giveaways, prizes free beer tickets, whiskey and Sea Cider tasting.

On Saturday, May 1st between 1-3, make your way down to the Folklife Village so you can throw your money in a hand painted trash can in the “SHAKE YOUR CAN” event, all proceeds go to the local non profit groups that created the cans. Randi, Jennifer and myself worked on the Gabriola Arts Council, Gabriola Volunteer Fire Dept, and Hot Lunch Program trash cans, so if you have any change those groups would love it (and so would we).

Suzy’s will become Robert’s place, the Grand Opening will take place on Saturday May 8th.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with us at the Surf Lodge on Sunday, May 9th. Brunch served from 10:30-1, followed by a live AUCTION of local ART and other fabulous items. Bid on a hand painted TRASH CAN, all benefiting local non profit groups. Auction starts at 1pm and will be hosted by Eric Boulton.

In the next month, we’ll see some of the businesses start to open at the Madrona Marketplace, it’s always great to explore and support new ventures.

We hope you get a chance to enjoy the outdoors and the community in the next month, check out the EVENTS calendar for more detials!

Madrona Marketplace Update

Madrona Marketplace still expects to open for business April 1st. Over the next couple weeks you will see the exterior finishing completed as electrical, plumbing and concrete slabs are undertaken inside. Tenants are busy working on signage, ordering equipment and stock, as well as build out plans for each unit. Sounds like there is going to be some amazing retail and office interiors! Excitingly, Slice of Life Gallery and Gift store is the newest to join Madrona Marketplace leaving only one 700 sq ft space! Mark Whalen and Maarten Perera of Slice of Life will offer art supplies and interesting giftware in the dramatic art gallery space. The "coffee place" which has been called the "coffee place" now has a name; it will open up as Mad Rona"s Coffee Bar and offer everyone's favorite espresso drinks alongside excellent brewed coffee, pastries and treats. As we get closer to completion we will announce our grand opening and advise of any newcomers to Madrona Marketplace!

Happenings on the Island.

You may have visited the Island during the summer and caught a glimpse of where the new retail space “Madrona Marketplace” was going to be created (on North Road, where the T&T gas station used to be). Progress is happening quickly, the footings are in place, the framing of the East phase is nearly complete, and the trusses were delivered last week.

With the first phase 90% leased, here's a list of local businesses to look forward to at the new marketplace; Tree Frog Sports and Clothing, The Sounder, Architrave Design Build, Woodfire Pizza and Pasta, Blueapples Metaphysical and Wellness, a contemporary coffee house, as well as two private offices.

We’ll update you as progress is being made and retailers have been confirmed so that you know what the Island looks like and what you’ll be greeted with the next time you visit Gabriola.

(photo taken on Nov 18 2009)