With the vintage imperial traditions of Victoria Day permeating next weekend, it’s time to declare the Summer season just about in full roar. Helped along by 20+ temps predicted for it all, I’m totally looking forward to a little May Pole dancing and festival festive-ing.

Here’s what’s happening around the area this week:

- Make your plans now for Cumberland’s annual Empire Days (we’ll have a full schedule of fun events later on in the week). While the parade isn’t until 10 a.m. next Monday (May 19), plan for some family-friendly gems including the pancake breakfast at 9 a.m. on Saturday and the Soap Box Derby at 10 a.m. the same day.

- The SD 71 Board of Education will hold a special public board meeting at 6 p.m. tomorrow (Tuesday, May 13) at 607 Cumberland Road in Courtenay. The meeting will cover items that were removed from the April 22 board meeting including the Cape Lazo School Closure Bylaw reading. Check out the full agenda HERE

- The Courtenay Rec Summer Recreation Reporter will be available tomorrow (Tuesday, May 13) with Summer program registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday (May 14). Call the Lewis Centre at 338-5371 or The Filberg Centre at 338-1000 for more information.

- The Comox Recreation Spotlight on Recreation Guide will be available May 28 with registration for Summer programs starting May 30. There are some amazing programs this year including kayaking, road hockey and the beloved Hands-On Farm. So, make sure to check it out.

- Youth ages 12 to 17 can now sign up for the Comox Valley Volleyball Camp. The Summer camp runs from July 7-10. Call Brian McAskill at 338-6735 for more information.

- The Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens Art & Bloom Festival kicks off this weekend. Head out from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday to check out work from amazing regional artists. The cost is $6. Call 338-6901 for more information.

- You can now get your FREE Emergency Guide to help your family prepare for natural disasters and other emergencies. They are available at Courtenay City Hall, Comox Town Hall and all local fire halls. It’s a great guide with tons of important information. So, be sure to get one.

- Parenting Coach Dr. Carl Ivey is hosting a seminar on healthy eating for families from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. this Saturday (May 17) at the Ironkettle Restaurant in the Campbell River Commons. 1414 Ironwood Street in Campbell River. The cost is $50 per person and $75 per couple and registration is needed. Call (250) 286-0542 for more information.