A community-led project on Pender Island will deliver the island’s first covered outdoor venue, expanding opportunities for events, recreation, and local economic activity.

The Thieves Bay Park Community Pavilion, near Thieves Bay Marina, will be a timber-frame structure featuring accessible picnic tables, a raised native plant garden, and interpretive signage.

The project is managed by the Pender Island Parks and Recreation Commission on behalf of the Capital Regional District, with funding support from the commission, the Island Coastal Economic Trust, and other partners. Construction is expected this spring.

Once complete, the pavilion will transform an underused oceanside area into a year-round gathering space and community hub. Designed to blend with the island’s natural setting, the low-profile structure will host cultural events, recreational programs, and educational activities while remaining accessible to residents and visitors.

“This pavilion represents what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared vision,” said Justine Starke, senior manager, Southern Gulf Islands Electoral Area Administration in a release.

The all-season venue could support at least 15 businesses, including event vendors, artisans, and accommodation providers. Partners in the planning process included the Magic Lake Property Owners Association, the Pender Island Chamber of Commerce, the Pender Island Conservancy Association, and the Southern Gulf Islands Tourism Partnership.

The SȾÁUTW̱ (Tsawout) Nation and the WSÁNEĆ Leadership Council were consulted on ground disturbance and cultural monitoring. First Nation participation during construction is planned.

“Community spaces like this pavilion are essential to the social and economic vitality of island communities,” said Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICE-T) CEO Brodie Guy.

ICE-T is contributing a $40,000 investment through its Community Placemaking program; the project has a total budget of $117,731.

Pender Island is located just east of Salt Spring Island.

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