A night of tasting in Nanaimo will help support the people preparing to cook for us next. Rising Tides, Rising Chefs brings Culinary Team Canada, guest chefs and Vancouver Island University culinary students together on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, for an evening supporting culinary education and Canada’s competition team.
The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Upper Cafeteria in Building 300 at VIU’s Nanaimo campus. Tickets are $200.
A tasting night with a purpose
The format puts the cooking front and centre, with interactive culinary stations and beverage tastings throughout the evening. Guests can explore the stations and meet the people behind the food, with VIU students working alongside experienced chefs.
The invitation lists five guest chefs joining Culinary Team Canada and VIU students, with wine, whisky and alcohol-free beverages among the drinks planned for the evening.
Supporting the next generation of chefs
Proceeds will support VIU culinary education and Culinary Team Canada’s competition preparations. For students, an event like this is also a chance to work alongside chefs beyond their everyday classroom and kitchen routines.
It is a worthwhile connection to make over dinner: the cooks learning their craft today will help shape the restaurants and food businesses we visit in the years ahead.
Rising Tides, Rising Chefs: the details
- When: Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 6–9 p.m.
- Where: Upper Cafeteria, Building 300, Vancouver Island University, 900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo
- Tickets: $200
- Supports: VIU culinary education and Culinary Team Canada’s competition preparations
Event registration and tickets. For event enquiries, contact Buddy Wolfe at buddy.wolfe@viu.ca.
