OWC 2026 Media Coverage Library (In Progress)
Ocean Week Canada 2026 launched June 1 and the media has been covering events from coast to coast to coast. Here's the collection of coverage we've seen so far. If you have something to add, please email it to [email protected]. Thank you!
Press Release – May 13, 2026
Ocean Week Canada is launching its nationwide celebration from June 1 to June 8, 2026, culminating on World Ocean Day with hundreds of events spanning from the Pacific to the Atlantic and Arctic. The initiative aims to foster a deeper connection between Canadians and the ocean through diverse activities such as science talks, shoreline cleanups, art exhibits, and film screenings. Coordinated by the Centre for Ocean Literacy Collaboration, this largest national ocean engagement event emphasizes the relevance of ocean health to all communities, including those far from the coast. Participants and media can find local events and spokespeople through the organization’s online portal and regional hubs.
Press Release – April 2026
The Centre for Ocean Literacy Collaboration has announced the 2026 recipients of its national microgrant program, awarding a total of $147,544 to support community engagement during Ocean Week Canada. This funding supports organizations, artists, and regional hubs across the country in hosting diverse public events from June 1 to 8, 2026, coinciding with World Ocean Day. Recipients include community groups, educational institutions, and artists who will facilitate activities ranging from festivals and art exhibits to citizen science projects. These initiatives aim to strengthen connections to local waterways and inspire ocean conservation action throughout Canada.
Islanders celebrate Ocean Week
A P.E.I. environmental group is taking part in Ocean Week Canada for the first time this year, opening activities usually reserved for students to the public. Kiley Kitts, climate change co-ordinator with the Bedeque Bay Environmental Management Association, and climate change projects assistant Amy Hartman share what Islanders can take part in.
Ocean Week (High River- IRERI)
The IRERI-Mexican, Latino & Cross-Cultural Society is hosting Ocean Week at the High River Library on June 6 from noon to 4 p.m., an event supported by an Ocean Week Canada Grant. This binational festival celebrates the connection between Canadian and Mexican naval forces while emphasizing the importance of water conservation, river wildlife, and marine ecosystems. Attendees can participate in children’s crafts, storytelling, and a Mexican folkloric dance presentation, while learning about migratory species and the impact of human activity on oceans. The event also provides an opportunity for the immigrant community to share cultural perspectives on the sea and to sign a petition protecting threatened natural areas in Mexico.
Ocean-focused community events scheduled across St. Mary’s and beyond; Celebrations expand to full week
The Whale Sanctuary Project is hosting an expanded World Oceans Day celebration in Sherbrooke and St. Mary’s, extending the traditional single-day event into a full week of activities from June 1 to June 7. This year’s schedule features a diverse lineup of educational and community-focused events, including children’s workshops, a trivia night, beach yoga, a community cleanup, and a concluding picnic with entertainment. Organizers aim to raise awareness about marine ecosystems and inspire local action to protect global waters, emphasizing the region's connection to the ocean as Canada’s Ocean Playground. The initiative seeks to engage residents of all ages through these accessible programs, fostering a deeper appreciation for the critical role the ocean plays in sustaining life. (Syndicated article appeared in multiple outlets online across the country.)
59+ things to see and do in and around Ottawa, June 1 to 7 - Ottawa Road Trips
Learn about the ocean in Ottawa, Brockville, Montreal and elsewhere Communities across the country are holding events to mark Ocean Week Canada (June 1 to 7). In Ottawa, the hub of the festivities is the headquarters of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society on Sussex Drive. Events ranging from film screenings and art exhibitions to trivia games and water testing workshops are also happening at the Aquatarium in Brockville, Simon Fraser House in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, the Biodôme in Montreal and many other places.
La Semaine de l’océan Québec s’invite à La Baie pour une corvée de nettoyage
As part of Quebec Ocean Week, a community cleanup event was held in La Baie to remove debris from the shores of the Ha! Ha! Bay and the Saguenay River. Organized by the environmental group Bleue, the initiative involved volunteers and cruise passengers collecting various types of waste, including plastics, styrofoam, and fishing gear. The collected items are meticulously sorted into 152 categories using a protocol recognized by Environment and Climate Change Canada to accurately assess local pollution levels. This data-driven approach helps determine the proper disposal or recycling methods for the waste while highlighting the environmental impact of lightweight pollutants on local ecosystems. Similar cleanup activities are also taking place in other Quebec locations such as Quebec City, Lacolle, and Trois-Pistoles.
5 things to do in and around Victoria this Wednesday, June 3rd
There are more Ocean Week Victoria events happening around the city, or plenty of other events to partake in as well! Whether you want to join in the community effort to clean up Gorge Waterway or head down to a Taylor Swift tribute show at the Royal Theatre, there’s always something going on to pique your interest!
5 things to do in and around Victoria this Tuesday, June 2nd
As we shake off the rust and get back into the work week, it’s important to take some time for things that you love. Whether you want to celebrate Ocean Week and get to one of the events happening around town, or want to hit the HarbourCats home opener, there’s something for everyone.