Nanaimo’s local business landscape is gearing up for a busy late-summer season, highlighted by a major anniversary at the city’s primary entertainment hub and an expansion from a beloved local eatery. From community celebrations to networking opportunities and travel inspiration, the city is seeing a wave of activity as residents transition into the autumn months.
## Splitsville Bowl Marks Two Decades of Community Fun
Splitsville Bowl Nanaimo is set to celebrate a significant milestone on Sunday, Sept. 13, marking 20 years of operation at 171 Calder Rd. As the only remaining bowling alley in the city, the venue has become a cornerstone for local family entertainment. April Marr, the facility’s events manager, promises a day packed with engagement, featuring a scavenger hunt, custom pin design workshops, and appearances from the Nanaimo NightOwls baseball team and their mascot, Ney-te.
The facility has seen a surge in popularity following the 2024 closure of Brechin Lanes. Since then, the Splitsville team has taken on the role of community mentor, helping former five-pin enthusiasts transition to the 10-pin game. With 16 lanes, an arcade, and integrated dining services, the alley continues to serve as an accessible recreational space for all ages and skill levels. To keep the momentum going after the anniversary event, the company is offering a 20 percent discount on specific bowling sessions between Sept. 14 and Sept. 25.
## Mambo Gourmet Pizza Expands to Northern Nanaimo
After over 25 years of serving the community and winning “Best Pizza” accolades for 13 consecutive years, Mambo Gourmet Pizza is officially growing. The family-owned business will open its second location at #4-6404 Metral Dr. on Sept. 23. This site, formerly occupied by Little George’s Local Guys Food, provides a strategic foothold in northern Nanaimo, allowing the brand to tap into a new customer base, including residents in Lantzville.
Manager Jordan Robertson noted that the expansion was originally slated for May, but the complexity of the renovation required extra time to ensure the new site met the standards of their established Franklyn Street location. Fans of the original spot can expect the same menu and commitment to quality service, further solidifying Mambo’s status as a local culinary mainstay as it nears the announcement of the 2026 “Best of the City” contest results.
## Travel and Networking Opportunities for Nanaimo Residents
Beyond leisure and dining, Nanaimo is hosting several key events designed to foster professional connections and travel planning. On Tuesday, Sept. 22, the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce will host a “Meet and Greet” at the Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo. The early morning event, running from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., is tailored for new members to build their professional networks and engage with chamber leadership. Registration is available through the organization’s official website.
For those looking toward future adventures, Wells Gray Tours will bring its fall travel show to the Beban Park Recreation Centre on Tuesday, Sept. 29. The event, held from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., offers attendees a chance to learn about upcoming global tour packages while enjoying refreshments and prizes. As part of a province-wide series, the company is incentivizing social connections by offering $100 vouchers to both current and new attendees who register together for the event.
While these updates reflect a traditional retail and community focus, local businesses continue to leverage modern digital tools—such as online registration systems and social media engagement—to ensure these in-person events remain accessible. As businesses across the city navigate these shifts, the integration of seamless digital coordination remains a quiet but critical component of Nanaimo’s ongoing economic growth.
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