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Port Alberni’s HGTV Home Town Takeover Revealed

Discover the Stunning Waterfront and Community Updates From the First-Ever HGTV Canada Small-Town Transformation.

A wide scenic shot of the freshly renovated Harbour Quay waterfront in Port Alberni under a blue sky, showcasing new architectural details and vibrant community gathering spaces.

The beautifully refreshed Harbour Quay waterfront hub in Port Alberni. Source: Alberni Valley News

If you’ve been down by the waterfront lately, you’ve probably noticed an extra spark of energy in the air. After 12 weeks of secret construction, bustling film crews, and immense community pride, filming for HGTV Canada’s first-ever Home Town Takeover Canada has officially wrapped in the Alberni Valley!

Port Alberni beat out hundreds of small towns across the country to secure this incredible opportunity. Led by HGTV’s Bryan and Sarah Baeumler alongside Vancouver Island’s own Built Contracting, the ambitious project worked hand-in-hand with our local trades and community members. According to the City of Port Alberni’s official Home Town Takeover project page, the 12-week timeline tackled eight stunning transformations across our town—including local businesses, public spaces, and the homes of community change-makers.

While the show won’t broadcast until later this fall, you don’t have to wait until then to see the results. The historic “big reveal” block party has already taken place, meaning our freshly transformed community spaces are fully open and ready for you to explore today.

What’s New at the Harbour Quay?

Close-up of the newly renovated park band shell at Harbour Quay, featuring a colorful custom painted mural by local artist Olesia Matsai.

The vibrant new custom mural by local artist Olesia Matsai on the park band shell. Source: Alberni Valley News

The heart of the public transformation is right down at our beloved waterfront hub. Next time you plan an afternoon at the Quay, make sure to check out:

  • The Marine Building’s New Covered Patio: A gorgeous extension that’s perfect for pausing to take in those classic Alberni Inlet views. It’s a fantastic new addition to our local collection of spots for dining on the patio in Port Alberni.
  • The Refreshed Park Band Shell: Featuring a stunning, vibrant custom mural painted by talented local artist Olesia Matsai.
  • Upgraded Market Kiosks: Beautifully modernized spaces designed to support our incredible local artisans and business owners.
  • From the bustling Quay to the heart of the neighboring Hupačasath First Nation reserve, this takeover has breathed vibrant new energy into our valley.

Plan Your Visit to the Alberni Valley

Whether you’re a local or planning a weekend getaway in the Alberni Valley, there’s never been a better time to stay a little longer in the Alberni Valley. Come down this weekend, grab a coffee, check out the beautiful updates firsthand, and get ready to watch our town shine on national television this fall!