Pender Island is approximately 34 km2 (13 sq mi) in area and is home to about 2,250 permanent residents. Like most of the rest of the Southern Gulf Islands, Pender Island enjoys a sub-Mediterranean climate and features open farmland, rolling forested hills, several lakes and small mountains, as well as many coves and beaches. Pender Island consists of two islands, North Pender and South Pender, which are separated by a narrow canal originally dredged in 1903. In 1955 the islands were connected by a one lane bridge, as it remains today. This is a popular destination place for cycling, fishing, hiking, boating, sailing, scuba diving and other outdoor pursuits. The island also boasts a 9-hole golf course as well as a 27-hole disc golf course. Pender Island also has numerous art galleries, shops, and restaurants and hosts a variety of local events throughout the year, including the Pender Island Fall Fair and the Lantern Festival. On Saturday mornings during the summer, the Pender Island Farmer’s Market at the Community Hall offers local produce and handcrafts, as well as entertainment.