The streets of New Westminster are set to come alive this spring with the annual Hyack International Parade, heralded as the province’s largest family-oriented parade.
This year’s parade, set for May 25th, 2024, boasts over 100 entries from throughout British Columbia and the USA, offering an array of high-energy, colourful, and entertaining floats, marching bands, community groups, mascots and performance artists.
Celebrating community through parade
For over 50 years, the Hyack International Parade has been a staple of cultural expression and community pride in New Westminster. This year’s parade continues to embody the spirit of inclusivity and celebration.
“The parade is a significant event that showcases the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our city,” the Hyack Parade & Festival planning committee says.
Highlighting the event’s growth, they add, "We are particularly excited about the diversity of entries this year, featuring groups from China, the Philippines, Ukraine and Japan along with several spectacular out-of-town bands."
Hyack also proudly announces Kyle Turris as its Grand Parade Marshal, hailing from New Westminster and ascending to NHL stardom after a standout career in the British Columbia Hockey League with Burnaby.
From clinching rookie of the year honours to becoming a conference MVP, Turris's journey, culminating in stints with the Phoenix Coyotes, Ottawa Senators, and Nashville Predators, epitomizes dedication and skill. His leadership and achievements on the ice serve as a source of inspiration, making him a fitting hometown hero to lead the festivities.
A day of diverse attractions
This year, the parade is expected to be one of the most diverse and dynamic yet.
Attendees can look forward to an impressive lineup including the Arlington High School Band from Syracuse, New York, and The Beat Goes On Band from Portland, Oregon.
Additionally, the parade will feature the Vancouver Lion & Dragon Dancers and the Golden Spike Can Can dancers, each adding their unique flair to the festivities.
Extending the celebration at Tipperary Park
After the parade, the celebration continues at Tipperary Park with the Hyack Festival, transforming the area into a bustling hub of activity.
Thanks to its community partners, this year’s festival will include the addition of a Kids Zone, Photo Booth and Pet Zone, all packed with free activities and surprises for everyone. For the little ones, there will be face painting, crafts, balloon twisting and some fun surprises courtesy of New West Dentistry and F45 Training New West South.
Attendees will also be able to take home a free printed photo from the photo booth, courtesy of the Port of Vancouver. Approximately 25 food vendors, including food trucks, will offer a delectable array of cuisines. A designated seating area in front of the community stage will be provided with the support of the WorkBC Employment Services.
And thanks to Starlight Casino and Match Eatery & Public House, a lineup of entertainers promises to get attendees dancing like never before, including ROOTS Peruvian Folk Dance, which will be part of the entertainers line up at the Festival in Tipperary Park.
Supporting local artisans and vendors
The Hyack Festival is not only about entertainment but also supports local economic activity by providing a platform for vendors and artisans to display and sell their creations. This year, the festival will feature a diverse array of vendors, offering everything from local crafts to international cuisine, ensuring that the festival marketplace is as vibrant as the parade itself.
Volunteers will play a pivotal role in the parade and festival, helping everything run smoothly.
“Our volunteers are the backbone of this event, ensuring that the parade and festival are memorable experiences for all,” the planning committee says.
Those interested in volunteering can expect comprehensive training, including new video modules, to prepare them for their roles.
For more details or to get involved, visit www.hyackfestival.com/hyackparade to join the community in celebrating this grand tradition.
