To say this is a busy weekend in New West is an understatement.
Whether you want to shop for treasures (including secondhand items and original artworks), take in an eclectic array of literary events, enjoy some live entertainment or cheer the Vancouver Canucks on to victory in the NHL playoffs, New Westminster is the place to be.
Here’s a look at our top picks for weekend fun from Thursday, May 9 (we’re starting the weekend early) to Sunday, May 12.
Thursday, May 9 to Sunday, May 12
Bridges Literary Festival
Check out the new Bridges Literary Festival, which includes wide range of free events for folks of all ages, including: author talks; poetry readings; kids’ storytimes; book launches; a local author book club; literary crafts; a critics circle; writing and creation workshops; and social events. It’s being presented by New Westminster Public Library in partnership with venues and organizations throughout the city.
- When: May 9 to 12
- Where: Various venues in New Westminster. Details available online
- Details: Free. Some events are drop-in but most require registration so organizers can plan for numbers.
Friday, May 10
Vancouver Canucks
Cheer the Vancouver Canucks on to victory in Game 2 of their second-round NHL playoff series against the Edmonton Oilers. Go Canucks Go! The City of New Westminster is hosting a family-friendly indoor viewing event, which features a concession and a kid’s zone. (If you’d prefer to watch the game at a local business, the city has assembled a list of places that will be showing the game.)
- When: Friday, May 10 Concession opens at 6 p.m. and the game starts at 7 p.m.
- Where: Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia St. (Note: 200-person capacity.)
- Details: Free admission
Saturday, May 11
Queen’s Park yard sales
Hunt for treasures at the 27th annual Queen’s Park’s neighbourhood-wide garage sale, where you’ll find dozens of homes selling everything from toys to antiques. (Speaking from personal experience - be sure to wear sunscreen and/or a hat because it's going to be hot and sunny.)
- When: Saturday, May 11, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: Homes throughout the Queen’s Park neighbourhood (it’s in the area bounded by Sixth Avenue and Royal Avenue, and Sixth Street and Queen’s Park.)
Art of the Garden
Immerse yourself in the beauty of sculptural garden works and captivating paintings in the gallery and garden at Art of the Garden, an annual exhibition at the Van Dop Gallery. You’ll also be able to meet guest artists Jodie Blaney and Violet Finvers and shop for gifts created by talented artists from across the country.
- When: Saturday, May 11, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Where: 421 Richmond St.
- Info: More details available online
Spring Market and Swap Meet
Shop for used goods and hidden treasures from hobbyists and retailers at the Spring Market and Swap Meet.
- When: Saturday, May 11, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Where: Queensborough Community Centre, 920 Ewe Ave.
- Details: Free admission
People, Parks and Play
Provide input into People, Parks and Play: Connections for All – the City of New Westminster’s updated parks and recreation plan – at a popup event.
- When: Saturday, May 11, noon to 3 p.m.
- Where: Sapperton Plaza, 411 East Columbia St.
- Details: This is the first round of engagement for the new parks and recreation master plan, which is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025.
Saturday, May 11 and Sunday, May 12
Bargain mART Blowout
Shop for art at the New West Artists’ Bargain mART Blowout, featuring original paintings, prints, photographs. This sale features two prices only: $50 or $25. The event also features a photo booth, where you can take home a memory on your own phone. One of the artists will happily take a photo of you and your mom – or guest for the day.
- When: Saturday, May 11 (1 to 6 p.m.) and Sunday, May 12 (1 to 4 p.m.)
- Where: Studio 1C @ Eighth & Eight, Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Free parking
Until Sunday
Mary Poppins
Experience the magic of Mary Poppins in Royal City Musical Theatre’s 2024 production, which features an irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers and astonishing stagecraft.
- When: Until Sunday, May 12
- Where: Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Showtimes and ticket information is available online
