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Events roundup: What’s happening in New West in August?

Fireworks, festivals and family fun – it’s all happening in New Westminster in August
Theresa McManus
Theresa McManus
new-west-pride-street-fest-7
The streets festival and other events are part of the New West Pride celebrations in New Westminster in August.Andrew Soong

From fireworks to family-friendly activities to community festivals, it’s all happening in New West in August.

The Record compiled a roundup of some of the events you’ll want to check out this month in New West:

Thursday, Aug. 1

New Westminster Salmonbellies

The New Westminster Sr. A Salmonbellies take on the Western Lacrosse Association’s league-leading Victoria Shamrocks in the Bellies’ final regular season game of 2024.

New West Farmers Market

The New West Farmers Market features vendors, food trucks, live music, children’s activities and more.

  • When: Thursday, Aug. 1, 3 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
  • Details: Free

Opera Arias & Korean Lyric Songs

Korean Cultural Heritage Society presents Opera Arias & Korean Lyric Songs. The Vancouver Pilgrim Orchestra, conducted by Peter Suk will accompany an array of opera arias and Korean lyric songs. Four Korean singers will perform popular arias.

Saturday, Aug. 3

A Night of Reggae

Bully’s presents a night of reggae vibes featuring Mivule, Phonosonics, Gisto and the Grateful Living, and DJ – Safari Nights.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 3. Doors open at 7 p.m. and bands begin at 8 p.m.
  • Where: Bully’s Studio, 67 Sixth St.
  • Details: Tickets are $20 at the door. No BYOB and No Jerks allowed.

Saturday, Aug. 3 and Sunday, Aug. 4

Shadows and Dreams

Shadows and Dreams presents Twelfth Night, Shakespeare’s hilarious tale of unrequited love and mistaken identity. Bring your own chair or blanket: the closer you sit, the better you'll hear.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 3 and Sunday, Aug. 4, 2 to 3 p.m.
  • Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
  • Details: Free. All ages welcome. Rain or shine

Monday, Aug. 5

Twilight Tots and Families

New West Family Place is hosting Twilight Tots and Families, giving families with young kids a chance to enjoy engaging activities and beautiful river views every Monday evening in August.

  • When: Monday, Aug. 5, 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Wet and Wild

Celebrate BC Day with giant games, water balloons and other family-friendly activities at Wet and Wild. All ages welcome.

  • When: Monday, Aug. 5, 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Where: Ryall Park, 920 Ewen Ave.
  • Details: Free

Tuesday, Aug. 6

Mornings by the River

Kids will explore, play, and create together at weekly Mornings by the River events, part of the City of New Westminster’s Summer Showcase. Every week includes experiences and fun activities for kids aged five to 12 years.

  • When: Tuesday, Aug. 6, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Music in the Park

Live performance by Clara Cloud in Moody Park, which gives folks aged 50 and older a chance to enjoy an artistic performance, access free art classes, and meet new people.

  • When: Tuesday, Aug. 6, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park

Wednesday, Aug, 7

Music by the River

Enjoy an evening of music and fun, including lawn games at this all all-ages Music by the River gathering. The concession will be open.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 7, 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park

Poetry in the Park

Readings by two featured poets and an open mic are part of today’s Poetry in the Park.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 7, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
  • Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
  • Details: Free

Thursday, Aug. 8

New West Farmers Market

The New West Farmers Market features vendors, food trucks, live music, children’s activities and more.

  • When: Thursday, Aug. 8, 3 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
  • Details: Free

Playground Pop-Up

Learn a new craft, play games, and have fun at this all-ages family Playground Pop-Up event taking place by the playground.

  • When: Thursday, Aug. 8, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
  • Where: Grimston Park, 1900 Seventh Ave.

Friday, Aug. 9

Fridays on Front

The Fridays on Front street party features food, beer, music, children’s activities and more. This week’s theme is Fiesta Latina.

  • When: Friday, Aug. 9, 5 to 9 p.m.
  • Where: Front Street Mews, 600 block
  • Details: Free

Saturday, Aug. 10

Brewhalla New Westminster

Brewhalla, making its debut in New West this year, is a festival that is open to folks aged 19 and up. Brewhalla brings together more than 20 local craft beverage vendors (beer, wine, cider, spirits, mead, and zero-proof options), live music, food trucks, lawn games, friendly competitions, a dance party, best dressed contests, and more. Brewhalla New Westminster’s theme is Life on The River, which will be present throughout the festival site with games and activations incorporating water and a zone where guests can cool down from the summer heat. Attendees can complete for prized in the Best Dressed contest, with outfit ideas including fisher, kayaker, river boat worker, mermaid, fish, scuba diver, pirate, and bird watcher.

Roller Derby doubleheader

The Greater Vancouver Roller Derby Association presents a double-header roller derby bout: Game 1 (5 p.m.) is GVRDA vs. Puget Sound Castaways and Game 2 (7:30 p.m.) features GVRDA vs. Terminal City Roller Derby (WFTDA). The evening’s fun includes a 50/50 draw, a sale of baked goods and other goodies and GVRDA merch. Snacks, dinner and treats available at the bistro, and beverages (and an overhead view of the track) available at the upstairs bar. An afterparty runs until 1 a.m. in the bar. (which accepts cash or debit).

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 10, 4:30 to 9:30 p.m.
  • Where: Royal City Curling Club, 75 East Sixth Ave.
  • Details: Tickets are $10 and can be found online (gvrda.com) or sold at the door. 

Rock ‘n Roll Pride

Rock ‘n Roll Pride features an afternoon and evening of live music. Performers scheduled to attend include: Connor Roff; Houseguest; Sixth Grade Softball; Cursed Words; Numbdame; Marcus Loveless; Blud Barbi/Jamie Clawsin/RoseGold; Felonious Parker; Dandy; Ilona Verley; Fallen Stars; FKA RAYNE; and GUYLINER.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 10, 2 p.m.
  • Where: Bully’s Rehearsal Studios Inc.
  • Details: Tickets at the door for $25, with 100 per cent of sales going towards the artists

Community Bottle Drop

The Royal City Rotary Club hosts a monthly community bottle drop to raise money to support community projects. Community members can drop off rinsed bottles, cans, and refundable containers.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 10, 9 a.m. to noon
  • Where: 166 Sixth St. (across from city hall)
  • Details: Free

Basket Weaving

Learn the art of weaving pine needle baskets. All materials will be supplied at this event, which is welcome to all skill levels, including children over 10 years of age who can safely use a sewing needle.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 10, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • Where: The Habitat, Queen’s Park (formerly the petting zoo)
  • Details: Free

Pop Up Library

The New Westminster Public Library is hosting a Pop-Up Library in Sapperton where you can ask questions, do children’s activities, chat about books, and engage with the community.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 10, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Where: Sapperton Plaza, 411 East Columbia St.
  • Details. Free all-ages event runs rain or shine.

Swingn' in the Park

Bring a picnic blanket and join the Uptown Swing Collective for a free afternoon of live jazz and dancing in the park. A beginner swing dance lesson takes place during the band’s break (around 4:45). Dance experiences and partners not needed to join in on this all-ages event.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 10, 4 to 6 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park, Eighth Street and Sixth Avenue
  • Details: Free. All ages welcome

Pride Week: Queers in Technology

People of all ages are invited to explore new technologies in an empowering and supportive environment. Participants will take part in imaginative and hands-on film and media arts activities that celebrate important achievements by queer artists, discuss various aspects of film and the talented queer artists who have filled the roles of writer, director, editor, animator, cinematographer, and have an opportunity to practise making short films.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 10, 1 to 4 p.m.
  • Where Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia St.
  • Details: $30. Register online

Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11

Fraser Cemetery Preservation Project

Connect to nature and your community by helping to preserve the city’s grave markers. Under the guidance of museum staff, local groups and individuals will learn about the cemetery and clean gravestones using best practices.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11, 10 a.m. to noon
  • Where: Fraser Cemetery, 100 Richmond St. Meet at the main office
  • Details: Free. Open to all ages

Sunday, Aug. 11

Summer Concert Series: Zox of the Forest

Zox of the Forest will perform an interactive, family-oriented variety show that includes a mix of children's songs and classic songs such as Take Me Home, Country Roads, Proud Mary (Rolling on the River), Yellow Submarine, and Johnny B Good. The show also includes juggling, puppetry, and storytelling.

  • When: Sunday, Aug. 11, 2 to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
  • Details: Free. All ages welcome

Monday, Aug. 12

Twilight Tots and Families

New West Family Place is hosting a family time event with engaging activities and beautiful river views every Monday evening in August. Open to Early Years.

  • When: Monday, Aug. 12, 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Tuesday, Aug. 13

Art in the Park

Today’s Art in Moody Park features collage with Clarissa Banos. It is open to seniors aged 50 and older.

  • When: Tuesday, Aug. 13, 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park, Eighth Street and Sixth Avenue
  • Details: Free

Mornings by the River

Kids are invited to explore, play, and create together at weekly Mornings by the River events, part of the City of New Westminster’s Summer Showcase. Every week includes experiences and fun activities for kids aged five to 12 years.

  • When: Tuesday, Aug. 13, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: free

Wednesday, Aug. 14

Poetry in the Park

Readings by two featured poets and an open mic are part of today’s Poetry in the Park, hosted by the Royal City Literary Arts Society.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 14, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
  • Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
  • Details: Free

Music by the River

Enjoy an evening of music and fun along the river, including lawn games. Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chair and join in on the fun of Music by the River. Open to all ages. The concession is open.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 14, 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Outdoor Ball Hockey

Kids 12 and under are invited to learn basic ball hockey skills and practise drills with on-site staff. Bring your own helmet and plastic stick if you have one. Helmets are required. A limited number of sticks and helmets are available to borrow.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 14, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
  • Where: Hume Park lacrosse box, 660 East Columbia St.
  • Details: Free. Registration is not required.

Pride Hoedown

The Century House Association’s Seniors Gay Straight Alliance, with funding from the Vancouver Foundation Neighbourhood Small Grants, is presenting its annual Pride Week event. Folks of all abilities are welcome to attend this fun line-dancing event, which includes demonstrations of the steps. Light refreshments will be provided.

Thursday, Aug. 15

New West Farmers Market

The New West Farmers Market features vendors, food trucks, live music, children’s activities and more.

  • When: Thursday, Aug. 15. 8, 3 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
  • Details: Free

Pie For Pride

The New West Farmers Market is hosting its annual community Pie for Pride pie-baking competition where a panel of local judges will determine New West's Best Pie of 2024. Today’s market celebrates New Westminster’s diverse community.

  • When: Thursday, Aug. 15, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
  • Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave.
  • Details: A slice of pie is available with a donation to New West Pride

Friday, Aug. 16

Bridge City Sound Park Takeovers

Enjoy games, activities, music from Bridge City Sound DJs, and prizes at Bridge City Sound Park Takeovers. Activities are for youth 11 to 18 years, but all ages are welcome to observe.

  • When: Friday, Aug. 16, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park, Sixth Avenue and Eighth Street
  • Details: Free

Summer Clothing Swap (Facebook)

Arrieta Art Studio is hosting a summer clothing swap. Clothing can be dropped off starting at noon (must be washed and folded. Only clothing items to be donated – no toys, household items, etc. All leftover clothing will be donated to shelters or non-profit thrift stores. No limit to the amount of clothing that can be donated.

  • When: Friday, Aug. 16, 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Where: #106 329 Columbia St.
  • Details: Admission is by donation

Fridays on Front

The Fridays on Front street party features food, beer, music, children’s activities and more. Today's theme is Pride New West.

  • When: Friday, Aug. 16, 5 to 9 p.m.
  • Where:
  • Details: Free

Saturday, Aug. 17

New West Pride 2024

Enjoy live performances on two stages, roving entertainment, vendors, food trucks, a kid’s zone, lounge tents and more at the New West Pride 2024 street festival – now in its 15th year.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 17, 3 to 8 p.m.
  • Where: Columbia Street between Eighth and Fourth streets

TGD2SQ Swim

Folks who identify as Trans, Gender Diverse, and Two-Spirit, as well as their friends and family are invited to swim in a relaxed and safe environment. All ages welcome.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 17, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park Outdoor Pool, 701 10th St.
  • Details: $2. Register online

Pride at the Anvil

The City of New Westminster is hosting a chill-out zone during the New West Pride street party. It includes a kids’ area, comfortable seating and more. The New Media Gallery, New Westminster Museum, and the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame will also be open. Open to all ages.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 17, 3 to 8 p.m.
  • Where: Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia St.
  • Details: Free

Community Market

Freedom Church is hosting a community market featuring vendors, live music, a photo booth, a bouncy castle for the kids, a raffle, cold drinks, hot dogs and more. Tables are available to rent (register by Aug. 3) for $20.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 17, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Where: Freedom Church, 320 Eighth St.

Saturday, Aug. 17 and Sunday, Aug. 18

Decades in Harmony Concert

The Dimes – Decades in Harmony Concert features a group of vocalists who will take you on a trip down memory lane by singing songs from the 1950s to the 2002., a s how that features choreographed dance moves and vintage costumes.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 17 (8 p.m.) and Sunday, Aug. 18 (2 p.m.)
  • Where: Bernie Legge Theatre, Queen’s Park
  • Details: Tickets available online or by calling 604-521-0412

Sunday, Aug. 18

Summer Concert Series: The None of Us

The None of Us, a rock pop band that got its start at the New West Youth Centre’s Music Scene program, performs a mix of popular covers for people to enjoy at this all-ages outdoor concert, part of the Summer Concert Series.

  • When: Sunday, Aug. 18, 2 to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
  • Details: Free

Outdoor puppet performance

Outdoor puppet performance featuring oversized puppets in support of temporary exhibit at Fraser River Discovery Centre from The Reach Gallery Museum. It is based on animals that would have lived in and around Semá:th Xo:tsa (Sumas Lake) between the Sumas and Vedder mountains in the unceded territory of the Stó:lō people, in what is now known as the Fraser Valley.

  • When: Sunday, Aug. 18, performances take place at the op of the hour between 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
  • Where: Watch the animals move throughout Fraser River Discovery Centre, 788 Quayside Dr. and the boardwalk during these performances.

Monday, Aug. 19

Twilight Tots and Families

New West Family Place is hosting Twilight Tots and Families, giving families with young kids a chance to enjoy engaging activities and beautiful river views every Monday evening in August.

  • When: Monday, Aug. 19, 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Tuesday, Aug. 20

Mornings by the River

Kids are invited to explore, play, and create together at weekly Mornings by the River events, part of the City of New Westminster’s Summer Showcase. Every week includes experiences and fun activities for kids aged five to 12 years.

  • When: Tuesday, Aug. 20, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Music in the Park

Live performances by local musicians. This Music in the Park event is open to participants 50+ years.

  • When: Tuesday, Aug. 20, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park, Eighth Street and Sixth Avenue (behind Century House)
  • Details: Free

Poetry in the Park

Readings by two featured poets and an open mic are part of today’s Poetry in the Park. It's hosted by the Royal City Literary Arts Society.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 21, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
  • Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
  • Details: Free

Music by the River

Enjoy an evening of music and fun on the waterfront, including lawn games. The concession will be open. It is part of the City of New Westminster’s Summer Showcase.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 21, 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Thursday, Aug. 22

Playground Pop Up

Learn a new craft, play games, and have fun at this all-ages Playground Pop-Up event for families. It is taking place by the Moody Park playground.

  • When: Thursday, Aug. 22, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park, Eighth Street and Sixth Avenue
  • Details: Free

New West Farmers Market

The New West Farmers Market features vendors, food trucks, live music, children’s activities and more.

  • When: Thursday, Aug. 22, 3 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
  • Details: Free

Friday, Aug. 23

Fridays on Front

The Fridays on Front street party features food, beer, music, children’s activities and more. Today’s theme is Video Games Night.

  • When: Friday, Aug. 23, 5 to 9 p.m.
  • Where: 500 block Front Street Mews
  • Details: Free

Bridge City Sound Park Takeovers

Youth aged 11 to 18 are invited to take part in games and activities, win prizes, and enjoy music from Bridge City Sound DJs. The activities at today's Bridge City Sound Park Takeovers are for youths, but all ages are welcome to observe.

  • When: Friday, Aug. 23, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Saturday, Aug. 24

Farewell To Summer Fireworks Festival

The Hyack Festival Association’s Farewell to Summer Fireworks Festival features an artisan market with vendors and exhibitors, live entertainment, a beer garden, food – all capped off with fireworks at dusk on New Westminster’s waterfront.

  • When: Saturday, Aug. 24, 3 to 9:30 p.m.
  • Where: New Westminster Quay, 810 Quayside Dr.
  • Details: Free

Sunday, Aug. 25

Summer Concert Series: The None of Us

The None of Us, a rock pop band that got its start at the Youth Centre in Moody Park, performs an outdoor concert. The group will perform a mix of popular covers for people to enjoy. All ages welcome.

  • When: Sunday, Aug. 25, 2 to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
  • Details: Free

Monday, Aug. 26

Twilight Tots and Families

New West Family Place is hosting Twilight Tots and Families, providing families with young kids a chance to enjoy engaging activities and beautiful river views every Monday evening in August.

  • When: Monday, Aug. 26, 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Tuesday, Aug. 27

Art in the Park

Today’s Arts in Moody Park event features mixed media journal covers with Sophie Davari. It is open to seniors aged 50 and older.

  • When: Tuesday, Aug. 27, 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park, Eighth Street and Sixth Avenue (behind Century House)
  • Details: Free

Mornings by the River

Kids are invited to explore, play, and create together at weekly Mornings by the River events, part of the City of New Westminster’s Summer Showcase. Every week includes experiences and fun activities for kids aged five to 12 years.

  • When: Tuesday, Aug. 27, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Wednesday, Aug. 28

Poetry in the Park

Readings by two featured poets and an open mic are part of today’s Poetry in the Park. Today’s the final Poetry in the Park of 2024.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 28), 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
  • Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
  • Details: Free

Music by the River

Enjoy an evening of live music and fun activities on the waterfront at today’s Music by the River. It’s part of the City of New Westminster’s Summer Showcase.

  • When: Wednesday, Aug. 28, 5 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park
  • Details: Free

Thursday, Aug. 29

New West Farmers Market

The New West Farmers Market features vendors, food trucks, live music, children’s activities and more.

  • When: Thursday, Aug. 29, 3 to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
  • Details: Free