Canada Day, besides promising a long weekend, brings in a series of back-to-back events in New West.
Start the weekend with a refreshing yoga sesh in the park and cap it off with a lively concert under the open sky — with a ton of fun activities to fill in between. And while you do that, take time to learn and try something new (a cajon drumming class, maybe?).
As mentioned on the New West city website, the day, above all, offers an opportunity to reflect on "common elements found in all cultures — family, food, movement and creativity."
Here's a run-down of top events to liven up your Canada Day celebrations.
Canada Day at Westminster Pier Park
Watch a slew of multicultural performances at the pier and partake in circus activities at a special zone set up by the Vancouver Circus Zone. Juggle your time trying out the stilts and learning about the Indigenous “woodland art” that blends traditional legends with contemporary mediums. The event also includes guided art and craft sessions, face painting, balloon twisting, garden activity and a yo-yo performance for kids. Starting at 11 a.m., rows of food trucks will offer snacks and desserts.
When: Saturday, July 1; 1 to 6 p.m.
Details: New West City website
Drumming workshop
You might have bobbed your head to cajon beats, but have you ever drummed it yourself? Rhythm Resource, a company that offers Afro-Peruvian drumming workshops, is bringing its classes to the Westminster Pier Park on Canada Day. Organized in two sessions, participants will learn how to play the cajon, a versatile Peruvian percussion instrument, and get to celebrate the cultural diversity of Canada. The event is free but registration is required.
When: Saturday, July 1; 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Details: New West City website
Yoga in the Park
Before you dive into a jampacked day, take some time to breathe and stretch in silence. You don’t have to do it alone — get your activewear on, grab a yoga mat and join a group of people at the Queen’s Park Bandshell and get into the flow. The event is free but registration is required as the space is limited.
When: Saturday, July 1; 9 to 9:45 a.m.
Details: New West City website
Canada Day drop-in
From lawn games to board games, and a variety of craft activities, Queensborough Community Centre (920 Ewen Ave.) will host an entire day of family-friendly activities this Canada Day. The celebration, organized by the City of New Westminster, promises to include activities for all ages.
When: Saturday, July 1; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Details: New West City website
Summer Concert in the Park
Extend the Canada Day celebrations to a weekend-long party with this live open-air concert. The family-friendly event presented by Arts New West as part of Canada Day celebrations will take place at the Queen’s Park Bandshell and feature a string of musical performances by a culturally diverse set of local musical artists.
When: Sunday, July 2; 7 to 8 p.m.
Details: New West City website
