Summer is officially underway – and you won’t have far to go to have fun. From festivals to live entertainment, July’s event calendar in New West is jam-packed.
Here’s a look at some of the offerings happening this month in New West.
July 1
Canada Day by the River
Canada Day by the River features live music, a circus zone, children’s activities, food vendors and more. Make a day of it and set up a blanket or chairs on the park’s festival lawn area (alcohol is permitted in this area of the park from 11 a.m. to dusk for folks aged 19 and older.)
- When: Monday, July 1, 12:30 to 6 p.m.
- Where: Westminster Pier Park
To July 1
Canada Day: Learn and Discover events
Art displays and kids’ activities are among the events taking place in New Westminster from Saturday, June 29 to Monday, July 1
- When: Saturday, June 29 to Monday, July 1
- Where: Various locations
- Details: Details on the City of New Westminster’s website
Monday, July 1 and Tuesday, July 2
8-bit Circus
8-Bit Circus – the Vancouver Circus School’s year-end show, “where nostalgia meets innovation in a pixelated universe.”
- When: Monday, July 1 (3 and 7 p.m.) and Tuesday, July 2 (7 p.m.)
- Where: Vancouver Circus School, 810 Quayside Dr. Suite 212 (River Market)
- Details: Tickets available online
Wednesday, July 3
Poetry in the Park
The opening night of 2024’s Poetry in the Park features Jonina Kirton and Evelyn Lau. The Royal City Literary Arts Society presents Poetry in the Park every Wednesday from July 3 to Aug. 28, with each session featuring two poets and an open mic.
- When: Wednesday, July 3, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
Thursday, July 4
New Westminster Salmonbellies
The New Westminster Sr. A Salmonbellies take on the Maple Ridge Burrards in Western Lacrosse Association action.
- When: Thursday, July 4, 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Arena
- Details: Tickets at the door (no debit) or online
Queen's Park Summer Concert Series: South Van Big Band
The South Van Big Band, a 20-piece jazz orchestra band, performs swing, bebop, Latin jazz, rock, funk, fusion and contemporary as part of the Queen's Park Summer Concert Series.
- When: Thursday, July 4, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park bandshell
Saturday, July 6
New West Craft
New West Craft is a curated market that highlights the work of local makers and artisans. It’s presented by Arts New West.
- When: Saturday, July 6, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.
Roller Derby
The Greater Vancouver Roller Derby Association is presenting a double header of exciting, hard-hitting roller derby action. Game 1 is GVRDA vs. Whidbey Island Roller Derby and Game 2 is mash-up teams (Grinches vs Abominable Snowmen). Attendees are invited to don their ugliest Christmas attire and expect a visit from Santa.
- When: Saturday, July 6, 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Game 1 is at 5 p.m. and Game 2 begins at 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Royal City Curling Club, 75 East Sixth Ave.
- Details: Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available online or at the door. More details about the event and the after party can be found online.
London Street Block Party
The 20th annual London Street Block Party is a neighbourhood celebration with friends and family. The day’s entertainment features three bands including The Melodious Mandolins, The Hall 23 Band, and two sets of swing with The Westside Swing Band.
- When: Saturday, July 6, 3 to 7:30 p.m.
- Where: 1501 London St.
- Details: Bring a chair and something to eat and drink.
Saturday July 6, and Sunday, July 7
Fraser Cemetery Preservation Project
New Westminster Parks and Recreation is hosting this event, which gives folks a chance to get outside connect to nature and to give back to the 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 July 6, and Sunday, July 7, 10 a.m. to noon
- Where: Fraser Cemetery main office, 100 Richmond St.
- Details: Free
Sunday, July 7
Bollywood Dance Workshop
The Queen's Park Summer Concert Series presents Melinda Fernandes, a Bollywood and Hip-hop performer/choreographer. She will share her love for dance through creative choreographies and learning experiences by exploring different routines.
- When: Sunday, July 7, 2 to 3 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
Square Dance Workshop
The Queen's Park Summer Concert Series features Paul Silveria, a musician who also calls high-energy live music square dances. His all-ages shows include an interactive element.
- When: Sunday, July 7, 3 to 4 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
- Details: Free
Tuesday, July 9
Mornings by the River
Mornings by the River includes enchanting tales and lawn games tailored for families seeking memorable experiences.
- When: Tuesday, July 9, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
- Where: Westminster Pier Park
- Details: Free
Horticultural Society
New Westminster Horticultural Society’s July meeting features Barrie Agar on Growing Fruit in Small Spaces. Check out newwesthortsociety.org for all the details on the gardening’s society’s activities, including meetings, tours, speakers, competitions, and social opportunities.
- When: Tuesday, July 9, 7 p.m.
- Where: Centennial Lodge in Queen’s Park
- Details: Drop-in fee is $5, or an annual membership is $20.
Music in the Park
Argel MDR will perform at today’s Art in Moody Park event, hosted by Arts New West and the City of New Westminster. It is open to participants of all levels and abilities. Must be 50+ years.
- When: Tuesday, July 9, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
- Where: Moody Park, behind Century House (620 Eighth St.)
- Details: Free
Wednesday, July 10
Poetry in the Park
Readings by two featured poets and an open mic are part of today’s Poetry in the Park.
- When: Wednesdays from July 3 to Aug. 23, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
- Details: Free
Thursday, July 11
Queen's Park Summer Concert Series: Entangados
Entangados presents its original musical performance and live theatrical production that is described as humorous with outrageous stage antics. The show is described as “an eclectic experience of cumbia, cuarteto, ska, rock, reggae, Balkan music paired with a long list of sassy-yet-gritty Latin grooves inspired by the underground music scene in Argentina. It's part of the Queen's Park Summer Concert Series.
- When: Thursday, July 11, 7 to 8 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park bandshell
- Details: Free
Queen's Park Summer Concert Series: MNGWA
MNGWA, a Canadian eight-piece band, brings its blend of different musical approaches and traditions to New West. Their sound includes a mix of Latin American and African rhythms with psych rock, funk, reggae, hip hop and more. It's part of the Queen's Park Summer Concert Series.
- When: Thursday, July 11, 8 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
- Details: Free
Playground Pop-Up
Learn a new craft, play games and have fun at today’s playground pop-up in Queensborough.
- When: Thursday, July 11, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
- Where: Ryall Park, 920 Ewen Ave.
New Westminster Salmonbellies
The New Westminster Sr. A Salmonbellies take on the Langley Thunder in Western Lacrosse Association action.
- When: Thursday, July 11, 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Arena
- Details: Tickets at the door (no debit) or online
Friday, July 12
Fridays on Front
Fridays on Front is a block party featuring food, beer, live music, children’s activities and more.
- When: Friday, July 12, 5 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Front Street Mews, 600 block
- Details: Details on today’s food trucks and theme will be posted online closer to the event
Welcome to The Habitat
Explore the newly restored grounds of the former petting farm in Queen’s Park – an area now called The Habitat. Meet with staff involved in the project and learn about the design features that support native flora and fauna, while honouring Indigenous cultures.
- When: Friday, July 12, 1 to 3 p.m.
- Where: The Habitat (former petting farm) in Queen’s Park
- Details: Free. Register online
Secret Balboa Social
A fun evening of dancing and socializing with fellow balboa enthusiasts.
- When: Friday, July 12, 7:45 to 9:45 p.m.
- Where: təməsew̓txʷ Community Centre, Fitness 2C, 65 East Sixth Ave.
- Details: $10 (cash preferred; e-transfer available) recommended, but you can pay what you can as no one will be turned away due to lack of funds.
Saturday, July 13
Meet the Bee Club
The New Westminster Beekeeping Association, which has had a Bee Yard in Queen's Park for several years, will share its knowledge of bee management plans, honey and beeswax processing, bee products (hand creams, lip balms), pollen gathering, propolis collection, honey extracting, swarm collection, nest removals, and more.
- When: Saturday, July 13, 12 to 1 p.m.
- Where: The Habitat in Queen’s Park (formerly the Queen’s Park petting farm)
- Details: Free, but registration required
Swingin' in the Park
Uptown Swing Collective presents an afternoon of live jazz and dancing in the park. A beginner swing dance lesson takes place during the band’s break (around 4:45 p.m.). No dance experience or partners necessary to join. Bring a picnic blanket and dinner to make a night of it.
- When: Saturday, July 13, 4 to 6 p.m.
- Where: Moody Park, behind Century House
- Details: Free
Community Bottle Drive
Royal City Rotary Club hosts a community bottle drive on the second Saturday of each month, with proceeds going to local charities and sports clubs supported by Rotary.
- When: Saturday, July 13, 9 a.m. to noon
- Where: 166 Sixth St. (across from New Westminster City Hall)
Pop-Up Library Day
New Westminster Public Library staff are hosting a pop-up library where you can ask questions, do children's activities, chat about books, and engage with the community.
- When: Saturday, July 13, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: Sapperton Plaza, 411 East Columbia St.
- Details: Free. Runs rain or shine
New West Craft
New West Craft is a curated market that showcases the work of local makers and artisans. It’s presented by Arts New West.
- When: Saturday, July 13, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.
Sunday, July 14
Bike & Walk-a-Thon
Love All Feed All is the Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen’s annual bike-a-thon and walk-a-thon, which is raising money for a new commercial kitchen so it can serve free hot meals and drinks seven days a week. This event starts and ends in Queensborough. It includes 5- or 10-kilometre walk-a-thons or 60- or 100-kilometre bike-a-thons.
- When: Sunday, July 14, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Where: 347 Wood St. in Queensborough
- Details: More information and registration are online
Outdoor Art Gallery
Arts New West is hosting an outdoor gallery featuring the works of local artists and artist groups. This family-friendly event will welcome the community to discover and explore a wide range of artistic styles and mediums.
- When: Sunday, July 14, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: The Habitat, Queen's Park (formerly the Queen's Park Farm)
- Details: Free
Queen's Park Summer Concert Series: Cassius Khan
Cassius Khan, a globally renowned Indian classical musician, performs at the Queen’s Park Summer Concert Series. Khan combines the Classical styles of Ghazal/Thumri singing and the Tabla, the North Indian pair of drums and presents both, simultaneously.It's part of the Queen's Park Summer Concert Series
- When: Sunday, July 14, 2 to 4 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
Wednesday, July 17
Outdoor Ball Hockey
Instructors will teach kids up to 12 years of age some basic skills and drills at this drop-in ball hockey event. Organizers ask that attendees bring their helmet and plastic stick if possible. Helmets are required. A limited number of sticks and helmets are available to borrow.
- When: Wednesday, July 17, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Moody Park lacrosse box, Eighth Street and Eighth Avenue
- Details: Free. Register online
Poetry in the Park:
Readings by two featured poets and an open mic are part of today’s Poetry in the Park.
- When: Wednesday, July 17, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
Thursday, July 18
Queen's Park Summer Concert Series: Stephen Hamm, Theremin Man
Stephen Hamm, a well-known member of Vancouver’s music and art’s scene fore more than 30 years, brings his “wildly creative solo show” to New West. It features the unique electronic instrument the theremin.It's part of the Queen's Park Summer Concert Series
- When: Thursday, July 18, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
New Westminster Salmonbellies
The New Westminster Sr. A Salmonbellies take on the Burnaby Lakers in Western Lacrosse Association action.
- When: Thursday, July 18, 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Arena
- Details: Tickets at the door (no debit) or online
Friday, July 19
Fridays on Front
Fridays on Front is a block party featuring food, beer, live music, children’s activities and more.
- When: Friday, July 12, 5 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Front Street Mews, 600 block
- Details: Details on today’s food trucks and theme will be posted online closer to the event
Saturday, July 20
Summer Night Market
Shop from more than 60 vendors, listen to live music, and enjoy food and drinks from River Market and other vendors at the Summer Night Market.
- When: Saturday, July 20, 4 to 9 p.m.
- Where: River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.
- Details: Free admission
Take it to the Limit
Take it to the Limit, a tribute to the Eagles, pays homage to the legendary band. Attendees will hear Eagles hits, including Hotel California, Heartache Tonight, Peaceful Easy Feeling, Take It to The Limit, Desperado, Life in The Fast Lane, Take It Easy, Lyin’ Eyes, and more.
- When: Saturday, July 20, 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Tickets available online
Hangouts and Hidden Histories: Carnarvon Street
The City of New Westminster’s heritage staff will lead a walk down Carnarvon Street. You’ll hear about duels fought over historic women, stand at the edge of the great fire, imagine New West’s historic Chinatowns, and recognize where institutions changed this place forever.
- When: Saturday, July 20, 10:30 a.m. to noon
- Where: Meet at Carnarvon and Merrivale Streets
- Details: $4.76 and registration is required
Rockstars of Queensborough
Rock Art Canada is hosting Rockstars of Queensborough. Attendees can celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Queensborough Rock Garden by painting a rock to add to the garden and take some home. All supplies are provided.
- When: Saturday, July 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: Ryall Park picnic shelter, 920 Ewen Ave.
- Details: Free. Register online.
Arts To Go
Create art focusing on the three senses of touch, hear and smell at today’s Arts to Go event presented by Blind Beginnings and Arts New West.
- When: Saturday, July 20, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: Uptown Plaza (Belmont Street between Sixth and Seventh streets)
Sunday, July 21
Queen's Park Summer Concert Series: Sam Scanlan, Tuba Player
Tuba player Sam Scanlan performs at today’s Queen's Park Summer Concert Series event. It's part of the Queen's Park Summer Concert Series
- When: Sunday, July 21, 2 to 4 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
- Details: Free
Tuesday, July 23
Music in the Park
Join local artists for instructor led art projects at today's Music in the Park. Open to participants of all levels and abilities. Must be 50+ years.
- When: Tuesday, July 23, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
- Where: Moody Park, behind Century House, 620 Eighth St.
- Details: Free
Wednesday, July 24
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, July 24, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
Thursday, July 25
Queen's Park Summer Concert Series: Mivule
Mivule’s s Afro and reggae music is sure to get you dancing, with heavy drum and bass grooves layered with dub sounds and uplifting lyrics. It's part of the Queen's Park Summer Concert Series.
- When: Thursday, July 25, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
New Westminster Salmonbellies
The New Westminster Sr. A Salmonbellies take on the Coquitlam Adanacs in Western Lacrosse Association action.
- When: Thursday, July 25, 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Arena
- Details: Tickets at the door (no debit) or online
Friday, July 26
Fridays on Front
Fridays on Front is a block party featuring food, beer, live music, children’s activities and more.
- When: Friday, July 12, 5 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Front Street Mews, 600 block
- Details: Details on today’s food trucks and theme will be posted online closer to the event
We are getting so excited for this! 🎉 https://t.co/rULeFnBuIL
— Tourism New Westminster (@TourismNewWest) June 27, 2024
Saturday, July 27
Uptown Live
Uptown Live features live music on multiple stages, interactive community exhibits, local artisan vendors, food trucks, and more.
- When: Saturday, July 27, 4 to 9:30 p.m.
- Where: Sixth Street and Sixth Avenue
Let's Make Seed Balls!
Make seed balls to take home and plant in your gardens or elsewhere. Presented by New Westminster Public Library and Gardens4Kids. Kids aged eight and under must have an adult participate with them.
- When: Saturday, July 27, 2 to 3 p.m.
- Where: The Habitat, Queen’s Park
- Details: Free, but registration required
New West Craft
Presented by Arts New West, New West Craft is a curated market that showcases the work of local makers and artisans.
- When: Saturday, July 27, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.
Shadows and Dreams
Shadows and Dreams presents Twelfth Night, Shakespeare's hilarious tale of unrequited love and mistaken identity. During a terrible storm Viola's ship is wrecked and she is washed ashore but her twin brother Sebastian is lost. Determined to survive on her own, she steps out to explore a new land alive with the sights and sounds of disco.
- When: Saturday, July 27, 2 to 3 p.m.
- Where: Queen's Park Bandshell
- Details: All shows start at 2 p.m. rain or shine. Bring your own chair or blanket; the closer you sit, the better you'll hear.
Sunday, July 28
12th Street Fest
The 12th Street Fest is a family-friendly festival that includes two stages of music and entertainment, children’s activities, artisans and food from around the world.
- When: Sunday, July 28, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Where:12th Street, between Sixth and Eighth avenues
Shadows and Dreams
Shadows and Dreams presents Twelfth Night, Shakespeare's hilarious tale of unrequited love and mistaken identity. During a terrible storm Viola's ship is wrecked and she is washed ashore but her twin brother Sebastian is lost. Determined to survive on her own, she steps out to explore a new land alive with the sights and sounds of disco.
- When: Sunday, July 28, 2 to 3 p.m.
- Where: Queen's Park Bandshell
- Details: All shows start at 2 p.m. rain or shine. Bring your own chair or blanket; the closer you sit, the better you'll hear.
Wednesday, July 31
Poetry in the Park:
Readings by two featured poets and an open mic are part of today’s Poetry in the Park.
- When: Wednesday, July 31 (and every Wednesday until Aug. 23), 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Bandshell
- Details: Free
Ongoing throughout July:
Queen’s Park Concert Series: Concerts are taking place throughout July in Queen’s Park. Shows are on Thursdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
Music by the River: Live musical performance take place in Westminster Pier Park on Wednesdays in July (July 10, 17, 24, 31) from 5 to 7 p.m.
New West Farmers Market: Vendors, live entertainment, children’s activities, and much more – it’s all part of the weekly farmers marking, taking place on Thursdays from 3 to 7 p.m. in Tipperary Park.
