Celebrate BC &
World Rivers Day
Celebrate BC Rivers Day and World Rivers Day at the FRDC! We’re thrilled to announce the return of RiverFest for its 23rd year! Proudly presented by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, representing the Port of Vancouver, this beloved community event is a FREE, family-friendly celebration of the living, working Fraser River.
This year, RiverFest will take place over three days—September 20, 27, and 28—offering a dynamic mix of exhibits, live performances, exhibitor expo and artisan market, the Lucille Johnstone Workboat Parade, and many fun activities for all ages.
On September 20, we’re excited to offer a series of walks and workshops that invite you to connect more deeply with the river and its stories. These include a family yoga session, a guided walk along the quayside, a horticulture walk, and a smartphone photography workshop. Space is limited – pre-registration is recommended and will be prioritized. Pre-registration will be open soon.
Enjoy free admission to the Discovery Centre all weekend on September 27-28 and join the festivities! The festival program is below; different activities are planned for each day.
SATURDAY, SEPT 20
Guided Walks and Workshops
9:00am – 10:00am @ Tipperary Park
with Yoga at the Quay
Registration opening soon.
10:30 – 11:30 @ Quayside Boardwalk
with Fraser River Discovery Centre
Registration opening soon.
12:00pm – 1:00pm @ Quayside Boardwalk
with Julia Alards-Tomalin
Registration opening soon.
2:00pm – 4:00pm @ Quayside Boardwalk
with New West Photo Club
Registration opening soon.
SATURDAY, SEPT 27
Activities
Family Fun Zone • 10:00am – 4:00pm @ the Centre
Explore the FRDC’s interactive exhibits and participate in hands-on activities located throughout the building to learn about the stories of the Fraser River.
These river-themed workshops invite children and parents to create their very own river creature using air-clay. Explore the world of sculpture while having fun learning basic clay shaping techniques. This workshop is presented by Sophie Davari and Arts New West.
Sturgeon Stage
The mainstage will feature live performances throughout the day:
Shan E Punjab Arts Club @ 11am
Haleluya Hailu @ 12pm
Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolf Pack) @ 1pm
Returning to the Sturgeon Stage for their fourth year, Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolf Pack) celebrates their ancestral lands and Coast Salish communities through traditional song and dance. Composed of near and extended family, Coastal Wolf Pack has members ranging from as young as 6 months old to over 50 years of age.
Dean Thiessen & the Good Apples @ 3pm
Lucille Johnstone Workboat Parade – Presented by Ledcor
The Lucille Johnstone Workboat Parade takes place on the New West waterfront! Find a good place to watch vessels from a variety of companies and organizations cruise by. This is a great opportunity to learn about just a few of the 42,000 jobs that the Fraser River supports! The FRDC would like to thank Ledcor for sponsoring the workboat parade
Exhibitor Expo & New West Craft Artisan Market
Soak up the sights as you stroll along the New Westminster Quay where exhibitors will share their expertise and makers will showcase their skills and wares.
Samson V Museum • 12:00pm – 4:00pm
The museum will be open from 12-4pm for visitors to interact with maritime community members aboard the vessel!
Wooden Boat Rendezvous
The Vancouver Wooden Boat Society will have an open house and wooden boat display at Sapperton Landing Park. There will be interactive kids’ activities.
SUNDAY, SEPT 28
Activities
Explore the FRDC’s interactive exhibits and participate in hands-on activities located throughout the building to learn about the stories of the Fraser River.
Samson V Museum • 12:00pm – 4:00pm
The museum will be open from 12-4pm for visitors to interact with maritime community members aboard the vessel!
Wooden Boat Rendezvous
The Vancouver Wooden Boat Society will have an open house and wooden boat display at Sapperton Landing Park. There will be interactive kids’ activities.
The Fraser River Discovery Centre would like to thank the following sponsors for their support in making RiverFest 2025 possible.
