New West residents have no excuses for being bored in the summer with the many festivals and events taking place in our fine city. Here are 10 things you should try to do in New Westminster this summer.
1. Spend some time at Westminster Pier Park and enjoy a swing in a hammock at the urban beach, a game of sand volleyball or a leisurely walk along the waterfront. Along with two playgrounds, little ones can run through the water misters and play in the sand. Folks of all ages can chill for an afternoon on the festive lawn or benches. Thirsty or hungry? The Eats at the Pier concession serves up a variety of goodies.
2. Soak up the ambiance of the Fridays on Front featuring live music, artisan vendors, food and beer and wine. It’s happening every Friday until Aug. 25 from 5 to 8 p.m.
3. Get back to nature – right here in the city. Glenbrook Ravine Park, Westminster Pier Park and Sapperton Landing are some of our fave places to meander and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature – and the Mighty Fraser River.
4. Take the dog – or the kids or yourself – to Brunette Creek and cool down on a hot summer day. The creek is easily accessible from the parking area in lower Hume Park. Trust us, you’ll feel like you’re nowhere near the city in this little oasis.
5. Pick up some fresh produce or local foods and artisan products at the New West Farmers Market, which takes place every Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m. in Tipperary Park (on Fourth Street between Royal and Queens avenues). Make a night of it and grab a meal to enjoy in the park.
6. Watch movies under the stars every Friday night in Queen’s Park Stadium, where movies are shown on the big screen starting at dusk (around 9 p.m.) Upcoming flicks include: Dirty Dancing (July 21); Hook (July 28); Toy Story (Aug. 4); Finding Dory (Aug. 11); Sing (Aug. 18); and Lego Batman (Aug. 25).
7. Explore the expanding collection of public art in downtown New West, where you’ll find installations including: Wow Westminster (Westminster Pier Park); The Telephone Salesman (UFCW building at 350 Columbia St.); Wait for me Daddy (Hyack Square); the tin soldier (River Market); Diver Inverse (Renaissance Square); and birds on a branch (Front Street parkade).
8. Cheer on the New Westminster Senior A Salmonbellies in their quest to win a 25th Mann Cup. You’re sure to see some hard-hitting, fast-paced action on the wooden floor at Queen’s Park Arena when the Bellies play the Coquitlam Adanacs (Thursday, July 20 at 7:30 p.m.) and the Victoria Shamrocks (Thursday, July 27 at 7:30 p.m.) at Queen’s Park Arena – followed by some playoff action in the coming weeks.
9. Head indoors and explore some of New Westminster’s cultural facilities, including the innovative New Media Gallery at Anvil Centre. While you’re there, be sure to check out the New Westminster Museum and the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Don’t forget to visit Irving House, where you can learn about the Royal City’s history.
10. Check out some of the local restaurants, serving up everything to Mexican to Thai to Lebanese cuisine. Make a night of it and head to one of the local entertainment spots or pubs, where you can enjoy everything from comedy to live music.
