O Canada, oh what a celebration! Port Coquitlam’s Canada Day 2025 at Castle Park is hitting all the right notes. Get ready to sing, dance, eat, shop and show your national pride on July 1.
Nothing says Canada like two JUNO nominees, the iconic high-energy rockers Trooper and country music superstar Aaron Pritchett, headliners who will be belting out their hits on the main stage to a highly enthusiastic crowd (last best guess, an anticipated 28,000-plus).
And that's just the tip of the maple leaf. Add in a whole lot of red, white and national pride everywhere you turn, tasty eats and beverage garden, a buzzing local Marketplace, free fishing derby (at Lions Park), not to mention good ol' maple syrup to start the day with your pancake and sausage Canada Day breakfast. Close out the day on your beach chair or blanket, an optimal viewing spot for the spectacular fireworks finale by Western Canada's FireWX.
"The City is incredibly proud and excited to host a Canada Day celebration that truly showcases the best of Canadian music," says Mayor of Port Coquitlam Brad West. "Bringing national legends like Trooper and Aaron Pritchett to our stage is an immense privilege, creating an electrifying atmosphere for everyone."
Experiences for everyone
The City's Canada Day is an accessible and inclusive occasion with experiences for everyone to enjoy. The early bird (and fish) gets the worm at the kid-friendly fishing derby at Lions Park from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. Little anglers 10 and under can cast their line along the Coquitlam River; no registration required and there's prizes to be won.
Dig into a Canada Day breakfast at Mabbett Hall (with juice or coffee) in the Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC) from 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., $7.00. After you fuel up, take part in free drop-in basketball in the Gymnasium or free drop-in lacrosse in Arena 1 (helmets mandatory for all).
Activities for the young will include children's crafts, public art projects, cultural activities, face painting and games.
Opening Ceremonies begin at 3:30 p.m. in Castle Park, with welcome greetings from Kwikwetlam First Nation, speeches from Mayor West, MP Ron McKinnon and MLA Mike Farnworth.
“As we gather in Port Coquitlam to celebrate, we also take a moment to reflect on Canada's rich history and exciting future," says West. "This day offers a vital opportunity to celebrate all that unites us and renew our commitment to building an even better community for all.”
Food, beverages and market vendors
From 1 p.m. to dusk, there's something to satisfy every palate, but don't be surprised if you go back to your favourite for seconds. Choose from food trucks: Whistler Wood Fire Pizza, Reel Mac & Cheese, Salty's Lobster Express, S for Skewer, The Mad Greek and food tents: 4th Port Coquitlam Scouts for BBQ hot dogs and hamburgers and Taco Land.
Pair your plates with your choice of a refreshing cold local beverage (mock and alcoholic available), including NiceLife Cocktails Co., Patina Brewing Co., Taylight Brewing and Tinhouse Brewing Co. Treats are plentiful, too: Kona Ice of Chilliwack, Assumption Youth of Port Coquitlam, Intercontinental Flavours Group, Sweet and Tooth Creamery. Don't miss the die-for desserts at the Marketplace like, Creme Brulee To Go and Pizzelle Pals, as well as, Darna Moroccan Flavours.
Every day is the right day to shop local, but none more so than on Canada Day to show support for local businesses. You can look forward to an eclectic group of 31 vendors, offering unique products and services.
Browse a variety of handcrafted goods, including jewelry from Harmony Jewellery, Mahi N Jude Silver, and Spirit Bead Creations. Expect to see Dianella Cosmetics, Aurami & Infinity Wellness and Double Wishes Lifestyle, Manana Creative Productions and Down to Earth Designs BC; there's even pet supplies from Furever Giving Pet Supply.
Local services are on hand, ensuring a rich and varied experience that celebrates and supports Port Coquitlam's vibrant local businesses and community organizations: Access Youth Outreach Services Society, Cura Medical Group, ProSafe Training School, Team Roycroft at Royal LePage West Real Estate Services, Townsend Thunder Taekwondo, Tri-Cities Dispatch and Westwood Total Health.
Music legends and top-tier local talent
Aaron Pritchett takes the stage from 7:10 p.m. – 8:25 p.m. followed by Trooper at 8:50 p.m. – 10:20 p.m., teeing up the dazzling fireworks display under the ooohs and aaahs of a celebratory crowd.
Throughout the day and into the evening, you'll be treated to some stellar local talent, too, the likes of which include, two Vancouver-based bands, The Matinee, with their self-proclaimed stylings in roots, rock and whimsy, and Best Night Ever, performing their signature blend of meticulously crafted alt-pop and progressive soul. Langley-based Whiskey Blind, will keep the party going with their edgy rock-county vibe.
"Equally thrilling is the opportunity to be a powerful platform for our top-tier local talent," reveals West. "Providing that stage allows our homegrown artists to shine, gain valuable exposure and contribute their unique voices to the day's festivities."
"This blend of national recognition and local showcase is what makes our Canada Day truly unique and reflects the rich tapestry of Canadian music right here in Port Coquitlam."
Community outreach: get involved
Dedicated volunteers and sponsors are the backbone to an event of this scale and it's not too late to get in on the fun and philanthropy! Hat's off to the current gold sponsors, Harken Towing and Journey Auto Group, and media sponsors, Curiocity and Lodestar.
Volunteers are still needed for a variety of tasks, including set up/take down, activity attendants, event ambassadors, parking attendants and more. Sign up at portcoquitlam.ca/volunteer to have a rewarding experience while giving back on a day that celebrates Canadians, our good nature and giving spirit.
Don't miss this all-day multi-venue party that strikes a perfect chord for music lovers and festival-goers of all ages. Come together to socialize, celebrate and kick-off summer with your Canadian and community spirit, and best red-and-white gear!
For more information, visit portcoquitlam.ca/canadaday.
