Summer has arrived in Steveston, bringing long days, warm breezes, and numerous opportunities to enjoy the village. Cool off with a dip at the Steveston Outdoor Pool or let the kids burn off some energy at Steveston Community Park’s water park or the newly upgraded playground. Whether you're shopping the markets, cycling along the dyke, or simply soaking up the sun, there’s something for everyone this season. Head to the Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market held twice a month at Garry Point Park. Explore the Steveston Vintage Market on the same dates to find vintage treasures and collectibles. To the east of the village on No. 2 Road is The Market at Athiana Acres, open every Sunday, where you can shop for farm-fresh produce and flowers, as well as a variety of other goods from local businesses.
Let visitors know about the free Discovery Shuttle bus, which operates from Richmond to the village on weekends throughout the summer, courtesy of Tourism Richmond. For those who cycle, a free bike valet will be available at Gulf of Georgia Cannery on weekends.
Get ready for a record-breaking Canada Day as the Steveston Salmon Festival returns for its 78th year! With over 75,000 visitors expected, this beloved community celebration blends long-standing traditions, such as the iconic parade, pancake breakfast, and Salmon Bake, with exciting new features including Sponsor Row and a reimagined Salmon Run kids’ zone. From the morning parades to evening concerts, July 1st promises a full day of fun,
food, and Canadian pride in the heart of the village.
On our cover are Patricia Branch and her daughter, Cindy Plumb. Patricia is the proud founder of Pajo’s Fish and Chips, and Cindy now serves as its CEO and President. This year, Pajo’s celebrates 40 years in Steveston. What began in 1985 as a small stand on a floating dock in Steveston Harbour has grown into a beloved West Coast institution.
There’s always something new happening in the village! We’re excited to welcome Koji Mini Mart and Aspen Creek Skin Clinic. While we say goodbye to a few familiar spots—ANAF, Language Arts Base, Laara’s Vacuums, and The Sweet Spot—we thank them for being part of our community. With Our Own Two Hands is opening a new location on Bayview Street, and Village Curry is also making a move there, with plans to transform their Moncton Street space into Steveston Chicken. Plus, a brand new Japanese restaurant is getting ready to open in the former Yokohama location—stay tuned!
Whether you’re discovering Steveston for the first time or rediscovering it with fresh eyes, we hope this issue inspires you to make the most of the sunny season. Pedal your way through the village, relax with a picnic at Garry Point, wander the scenic boardwalk, or pick up seafood straight off the boat for your next backyard feast. With every visit, Steveston offers something new to savour. Here’s to a summer filled with sunshine, community, and unforgettable moments by the water!
Carolynne Palla
Carolynne Palla Owner/Publisher
Sandra Steier Photographer/Stylist
Sarah Gordon Writer/Editor
Tara Orr Social Media
PAJO'S: Fresh, Local
and Legendary
Story by Sarah Gordon Photos by Sandra Steier & submitted
Tucked among the fishing boats in Steveston Harbour, Pajo’s Fish and Chips is more than just a restaurant — it’s a beloved local landmark, proudly celebrating 40 years of serving up some of the best fish and chips around. Situated on a floating dock, the picturesque location delivers a unique waterfront experience as tugboats chug along the Fraser River, and on clear days, stunning views of Mount Baker and the Gulf Islands await guests.
Founder Patricia (Pat) Branch’s life was intertwined with the sea as her husband, Larry, was a fisherman. Pat and their three daughters spent countless hours around the fishing boats in Steveston’s harbour, eagerly awaiting Larry’s stories of a successful haul or challenges posed by a storm.
Pat was inspired to open her business after a visit to Victoria, where she discovered Barb’s Fish and Chips. Believing the concept would thrive in Steveston, she pursued her vision.
After months of research and careful planning, she and her then partner, Joan (who left Pajo’s in 1991), opened the first Pajo’s at the wharf when Steveston was still a quiet little fishing village.
Pajo’s name combines Pat and Joan’s names, symbolizing the partnership that launched the beloved brand.
Pajo’s continues to be a family-run business. Pat is the chair of the family-run board; in 2015, she passed the torch to her oldest daughter, Cindy Plumb, now CEO and President, who is affectionately known as Captain Cindy. “I am honoured to be able to do this and keep growing what my mom started," says Cindy. "This acorn of an idea grew. Each location has its own culture. Everyone works together and grows together.”
Alongside Director of Operations David Hartono, Cindy continues to nurture and grow Pajo’s legacy. For many years, her sister Tara and Tara’s husband Kevin were dedicated to managing the day-to-day operations. Cindy fondly recalls, “My sisters, Tara and Lisa, spent many summers during their teen years working at Pajo’s.”
Pajo’s at Steveston Wharf quickly became a community favourite, setting the stage for expansion. In 1987, Pajo’s at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody opened and continues to be a popular destination. In 2000, a second Steveston location opened at Garry Point Park. Many Pajo’s customers were disappointed when the kiosk closed in 2023 after the City of Richmond awarded the lease to a different vendor. On a positive note, in 2017, Pajo’s launched a location at YVR, delighting travellers with the flavours of West Coast caught fish.
Pajo’s recipe for success goes beyond its golden-battered fish and irresistible fries; it’s rooted in local partnerships and a deep respect for the ocean. All the fish on Pajo’s menu are wild-caught West Coast and certified 100% Ocean Wise—a commitment they honour to protect ocean life for future generations. Pajo's values sustainability, taking pride in being good stewards of the environment and sourcing quality seafood. Cindy says, “We depend on our seafood sources to be there in the future, so we are committed to taking care of it now.”
The restaurant’s iconic fries are made from Kennebec potatoes grown locally in Delta. The farmer delivers them straight from the field to Pajo’s, where they are cleaned, soaked, and hand-cut.
Fun Fact: Pajo’s three locations use approximately 87 tons of potatoes annually!
While the menu has grown and evolved, their show-stopping Pacific wild cod, salmon, halibut, and rock snapper continue to attract fish and chip enthusiasts. The tempura-style battered fish and bottomless fries remain the stars of the show; the batter and tartar sauce are crafted from Pajo’s signature secret family recipes. Over the past decade, new additions like burgers and tacos have found their following, bringing a fresh twist to the menu.
New this year, Pajo’s has introduced three exciting menu items that are sure to draw attention.
Beagle Bombers are homemade fish cakes, deep fried in Pajo’s unique batter, lightly drizzled with Sriracha sauce, and bursting with flavour. Serious hot dog fans will appreciate the new footlong hot dog, garnished with Pajo’s legendary tempura-style ‘krispies’ for an irresistible crunch. And last but not least, tender Humboldt squid is cut into strips, battered, and fried to perfection – a must-try for squid lovers.
When asked what makes Pajo’s stand out, Cindy responds, “The ultimate secret family recipe is the staff. Many of Pajo’s seasonal student workers return year after year, some staying for three or four seasons. Their care and commitment keep local customers coming back for more.” David adds, “Many students got their first job here over the years. For those
interested, no experience is necessary. We will train you the Pajo’s way.”
At its heart, Pajo’s is much more than just fish and chips. It’s a family tradition that continues to grow while staying true to its roots.
On behalf of the Pajo’s team, Cindy offers their heartfelt appreciation. “Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the community support over all these years. We are honoured that we are still going strong after 40 years, and it is all because of you, our customers!”
Pajo's 12351 Third Avenue Richmond, BC V7E 2Z1 Phone 604-272-1588 www.pajos.com
Steveston Salmon Festival
It's All About Community
Story by Sarah Gordon Photos by Sandra Steier
Steveston’s largest annual celebration is expected to burst with extra red and white pride this year. With a full slate of activities and entertainment, the Steveston Salmon Festival is set to welcome an anticipated 75,000 visitors to the village on July 1st.
Despite the ongoing construction of the new Steveston Community Centre, festival organizers are forging ahead with a reimagined format, preserving the event’s spirit and tradition while introducing new experiences.
Now in its 78th year, the Steveston Salmon Festival continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of hundreds of volunteers, local businesses, and community partners who help bring the village to life each Canada Day.
The Steveston Salmon Festival began in 1944 as a sports day-themed fundraiser to build a playground in Steveston Park. It remains one of the country’s largest volunteer-run Canada Day celebrations. Each year, the Steveston Community Society selects a project for festival proceeds to support; this year, funds
will be directed to a long-lasting legacy, Steveston’s new community centre.
This beloved event draws visitors from across Metro Vancouver.
“Steveston knows how to show up,” says one long-time volunteer. “It’s not just a festival— it’s a homecoming, a showcase of our values, and a chance to welcome thousands of visitors with open arms.”
Festival venues are open 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Highlights include the iconic twohour parade and a full day of programming featuring live music, delicious food, cultural exhibitions, and fun for the entire family.
Breakfast is served! Get an early start on the day with fluffy pancakes hot off the griddle. The Rotary Club’s Pancake Breakfast begins at 8:00 a.m. in the community centre’s parking lot. The Rotary Club proudly serves early risers and Salmon Festival volunteers.
Spectators arrive early to stake out their favourite spot along the parade route.
The day starts at 9:30 a.m. with the beloved Bike Parade at Chatham Street and Third Avenue, followed by the Main Parade at 10:00 a.m., featuring over 90 entries and the ever-popular Sammy the Salmon.
There is plenty of entertainment to take in throughout the day. Check out The Catch of the Day performance stage located near the Community Police Station. Additionally, keep an eye out for roaming performers who will circulate throughout the village.
The Spirit of Steveston (SOS) Zone is open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. and offers a full day of fun and entertainment for all ages. Guests can enjoy a lively lineup of live music from 12:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., featuring performances by Midnight Cruiser, Aristo-Cats, SuperCramp, Dr. Strangelove, and other local artists. The evening will cap off with a headline performance by Ten Souljers. In addition to
the music, the SOS Zone includes a variety of food trucks offering diverse flavours, and an adult beverage area featuring selections from Barnside Brewery, creating a festive atmosphere in the heart of Steveston.
New this year: check out Sponsor Row, running along No. 1 Road between Moncton and Bayview. Discover exciting giveaways, games, and interactive brand booths throughout the day.
An annual highlight is the crowd-pleasing
Salmon Bake.
The Salmon Bake is located east of the Steveston Community Police Station. Last year, 3,000 meals were sold in under two hours!
Great food goes hand in hand with the festival, from the everpopular Chow Mein booth to a wide array of international cuisine, while the village offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste.
The event also features a marketplace, an art show, and various community activities.
Sammy’s Fun Zone, now renamed the Salmon Run Zone, has been reimagined this year. Inflatables have been replaced with creative family stations, including face painting, button making, and a colouring zone near the new playground. Additionally, a circus act and a youth music stage will bring energy to the grassy area behind the net shed. Bands from Richmond elementary and secondary schools will take the stage to entertainment visitors of all ages.
Parking is widely available at Homma Elementary, McMath Secondary, the Fentiman Lot (paid), and the Steveston Hub Activity (SHA) Lot, which opens at noon. Shuttle service will also be available from key locations to assist with transportation.
Festival planners are still recruiting volunteers across multiple zones—from hospitality to event logistics, youth activities, and set-up crews. Those interested in contributing can find more information on the official Steveston Salmon Festival website.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a lifelong attendee, the 2025 festival is the perfect reason to gather and celebrate Canada’s 158th birthday. Mark your calendars and bring your friends—it’s shaping up to be another recordbreaking year.
So, round up your red and white attire and prepare to wave your Canadian flag high and proud. The Salmon Festival kicks off summer in Steveston with a celebration like no other.
STEVESTON ALIVE! - WALKING TOUR VIGNETTES
3811 Moncton Street
Steveston Village
www.historicsteveston.ca
FOLLOW US!
@historic.steveston
Steveston Historical Society
Join us this July and August for the return of our historical walking tours! Step back in time to 1917 and experience life in Steveston’s early days through five captivating historical plays— performed as you stroll through Steveston Village. We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of B.C. and City of Richmond.
When: Saturdays, July 5, 12, 19, 26 and August 9 & 16.
Time: 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Tickets: $7 per person, available at Steveston Museum or online at Eventbrite
STEVESTON VINTAGE FAIR
The Steveston Vintage Fair returns this summer to Town Square Park, next to the Steveston Museum and Post Office. Discover the vintage treasures, antiques and collectibles you’ve dreamed of at this quaint, upscale market in the heart of Steveston. Many new vendors added this year.
Dates: Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., July 6, 13, 20 and August 10 & 17.
POP-UP ART SHOWS
The highly successful Pop-Up Art Shows continue to showcase the work of talented local artists. Featured artists change monthly, and a portion of sales supports Steveston Historical Society programs and events. Discover your new favorite art piece while supporting local talent!
June: Roxsane Tanner and Betsy Randel
July: Shamsi Ashti and “Faces of Richmond” presented by CACR (Community Arts Council of Richmond)
August: John Beatty and Anne Primeau
STEVESTON VILLAGE POST OFFICE
Full-service post office open 7 days a week. Serving as a vital hub in our community.
Your support of this Post Office, becoming a member of Steveston Historical Society, or sponsoring an upcoming event greatly contributes to our ability to provide programs and events that benefit our community.
For complete information on all events and more, please visit: www.historicsteveston.ca
STROKES RENOVATIONS
EXPERTISE FROM START TO FINISH
Our Services About Us
• Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling – Our Specialty
• Custom Cabinetry & Built-Ins – Manufactured in Our Own Cabinet Shop
Finish Carpentry & Fine Woodwork
• Flooring Installation & Refinishing
• • Storage Solutions – Custom Closet Organizers & More
• Exterior Renovations – Decks, Windows, Fencing & More
• Interior & Exterior Fine Painting
•
• Project Management, Design & Planning Services
At Strokes Renovations, we bring precision, craftsmanship, and efficiency to every project. Our team of skilled artisans and renovation experts ensures seamless transformations with minimal disruption, delivering exceptional results on time and within budget.
With years of experience handling projects of all sizes, we take pride in turning visions into reality through expert design, quality materials, and meticulous attention to detail.
THRIFT SHOP
Steveston’s RHA Thrift Shop is a great place to shop and explore. Come and check-out the cool, interesting and exciting items we have in the store for you.
Our staff are 100% volunteers and all proceeds fund special equipment needs at Richmond Hospital, Minoru Residence, and Lions Manor Long-Term Care Facilities.
MCMATH TRIVIA TEAM:
Represents B.C. on the National Stage
Story by Sarah Gordon
Max Mori (Grade 11) and Tobias Smerdon (Grade 12), co-captains of McMath Secondary’s trivia team, recently sat down with Steveston Insider to share some exciting news: their team won the provincial championship on April 4, 2025, earning them a coveted spot in the 2025 Consensus High School Trivia Championship in late May.
McMath was the only school from British Columbia to qualify for this year’s national championship in Ottawa, joining one team from Alberta and ten from Ontario. This marks the second consecutive year the talented group has competed at the national level— after placing sixth in 2024, they finished seventh this year.
The team was thrilled to travel to the nation’s capital, especially since many had never visited Ottawa. In honour of their outstanding achievements, MLA Kelly Greene awarded them certificates of recognition.
From a young age, Max and Tobias were passionate about trivia. Max recalls, ‘I was always learning new things. I remember memorizing the train lines in Tokyo.” Similarly, when Tobias entered Grade 8, his mother encouraged him to join McMath’s Reach for the Top club. Tobias laughs, “I was hesitant because I thought it was a rock-climbing
club.” The McMath club was named after the long-running CBC TV trivia show. Last year, the team renamed it the trivia club to avoid confusion.
Max notes, “The key to a strong trivia team is to have members with diverse specialties.”
In the fast-paced trivia competition, two fourperson teams answer questions ranging from history and geography to literature, science, popular culture, current events and more. Using a buzzer system, players can interrupt the host during a question. If there’s any doubt, teams have a moment to confer. With a roster of seven, McMath rotated players during the three-day championship.
The team is grateful for the generous sponsorships from Shafik Ladha, Britannia Brewing Co., and Moxies, which helped fund some travel expenses. They also credit their dedicated sponsor teachers, Ms. Loren and Ms. Shu, who assist with communications and securing funding.
What do Max and Tobias hope readers will take away from their story? Tobias sums it up: “We would like to encourage people to participate in trivia clubs to increase exposure to the game.”
SUNDAY, AUGUST 10, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
FREE Richmond discovery shuttle
CLIMB ABOARD OUR FREE SHUTTLE FOR CONVENIENT DROP-OFFS TO RICHMOND’S MUST-SEE DESTINATIONS
June 21 to Sept. 7 / Weekends + statutory holidays
FREE STEVESTON BIKE VALET
LEAVE YOUR BIKE, STROLLER, OR SCOOTER WITH PROFESSIONAL VALETS AT THE GULF OF GEORGIA CANNERY PARKING LOT AND EXPLORE WITH PEACE OF MIND. June 21 to Sept. 7 / Weekends + statutory holidays, 11 am
Aloha Hawaiian Grill 110-3900 Bayview St 604-370-3033 alohahawaiiangrill.ca
Anar Persian Grill 12051 Third Ave 778-834-1707 anargrill.com
B & P Ice Cream & Coffee 100-12220 Second Ave 604-325-9837
Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine 4100 Bayview St 778-839-5711 baanlao.ca
Best Bite Indian Cuisine 10-3891 Chatham St 604-370-4949 bestbiteindiancuisine.ca
Blenz Coffee 105-3900 Bayview St 604-272-0777 blenz.com
Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant (ad p. 5) 140-3866 Bayview St 604-275-7811 bluecanoerestaurant.com
London Farm (ad p. 32) 6511 Dyke Rd 604-271-5220 londonfarm.ca
Steveston Tram 4011 Moncton St 604-238-8081 richmond.ca/stevestontram
Steveston Museum & Post Office (ad p. 28) 3811 Moncton St 604-271-6868 Post Office 604-238-8026 Museum historicsteveston.ca
Steveston United Church 3720 Broadway St 604-277-0508 stevestonunitedchurch.ca
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Adult Day Centre 5411 Moncton St successbc.ca
Steveston Seabreeze Adventures 12551 No 1 Rd 604-272-7200 seabreezeadventures.ca
Vancouver Whale Watch 210-12240 Second Ave 604-274-9565 vancouverwhalewatch.com
DIRECTORY - Advertisers with no storefront in Steveston
Ana's Care & Home Support
(ad p. 13)
604-242-2190 anascare.ca
Bryan & Tracy Johnstone
Riverside Mortgage Group (ad p. 2)
604-274-9000 riversidemortgage.ca
Dexter Realty (ad back cover)
604-263-1144 dexterrealty.com
Platinum Millwork (ad p. 26)
604-945-8841 platinummillwork.com
- August 15, 2025
Robyn McLean
Origin Mortgages (ad p. 20) 778-997-5852 mortgagesbyrobyn.com
Sandra Steier Photography & Pop Up Portraits (ad p. 29) 778-839-8355 sandrasteier.com popupportraits.ca
Strokes Renovations (ad p. 23) 604-617-0113 strokesrenovations.com
Tourism Richmond (ads p. 33-35) 1-877-247-0777 visitrichmondbc.com
Advertising Rates
Deadline for next issue
JULY 21
A Guide to Local Shopping and Events
Save 10% Sign up for 6 issues*
*Back cover & Ask An Insider are not discounted
Ask An Insider $599 (5” wide x 4” tall) 150 words pre-formatted
Article $995 - based on availability
Advertising rates are per magazine. Ads around the map are not guaranteed and are based on availability. All ads are full colour. We can assemble a simple ad at no cost with text and logo.
Accepted File Formats: PDF files are preferred. Resolution for images must be at 300 ppi. Colour CMYK. Minimum 1/8” bleed. No border.
Carolynne Palla Publisher, PALLA MEDIA
Publishing Dates
6 times per year (NOTE NEW DATES)
Publish Date Deadline
FEBRUARY 15 January 21
APRIL 15
March 21
JUNE 15 May 21
AUGUST 15 July 21
OCTOBER 1 September 7
NOVEMBER 15 October 21
Distribution is 10,000 copies
All ads must be paid in full upon placement
604-812-5658 text or call info@pallamedia.com Mailing Address:
June 2025
Jun-Oct The Market at Athiana Acres, every Sunday 10am-3pm (p. 12)
Jun 15
Jun 15
Jun 21
Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market (p. 47)
Father's Day
O'Hare's Winefest at Gulf of Georgia Cannery
July 2025
Jul 1
Jul 5, 12, 19, 26
Jul 6, 13 & 20
Jul 13 & 27
Jul 21
Steveston Salmon Fest / Canada Day (p. 14-17)
Steveston Alive! Walking Tour Vignettes, 1 & 3pm (p. 19)
Steveston Vintage Fair, 10am-4pm (p. 19)
Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market (p. 47)
Advertising deadline for Steveston Insider - June 15 issue (p. 46)
Jul 26 Pride Walk (p. 6)
August 2025
Aug 4 B.C. Day
Aug 9 & 16
Aug 10
Aug 10 & 17
Steveston Alive! Walking Tour Vignettes, 1 & 3pm (p. 19)
Family Farm Day at London Farm (p. 32)
Steveston Vintage Fair, 10am-4pm (p. 19)
Aug 16 Garlic Fest (p. 31)
Aug 17 & 31
Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market (p. 47)
Aug 23 Richmond Maritime Festival
Aug 23
Steveston Dragon Boat Festival
2025 Market
SUNDAYS 10:30AM – 3:30PM
May 11 & 25
June 1 & 15
July 13 & 27
August 17 & 31
September 14 & 28
For over 40 years, Dexter Realty has been locally owned and strongly independent serving Metro Vancouver in selling residential and commercial real estate and now helping manage properties. With committed ties to communities like Steveston, supporting local is more important than ever! Reach out to us if we can help, and contact Mike, Kevin or Cathie. Support local!
