STEVESTON SALMON FESTIVAL

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.

Article by Sarah Gordon (June 2025) Photos by Sandra Steier Photography