Bucket list: 8 things you need to do in the Tri-Cities this summer
Just because you’re living in a suburb doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to do.
Between Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody, there’s a huge amount of places to be, things to do, and events to attend throughout the year.
Don’t let another boring summer go by without trying out a few of these Tri-Cities must-dos.
Believe me, you’ll be thanking us in no time.
Port Moody brewery hopping
Port Moody is the place in Metro Vancouver to try out a wide selection of fresh craft brews. The three breweries (Parkside Brewery, Moody Ales, and Yellow Dog Brewing Co.) are all within drunken stumbling walking distance from each other, and Rocky Point is just a hop and skip away.
RibFest at Rocky Point
BBQ ribs and corn bread/Shutterstock
And if you’re already in the area—or even if you’re not—you can’t miss checking out Ribfest in Port Moody. The three day event is filled with live music, family entertainment, and some of the best BBQ you’ll ever taste. Admission is free, but bring some cash if you want to experience more than just the smell of BBQ.
- Where: Rocky Point Park, Port Moody
- When: July 21–23
Terry Fox Hometown Run
Historica Canada/Facebook
Okay it’s not technically this summer, but this one is a must-attend for those living in PoCo; or for anyone who wants to celebrate the life and legacy of one of Canada’s greatest heroes, Terry Fox. Every year a huge event is held to start off the Terry Fox Run in Terry’s very own home town, with thousands in attendance.
- Where: The Hyde Creek Recreation Centre, Port Coquitlam
- When: Sunday, September 17
Canada Day fireworks at Lafarge Lake
Leandaro Crespi/stocksy
This is not the year to miss out on Canada Day celebrations. With the country’s 150th birthday just around the corner, you can expect organizers to go all out. Skip the trip down to English Bay and show your patriotism right in the Tri-Cities for a beautiful fireworks display.
- Where: Lafarge Lake, Coquitlam
- When: Saturday, July 1
Take a dip in Buntzen Lake
For those looking to cool off this summer, few things are better on a hot day than taking a dip in this beautiful lake.
Complete the Sendero Diez Vistas Hike
As one of the longer hikes in the Tri-Cities—taking roughly 6-7 hours to complete—the Sendero Diez Vistas Hike is not the kind of trek that can be taken lightly. In fact it’s a challenging route and walkers should be aware of their own limitations before setting out. But for well prepared hikers the sweat is worth it as this stunning route does serve up some of the area’s most beautiful sights. Its highest elevation is a 560 m view, and it will give you an excuse to skip the Stairmaster for the next week or so.
For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from North Shore Rescue and AdventureSmart.
Have some haggis at the BC Highland Games
Just one more reason to make a trip out to Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park, and this year’s games will be bigger than ever for Canada’s 150th anniversary. The event will include whisky tasting, dancers, pipers, and even a few games of Quidditch. Definitely not something to miss.
- Where: Town Centre Park, Coquitlam
- When: Saturday, June 17
Attend the Golden Spike Days Festival
To commemorate the creation of the Canadian Pacific Railway and the last spike of the line being driven into the ground in Port Moody, the city celebrates with Golden Spike Days each year, drawing more than 40,000 attendees for four days of festivities. Between the food, entertainment, activities, beer gardens, and Tri-Cities Got Talent show, you’ll need to make it out to Rocky Point for at least one of the days.
- Where: Rocky Point Park, Coquitlam
- When: Friday, June 30 – Monday, July 3
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