BC Day is for celebrating our beautiful province’s history, heritage, and culture. This weekend, Canadians across the country will be honouring their own provinces at parades, festivals, and other events. And in BC there’s no exception.
The BC Day long weekend is a favourite among British Columbians. The sun is out in full force, and the campsites, lakes and trails are packed. It’s the perfect time to get outside with your family and friends and enjoy what this stunning province has to offer.
Nestled between the Fraser River and the sprawling parkland to the north, Maple Ridge is perfectly situated for a fun weekend in the sun. There’s plenty to see and do – especially on a hot long weekend.
Here are 8 fun things to do with your family and friends in Maple Ridge this long weekend. Happy BC Day!
Golden Ears Provincial Park
As one of the largest public parks in the entire province, Golden Ears Provincial Park is the crown jewel of Maple Ridge. If you’re visiting, you simply can’t miss this park.
It features an expansive trial system, the beautiful Alouette Lake, and large campgrounds. The mountainous terrain, various waterways and dense plant growth also make for an ideal habitat for many animals including deer, bears, eagles, beavers, and mountain goats.
But if you’re human, Golden Ears is the perfect destination for hiking, boating, biking, camping, and even horseback riding. Name an outdoor activity, it can probably be done at Golden Ears! Day use passes are free, but required. Grab your pass here.
Stop for a Treat at Gratia Bakery & Café
If you need a refreshment or a mid-weekend caffeine boost, be sure to stop for a coffee and a treat at Gratia Bakery & Café. They specialize in sweet and savory baked goods, as well as artisan beverages.
Gratia has been serving the Maple Ridge community for years, and is dedicated to providing a relaxing and comfortable setting for you to enjoy your treats in.
They’re located at 22225 Dewdney Trunk Road in Maple Ridge, open Monday to Sunday from 8am – 6:30pm. Be sure to stop by!
Bike the Ridge Meadows Dykes
Along the Alouette River are the scenic dyke trails that stretch across Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. These trails are an ideal spot for biking, complete with stunning views of the mountains and farmland. The roughly 7km trail is an easy one – great for dragging the family along. Check out the bike trail map here.
Haney Farmer’s Market
A sunny long weekend in BC is the perfect time to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables. Located in the heart of downtown Maple Ridge, Haney Farmer’s Market is the place to do just that. Along with the freshest produce on this side of the Fraser River, local artisans pack the stalls with beautiful handmade jewelry, carvings, soaps, food and other goods.
Be sure to head to the market on Saturday between 9am – 2pm, as it’s only open once weekly.
Adventure at WildPlay Maple Ridge
WildPlay Maple Ridge is the destination for adrenaline pumping adventure for the whole family. The adventure park features a number of courses with varying degrees of difficulty – whether you want relaxing and scenic or an afternoon of palm sweating and heartbeat thumping.
There’s the classic course, an extreme course, and a kid’s course – all designed to be completed in under an hour and a half. If you prefer staying on the ground, there’s also an axe throwing station. And if you’re looking for that extra level of excitement, be sure to check out the ‘What’s to Fear Jump’, a 40-foot plunge off a wooden platform.
Check Out the ACT
The ACT Arts Centre is Maple Ridge’s home for art, music and culture. Since 2003, the ACT has provided art programs, gallery exhibitions, live shows, and other award winning performing arts presentations. Every year, over 70,000 people fill the ACT, fulfilling the vision of bringing art to the heart of the community.
Check out the schedule for upcoming events, or bring your family down to take part in an art class, pottery class, dance class, and more.
Enjoy Some Local Beer
If you’re feeling tired out from all that adventure, or you’re just feeling the early stages of heat stroke, why not stop for some cold beer. Maple Ridge as a lot to offer, but the Billy Miner Alehouse is a great place to start.
The historic Billy Miner Alehouse is home to an impressive selection of beers from across the province, including Mission, Victoria, Penticton, Port Moody, Fernie, North Van, and more.
Learn more about the history of Billy Miner, and check out their full menu and beer list: Billy Miner Alehouse.
Maple Ridge Caribbean Festival
On July 30th and 31st, the Maple Ridge Caribbean Fest will be celebrating its 22nd year of music and good times. This festival draws musicians from around the world, and will be featuring Mostly Marley, Hitsville USA, Tropical Breeze, and many more for 2022.
The Maple Ridge Caribbean Festival is located at the Albion Fairgrounds, 23448 Jim Robson Way. Check out the full lineup and schedule on their website: Maple Ridge Caribbean Fest.