The first Celebrate BC Day event in Coquitlam brought thousands of people together to honor the province’s culture, history, and community spirit. Held at Town Centre Park on August 4, the festival marked a milestone for the celebration of British Columbia’s heritage.
BC Day has been observed since 1974 on the first Monday in August. It is a time for residents to reflect on the province’s unique identity and diverse traditions. The day recognizes the lasting influence of Indigenous communities, whose cultural practices and care for the land continue to shape the region. It also celebrates the resilience of settlers and immigrants, whose contributions have built the multicultural province that exists today.
The inaugural event in Coquitlam was organized by the provincial government in partnership with the Kwikwetlem First Nation and S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Immigrant Services Society. Together, they created a program that combined traditional and modern elements, offering visitors a day filled with music, food, and cultural activities.
One of the most popular attractions was BC’s largest wild salmon barbecue. Hosted by the Kwikwetlem First Nation, the feast was led by well-known chefs Robert Clark and Ned Bell. Long lines formed early as visitors gathered to enjoy the traditional dish that has been central to Indigenous communities for generations.
The entertainment program featured a mix of performances reflecting the province’s diversity. JUNO Award-winning musician George Leach headlined the main stage with an energetic show that drew wide applause. Guests also enjoyed a fashion showcase by Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week, which highlighted contemporary Indigenous designs. Classical dance and music by Goh Ballet added elegance to the day, while additional performers provided a wide range of entertainment for audiences of all ages.
Beyond food and performances, the event offered hands-on activities for families. Children explored creative workshops, while adults took part in cultural exchanges that encouraged learning and dialogue. This approach helped create a space where people of different backgrounds could connect, share stories, and celebrate community.
Celebrate BC Day also carried a deeper meaning. The event emphasized unity, respect, and appreciation for the province’s roots. Organizers highlighted the importance of recognizing Indigenous heritage while also honoring the contributions of people from around the world who have made British Columbia their home.
Visitors praised the atmosphere of inclusivity and the wide range of cultural showcases. For many, the event was more than a festival—it was a chance to reflect on what it means to live in a province defined by both tradition and diversity.
With strong community participation and enthusiastic feedback, organizers are already looking ahead to the future. Plans are underway to make Celebrate BC Day an annual tradition in Coquitlam, expanding its reach and offering even more opportunities for cultural connection.
For decades, BC Day has been a holiday of pride and reflection. The success of this year’s inaugural event in Coquitlam has added new energy to the celebration. By combining food, music, and cultural expression, it created a shared experience that honored the past while looking toward the future.
The inaugural Celebrate BC Day showed how powerful community gatherings can be. As people from all walks of life came together to celebrate, the event captured the spirit of the province—diverse, resilient, and united.
