The City of Richmond has officially been named Canada’s Most Active Community for 2025, standing out among hundreds of cities across the country. The title was awarded through the annual ParticipACTION Community Challenge, a nationwide initiative held every June to encourage Canadians to be physically active. With this victory, Richmond also receives a $100,000 prize to support local programs that promote physical activity and healthy living.
This is the first time Richmond has won the national award. In previous years, the city was named British Columbia’s Most Active Community in 2022 and was again recognized in 2024 for its commitment to encouraging movement and healthy lifestyles. This national recognition highlights Richmond’s consistent efforts to keep its residents active and engaged.
The city saw remarkable participation during the June 2025 challenge. An estimated 425,050 residents joined more than 1,010 activities, ranging from individual workouts to team-based sports. The city and its community partners organized a wide variety of free and low-cost events, including guided walking groups, Go by Bike Week, and introductory fitness classes. These programs gave people of all ages and fitness levels a chance to get involved.
Almost 60 organizations from Richmond took part in this year’s challenge, which represents a 75 percent increase from the previous year. This growth in participation played a key role in helping Richmond secure the national title. By lowering financial barriers and offering fun, inclusive activities, the city successfully motivated more residents to get moving.
Mayor Malcolm Brodie said the recognition reflects Richmond’s ongoing efforts to support health and well-being for everyone. He called it a proud moment for the community and thanked all the individuals and groups who contribute to creating an active city. He also emphasized the importance of providing safe, fun, and inclusive ways for people to stay connected and healthy through movement.
Richmond has long prioritized healthy living. The city holds the title of a certified Global Activity City under the international Active Well-being Initiative and has taken part in the ParticipACTION Community Challenge since 2019. Its consistent involvement shows a deep commitment to making physical activity a part of everyday life.
The ParticipACTION Community Challenge is a countrywide program that encourages people to be active throughout the month of June. It is supported by the Government of Canada and Novo Nordisk, a global health organization. Communities across Canada compete by organizing events and promoting physical activity among residents. Winners are chosen based on participation numbers, creativity, and community involvement.
Richmond’s approach went beyond just getting people involved. The city impressed judges with its wide range of activities, strong promotion efforts, and partnerships that helped reach a large number of residents. The creative ways in which the city engaged the community played a big part in its success.
The $100,000 award will be used to further expand Richmond’s physical activity programs. City officials say the funding will help create more opportunities that are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, income, or fitness level. Plans include adding more events, enhancing facilities, and building new partnerships to support long-term wellness in the community.
Richmond’s win as Canada’s Most Active Community in 2025 is a reflection of years of effort and teamwork. While the award is a great honor, city leaders say the real success lies in the healthier, more connected community that continues to grow every year. The goal now is to keep the momentum going and make active living an even bigger part of everyday life in Richmond.
