RiverFest 2025

The Fraser River Discovery Centre is thrilled to announce the return of RiverFest for its 23rd year! Proudly presented by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, representing the Port of Vancouver, this beloved community event is a FREE, family-friendly celebration of the living, working Fraser River. This year, RiverFest will take place over three days—September 20, 27, and 28—offering a dynamic mix of exhibits, live performances, exhibitor expo and artisan market, the Lucille Johnstone Workboat Parade, and many fun activities for all ages. On September 20, we’re excited to offer a series of walks and workshops that invite you to connect more deeply with the river and its stories. These include a family yoga session, a guided walk along the quayside, a horticulture walk, and a smartphone photography workshop. Space is limited – pre-registration is recommended and will be prioritized. Pre-registration will be open soon. September 20 – Family Yoga with Yoga at the Quay Time: 9-10am Location: Tipperary Park – Quayside tour Time: 10:30-11:30am Location: Quayside Boardwalk – Horticulture Walk with Julia Alards-Tomalin Time: 12-1pm Location: Quayside Boardwalk – Smartphone Photography Workshop with New Westminster Photography Club Time: 2-4pm Location: Quayside Boardwalk To celebrate World Rivers Day and BC Rivers Day, enjoy free admission to the Discovery Centre all weekend on September 27-28 and join the festivities! The festival program is below; different activities are planned for each day. September 27 Family Fun Zone Join us at the Centre from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm for the Family Fun Zone. Explore the FRDC’s interactive exhibits and participate in hands-on activities located throughout the building to learn about the stories of the Fraser River. Create Your Own River Fish with Clay 10:00am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm – 3:00pm @ the Centre These river-themed workshops invite children and parents to create their very own river-creature using air-clay. Explore the world of sculpture while having fun learning basic clay shaping techniques. This workshop is presented by Sophie Davari and Arts New West. Register for FREE admission! Sturgeon Stage The main stage will feature live performances throughout the day. Shan E Punjab Arts Club @ 12pm Shan-E-Punjab Arts Club was established in 2008 by a dedicated group of individuals with a deep passion for Bhangra and Giddha, each bringing years of extensive training and expertise. Over the years, the club has had the honor of performing at prestigious venues such as Parliament Hill and the Olympics, and continues to be an active participant in over 100 competitions across North America. The primary goal of Shan-E-Punjab is to preserve and promote the rich tradition of Punjabi folk dances in North America, achieved through captivating performances, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives. The organization is deeply committed to fostering a genuine love and appreciation for these dances, aiming to inspire and nurture every child’s connection to this vibrant cultural heritage. Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolf Pack) @ 1:25pm Returning to the Sturgeon Stage for their fourth year, Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolf Pack) celebrates their ancestral lands and Coast Salish communities through traditional song and dance. Composed of near and extended family, Coastal Wolf Pack has members ranging from as young as 6 months old to over 50 years of age. Dean Thiessen & the Good Apples @ 3pm Dean Thiessen is a staple of the local Vancouver jazz scene — from swing dances to jazz venues and nightclubs. He is an accomplished composer and pianist, having released three albums under his creative pseudonym, Stranger Friends. His swing dance band, Dean Thiessen & The Good Apples, performs at local dances, private events, and festivals, playing music from the 1930s–40s swing era — celebrating the sounds of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, and many more. For the show at River Fest 2025, The Good Apples are: Francis Henson, Bella Fedrigo, Tyler Murray, and Adam Kyle. Lucille Johnstone Workboat Parade – presented by Ledcor The Lucille Johnstone Workboat Parade takes place on the New West waterfront! Find a good place to watch vessels from a variety of companies and organizations cruise by. This is a great opportunity to learn about just a few of the 42,000 jobs that the Fraser River supports! The FRDC would like to thank Ledcor for sponsoring the workboat parade. Exhibitor Expo & New West Craft Artisan Market Soak up the sights as you stroll along the New Westminster Quay where exhibitors will share their expertise and makers will showcase their skills and wares. Samson V Museum It will be open from 12-4pm for visitors to interact with maritime community members aboard the vessel! September 28 Family Fun Zone Join us at the Centre from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm for the Family Fun Zone. Explore the FRDC’s interactive exhibits and participate in hands-on activities located throughout the building to learn about the stories of the Fraser River. Collaborative Painting Project 10:00am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm – 3:00pm @ the Centre Join us for a fun, hands-on painting workshop for kids and families! Work together as a team to create a large, colourful masterpiece celebrating the beauty and life of the Fraser River. No experience needed — just bring your creativity and community spirit! This workshop is presented by Merril Hall and Arts New West. Register for FREE admission! Samson V Museum It will be open from 12-4pm for visitors to interact with maritime community members aboard the vessel!