Canada Day is more than just a national holiday—it’s a chance to connect with your community, celebrate diversity, and embrace the spirit of being Canadian. For those in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, July 1, 2025, promises a full day of fun, entertainment, and cultural pride. Both cities are hosting events that highlight what makes Canada truly special—music, food, multiculturalism, and community.

Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from elsewhere in British Columbia, here’s your complete guide to enjoying Canada Day in these two vibrant cities.

Maple Ridge: Live Music, Food Trucks, and Family Fun

Memorial Peace Park in downtown Maple Ridge will be the main hub of celebration this year. From 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the park will transform into a lively festival ground featuring four main stages, food vendors, and activities for all ages.

Four Stages of Entertainment

The performances at Memorial Peace Park aim to reflect Canada’s diverse talent and community spirit.

  • True North Stage will feature the official opening ceremonies at 12:30 PM, followed by live music from emerging and well-known Canadian bands including Brass Camel, Ten Souljers, and Susana Williams.

  • Alouette Stage will host performers such as Hayley Wallis and Bakara Band, along with popular DJs like DJ Big Rich.

  • Cultural Stage celebrates diversity with dynamic shows including traditional African music, lion and dragon dance teams, and Indigenous drumming and dance performances.

  • Busker Stage offers interactive and family-friendly performances including magic shows, group sing-alongs, and Latin fitness dance demonstrations.

Whether you’re into funk, pop, traditional dance, or just want to move your feet, there’s something for every musical taste.

Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival

A standout feature of Maple Ridge’s Canada Day event is its food truck lineup, part of the Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival. From poutine and burgers to plant-based snacks and multicultural cuisine, there’s a dish for every craving. This food experience is a great extension of the street food culture seen across Canada.

For more on how street eats are shaping modern Canadian cuisine, check out my blog on Canada’s Street Eats Guide.

Family Zone & Interactive Activities

Families are in for a treat with a range of exciting attractions including:

  • Hamster ball races

  • Euro Bungee

  • Mini golf

  • Toddler hockey

  • Meet-and-greets with costumed characters

Over 25 community organizations will have booths offering games, information, and giveaways. It’s the perfect way to spend time with loved ones while exploring local resources and services.

Pitt Meadows: Morning Festivities at Spirit Square

While Maple Ridge takes the spotlight in the afternoon, Pitt Meadows gets the celebrations started early with a Canada Day event from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Spirit Square, also known by its Indigenous name šxʷhék̓ʷnəs.

Pancake Breakfast & Community Spirit

Kick off the day with a hearty pancake breakfast, a tradition that never goes out of style. It’s an ideal way to fuel up for the activities ahead while mingling with neighbors.

Other morning highlights include:

  • Show & Shine Car Exhibit – Showcasing classic and custom vehicles.

  • Artisan Alley – A curated marketplace of local handmade products.

  • Dog Show – Fun and family-friendly canine competitions.

  • Kids Zone – With games, inflatables, and supervised play areas.

  • Main Stage – Local artists and entertainers performing throughout the day.

Watermelon Eating Contest & More

The watermelon eating contest is a seasonal favorite that brings both laughs and sticky fingers. It’s fun for participants and spectators alike.

Adding to the spirit of inclusion and education, a “Place of Reflection” will be set up near the Katzie First Nation flag. Visitors are encouraged to take a moment to reflect on Canada’s complex history, particularly the impact of colonization on Indigenous communities.

Plan Your Visit

 Maple Ridge Details

  • Location: Memorial Peace Park, 11900 Haney Pl

  • Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

  • Parking: Free parking on-site

  • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair-accessible

 Pitt Meadows Details

  • Location: Spirit Square, 12007 Harris Rd

  • Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

  • Parking: Limited; consider carpooling or transit

  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly grounds and facilities

Weather Outlook

The forecast for July 1, 2025, is looking sunny and warm, with highs around 29°C. Bring sun protection, a reusable water bottle, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Fireworks Update

There will be no fireworks this year in either Maple Ridge or Pitt Meadows. While that might be disappointing for some, both cities are investing heavily in daytime programming to make Canada Day festive, family-oriented, and inclusive.

Acknowledging the Land

It’s important to recognize that both events take place on unceded Indigenous territories, particularly those of the Katzie First Nation. Pitt Meadows’ Place of Reflection is a welcome addition that honors the land and encourages thoughtful engagement with Canada’s full history.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re drawn by music, food, or a chance to bond with your community, Canada Day 2025 in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows offers something for everyone. These two neighboring cities are putting their best foot forward to create inclusive, memorable celebrations that embrace both joy and reflection.

And if the food trucks catch your attention, be sure to explore how Canada’s food truck culture has evolved in my blog post on From Food Truck to Fine Dining in Canada.