Spring 2026 in New Westminster: Hyack Festival & Must-See Events
- hyackfestival
- Apr 28
- 4 min read
Spring in New Westminster marks the return of something special: the energy, connection, and celebration that define Hyack season.
As the days get longer and the city comes alive, streets fill with music, parks turn into gathering places, and neighbours come together to celebrate what makes the Royal City unique. From the return of the Hyack Multicultural Parade to a full calendar of community-led events, there’s no shortage of ways to be part of it all.
Here are the top spring events in New Westminster for 2026:
Spring events in New Westminster 2026
Jump to:
Hyack Multicultural Parade & Festival on May 23
Each spring, the Hyack Multicultural Parade and Festival brings the community together in one of the most anticipated traditions in New Westminster. What began as a celebration of the city’s spirit has grown into one of British Columbia’s largest family-oriented parades, filling Uptown with colour, music, and movement.
Multicultural Parade
When: May 23, 2026, 11 am – 1:00 pm
Where: Along 6th Street and 8th Avenue, ending at Queens Park
Admission: Free
Highlights:
Over 80 parade entries, including cultural groups, performers, and community organizations
Marching bands, floats, mascots, and live performances throughout the route
A high-energy, city-wide celebration of culture and community
Festival in the Park
When: May 23, 2026, 11 am – 5:00 pm
Where: Tipperary Park
Admission: Free
Highlights:
70+ artisan vendors and local exhibitors
Live multicultural performances on the main stage throughout the afternoon
A dedicated Kids’ Zone and City Works exhibit behind City Hall
Food vendors offering a variety of international flavours
As the parade winds down, the celebration continues just steps away at Festival in the Park.
This is one of those days where the whole city shows up—whether you’re watching from the parade route or spending the afternoon in the park, it’s a chance to experience New West at its most vibrant.
Fired Up for Football Kickoff Festival on June 6
When: June 6, 2026, 10:30 am – 5:00 pm
Where: Queen's Park
Admission: Free (tournament registration: $20)
Get into the soccer spirit as New Westminster gears up for the 2026 World Cup festivities. The Kickoff Festival is a day full of sport and community at Queen's Park.
Highlights:
The Kelly Duke Memorial Tournament featuring local teams
Family-friendly activities and interactive stations
Food vendors and community programming throughout the day
This kickoff is the first of many soccer-themed events this June, including watch parties for Team Canada on June 12, 18, and 24.
Pollinator Party! on April 25 and 26
When: April 25 – 26, 2026, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Where: Fraser River Discovery Centre
Admission: $5 – $8
Spring also means reconnecting with the natural world, and the Pollinator Party is a hands-on way to do just that.
Hosted at the Fraser River Discovery Centre, this weekend event highlights the small but essential creatures that support local ecosystems.
Highlights:
Interactive exhibits that bring pollination to life
Activities and games focused on local species
Full access to the Discovery Centre’s galleries and exhibits
It’s a family-friendly way to learn more about the environment that surrounds and supports the community.
Heritage Homes Tour on May 31
When: May 31, 2026, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Where: Various locations across New Westminster (pick up guidebooks at 218 Queens Avenue or Royal City Colours)
Admission: Ticketed (includes guidebook and map)
New Westminster’s history is built into its streets—and for one day each spring, a select number of those stories open their doors.
The Heritage Homes Tour offers a self-guided look inside some of the city’s most unique and carefully preserved residences, many of which are not normally accessible to the public.
Highlights:
Access to 11 private heritage homes across the city
A range of architectural styles, from early 20th-century builds to mid-century design
A chance to explore the craftsmanship, character, and stories behind each home
For those who appreciate history, design, or simply seeing a different side of the city, this is a rare opportunity to step inside New West’s past.
National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21
When: June 21, 2026, 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Where: Moody Park
Admission: Free
National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to come together in recognition and respect, honouring the cultures, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
Highlights:
Cultural performances including drumming, singing, and dance
Storytelling, art, and educational experiences
Opportunities to learn about Indigenous languages and traditions
This gathering invites the community to listen, learn, and engage in a meaningful way.
Mechanics of Music Fest on June 27
When: June 27, 2026, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Where: Westminster Pier Park
Admission: Free
Set along the riverfront, the Mechanics of Music Fest brings together students, performers, and the wider community for an afternoon of live music.
Highlights:
Performances from local student groups and professional musicians
The always-popular Instrument Petting Zoo
A small market featuring community partners and vendors
With the Fraser River as a backdrop, it’s an easygoing way to spend a summer afternoon in the city.
New West Farmers Market every Thursday
When: Every Thursday, 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Where: Tipperary Park (next to City Hall)
Admission: Free
Running throughout the season, the New West Farmers Market is a weekly gathering place for residents and visitors alike.
Highlights:
Fresh produce, prepared foods, and handmade goods
Rotating local vendors and small businesses
Live music and family-friendly programming, including the Sprout Club for kids
With the smell of kettle corn in the air and a rotating lineup of vendors, the Farmers Market is the ultimate way to spend a Thursday afternoon in New West.
Getting Around New West This Spring
Skip the parking stress—most events are a short walk from SkyTrain stations, and bike-friendly routes connect Uptown, Downtown, and the Quay. Planning to attend Hyack Festival? Arrive early, explore the neighbourhood, and make a full day of it.
Spring in New Westminster is about more than a calendar of events—it’s about showing up, participating, and celebrating the community together.
We look forward to seeing you out there.
Which event are you most excited for?
Hyack Parade
Football Kickoff
Heritage Homes Tour
Music Fest