New Westminster is set to come alive with colour, music, and community spirit as the 53rd annual Hyack Parade approaches, promising an unforgettable day for families across the province. As British Columbia’s largest family-oriented parade, the Hyack Parade features over 100 vibrant entries, including floats, marching bands, mascots, community groups, and performance artists from all over BC.

The parade takes place from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, winding through the streets of New Westminster with a high-energy procession that draws thousands of spectators. Following the parade, the festivities continue at Tipperary Park from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, where the Hyack Festival offers live entertainment, music, family-friendly activities, and a bustling marketplace featuring local vendors, food trucks, and artisan creators.

Open to a wide range of participants, the parade welcomes marching bands, businesses with creatively decorated vehicles, and community clubs eager to showcase their spirit. Organizers encourage participants to bring enthusiasm and flair, whether promoting their brand or simply celebrating community pride.

For those joining the parade, it’s important to note that a drone will be used for recording the event. Safety personnel will be on-site to ensure that drone operations proceed smoothly.

This cherished annual tradition not only highlights the vibrant culture of New Westminster but also provides a platform for local businesses and artists to engage with the community. It's a perfect outing for families looking to enjoy a day full of fun, creativity, and celebration.

Volunteers are still needed to help make the Hyack Parade and Festival a success. From assisting with event setup to helping manage the parade route and supporting festival activities, there are many ways to get involved. Volunteering is a great opportunity to be part of the community, meet new people, and contribute to one of New Westminster’s most beloved events.

Complete the Volunteer Form Here

Youth Week 2025: Celebrating Young Leaders and Community Spirit in New West

New Westminster to Celebrate Youth Week 2025 with Week-Long Festivities

New Westminster, BC – April 25, 2025 — The City of New Westminster is set to celebrate Youth Week 2025 from May 1 to 7, joining communities across British Columbia in recognizing the creativity, leadership, and impact of young people. Organized by New West Youth Services, this annual celebration includes a jam-packed schedule of events designed to empower youth aged 13 to 18, foster community connections, and highlight youth achievement.

A Week to Celebrate Youth Voices and Vision

From interactive workshops and high-energy outings to cultural gatherings and award ceremonies, Youth Week 2025 offers something for everyone. Most events are free or just $1.00 to attend—and free with a New West Youth Membership, making it accessible to all.

Here’s what’s happening throughout the week:

🔹 Youth Week 2025 Events Lineup

🏆 May 1 – New West Youth Awards
A special evening celebrating outstanding youth and community allies.
📍 Century House | Invitation-only
🏀 May 2 – Basketball Showdown
Youth face off with New West Police & Fire in a friendly, high-energy game.
📍 təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic & Community Centre | 4:00–8:00 PM
💻 May 3 – Code Makers
Dive into creative coding and digital art in this hands-on workshop.
📍 Anvil Centre | 1:00–4:00 PM
🏎️ May 3 – Go-Karting Out Trip
Race your friends on high-speed electric go-karts! Pre-registration required.
📍 Meet at New West Youth Centre | 5:00–9:00 PM
🥞 May 4 – Bingo & Brunch
Join youth and seniors for pancakes, bingo, and great conversation.
📍 Century House | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM
🧵 May 5 – Red Dress Day
Reflect and remember on this day honoring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.
📍 New West Youth Centre | 3:15–7:00 PM
🌍 May 6 – Cultural Collab
Celebrate cultures through food, music, and storytelling—come early, it's a fave!
📍 New West Youth Centre | 3:15–8:00 PM
🎊 May 7 – It’s a Wrap Party
Close out the week with food, music, games, and awesome prize giveaways!
📍 New West Youth Centre | 3:15–9:00 PM

Inclusive, Accessible, and Youth-Centered

Youth Week events are hosted across multiple locations, including the New West Youth Centre, Anvil Centre, Century House, and more. Programming is tailored for different interests and age groups, with a strong emphasis on accessibility, diversity, and inclusion.

Want to Join In or Volunteer?

📅 Full schedule & details: newwestyouth.ca/youthweek
📧 Contact: Youth Services Coordinator Paolo Zenone
✉️ [email protected] | ☎️ 604-515-3801
📱 Follow on Instagram: @newwestyouth

Let’s Celebrate the Power of Youth in New Westminster!

From tech innovation to cultural exploration, Youth Week 2025 is a vibrant showcase of everything New West youth bring to the community. Join in the fun, make new connections, and help us celebrate the next generation of leaders and changemakers.

⛈️ Rain Joke of the Day 🌧️

🌧️ I’m feeling under the weather. 😥

But I’m hoping for a sunny disposition soon! 😎

Groan O' Meter

What do you say?

Meme of the Day

Brought to you by New West Spotlight Daily Digital Newsletter

What’s faster than word of mouth? New West Spotlight! It keeps you updated on what is happening locally and connects businesses to our vibrant community.

Who else do you know in New West who might also enjoy reading the New West Spotlight?

Shall we continue with a daily meme? Vote Today.

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in an upcoming issue of New West Spotlight in front of thousands of New West residents?

Check out our options.

Not a business owner, but love a local business?

Tell us all about it - send an email to [email protected]

Youth Week 2025 + Volunteers Needed, Hyack Parade & Festival

Issue #212

Inside the New West Spotlight

Read New West Spotlight Online

April 25, 2025

April 26, 2025

April 27, 2025

🥳 Hyack Parade & Festival - Volunteers Needed 🎉