Friday has finally arrived, and it’s time to c-e-l-b-r-a-t-e! If you’re looking for things to do in the Fraser Valley this weekend, we have you covered. Check out our latest roundup of events, hot spots and hidden gems — some may surprise you!
Fraser Valley events happening for the weekend of (April 24-26)
1. Annual Open House & Fish Release
Nicomekl Enhancement Society’s Annual Open House and Fish Release: April 25th from 11 – 2:00 PM at 5263 232nd Street in Langley. Come out and help release 20,000 chinook salmon into the creek. There will be tours, hot dogs and pop by donation.
When: Saturday, April 25, 2015 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 5263 232nd St., Langley
Cost: by donation
2. Timberline Ranch Family Festival
Trot on over to Timberline Ranch for some fun on the farm. For one day only (April 25th), they’re hosting a Family Festival — a rain-or-shine event with pony rides, games, climbing wall, putting contests, face painting, archery, a petting zoo, playground and much more.
For lunch enjoy a tasty home style BBQ burger at TR Grill but make sure to bring cash because it is cash only. Snacks and souvenirs are available at the general store.
When: Saturday, April 25, 2015
Where: Timberline Ranch, 22351 144th Ave., Maple Ridge, B.C.
Cost: Online: only $4.00 per person or $15.00 maximum per family! Click HERE.
Gate (as available; cash only): $7.00 per person or $25.00 per family
Note: Please be aware that if the event is full, priority will be given to those who purchase their tickets online.
Tickets will be available online until 4 p.m. on Friday, April 24, or until they sell out. For more information, call 604.463.9278.
3. Circle F Tack Sale & Open House
Looking for some fantastic deals on equestrian gear? The Circle F Tack Sale & Open House has blankets, English pads, Western saddle pads, leg wraps, grooming kits, totes, scoops, Western saddles and much more.
100% of proceeds go to the horses! BC Smokies will be there for a great lunch. Note: Cash only, as there are currently no Visa/Debit machines at the Circle F Rescue Society. No early birds please as the horses will be loose.
When: Saturday, April 25th, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 5794 Glenmore Road, Matsqui Abbotsford
4. Owl Rehabilitation Annual Spring Open House
The Owl Rehabilitation’s Open House is the only time that 70% of the facility is opened up for the public to get a firsthand look at their medical facility and various rehabilitation enclosures! The gift area and garage sale are the perfect places to find a bargain and there will be a silent auction/raffle with awesome prizes!
Walk through the Interpretation Centre to learn about different raptor habitats and check out the Bird of Prey Meet and Greets happening twice a day. Visit the informative displays of organizations like Northwest Wildlife Preservation Society, Burns Bog Conservation Society and Freshwater Fisheries of BC on Saturday. Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary and Delta Community Animal Shelter will be there on both days with animals up for adoption!
The highlight of the Open House will be the release of a rehabilitated bird on Saturday and Sunday at 1pm. 100% of the proceeds of the event are put towards food, medical supplies, cage upkeep and facility growth.
When: Saturday, April 25th and Sunday, April 26th between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Where: 3800 72nd Street, Delta.
5. Fourth Annual Clean Up Langley Day
Help make Langley sparkle and shine! Take part in the fourth annual Clean Up Langley Day. In celebration of Earth Day, businesses, community groups, families and individuals are encouraged to take part in this community-wide cleanup.
Participants an choose to work in a specific neighbourhood and everyone who takes part will be provided with the necessary supplies.
When: Saturday, April 25, 2015 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Various locations throughout the Township. For a listing, click HERE.
This week’s ‘Valley Hot Spot’
6. Fort Langley National Historic Site
Originally the location of Hudson’s Bay Company’s original trading post, the Fort Langley National Historic Site has been educating people on the fur trade for generations. It also has this uncanny ability to whisk visitors away to a different era; one free from Smartphones and hashtags.
This interactive museum, dubbed the ‘Birthplace of B.C.’ allows for visitors to explore various historical type buildings, including but not limited to, a blacksmith, a cooperage and the storehouse –the latter is said to be the oldest building in B.C.
Since time machines haven’t been invented yet, this really is the next best thing. This historical landmark is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week. Visit http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/bc/langley/index.aspx for more information.
This week’s ‘Valley Hidden Gem’
7. Al & Jan’s Fish & Chips
The ‘All You Can Eat’ sign may entice you to pop in, but it’s the homey atmosphere, friendly service and tasty fare that will keep you coming back again and again.
This little family operated fish and chips joint, located at 9014 152 St. in Fleetwood (tucked beside Save on Foods), used to be a C-Lover’s franchise. However, owners Al & Jan went the independent route in the late 90s ‘and have continued to make a big splash with the locals ever since.
Is there an event happening in the Fraser Valley that we’ve missed? How about a hidden gem or hot spot that you think should have made the list? Let us know and it may be featured next week! Have a fabulous weekend Valleyites. Oh, and if the rain does end up making an appearance, make sure to check out our list of popular rainy day activities.
