From the majestic, century-old schooner Adventuress, the world’s “greenest” tall ship to the crowd-favourite mini-brigs with their pop gun cannons, a flotilla of classic ships is making sail for Ships to Shore Steveston on the Canada Day weekend.
Running from Saturday, June 29 to Monday, July 1, visitors can relive the days when Richmond’s Steveston Village was a major port-of-call for fleets of sailing ships from around the world with free boarding and viewing of more than 16 unique and historic ships. The ships will be docked at Imperial Landing, just a few paces along the wooden boardwalk from the village centre and at the Britannia Shipyards, National Historic Site, a short walk along the picturesque Steveston boardwalk.
Ships to Shore Steveston 2013 runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 29 and 30, and from 12:30 to 5 p.m. on July 1. Ship boarding is free, but space is limited and scheduled activities vary so check out www.richmond.ca/shipstoshore for boarding details and an event schedule.
This year’s event also coincides with another great free family festival. The new site is just a few minutes’ walk from Steveston Park, home of the 68th annual Steveston Salmon Festival, known as “Canada’s biggest little birthday party.” This year, the popular free Canada Day celebration includes a parade, children’s festival, food fair, fabulous entertainment and the Salmon Festival’s signature salmon barbecue.
Steveston’s two national historic sites, the Britannia Shipyards and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, will also be open throughout the Canada Day weekend. Drop by both to view great exhibits on the history of Canada’s west coast fishing industry and much more.
I love the Salmon Festival…..it is one of the most family friendly fun ways to celebrate Canada Day. I recommend parking way down on No.2 road near Steveston Highway and walking or biking in if you can.
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