What's a kid to do? Plenty, when you're in Chilliwack. Just read on to find what children of all ages are up to around town.
Water, Water, Everywhere
When Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre announced its plans for a water park five years ago, you could almost hear a collective sigh of summer relief.
Now, that sound is replaced by the splashing and squealing of happy children, and the young at heart, every day at the popular spray park. It's free and user friendly, with plenty of parking, an ice cream store on site, picnic tables and shady areas. The park is open from mid-May until Labour Day, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., weather permitting.
Flights of Fancy
Chilliwack boasts one of North America's only free flight shows. And what a show it is! Flight Fest features wing walkers, pyro-enhanced night shows, interactive areas, pancake breakfast and the annual hangar dance, there is something for everyone.
The air show flies July 22, with the hangar dance and night show on July 21.
Musical wonders
Every Wednesday throughout the summer, kids, parents and music lovers converge on the grassy fields outside the Chilliwack Library for the Music and More in Salish Park concert series. The noon show is catered towards families, with performers and activities geared for little ones. In the evening, the park is alive with the sounds of jazz, blues and rock. Watch for the Teddy Bear Picnic, too. >>>
Curl up with a book
Chilliwack is part of the Fraser Valley Regional Library network, with borrowing and returning privileges that stretch from Boston Bar to White Rock and almost everywhere in between. The local library hosts special speakers and information sessions throughout the year, and provides free internet access for community members.
Hot Rod City
Chilliwack may be small, but we like our engines to shine. Several bike and car shows sparkle up the city streets and parking lots throughout the summer. But none compare to the downtown Vintage Car Show. Downtown is open to vintage cars and pedestrians only for this June 24 event, taking place near the Five Corners Clock and at Central Community Park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Ticker Tape Time
When we're not showing off our cars, we're driving them – slowly. Chilliwack enjoys two parades each year, The Celebrate the Arts Parade in May, and the Christmas Parade of Lights in December. Both are a spectacle to behold and illuminate our fair city with community spirit. Call or visit the Chilliwack Downtown BIA for more information.
A Day in History
Piper Richardson welcomes visitors to the Chilliwack Museum. Standing in perpetuity on the front lawn, the bronze statue is a testament to a Canada's war history, and sacrifices made by our soldiers. Inside the museum, a large display takes viewers through a timeline of Chilliwack's history, beginning with the Sto:lo people. Upstairs, take in specially-presented exhibits carefully selected by museum staff.
Ticket to Ride
Or, take the day to enjoy a round of golf, kiddie-style. Both Giggle Ridge in Cultus Lake and Tug Boat Junction in Harrison Hot Springs offer family entertainment that even dad will enjoy. You could even cool off along the way at the Trans Canada Waterslides or Cultus Lake Water Park.
A ton of fun
So, they may not be real dinosaurs bones, but the statues at Dinotown in Bridal Falls are delightful anyway. Kids will enjoy the cartoon-like atmosphere and water park, while parents and grandparents will enjoy the shaded picnic area, and safe surroundings. Enjoy daily stage shows and paddle boat rides around a man-made river. Just keep an eye out for T-Rex!
Long running traditions
Every summer, Chilliwack celebrates all things agriculture, with our annual Chilliwack Exhibition at Heritage Park. From rodeo shows, 4-H competitions, machinery parades, logging shows, crafting, flower and produce judging to on-stage entertainment, carnival rides and a petting zoo, it's easy to get a feel for country life.
The four-day exhibition runs every year in August, starting the Thursday after the long weekend.