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Late Summer Bucket List in Harrison River Valley

The calendar may show that time is running out on summer, but here in the Harrison River Valley, a vibrant energy fills the air in anticipation of the wide array of fun and festive events still to come before fall’s arrival. There are plenty of hot summer days and warm, starry nights left and memories to be made! From joyous live music to a dazzling flower fest, delicious culinary experiences to farm-fresh markets, we’ll help you squeeze every last drop out of this sparkling season, and fill your summer bucket with these fun activities taking place within the scenic beauty of HRV!

HARRISON SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL

Photo Credit: Harrison Sunflower Festival

We are thrilled that the new location of this festival – previously known as the Chilliwack Sunflower Festival – is right here in the Harrison River Valley! Explore three kilometres of pathways leading you along 20 acres of colourful backdrops, including a whopping 45 varieties of sunflowers, other summer flowers like cosmos, dahlias, and zinnias, and a large field of barley. You’ll find unique photo ops like swing sets, antique tractors, vintage bicycles, a 1950s convertible, 1965 airstream trailer and raised platforms to help you take stunning, Instagram-ready shots. Food trucks, lawn games, a u-pick sunflower field and a well-stocked field-side store add to the floral festivities. This year’s festival is slated to run from August 25th – September 17th. You can even bring your furry friend; on-leash pets are welcome. Learn more here.

SUMMER HARVEST SERIES

A tribute to agriculture in the Harrison River Valley, the Summer Harvest Series promotes flavourful, farm-to-table experiences. There’s still time to experience the culinary delights of chef-prepared long table dinners on the farm! On August 20th, Earthwise Society will host their Dinner on the Farm event. Join Farm House Natural Cheeses on August 23rd for their Longtable Dinner on the Farm. Creekside Cheese + Creamery will host their At the Cheesemaker’s Table dining event on August 30th. Dining alfresco with gourmet food and great company makes for a magical dining experience. Learn more here

FARMERS MARKETS

Photo Credit: Agassiz Farm Fresh Market

Browse fresh-from-the-farm local produce, hand-crafted gifts, baked goods, art, bath and body products, and so much more from a large variety of vendors at two local markets. The Deroche Farmers Market runs 10am – 2pm every Saturday until September 2nd, Corner of Lougheed highway and N. Deroche Rd. The Agassiz Farm Fresh Market is every Thursday from 4-7pm in Pioneer Park with the last market on August 31st.

SUNDAY MORNING MEDITATION WITH YA DOMA NATURE AND FOREST THERAPY

Photo Credit: @yadomaforesttherapy on Instagram

Do something soothing for your soul – join Ya Doma for Sunday morning meditations from 10 – 11am in the forests of Harrison Hot Springs. This one-hour session will guide you into slowing your mind and body and connecting with nature, self, and others, on a journey into emotional wellness and support. The cost is only $10 per person, and it’s quick and easy to register by direct messaging YaDoma on Instagram or emailing here.

BANDS ON THE BEACH

Be at the Harrison lakefront on Labour Day Weekend, September 2nd & 3rd, for the 13th annual Bands on the Beach! There’s nothing like sitting back and basking in the sounds of spirited live music floating on warm summer breezes. A breathtaking lake and mountain backdrop is the icing on the cake. Bands on the Beach brings the best local musicians in the Fraser Valley to the shores of Harrison Lake! Join us as we say good-bye to the end of summer with two days of fantastic music on the Harrison Lakefront. Learn more and see the lineup of fabulous performers here.

THE HARRISON FESTIVAL SOCIETY COUNTRY CRAFT MARKET

This is part of the Bands on the Beach festivities, but is such a popular event, it deserves a bucket list spot all its own! Taking place September 2nd & 3rd in Harrison’s Memorial Hall (conveniently located right across from the musical performances), this vibrant market features dozens of vendors selling locally produced, naturally inspired, hand-crafted products. You’ll find heaps of unique items to browse, from categories including home and garden, glasswork, jewelry, visual art, clothing & fashion, food, alcohol, textile/fibers, woodwork and more! Admission is free. Saturday September 2nd, 11am – 6pm and Sunday, September 3rd from from 11am – 5pm. Learn more here

KILBY HISTORIC SITE’S FUR TRADERS’ RENDEZVOUS

Photo Credit: Kilby Historic Site

This fun and engaging event takes place September 15th – 17th , 11am – 3pm each day. The site comes alive with the lively sounds of crackling fires, fiddle music, and voyageur merriment. Join the brigades of re-enactors to sew a journal, make tasty galette, and play voyageur games. Learn more here. Or visit Kilby anytime during their late summer season hours from 11am – 4pm, Thursdays to Mondays, to step back in time and visit their 1906 General Store Museum, see the artifacts in the Post Office and Manchester Hotel, wander the beautiful gardens, and visit the farm animals.

RACES AT AGASSIZ SPEEDWAY

Experience the high energy, heart-pounding roar as race cars circle the track in a bid for victory! With great entertainment for the whole family all season long, the Agassiz Speedway seats 1000 and is wheelchair accessible. Offering a wide range of classes from mini, street, hornet, midget, late models and more, races take place August 26, September 9 and 23,  with the last race on October 1.  See the full schedule of races and learn more here.

 PARANORMAL NIGHT AT SASQUATCH INN & PUB

Join the Vancouver Paranormal Society on Saturday, September 16th at 6:30pm as they share their fascinating paranormal experiences and evidence of what the team found while exploring the historic Sasquatch Inn and Pub. Get your tickets here

AGASSIZ FALL FAIR & CORN FESTIVAL

This time-honoured, beloved fair is back at the Agassiz Agricultural Hall and Fairgrounds, 6800 Pioneer Avenue! This year is the 119th fair and 75th corn festival, and will be held September 22nd and 23rd. Loaded with small-town charm, you’ll enjoy a parade, midway with rides and games, Kids Zone, exhibits, 4H animals, chicken & corn barbecue, beer garden and more. Find more information here

We hope this bucket list will help you fill your late summer season with fun and excitement for the whole family! For even more events, click here. To inspire your next visit to the Harrison River Valley, check us out on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest or Facebook, or stop by our Visitor Centre & Sasquatch Museum at #102-160 Lillooet Road. Press the button below to explore more!

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