No matter what time of year, the Semiahmoo Peninsula is the place to be for family fun. From summer festivals to winter holiday celebrations, events on the Peninsula are a great way to bring together people from all reaches of the community.
Here’s just a taste of the great activities White Rock/South Surrey has to offer – be sure to mark your calendar so you don’t miss out on these fun festivities:
Alexandra Festival
May 28, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Camp Alexandra, 2916 McBride Ave.
This popular free family event features artisans and crafters, a family fun zone, youth lounge, non-stop entertainment, refreshments and door prizes.
World Oceans Day
June 5, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., McBride Park at Blackie Spit.
Hosted by Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society and Surrey Parks and Recreation, this free event is a great way for families to discover the exciting world of the ocean, right in their own backyards. Featuring interactive displays, crafts, music and more.
Ocean Park Day
June 18, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Ocean Park Community Hall, 1577 128 St.
This 12th annual community event features stage entertainment, children’s games and activities, climbing wall, Ocean Park Idol, raffles and more.
Canada Day by the Bay
July 1, White Rock Beach.
This annual celebration includes a pancake breakfast, art displays, kids activities, live music and fireworks when the sun goes down.
Canadian Open
July 9-17, Softball City and Cloverdale Athletic Park
Some of the world's best fastpitch talent will be on the Peninsula this summer, as the community hosts the Canadian Open Fastpitch International Championships. In addition to international teams competing, local softball talent will also be featured in the weeklong event.
Tour de White Rock
July 15-17, various locations.
Celebrating its 32nd year, this exciting weekend features more than 150 elite cyclists from around the world, racing in a grueling hill climb, a short-circuit speed race and a 130-km endurance road race.
Five Corners Block Party
July 16, along Johnston Road & Pacific Avenue, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
In conjunction with the Tour de White Rock, last year’s event featured a street-long sidewalk sale, all-day barbecue, non-stop entertainment and kid’s bike parade.
Snowbirds fly for CHILD
July 27, White Rock beach.
Returning to the Semiahmoo Peninsula is the high-flying Snowbirds demonstration, in support of the Children with Intestinal and Liver Disorders Foundation. Showtime is set for 6 p.m. (weather permitting) – stick around for an outdoor movie at dusk on White Rock beach.
Spirit of the Sea Festival
July 29 - Aug. 1, White Rock
This Peninsula family favourite – now in its 61st year – promises to offer plenty of free and affordable fun, including car shows, fireworks, games, arts shows and activities as well as the Torchlight Parade.
Great Pumpkin Run/Walk
Oct. 23, Peace Arch Hospital.
It’s all about fun at this five- or one- kilometre run/walk, benefitting the Peace Arch Hospital and Community Health Foundation. Dress up in your Halloween costume to really get into the spirit.
Halloween Skate
Oct. 31, Centennial Arena.
A favourite among little ghouls and goblins on the Peninsula.
Christmas on the Peninsula
Nov. 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., White Rock Community Centre and surrounding area.
Celebrate the holidays with entertainment, crafts, food vendors and more at this festive event that brings together people from all corners of the community.
Ocean Park Christmas
Nov. 3-6, 128 Street & 16 Avenue.
Celebrate the holidays in the heart of Ocean Park with plenty of festive crafts, entertainment and food.
Polar Bear Swim
Jan. 1, registration 10:30 a.m., White Rock beach.
Sponsored by the Peace Arch Monarch Lions Club, this annual event draws hundreds of brave residents who take a dip in the frigid waters of Semiahmoo Bay to celebrate New Year's Day.