FESTIVALS
Surrey Slam Jam: Annual event Saturday, April 6 at Guildford Recreation Centre, 15105 105 Ave., hosted by City of Surrey and partners. Free admission. “Join us for a day filled with basketball (5v5 tournament), dance, art, and culture,” from noon to 8 p.m. “Join us for great prizes, special guest appearances, and more.” Info: surrey.ca/news-events/events/surrey-slam-jam.
Party for the Planet: City of Surrey to host largest Earth Day event in B.C. on Saturday, April 27 at Surrey Civic Plaza from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. To feature an expanded sustainable marketplace, Indigenous cultural sharing, environmental education, food trucks, live music, and performances on four stages. Returning is the plant sale hosted by Surrey Parks, featuring native plants available at prices ranging from $3 to $6, plus 500 complimentary tomato plants to attendees after the Welcome Ceremony with Mayor and Council at 2 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to walk, bike, or take public transportation to the event. Info: partyfortheplanet.ca.
CONCERTS
Jazz Vespers in the Valley: Hour-long concerts at Northwood United Church on select Sundays, 3:30 p.m., at 8855 156 St. “Jazz meets the Spirit in a time of reflection and prayer.” Suggested donation $10. Info: northwood-united.org/events, or call 604-581-8454. April 7: Inlet Jazz Band; April 21: Trevor Whitridge Quartet; May 5: Kim Greenwood & Friends; May 26: The Caribbean Rhythms of Sweet Pan.
ABRA Cadabra tribute concert Tuesday, April 9 at Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey, presented by Moon Coin Productions, featuring a live band, powerful vocals, dancers, multi-media & costumes. Info: iloveabba.com, tickets via bellperformingartscentre.com or call 604-507-6355.
Hotel California: The Original Eagles Tribute in concert April 20 at Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey, 7:30 p.m. For show info visit hotelcalifornia.ca. Tickets on bellperformingartscentre.com or call 604-507-6355.
Soundscape a Capella Chorus presents a spring concert “Renew: One Song at a Time,” June 8 at 7:30 p.m., White Rock Baptist Church, 1657 140 St., Surrey. Admission by donation. Reserve tickets: soundscape.tickets@gmail.com.
THEATRE/STAGE
“A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings” show for kids 8+ and adults to share, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. shows Saturday, April 6 at Studio Theatre at Surrey Arts Centre, 13750 88 Ave. “What to do about an angel who has fallen from earth? This thrilling piece of theatrical magic for young audiences is adapted from the short story of the same name by Gabriel García Márquez.” Tickets: 604-501-5566, tickets.surrey.ca.
“Himmat”: A play about courage and the strength of family love, April 18-20 at Surrey Arts Centre’s Studio Theatre. “This humorous and heartwarming narrative in Punjabi and English delves into the world of a father and daughter born generations and miles apart,” by Gavan Cheema, a Theatre Conspiracy Production directed by Paneet Singh. Four show times, tickets $29-$39, 604-501-5566, tickets.surrey.ca.
“Bakersfield Mist”: Naked Stage Readers Theatre company brings this Stephen Sachs play to Newton Cultural Centre from April 19-21, with evening and matinee readings directed by Bridget Browning. Tickets $22 on nspsociety.com at at door, 13530 72 Ave., Surrey.
“Body Parts,” April 26-27 at Surrey Arts Centre’s Studio Theatre, 13750 88 Ave. “A hilarious one-woman show from veteran artist Tara Cheyenne Friedenberg in which she tries to perform her show but gets comically side-tracked by her own body issues.” Tickets: 604-501-5566, tickets.surrey.ca.
FUNDRAISERS
Shred-a-Thon hosted by the Rotary Club of Surrey on Saturday, April 20 at North Surrey Secondary parking lot, 15945 95 Ave., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “Bring your documents for safe and secure on-site shredding, while supporting a worthy cause. Starfish Pack Program provides food for vulnerable students and their families.” Suggested minimum donation: $20. For more information, email surreyrotary@gmail.com.
So You Think You Can Drag II: Surrey Pride Society hosts fundraising event Saturday, April 13 at the Sheraton hotel in Guildford, 5 p.m. doors. “Community leaders take the challenge. Each raises money for their charity of choice. They then take on a drag persona. All in attendance get to vote for the winner. Winner will receive a tiara and matching funds to a max of $5,000 for their charity.” Info: eventbrite.ca/e/so-you-think-you-can-drag-ii-tickets-782189819807.
“In Her Shoes”: Sources second annual charity fashion show Thursday, April 25 at West Coast Gardens (1420 172 St.), an evening to celebrate women through fashion, music and food. “This year, we hope to raise $100,000 for Sources Women’s Place, a day program that provides free supports and services in a safe, confidential and non-judgmental way to self-identifying women and their children.” Tickets are $150, sourcesbc.ca/events/in-her-shoes.
Surrey Food Bank’s “Breakfast with the Bank” annual fundraiser May 9 starting at 7 a.m., Taj Park in Surrey. “All proceeds raised from this memorable morning will benefit the people living in the Surrey and North Delta communities. Enjoy a delightful morning meal, network with fellow community members and leaders, and learn more about the impactful work being done by the Surrey Food Bank.” For tickets, visit surreyfoodbank.org.
MUSEUMS
Museum of Surrey: At 17710 56A Ave., Cloverdale. Info: Surrey.ca/museum, 604-592-6956. “Lahore to London: A Journey of Chardi Kala” invites visitors to learn about the heritage and identity of many in the Sikh diaspora, to May 19.
ARTS
Surrey Muse: Interdisciplinary art and literature presentation group meets on fourth Friday of each month except December (5:30-8:30 p.m.). Gatherings feature an author, a poet and an artist/performer at varying levels of artistic development, followed by an Open Mic session. Virtual gatherings continue for now. Info: surreymuse.wordpress.com, facebook.com/surreymuse.
GALLERIES
Surrey Art Gallery: Multiple galleries at Bear Creek Park, 88 Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery. “Josh Hite: A Vista,” to April 21; “Art by Surrey Elementary School Students,” to April 21; “Takao Tanabe: Printmaker” on view from April 13 to June 2, 2024.
Newton Cultural Centre features works by local artists at 13530 72 Ave., at venue of the Arts Council of Surrey. For calendar visit artscouncilofsurrey.ca, or call 604-594-2700.
Thursday Artist Talks: Events hosted by Surrey Art Gallery Association (SAGA) on the first Thursday of every month, 7:30 p.m. Free admission. Info: 604-501-5566, Arts.surrey.ca. On Facebook.surreyartgalleryassociation. April 4: Wendy Mould on “Sketching Nature on the Go”; May 2: Dylan Goguen, “Reflections on Perception.”
JOBS/CAREERS
Surrey Hiring & Post-Secondary Education Expo 2024 on Thursday, April 4 at Sheraton Guildford Hotel, 15269 104 Ave., Surrey, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. “A pivotal event for individuals on the brink of their career journey or those seeking a career shift. With more than 40 exhibitors and counting, this expo is an accessible event for aspiring professionals and people looking to change careers.” Free tickets on events.blackpress.ca/event/surrey1-202, and eventbrite.ca.
CALLS
Vendor call for Car-free Day in Newton, set for Saturday, June 8, noon to 8 p.m. on 137 Street between 72A & 74 Ave. Event will “transform the street into a pedestrian paradise with multiple stages, artisan vendors, local merchants and family-friendly fun.” Info: newtonbia.com/car-free-day.
COMEDY
“Toxic” by Abhishek Upmanyu, show times 4 and 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 7 at Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey.” Upmanyu is a stand-up comedian, writer and haiku enthusiast. He looks and sounds like a regular Delhi boy, except is harmless. He does kill though, mostly on stage, and has done so at some of the biggest stages on the stand-up circuit.” Tickets on bellperformingartscentre.com or call 604-507-6355.
Yuk Yuk’s comedy club at Elements Casino Surrey, with shows Friday/Saturday at 17755 60 Ave., Cloverdale. For calendar and tickets, visit yukyuks.com/surrey or call 1-800-899-9136, ext. 0.
BARS/NIGHTLIFE
Donegal’s Irish House: Live music and jams at 12054 96th Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-584-2112, donegals.pub.
Whalley Legion’s Vimy Lounge: Live music Friday-Sunday, Tuesday karaoke at #102-10626 City Parkway, Surrey. Info: (604) 582-0697, whalleylegion.org.
Dublin Crossing: Live music on stage at 18789 Fraser Hwy. 604-575-5470, online at Dublincrossing.com.
Mojitos: Latin music and more at The Turf Hotel, by bands and DJs, 12411 King George Blvd. Info: 778-223-6936, facebook.com/mojitosurrey.
Taphouse Guildford: Music/sports bar, 15330 102A Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-583-8828, Thetaphouse.ca.
Brewster’s Pub: Live music Saturday nights at 7380 King George Blvd. No cover. Info: brewsterspub.ca, facebook.com/BrewstersPub.
MOVIES
Landmark Cinemas 12 Guildford: 15051 101 Ave. 604-581-1716, Info: Landmarkcinemas.com.
Strawberry Hill Cineplex: 12161 72 Ave., Surrey. 604-501-9400, cineplex.com.
FLEA MARKET
The Cloverdale Market: “Your Weekly Treasure Hunt” in two buildings with 200 tables and 100+ outdoor spots, open every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, off 176 St. (Hwy 15) and 62 Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-837-1676, Cloverdalemarket.ca.
AWARDS
Nominations sought for Surrey’s 2024 Civic Distinction Awards, which recognize community leaders who have made a major contribution to the community. Nominations are open until April 21, and winners will be honoured at an awards ceremony at City Hall in November, in seven categories. Full details on surrey.ca/civicdistinction.
Surrey Women in Business Awards luncheon Friday, April 12 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel, featuring guest speaker Sophie Grégoire Trudeau and the celebration of award winners in several categories. Tickets $195 each or $2,145 for a table of 11; General Admission: $225 each or $2,475 for a table of 11, on businessinsurrey.com.
BUSINESS
Labour Matters: Address by BC’s Labour Minister Harry Bains on Thursday, April 18 hosted by Surrey Board of Trade. Bains to provide updates “on key initiatives aimed at fostering a robust, sustainable, and inclusive economy. Luncheon at Civic Hotel (13475 Central Ave., Surrey). Tickets and info: businessinsurrey.com.
Surrey Board of Trade partners with Surrey Pride Society for Rainbow Entrepreneur Roundtable, “designed to be an open and supportive dialogue among entrepreneurs within the LGBTQ++ community,” at noon Friday, April 19 at Surrey Board of Trade (101-14439 104 Ave., Surrey). Free, pre-registration is required on businessinsurrey.com.
NATURE
Community Tree Planting events in Surrey at various sites. “Help grow Surrey’s urban forest by planting trees and shrubs in your community park this spring.” Schedule and info: surrey.ca/news-events/events/community-tree-planting, email stewardship@surrey.ca.
Surrey Tree Sale Program: “Surrey residents can buy quality trees at an affordable price to help grow the urban forest.” Purchases are made online and then later picked up from Surrey Operations Centre. Info: surrey.ca/treesale.
Nature Work Parties: “Help care for Surrey parks by removing invasive plant species, cleaning up litter, and enhancing habitat within the park. Remove invasive plant species, clean up litter, and enhance habitat within the park. Tools and training are provided. Bring your family and friends; all ages are welcome.” For info and dates, visit surrey.ca/news-events/events/nature-work-parties.
LIBRARIES
Authors Among Us: Surrey Libraries hosts local authors in Q & A sessions. For a detailed calendar of events/authors, visit surreylibraries.ca/events. April 24 event at Guildford Library featuring Christina Myers, Nicolette Richardson and Karen Krisjanson. Call 236-474-3176 for registration.
WORKSHOPS
Drum Circle with Fana Soro presented by Ubuntu Ogog and Oneness Gogos, 2 p.m. Sunday, April 7 at Elgin Hall, South Surrey, with marketplace. “Come and experience the joy of drumming. Participants will be provided the use of a djembe drum for the session (or bring your own) and learn rhythms of West Africa.” Tickets $20, call 604-868-4804, email anniopeters@gmail.com.
The Network to Eliminate Violence in Relationships (NEVR) is offering free 3-hour online workshops every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. “Goal of the workshop is to learn to identify different types of abuse, support survivors of abuse and learn how to find additional supports and resources for survivors of abuse.” Email nevr@kpu to register for a free VIP workshop. Info: 604-599-2267.
EDUCATION
READ Surrey/White Rock Society’s Partners Program offers free, one-to-one tutoring for adults who want reading, writing or math support. “If you or someone you know needs literacy help, call Shanti at 778-242-7323 or email readswrs@gmail.com.” Info at readsurreywhiterock.com.
KIDS
MYzone and MYgame After School Drop-in Programs run from October to June at seven locations across Surrey. “These fun programs provide children ages 8-12 the opportunity to explore a variety of activities during critical after-school hours in a safe and fully supervised environment.” MYzone and MYgame are included with the purchase of a MY Fun Pass or annual children’s pass, via City of Surrey. To register for MYzone and MYgame without the purchase of a MY Fun Pass, a one-time fee of $27.75 per child and $16.75 per child, applies respectively. Info: surrey.ca/activities-parks-recreation/recreation-programs/children-age-6-to-12/mygame-after-school-drop-in-program.
WALKS/RUNS
Guided Nature Walks at Surrey Nature Centre on various dates:“Join a Surrey Nature Centre team member for in-person guided walks to learn about nature and the diversity of Green Timbers Urban Forest. Walks are designed for all ages and will go rain or shine.” More info: 604-501-5100.
Surrey Trekkers Volksport Club: “A friendly walking club where everyone is welcome. We have a proud heritage as an associate of International Volkssporting with regularly scheduled walks throughout the Lower Mainland.” Walks are on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, most statutory holidays. Info: surreytrekkers.com.
Surrey Walks Together: City hall initiative encourages residents to “reconnect with others while walking to improve both mental and physical health.” Meeting locations are posted to Surrey Walks website (surrey.ca/parks-recreation/surrey-walks) along with other walking resources including trail maps, information on self-guided walks, walking groups, charity walks and more.
SENIORS
Belinda’s Connection Café at Newton Cultural Centre: “A free monthly event for 55+ seniors to connect with others while participating in art-related activities,” on select dates, 10 a.m. to noon, register by email to lyn.verra.lay@gmail.com, call 778-879-4097. April 25: Glass Fusion with Studio 73; May 30: Intro to Smartphone/tablet photography with Leah Murray; June 27: Water marbling on paper with Desmon Tompkins.
Senior’s bingo every Saturday from 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre in Whalley. Cards are 25 cents each. Telephone registration is required: 604-598-5898.
Surrey Singles Over Sixty: “We are a group that meet for dinners, card games, bowling, dancing, picnics etc. We are based in the North Surrey/North Delta area. New members (fully vaccinated) are welcome.” Call Georgie at 604-585-7304 or Bob at 778-545-5350.
TALK (Third Age Learning at Kwantlen): Program promises “creative and stimulating educational activities” for the 50-plus age group in Surrey and surrounding cities, with a mix of in-person and online events. TALK courses are “ideal for retirees who want to continue learning.” Fees range from $15 to $30, plus $10 annual membership fee. Info: kpu.ca/talk, 604-599-3077.
Seniors Centre Without Walls: Join various presenters for telephone-based exercises, literature or coffee clubs, learning mindfulness or estate planning. View details for information about the Seniors’ Centre Without Walls initiative by Seniors Come Share Society and register by calling 604-531S-9400 ext. 205 or scww@comeshare.ca.
ATTRACTIONS
Surreys Heritage Rail: Rides from Cloverdale Station. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to be able to enjoy all rides. Accessible. Parking is available at the station, at 17630 / Highway 10. Info: fvhrs.org.
Bear Creek Park Train and MiniGolf: Mini train rides through forest at Surrey’s largest park, 13750 88 Ave. For hours and rates, call 604-501-1232, visit bctrains.com.
SPORTS
Surrey Eagles: Junior hockey games at South Surrey Arena. For schedule and tickets, visit surreyeagles.ca or call 604-531-GOAL (4625).
HEALTH
Surrey No Longer Alone Nar-Anon Family Group (for people affected by someone else’s drug use) in-person meetings on Monday evenings, from 7-8 p.m. at Bethany-Newton United Church, 14853 60 Ave., Surrey. Entrance at north side of the church.
Recovery Canada: “We are a free, in-person, self-help support group for people experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. In-person meeting Tuesdays 1:30-3pm at St. Cuthbert Anglican Church, 11601 82 Ave, Delta BC. For more info contact Anita at anitaendorse@gmail.com or 604-788-4633. The virtual meeting will continue Thursdays 7-8:30 pm. Contact Gilles at gilber005@yahoo.ca for more info, or visit RecoveryCanada.ca.
Surrey Prostate Cancer Support Group meetings on last Saturday of month at Valley View Memorial Gardens 14644 72 Ave., Surrey (no meetings July and December). “Everyone is invited who are interested in knowing more about prostate cancer. Coffee & cookies provided. Call 604 594-5257.”
GROUPS
Surrey Singles Over Sixty: “We are a friendly group that meet for dinners, card games, bowling, dancing, picnics, walks, etc. Our club is based in the North Surrey/North Delta area. New members are welcome.” Call Julie, 604-218-2946.
Surrey Air Cadets: 278 Cormorant RCACS, launched in 2017, welcomes new members aged 12-18. “We parade (train) on Tuesday Evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. from September to June of each year,” at Princess Margaret Secondary School, 12870 72 Ave, Surrey. Info: surreycadets.ca, 778-832-0278.
CALLS
Peace Arch Chorus: A capella group rehearses at Newton Cultural Centre under direction of Elvera Collier and assistant director Bev Feick. “Auditioned members are provided with excellent musical education and vocal coaching.” Chorus welcomes women to join. Info: peacearchchorus.ca.
Aequitas Singers: ”Located in Surrey, Aequitas Singers is an adult-only, non-auditioned choir that sings to bring hope, to raise awareness of social justice issues, and to have fun.” New singers can attend rehearsals Tuesdays at 7 p.m.; for details, email aequitassingerschoir@gmail.com. Info: aequitassingers.ca.
Soundscape A Capella Chorus: A mixed-voice, auditioned community chorus for adults. Rehearsals Tuesday evenings at Fraser Heights Secondary, Surrey. Info: soundscapesings.ca/auditions.
Handel Society Choir invites new members. Rehearsals are Tuesdays 7.30 p.m. at Cloverdale Canadian Reformed Church, on 174 Street and 60 Avenue. Soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices wanted.” Phone 604 202 7801 for information.
Westcoast Harmony Chorus: Group rehearses in Surrey at Parkland Community Church (9574 160th St.) on Wednesday evenings, 7 p.m. “A group of women and people of marginalized genders who love to sing and are personally committed to excellence and lasting friendships.” New members sought. Visit westcoastsings.com for info.
South Fraser Community Band welcomes new members, particularly needing brass/horns. Rehearsals Thursdays 7:30-9:30 p.m., September to June, at Earl Marriott Secondary, 15751 16 Ave. Email Membership@sfcb.ca, visit sfcb.ca.
VOLUNTEERS
Surrey Memorial Hospital Auxiliary has provided volunteer services and fundraising since 1947, and needs additional volunteers. “We manage the hospital gift shop, the lottery booth and hospital gift cart. All funds raised go towards enhancing patient comfort and promoting patient welfare, assisting with much needed hospital expansions and equipment, fostering good relations between Surrey Memorial Hospital and the community.” Visit the gift shop to learn more. Info: fraserhealth.ca/about-us/volunteer-opportunities/volunteer-surrey-memorial-hospital-and-jim-pattison-outpatient-care-and-surgery-centre.
Bell Performing Arts Centre seeks new volunteers. “Our volunteers gain experience in box office sales, ushering, concession sales, working with the public, and more. Get a backstage view of the arts in your community. Learn about teamwork, and experience the joy of giving something back to your community. Volunteers of various ages and all cultural backgrounds welcome.” For info call 604-507-6355. Application form on bellperformingartscentre.com.
Volunteer Cancer Drivers organization needs drivers in Surrey and other cities. Anyone wishing to become a volunteer driver can find more information at volunteercancerdrivers.ca.
Community Thrift Store: “Can you spare 4 hours a day to volunteer at Newton’s Community Thrift Store, a joint project of Surrey Hospice Society and Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society?” At 7138 King George Blvd. Call Donna at 604-599-9930 or visit shscommunitythriftstore.com/volunteer to learn more.
Surrey Art Gallery docent program seeks volunteers to lead weekday school group tours of contemporary art exhibitions. Visit “Volunteering at the Gallery” page on surrey.ca/artgallery or contact Chris Dawson-Murphy, Volunteer Coordinator, artsvolunteer@surrey.ca, 604-501-5198.
READ Surrey/White Rock Society is recruiting volunteer adult literacy tutors for their fall training. Info: readsurreywhiterock.com.
Fraser Health Crisis Line is marking 50 years of operation this year; that’s 50 years of 24/7 service delivered by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, contact the Fraser Health Crisis Line: options.bc.ca/volunteer-at-options.