Credit: StreetFest 2023

As Canada Day approaches, the City of Burnaby is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events: StreetFest on Central. Happening on July 1, this vibrant festival is a cornerstone of the city’s Canada Day celebrations, promising an evening of fun, food, and festivities for the whole family. With so many activities and performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars and bring your family and friends for an unforgettable evening.

WHERE & WHEN IS IT?

StreetFest on Central will take place on July 1 from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM, with festivities spread across Central Park and Central Boulevard in Burnaby. The event is easily accessible via Patterson and Metrotown SkyTrain stations, as well as the Metrotown bus loop, making it convenient for attendees to take transit, cycle, or walk to the festival.

StreetFest 2023 – Credit: City of Burnaby

Highlights of StreetFest 2024:

Kids Stage & Family Zone
Located at Civic Square, near the Bob Prittie Metrotown Library, this area is a hub of excitement for families. Drop by to enjoy:

  • Gigglebooth Photos: Capture memories with fun photo booths.
  • Free Giveaways: Don’t miss out on the complimentary goodies.
  • Roving Entertainers: Be mesmerized by stilt walkers, jugglers, mimes, and clowns.
  • Recreation and Games: Engage in a variety of family-friendly activities.

Community Zone
|The Community Zone offers a fantastic mix of cultural and interactive experiences:

  • Bollywood Dance Performances: Join the Spirit of Dance Academy for interactive Bollywood dances that will get everyone moving.
  • Multicultural Booths: Learn about different cultures through booths from various community groups.
  • Partner Activities: Enjoy activities hosted by Concord Pacific and RBC.
  • Sports and Arts: Participate in sports activities and explore artistic displays.
  • Interactive Displays and Photo Ops: Engage with fun displays and capture moments at photo opportunities.

Music, Dance, and Live Performances
Throughout the evening, Central Park will be alive with music and dance. Enjoy live concert performances from local artists and bands, providing the perfect soundtrack to your Canada Day celebration. The lineup of performers is sure to have something for every musical taste, from upbeat pop tunes to soulful ballads. Dancing is encouraged, so bring your best moves and enjoy the live entertainment. Here’s the main stage schedule before the fireworks at 10:15pm at Central Park:

Food Trucks Galore
No festival is complete without delicious food, and StreetFest on Central does not disappoint. A wide variety of food trucks will be available, offering everything from classic festival fare to gourmet treats. Whether you’re in the mood for Thai food, Jerk Chicken, or a sweet treat, the food trucks have you covered. Be sure to try out different vendors and maybe discover a new favourite snack!

Fireworks Finale
The highlight of the night is the spectacular fireworks show at Central Park. Starting at 10:15 PM, the fireworks will light up the sky in a dazzling display, bringing the festivities to a grand conclusion. The fireworks are a perfect way to cap off an evening of celebration, reflecting the joy and excitement of Canada Day. Find a good spot early to ensure you have a great view of this breathtaking show.

Fireworks – Credit: StreetFest 2023

Live performance @ StreetFest 2023 – Credit: StreetFest 2023

Road Closure

Although all the SkyTrain stations will remain open, bus services for transit passengers and parking restrictions for drivers will take place. To ensure the safety of residents and event participants, as well as to accommodate planned activities for StreetFest on Central, there will be several road closures on July 1. From 2 PM on July 1 to 12:01 AM on July 2, traffic will not be permitted on the following streets:

  • Patterson Ave: Closed from Kingsway to Mayberry St., except for local access to 5790/5852/5932 Patterson Ave.
  • Central Blvd: Closed from Patterson Ave. to Willingdon Ave., with a new exception for 2024 allowing single lane alternating traffic from 2 PM to 5:30 PM for residents of 4333 Central Blvd., using the laneway accessible from Kemp St. at Willingdon Ave.
  • Central Blvd: Closed from Willingdon Ave. to Mackay Ave., with bus access only from 5 PM to 12 AM.
  • Olive Ave: Closed from Kingsway to Central Blvd., with access control for residents of 4236/4250 James St, 5883/5985 Barker St, 5848/5885/5888 Olive Ave, and SPARC permit holders using the accessible drop-off area.
  • Wilson Ave: Closed from 6088 Wilson Ave. to Central Blvd.
  • Beresford St: Closed from Wilson Ave. to Patterson Ave. and from Willingdon Ave. to Wilson Ave., with local traffic only.

“Local only” traffic access will be maintained on Patterson Ave., Olive Ave., James St., Barker Ave., Wilson Ave., Kemp St., and Kathleen St. Residents are advised to plan ahead to avoid closures, crowds, and parking restrictions.

Parking Availability

Parking on the streets mentioned above, as well as both sides of Beresford St., will be restricted to “No Parking” or “Special Event Parking” from 12:01 AM on July 1 to noon on July 2. Accessible parking spots will be available on Wilson Ave. If you live in the area of the parking restrictions, please ensure that your vehicle is moved from the street by 11:59 PM on Sunday, June 30, 2024. Vehicles not moved will be towed, and if your vehicle has been towed, please call 604-526-9677. Please modify your parking and travel plans to avoid road closures and parking restrictions on July 1.

Bus Service Changes

Transit users should note that bus services will also be impacted. The Patterson SkyTrain Station will remain open with statutory holiday service. However, bus service 129 at Patterson SkyTrain Station will be re-routed, and the stop will be moved to Metrotown Loop from 12:01 AM on July 1 to 12:01 AM on July 2. Metrotown Loop and SkyTrain Station will operate on the Sunday/holiday schedule. Bus stop 51158 on Kingsway at Inman Ave. eastbound will be closed from 4 PM to midnight on July 1. Bus service will access Central Blvd. to Metrotown Loop with statutory holiday service, but please expect delays due to pedestrians crossing Willingdon Ave. at Central Blvd., which will be controlled by traffic personnel. See the new route here or on the Translink website.

Support The Community

StreetFest on Central is more than just a celebration; it’s an opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy each other’s company, and celebrate Canada Day in a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. With so many activities and performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars and bring your family and friends for an unforgettable evening of fun, food, and fireworks. For more information, visit here.

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