From cherished local traditions to vibrant cultural festivals, the North Shore is alive with events that celebrate community, creativity, and connection.
Whether you’re plunging into icy waters on New Year’s Day, exploring Indigenous heritage, or dancing to live music by the sea, there’s something here for everyone. These annual happenings bring us together in joy, remembrance, and shared purpose.
Check out our top community events and make space in your calendar—you won’t want to miss these!
A New Year’s Day Tradition
The Deep Cove Penguin Plunge is a beloved North Shore tradition that kicks off each new year with courage, community, and cold water. Since its humble beginnings in 1983 (with just four brave participants and a dog), the event has grown into a must-see spectacle held annually at Panorama Park.
Hosted by Deep Cove Kayak and Coast Outdoors, the event features costumes, live entertainment, and fun activities before the big 2:00 PM plunge into Indian Arm. This free, family-friendly event offers the perfect way to start the year with laughter and connection.
Music by the Water
Hosted by the MUSART Cultural Society, the Cates Park Concert Series brings free, live music to the beautiful shores of Cates Park (Whey-ah-Wichen) every summer. Since 1997, this event has connected audiences with a diverse lineup of local musicians in genres from folk to funk.
Bring a picnic blanket and soak in the views of Burrard Inlet while enjoying soulful tunes in this family-friendly outdoor venue. It’s a seasonal highlight that captures the spirit of the North Shore.
A Journey Through Time
All aboard for a local history adventure! The Deep Cove Heritage Society hosts an annual bus tour, departing from Parkgate Community Centre, which takes you through the hidden stories and historic sites of the Seymour area.
Led by historian Janet Pavlik, this guided experience offers a deeper understanding of the region’s roots. This tour is a fan-favourite, especially among history lovers and long-time residents.
🔗 North Shore News: Janet Pavlik – Keeper of the Cove
🔗 Echoes Across Seymour – Harbour Publishing
Step Back in Time
Prefer to explore on foot? The Deep Cove Historical Walking Tour invites you to stroll through the past. Guided by local storytellers from the Deep Cove Heritage Society, this accessible walk reveals the fascinating stories and people behind the area’s landmarks.
Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time resident, you’ll leave with a fresh appreciation for Deep Cove’s unique identity.
A Celebration of Community Spirit
Held every June, Blueridge Good Neighbour Day is a joyful explosion of community connection. The day begins with a colourful, kid-friendly parade down Berkley Road and wraps up at Blueridge Elementary School for a celebration packed with live music, carnival games, contests, a silent auction, food trucks, and more.
After a three-year pause during COVID, the event returned in 2023 and continues to grow. Most activities are free, thanks to local donors and community fundraising.
Honouring Tradition and Inspiring Connection
Hosted each summer by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation (səlilwətaɬ), the Whey-ah-Wichen Canoe Festival celebrates the enduring canoe traditions of the People of the Inlet. Held at Cates Park, this powerful gathering features traditional dugout canoe races, cultural ceremonies, and opportunities to witness Indigenous knowledge-sharing in action.
Participants come from Indigenous communities across B.C. and Washington State. Teams camp on-site, and the event welcomes visitors, sponsors, and supporters.
Fun for the Whole Family
The Parkgate Society hosts Parkgate Community Day every September at Parkgate Village, turning the area into a vibrant hub of celebration. With performances, food vendors, games, and community booths, the day offers free fun for all ages.
A special highlight is the Summer Reading Club Medal Celebration, held in partnership with the North Vancouver District Public Library. Join the fun on Saturday, September 13th, from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM—rain or shine!
A Celebration of Culture, Nature, and Community
The Osprey Festival takes place at Maplewood Flats, home of the Wild Bird Trust and a vital ecosystem on the North Shore. The event celebrates Indigenous culture, climate action, and community through music, art, food, guided nature walks, and engaging workshops.
Centered at the Nature House, the festival welcomes all ages and features an exciting mix of entertainment and education. Admission is free, with a few special events requiring registration.
A Community Challenge on Mount Seymour Parkway
An event for all fitness levels, the North Shore Triathlon combines swimming, biking, and running in one unforgettable challenge. The race takes place across scenic North Vancouver and promotes healthy, active living in a community-focused setting.
Athletes will cycle parts of Mount Seymour Parkway, with road closures announced in advance. This well-organized event is a local favourite, inspiring athletes and spectators alike.
Supporting local businesses and fostering community connections across the North Shore
