It’s time to start making those May Long Weekend plans! The long weekend has been a part of the Canadian calendar since at least 1845, and symbolizes the celebration of Queen Victoria’s birthday. So whether you’re planning on celebrating Queen V’s birthday, heading to the great outdoors, or attending some well-loved local events, Surrey has got this holiday covered.
The Cloverdale Rodeo
May 20 – 23 at the Cloverdale Rodeo Fairgrounds
Can we get a ‘Ye’Haw’ for the 70th annual Cloverdale Rodeo? The rodeo is a May Long Weekend staple, and offers four days of non-stop fun. Whether you’re there to take in the rodeo events, catch musical acts on the outdoor stage, test out the rides at the midway, or watch the Round Up Skateboard competition, there’s something for everyone at the Cloverdale Rodeo. Event times vary day-to-day, so be sure to check out the Cloverdale Rodeo website to plan out your day.
Royal Victorian Party
May 22 at the Historic Stewart Farm
Celebrate Queen Victoria’s birthday at the Historic Stewart Farm with some classic British activities. Play croquet on the farmhouse lawn, churn ice cream the old fashioned way, watch performances by the Vancouver Morris Men and the Tiddley Cove Morris Dancers, and much more. The Honeybee Centre will be at the farm presenting Queen Bee workshops, and there are lots of arts and crafts to be made, like bejewel-ing crowns and sceptres! All the fun at this free event happens from noon to 3:00pm, and is open to all ages.
Birding Walk
May 21 at Surrey Lake Park
Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher, or just have a profound love for wildlife and nature, Surrey is the spot for some serious birding. Head to Surrey Lake Park (7500 block of 152 Street) with binoculars in hand and enjoy the Spring season of rare migrant birds like eagles and snowy owls who make a pit-stop in Surrey during their trip North for the summer. Arrive at 9:00am and you’ll be accompanied by a field guide who can show you the ropes, and lend you a pair of binoculars if this is your first round of birding.
Hit the Beach!
Nestled in South Surrey, Crescent Beach is one of Surrey’s most popular destinations. Hit up the beach, stroll the board-walk, or grab brunch at one of the many restaurants in the area. Lounge in the sun, volley at the volleyball courts, or search for sand dollars while the tide’s out. Crescent Beach is also a wonderful place to watch the sunset, or to snap some photos of birds and wildlife.
Surrey Bend Regional Park opened up last month, and the May Long Weekend is the perfect time to explore the 330 hectares and 5 kilometres of trails that comprise Surrey’s newest park. This family friendly park features an innovative playground, picnic tables, and LOTS of photo opportunities and wildlife spotting. Pack a lunch and bring your bikes, as there’s lots of space for a spur-of-the-moment picnic amongst the trees. You can even see Barnston Island off in the near distance from certain trails.