Join us at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium for Archway’s official Welcome Day event as part of Welcome Week – a celebration of inclusion and community held across Canada. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time community member, this free, family-friendly event is the perfect opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate together.

Community members of all ages are welcome. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to explore the service fair, connect with local organizations, and enjoy refreshments before the official welcome ceremony begins at 7:00 PM. If you’re unable to attend the full evening, you’re welcome to join us for any portion of the event.

This year’s welcome ceremony will feature a panel discussion with local leaders, including Mayor Ross Siemens, School District Superintendent Nathan Ngieng, and Abbotsford Police Department Chief Constable Colin Watson, as well as an exciting performance and a powerful keynote address by Tammy Brandsma and Hani Kambal.

Don’t miss this fantastic community gathering – mark your calendars!

Authors and storytellers, Gina Armstrong and Victoria Vancek, unravel eerie legends and true tales of the region’s haunted history, from ghostly miners to mysterious forest creatures. Flickering LED lights mimic the warm glow of a real campfire, while projectors cast a breathtaking canopy of stars above, transforming the room into a magical campsite and otherworldly storytelling realm. It’s a spine-tingling blend of education and entertainment.

Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Bring a friend, explore somewhere new, support amazing local businesses, and give yourself permission to slow down for an evening.

The BE Connected: Explore Abbotsford Mini Yoga Series isn’t just about yoga, it’s about exploring beautiful local spaces, supporting local businesses, meeting new people, and making time for yourself.

September 16 – Urban Jungle

Find your calm among lush tropical plants and greenery inside one of Abbotsford’s most unique nurseries, a peaceful oasis unlike any traditional yoga studio.

As a special keepsake from your visit, you’ll take home a small plant from Urban Jungle, a living reminder of your yoga practice and the time you invested in yourself.

It’s the perfect way to bring a little piece of Urban Jungle home and let your wellness journey continue long after the class has ended.

September 16 – Urban Jungle

Find your calm among lush tropical plants and greenery inside one of Abbotsford’s most unique nurseries, a peaceful oasis unlike any traditional yoga studio.

As a special keepsake from your visit, you’ll take home a small plant from Urban Jungle, a living reminder of your yoga practice and the time you invested in yourself.

It’s the perfect way to bring a little piece of Urban Jungle home and let your wellness journey continue long after the class has ended.

Gather your friends and join us for an evening of fall-inspired creativity and fun!

Create a beautiful, one-of-a-kind wreath using dried hydrangeas, faux pumpkins, lush greenery, and seasonal accents. To make your wreath truly unique, you’ll also have the opportunity to choose your favourite quote to incorporate into your design.

Led by Tiger Lily Home, this cozy workshop is the perfect way to welcome the beauty of fall into your home and enjoy a creative evening with friends.

Wine tasting and light snacks will also be provided.

Come sip, create, and celebrate the cozy season with us!

Tickets $50 gst 

Available for purchase at Everything Wine Abbotsford or by calling the store at 604-776-5353 to request an online purchase link

Come at 6pm and enjoy the Farm Pass Experience, including:

Petting Zoo

Yard Games

Fishing Equipment & Bait (fish sold separately)

 

Then laugh the night away with:

 

Kevin Banner (CBC Debaters, Just For Laughs)

Alex MacKenzie (Nationally Touring Comedian)

Steve McGowan (Fraser Valley favourite!)


The comedy show starts at 8pm

This is an outdoor show. Please come prepared.

 

Recommended for ages 16 . Guests under 19 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

 

Tickets: yukyuks.com/abbotsford

Do you have documents to be shredded? Bring them to the Sevenoaks Shopping Centre Lot G (south of the old The Bay location off Gladwin Road) for secure shredding by RecordXpress mobile services.

Donations of $10 minimum for 1 box/bag, $5 for each additional box/bag. Cash, credit card or corporate cheque accepted. Staple/paper clip removal not required.

Fundraiser hosted by the Friends of the Abbotsford Libraries. Money raised supports library programs and services.

If you have documents that need secure shredding, Friends of the Abbotsford Libraries are hosting their annual drive-thru shredding fundraiser. The first bag or box is $10; the rest are $5 each. The money raised supports library programs and services in Abbotsford, such as display cases, storybook carpets, building toys, STEM items, etc. Cash, debit or credit card, or corporate cheque accepted. Staple/paper clip removal not necessary. We don’t dispose of your boxes; you can keep them.

Contact: Gwen Settle 604-864-7414, gwensettle@gmail.com or Emily Schlenker, Clearbrook Library, eschlenker@fvrl.bc.ca.

Authors and storytellers, Gina Armstrong and Victoria Vancek, unravel eerie legends and true tales of the region’s haunted history, from ghostly miners to mysterious forest creatures. Flickering LED lights mimic the warm glow of a real campfire, while projectors cast a breathtaking canopy of stars above, transforming the room into a magical campsite and otherworldly storytelling realm. It’s a spine-tingling blend of education and entertainment.

Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Join the Abbotsford Judo Club Open House and discover the benefits of one of the world’s most respected martial arts.

Whether you’re curious about judo or looking for a fun family activity, there’s something for everyone to enjoy:

• Free drop-in mini judo lessons

• Advanced judo demonstrations

• Hands-on art activity: create an origami judoga (judo uniform)

• Learn about the Abbotsford Judo Club’s longstanding history and contributions to the community

Since 1981, the Abbotsford Judo Club has been committed to sharing the sport of judo and its guiding values with people of all ages. More than just a martial art, judo helps build confidence, discipline, respect, and lasting friendships. Visit the open house to meet club members, experience the welcoming atmosphere firsthand, and learn how the club supports personal growth both on and off the mat.

Come Swing Into Monday Night!

Join Suburban Swing in Abbotsford for a special FREE evening of swing dancing and live music, presented in partnership with the City of Abbotsford’s Culture Days!

Monday, September 21, 2026

Doors open at 7:00 PM

Live music by Jenna Alamwala

Whether you’re completely new to swing dancing or already love the dance floor, everyone is welcome. Come hear some fantastic live music, meet great people, and give swing dancing a try!

No partner needed. No experience necessary. Just come and enjoy the evening!

Suburban Swing at Matsqui Community Hall — Abbotsford

How can we turn everyday items into meaningful symbols of identity? This activity invites participants to design and create a wearable piece of art using paper, ribbon, cardstock and other accessible materials into adornments such as cuffs, brooches or pin badges. With the help of a presentation on iconography in art and a brief dive into heraldry to guide and inspire participants. This workshop is designed for participants aged 16 and up. Participants under 16 are welcome to attend when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Please register in advance through Direct2Rec using the registration link provided.

 

The Chef’s Acre, by Red Seal Chef Craig Scherer, honours heartfelt, fresh, simple fare with elevated techniques and flavours that embrace the season. We love how fresh, local, and delicious food brings people together and connects us to our home here in the Fraser Valley.

Included:

• Welcome Reception of Wine, Cocktails & Appies
• UPick Bucket of Flowers
• Three-Course Meal (menu TBD)
• Complimentary Wine & Cocktails
• LIVE MUSIC for this special Taste of Abby Event

Please email any allergies or dietary preferences along with your reservation name.

Presented by the Peace and Reconciliation Centre (PARC) at the University of the Fraser Valley in partnership with the City of Abbotsford’s Culture City Program Series.

Join us for the public debut screening of A Resting Heart, a documentary produced by the Peace and Reconciliation Centre and Desire Amouzou that explores ongoing legacies associated with the 1884 lynching of Louie Sam, a 15-year-old Stó:lō boy.

In February 1884, Louie Sam was wrongfully accused of the murder of an American settler and taken into custody by British Columbia officials. Before he could face the Canadian justice system, he was taken from custody by a group of approximately 100 American vigilantes from Whatcom County and lynched in Canada near the Canada-United States border. Despite investigations into his death, those responsible were never held accountable.

A Resting Heart follows John Emmery, a descendant of one of the men responsible for Louie murder, as he works to deliver a personal apology to Louie Sam and the Sema:th community. The harm committed by his ancestor is still causing pain and trauma today, to Sto:lo people and settlers both. Through his journey, the documentary invites reflection on accountability, reconciliation, and the difficult work of confronting histories of violence, racism, and colonial injustice.

At the heart of the film are the voices, knowledge, and generosity of spirit of the Semáth First Nation and Stó:lō community.

Louie Sam’s death is a tragic and criminal part of our history. A Resting Heart honours his memory and creates space for compassion, empathy, healing, and justice. It challenges us to recognize that we all have a responsibility to remember, to learn from, and to respond to the past.

Taking place shortly before September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the evening will begin with opening remarks from Dr. Keith Thor Carlson and will conclude with a brief conversation and Q&A featuring Grand Chief Clarence “Kat” Pennier, Chief Dalton Silver, Dr. Keith Thor Carlson, John Emmery, and Desire Amouzou.

As part of the City of Abbotsford’s Culture City Program Series under the theme of Dialogue, this evening offers an opportunity to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful conversation about history, memory, accountability, and reconciliation.

Presented by the Peace and Reconciliation Centre (PARC) at the University of the Fraser Valley in partnership with the City of Abbotsford’s Culture City Program Series.

Join us for the public debut screening of Legacy of a Lynching — Creating A Resting Heart, a documentary produced by the Peace and Reconciliation Centre and Desiré Kokuvi Amouzou that explores ongoing legacies associated with the 1884 lynching of Louie Sam, a 15-year-old Stó:lō boy.

In February 1884, Louie Sam was wrongfully accused of the murder of an American settler and taken into custody by British Columbia officials. Before he could face the Canadian justice system, he was taken from custody by a group of approximately 100 American vigilantes from Whatcom County and lynched in Canada near the Canada-United States border. Despite investigations into his death, those responsible were never held accountable.

A Resting Heart follows John Emmery, a descendant of one of the men responsible for Louie murder, as he works to deliver a personal apology to Louie Sam and the Semá:th community. The harm committed by his ancestor is still causing pain and trauma today, to Stó:lō people and settlers both. Through his journey, the documentary invites reflection on accountability, reconciliation, and the difficult work of confronting histories of violence, racism, and colonial injustice.

At the heart of the film are the voices, knowledge, and generosity of spirit of the Semá:th First Nation and Stó:lō community.

Louie Sam’s death is a tragic and criminal part of our history. A Resting Heart honours his memory and creates space for compassion, empathy, healing, and justice. It challenges us to recognize that we all have a responsibility to remember, to learn from, and to respond to the past.

Taking place shortly before September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the evening will begin with opening remarks from Dr. Keith Thor Carlson and will conclude with a brief conversation and Q&A featuring Grand Chief Clarence “Kat” Pennier, Chief Dalton Silver, Dr. Keith Thor Carlson, John Emmery, and Desiré Kokuvi Amouzou.

As part of the City of Abbotsford’s Culture City Program Series under the theme of Dialogue, this evening offers an opportunity to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful conversation about history, memory, accountability, and reconciliation.

Event Details
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Matsqui Centennial Auditorium
32315 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford, BC

 

This event is free to attend. Advance registration through Find You in the Valley’s website is requested.

Content warning: This film and conversation include discussion of the lynching of Louie Sam, colonization, racism, anti-Indigenous violence, historical injustice, and the impacts of colonial systems on Stó:lō communities. Attendee discretion is advised.

Grab your friends and join Tammie from The Clay Cottage for an evening filled with creativity, bubbly sips, and plenty of fun!

This Red Cross Babysitter’s Course teaches youth the skills to care for infants to school-aged children while helping them become responsible babysitters. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Red Cross Babysitter’s Course certificate.

 

Date: Friday, September 25, 2026

 

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 

Location:

ARC Youth Centre

2499 McMillan Road

 

Ages: 11–15

 

Cost: $65

 

Register online at abbyyouth.com/fall

This Level 1 course is designed for food service front-line workers such as bus persons, servers, dishwashers, and cooks. Participants who successfully complete the exam will receive a nationally recognized FOODSAFE Level 1 certificate.

 

Date: Friday, September 25, 2026

 

Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

 

Location:

MRC Youth Centre

3106 Clearbrook Road

 

Ages: 14–18

 

Cost: $80

 

Register online at abbyyouth.com/fall

Presented by the South Asian Studies Institute, Chai & Chat with Dr. Asma Qadri invites you to gather over a complimentary cup of chai for an afternoon of stories, culture, and conversation. Explore the rich oral traditions of South Asia with Dr. Qadri, an acclaimed scholar of Punjabi language, literature, and cultural heritage whose work brings history, poetry, and community experiences to life. Through engaging discussion and shared storytelling, discover how the wisdom and traditions of the past continue to inspire and connect us today. Presented in both English and Punjabi, this welcoming event is a wonderful opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate South Asian culture together.

Mill Lake at Centennial Park, Bevan Ave. entrance

We walk once around Mill Lake to honour our military (past and present) and to raise funds through donations to True Patriot Love. Funds go to provide services for serving military, veterans and their families. All donations gratefully accepted. Every registered participant receives a special commemorative coin. Pre-register online at the website below. Register individually or as a team. Make a real impact for those who served or are still serving this country. We need to show these men and women our respect and gratitude. This is the 6th year that Abbotsford (for Fraser Valley) has participated in this event held in multiple cities across Canada for the past 9 years.

Time: 10am-1pm, On-Site Registration at 9am.

www.canadianwalkforveterans.com/fraser_valley/

Wrap up the outdoor market season with us at The Mango Market Outdoor Season Closer before we head indoors for the holidays!

Spend the day exploring 50 local artisans and makers, discovering one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods, enjoying delicious food trucks and eateries, listening to live music, and soaking up the welcoming community atmosphere that has made The Mango Market a favourite destination in Abbotsford.

This year’s Outdoor Season Closer also features Pet Appreciation Day, with well-behaved, leashed pets welcome to join in the fun. You’ll also find a handful of pet-focused vendors and a live adoption event with Heart & Soul Dog & Cat Rescue Society, making it a fun day out for pet lovers and shoppers alike.

Arrive early to enjoy our 5th Anniversary shopper perks! The first 25 shoppers will receive a complimentary anniversary tote bag, while the first 100 shoppers will receive a Scratch-to-Win card for a chance to reveal Mango Market Cash. Bringing your pet? You’ll receive a bonus Scratch-to-Win card in celebration of Pet Appreciation Day.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect handmade gift, treating yourself to something special, supporting local businesses, or simply enjoying a day out with family and friends, there’s something for everyone at The Mango Market.

Saturday, September 26

10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

2884 Gladys Ave, Abbotsford

Free Admission

In partnership with Clearbrook Library, learn how to create your own vision board books in this two-hour beginner-friendly workshop with artist Ember Muninn.

Together, we will explore the steps for identifying your goals and vision, then transform those ideas into a series of creative collages. Finally, you will bind your work into a handmade book using a traditional Japanese binding technique.

All tools and materials are provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own collage materials to incorporate into their books.

This workshop is designed for participants aged 16 and up. Participants under 16 are welcome to attend when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Pre-registration required.

Join us for the 5th Annual Hawaiian Shirt Gala on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre in Abbotsford.

Hōkū Alaka’i, meaning “Guiding Star,” symbolizes hope, direction, and light during life’s most challenging moments.

Enjoy an unforgettable island-inspired evening featuring dinner, entertainment, dancing, silent and live auctions, and community connection—all in support of BeMorr Society’s mental health and suicide prevention programs. Together, we can help provide access to counselling, education, and hope for those who need it most.

Together we can make a difference!

www.bemorrsociety.ca

WHY SUPPORT OVARIAN CANCER CANADA?

Ovarian Cancer Canada is the only registered Canadian charity solely dedicated to overcoming ovarian cancer. OCC demands action, delivers change, and transforms lives. OCC stands hand-in-hand with the people experiencing, affected by, or at risk and will not rest until women are able to live their lives freely, fully, and uninhibited by ovarian cancer.

WHAT IS THE WALK OF HOPE?

Founded in 2002, the Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope is the largest and most powerful event of its kind in Canada. It is the only walk in Canada to direct all attention and fundraising towards creating a future where ovarian cancer is curable, preventable, and ultimately eradicated.

The national Walk, at a glance:

• Over 3,000 participants every year
• Over 10,000 donors across the country
• Over 1.5 million raised in 2025

This year’s Walk is happening on September 27, 2026

• Registration starts at 9am
• Walk starts at 10am
• Duration: 10am to 11:30am

In partnership with Clearbrook Library, this beginner-friendly Nature Journaling workshop will introduce participants to observation and sketching techniques while exploring Abbotsford’s local plants and wildlife. Through a guided visit to the International Friendship Garden (weather permitting), participants will use watercolour pencils, water brushes, and simple journaling methods to create their own Nature Journal page inspired by nature.

If outdoor participation is not possible, printed reference images and views from the library will be used instead.

Open to all ages. Recommended for participants who can write simple observations and draw independently. Young children may participate using colouring pages with adult supervision. Pre-registration is required.

SAVE THE DATE for the fourth annual Stetís ímexstowx Gathering on September 30th, 2026! 

Stetís ímexstowx means “walk beside us” in the beautiful Halq’eméylem language.

Our local civic organizations have united around Thunderbird Square with a common goal – to create a space for learning and understanding. We’re walking together to share learning opportunities for the public about Truth and Reconciliation, as well as the history of Residential Schools.

Join us on this journey as we come together to build a deeper awareness of our roles in the path to Reconciliation.

: September 30th, 2026

: 10am-3:30pm

: Civic Plaza (323388 Veterans Way, Abbotsford)

Visit our website for full details: https://stetisimexstowx.ca/

(Name, Stetís ímexstowx “walk beside us”, given by Leanne Joe)

A 90-minute Figure Drawing Workshop with UFV Associate Professor Shel Stefan. Folks ages 16 years old to 106 years old are welcome to come join in this hands-on drawing workshop where we will utilize a live figure model draped in street clothes to learn some basic techniques in figure drawing. Shel will lead folks of all abilities (beginners welcome!) in a set of gesture studies and figure drawing exercises using vine charcoal. Shel will also do some demonstrations to demystify basic materials and build folks’ confidence in drawing from a live human model. The hope is to create inspiration, joy, and a good experience in life drawing for attendees.

Inspired by and hosted within Desiree Patterson’s multimedia installation Still in Place, this experience invites us to slow down and engage with the sights and sounds of Interglacial. Through gentle yoga, mindfulness, and creative exploration, we’ll reflect on how our relationship to time can shift when we pause, pay attention, and move with intention.

Together, these practices will flow into the creation of prayer flags infused with the energy of collective presence. Using cyanotype, a camera-less photographic process that harnesses light and chemistry to capture traces of time, participants will create unique works that reflect moments of connection, reflection, and care.

This is more than a fashion show. It’s a celebration of hope, resilience, second chances. This annual fundraiser brings our community together to support women on their journey from addiction to recovery while showcasing the life-changing work of LIFE Recovery LIFE’s Second Chance Thrift Stores.
​
Guests will enjoy a cozy autumn evening filled with beautifully curated fall decor, seasonal mocktails, a grazing table, local artisan vendors, exciting door prizes and an inspiring fashion show featuring thoughtfully styled thrifted fashions.

Attending with your mother, daughter, sister, or closest friends? No matter who you’re with, this event is an opportunity to celebrate community, support local businesses and help create brighter futures for women rebuilding their lives. Every ticket purchased, every sponsorship secured and every item sold helps provide hope, healing and lasting transformation through LIFE Recovery’s programs.

Last year, we raised over $67,000 – This year, we’re aiming even higher with a goal of $70,000!

:

October 3rd, 2026

Check in: Begins at 9:00 AM

Kids Area/Food Trucks: Open at 9:00 AM

Speeches/Warm Up begins at 10:00 am

Run: Begins at 10:20 AM

Walk: Begins at 10:30 AM

Prizes for all ages begin at 11:15 am

Mill Lake, Abbotsford, 4.4 km (2 loops around – Bevan Entrance, 33015 Bevan Ave)

We will have dedicated kids area with face painting, crafts, games, and more.

Food trucks

Tons of prizes up for grabs and more!

  :

$30 per person

(Kids 12 and under are FREE!)

:

Create a team, set a fundraising goal, and see if you can reach it!

Bring your family, friends, and colleagues for an unforgettable day.

 Register now and join us in making a positive impact!

The Reach invites you to a community gathering celebrating Desirée Patterson’s landmark solo exhibition, Interglacial. The celebration features a water ceremony performed by Patterson with her daughter, Meadow, and Interglacial scientific collaborators, and the debut of a contemporary dance work by Lee Johnson, inspired by Still in Place, the exhibition’s monumental glacier-shaped textile installation.

The reception that follows will be an opportunity to share reflections on our human relationship to cycles of time, intergenerational exchange, and environmental transformation.

Heritage Abbotsford Society cordially invites you to An Appetite to Preserve, a dinner for Abbotsford’s heritage!

Taking place at Chawla Indian Cuisine (located on the second floor of the Summit Centre, 3600 Townline Rd in Abbotsford) on October 3^rd from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. PDT, we welcome you to an evening of good food, good company, and a shared passion for preserving our community’s history. Enjoy a delicious meal, live music, and amazing prizes, all while supporting the stories and places that shaped our community and make its history worth preserving.

Your support helps us preserve built heritage, care for collections, share local stories, and ensure that the history of our community can be enjoyed by generations to come!

To get your tickets at https://tinyurl.com/HAS-ATP

We hope to see you there!

The Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure returns to Abbotsford for its 35th annual event on Sunday, October 4th at 8:30 am. Abbotsford residents of all ages can choose to run or walk either 5k or 1k. Participation is open to everyone, including children and four-legged friends, and can also be virtual if preferred by registering at My Run. Anywhere. Any Way (https://support.cancer.ca/site/TR/RunfortheCure/RFTC_NW_odd_?pg=entry&fr_id=28532).

With 1 in 8 women expected to face a diagnosis in their lifetime, we run to save lives, improve lives and drive collective action against breast cancer. The Run is one powerful day, but the impact lasts far beyond. By participating in the Run, you help fund research breakthroughs and vital support – changing what the future looks like for someone facing breast cancer.

The end of the Run is just the beginning. Rally your family, friends and coworkers and join the Run today. Learn more and register today at CIBCRunForTheCure.com.

On October 4th, lace up your shoes and join the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure! For one powerful day, Abbotsford residents are invited to come together to change what the future looks like for someone facing breast cancer and take part in a 1km or 5km walk or run at Mill Lake.

Participation can also be virtual if preferred by registering at the following link:  https://support.cancer.ca/site/SPageServer?pagename=RFTC_NW_registration&fr_id=31082&s_cibcTeam=false

Rally your family, friends or coworkers and sign up now. Learn more and register today at CIBCRunForTheCure.com

Discover the unique art of drawing and painting with glass dip pens and vibrant water-based inks in this hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop. Participants will learn the basics of using glass pens, including how to control ink flow, create expressive marks, and blend colours using water brush pens. Through guided demonstrations and individual instruction, participants will explore simple illustration and painting techniques before creating their own artwork on watercolour paper. Whether you’re an experienced artist or completely new to working with ink, this workshop offers a fun and creative introduction to a unique and captivating art form.

Suitable for ages 13 .

Pre-registration is required.

Youth Night is an 8-week co-ed program that encourages youth to live active, healthy lifestyles. Each week, youth try a different activity which may include bowling, mini-golf, martial arts, and more!

 

Dates: Tuesdays, October 6 – November 24, 2026

Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Ages: 12–16

Cost: $50

 

Register online at www.abbyyouth.com

FOCUS is a welcoming group that helps youth build resilience, strengthen coping skills, and support their mental well-being through engaging activities and meaningful discussions.

 

Dates: Wednesdays, October 7 – November 25, 2026

No session on November 11

 

Time: 5:45 PM – 7:00 PM

 

Location:

MRC Youth Centre

3106 Clearbrook Road

 

Ages: 12–15

 

Cost: $35

 

Register online at abbyyouth.com/fall

We are pleased to invite you to the Arts, Culture & Events Roundtable: Building Your Event Planning Toolbox

This session takes place Wednesday, October 7th, 6:00pm–8:00pm at The Reach Gallery Museum.

Planners of events of all sizes and across disciplines are invited to connect with experts and peers through panel discussions, facilitated breakouts and dedicated networking time.

This session is facilitated by the City of Abbotsford’s Community Events team, alongside guest panelists:

• Rocio Zielinski, General Manager, Stó:lō Community Futures (SCF)
• Vicki Lin, Food Justice Supervisor, Archway Community Services
• Irene Nviiri, Cultural Ambassador and Transformational Coach, Fraser Valley Community Integration Services Society / Emerge & Soar
• Jen Graham, Events and Ambassador Manager, Tourism Abbotsford

Space is LIMITED. Please RSVP to culture@abbotsford.ca to secure your spot!

Join AYC at Matsqui Recreation Centre for a Baking Exchange where youth and older adults connect through recipe sharing and cultural storytelling.

 

Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026

Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

 

Location:

Matsqui Recreation Centre

3106 Clearbrook Road

 

Ages: 12–18

Cost: $10

 

Participants who complete the event will receive a $10 gift card

Register online at abbyyouth.com/fall

Youth Night is an 8-week co-ed program that encourages youth to live active, healthy lifestyles. Each week, youth try a different activity which may include bowling, mini-golf, martial arts, and more!

 

Dates: Thursdays, October 8 – November 26, 2026

Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Ages: 12–16

Cost: $50

 

Register online at abbyyouth.com/fall.

The Pacific Baroque Orchestra will bring a program entitled A Little Night Music. The title work is Mozart’s beloved Eine Kleine Nachtmusik. The theme of night music will be explored further in the works of Baroque composers such as Henry Purcell and Luigi Boccherini.

The Pacific Baroque Orchestra is recognized as one of Canada’s most exciting and innovative ensembles. They have joined forces with Early Music Vancouver to present large-scale productions. The orchestra regularly collaborates with internationally celebrated guest artists such as soprano Amanda Forsythe, who performed a memorable program of Handel arias in this series in 2016.

https://www.earlymusic.bc.ca/about/pacific-baroque-orchestra/

Alexander Weimann performed here in March playing the harpsichord to accompany Suzie LeBlanc. This October he will direct the PBO from the harpsichord. Equally sought-after as a keyboard artist and as a director, Weimann has led such outstanding groups as Ensemble Arion, Les Violons du Roy, and the Portland Baroque Orchestra. His music appears on nearly one hundred recordings.

https://alexanderweimann.com

On Sunday, Oct 18th at 7pm, exceptionally talented youth will perform in a “Young Artists Concert” at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium (City Hall Abbotsford) accompanied by the Abbotsford Youth Orchestra and professional musicians from Vancouver. Director Calvin Dyck has a vision to inspire young musicians by giving them the unique opportunity to perform solo works with an orchestra, a rare opportunity usually only afforded to students at a university level or in the professional ranks.

Highlights of the concert include the virtuosic Symphonie Espagnole, the exquisitive Mozart Piano Concerto subtitled Elvira Madigan, as well as stunning excerpts from concertos by Mendelssohn, Beethoven and Haydn and the evocative Ladies in Lavender theme (to name a few).  The Abbotsford Youth Orchestra will also be featured as they perform a few pieces including the patriotic 49th Parallel Overture by Vaughan Williams.

Ticket link:  https://youngartists2026.eventbrite.ca

 

This Red Cross Babysitter’s Course teaches youth the skills to care for infants to school-aged children and helps them become responsible babysitters. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Red Cross Babysitter’s Course certificate.

 

Date: Friday, October 23, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 

Location:

ARC Youth Centre

2499 McMillan Road

 

Ages: 11–15

 

Cost: $65

 

Register online at abbyyouth.com/fall

This Red Cross Babysitter’s Course teaches youth the skills to care for infants to school-aged children while helping them become responsible babysitters. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Red Cross Babysitter’s Course certificate.

 

Date: Friday, October 23, 2026

 

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

 

Location:

ARC Youth Centre

2499 McMillan Road

 

Ages: 11–15

 

Cost: $65

 

Register online at abbyyouth.com/fall