Enjoy summertime fun by the sea in Steveston at the 21st annual Richmond Maritime Festival, presented by the City of Richmond, Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site Society, and Richmond Arts Coalition.
The free, family-friendly event celebrates the history of Steveston with maritime-themed programming that spans live music, art installations, puppet shows, community exhibits, and more.
Richmond Maritime Festival 2024
- Date: Saturday, August 24 and Sunday, August 25, 2024 from 11:00am to 6:00pm
- Location: Britannia Shipyards in Steveston, Richmond
- Admission: Free!
This year’s program animates the entirety of the 8-acre historic site, highlighting the multicultural and boatbuilding legacies that make up Britannia Shipyards. Interactive shows and performances will draw visitors into the region’s rich cultural tapestry, which once was home to Chinese, European, Indigenous, and Japanese-Canadian fisheries workers.
Down on the docks, visitors will be able to take in the beauty of restored heritage boats. Among the stunning vessels will be the 102-year-old SS Master tugboat, the oldest working wooden-hulled steam-powered tug in the world, and other returning favourites like the MV Gikumi, which has seen 70 years of almost continuous service on the West Coast.
Family Fun
All ages will be able to enjoy hands-on activities with local artists. Ainsley and Liana Oh will teach kids how to crochet their own sea creatures, Aiko Matsushiba will teach origami crafts, and Tarcila de Figueiredo Neves will help families create their own digital fish and release it into a specially made virtual seascape.
Entertainment
Several community stages will host performers including Norine Braun, roots musician Pat Chessell, banjo player Paul Silveria, and Yuki the Juggler. Around the site, don’t miss the singing Cannery Mermaids and the beloved band The Seabillys.
Food Trucks
More than 10 food trucks will help fuel the festivities, with options ranging from popcorn to lemonade, sausages to Japanese cuisine. Picnic tables are available for those who would like to pack a homemade spread.
This year’s festival coincides with the FreshCo Richmond Dragon Boat Festival on Saturday August 24th at Steveston’s Imperial Landing as well. Follow Fun Richmond on Facebook and Instagram for information about this festival and more fun happenings around the city throughout the year.