Maple Ridge Car Free Day

Maple Ridge Car Free Day is one of several car free-themed events in Metro Vancouver. In 2024 it was part of the city’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

In 2024 Maple Ridge Car Free Day took place on September 14th, as part of the city’s big Our Neck of the Woods celebration. Our Neck of the Woods was a massive party to mark the city’s 150th birthday.

The Car Free Day street party was actually just one part of the much bigger overall event. It was a lot of fun! Headliner bands included Aaron Pritchett and The Strumbellas. It was the first Maple Ridge Car Free Day since 2019 (which was the inaugural event). Car Free Day is likely to return to Maple Ridge in 2025, although exact details are to be confirmed.

For details about last year’s event, see the mapleridge.ca website or continue reading.

Maple Ridge Car Free Day and 150th Anniversary Event

Featuring a variety of vendors and activities, the city’s Our Neck of the Woods event took place on September 14th in 2024. It ran from noon until 10:00 pm. The event’s Car Free Zone closed at 6:00 pm.

Our Neck of the Woods is held in Memorial Peace Park and the downtown area. Sections of 224th Street, McIntosh Avenue and 119th Avenue in downtown Maple Ridge transformed into a massive street party during the event. Consequently, the area was closed to traffic. The park too was full of market vendors and live entertainment.

What to Expect

Maple Ridge’s Our Neck of the Woods event featured a variety of things to do for people of all ages. First, there was the Haney Farmers’ Market at Memorial Peace Park from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm. The main festivities then ran from 12:00 pm onwards.

For children there was a bouncy caste, inflatable adventure course, and campfire storytelling sessions to enjoy. There was also a zipline experience available by donation. The event included an Indigenous Makers Market and products from local businesses. Everyone was also welcome to contribute to the city’s large mural painting.

224th Street is where you could find a beer garden offering local brews for adults. There were also a couple of bars near the main stage. Numerous food trucks were on site as well. Presented by the Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival, options included hot dogs, Greek dishes, ice cream, mini donuts, Mexican food, and so much more.

For full details about the event, click Our Neck of the Woods in 2024.

Haney Farmers Market — Market Booths at Memorial Peace Park

Entertainment Schedule (2024)

Of course, another big part of the event is the live entertainment. Last year’s Our Neck of the Woods celebration featured three different stages. The full performance schedule is listed below.

Kanaka Kids Stage

The Kanaka Kids Stage was located near the intersection of 119th Avenue and 224th Street.

12:15 pm – Ginalina Music
1:30 pm – TableTutors Youth DJ Showcase
2:45 pm – Journey Into Rhythm with Robin Layne
4:00 pm – TableTutors Youth DJ Showcase

Alouette Stage

The Alouette Stage was near the intersection of Dewdney Trunk Road and 224th Street.

12:30 pm – Rahael
1:45 pm – Janky Bungag
3:00 pm – Orchard Sky
4:15 pm – Mikey Jose

Golden Ears Stage

The event’s main stage was located on the east side of Memorial Peace Park.

5:00 pm – Garret T. Willie
6:00 pm – Dawn Pemberton
7:00 pm – Aaron Pritchett
8:45 pm – The Strumbellas

For full details about the event, click Our Neck of the Woods in 2024.

Orchard Sky Band — Orchard Sky in Maple Ridge

Tips and Advice

The following tips are good to know before going to the Car Free Day event.

TIP #1: Consider taking public transit as it’s a “car free” day. Cycling is another good option, especially since there’s a free Bike Valet at the event.

TIP #2: Thinking of bringing your dog? Pets are welcome (at least they were last year) at most sections of the event between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm. Leashes and the latest vaccinations are required.

TIP #3: If you plan on watching the live entertainment on the Golden Ears Stage, it’s a good idea to bring a blanket or chair to sit on. Also, be sure to get there early as capacity is limited. Gates to the area open at 4:00 pm.

TIP #4: If you are looking for outdoor fun and adventure, a great place to check out in Maple Ridge is WildPlay Element Park. That’s where you’ll find ropes courses, ziplines, axe-throwing and other fun activities. Consider checking it out the next time you’re in Maple Ridge. (TIP: Use the promo code VBP15 and you’ll save 15%.)