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Happy Friday, Langley!
Despite a soggy forecast threatening to dampen outdoor festivities, Langley's community spirit remains undeterred this weekend as RibFest and the 29th Annual Arts Alive Festival forge ahead with rain-or-shine programming.
While Mother Nature may not be cooperating, both signature events are prepared with covered areas and weatherproof activities, proving that a little Pacific Northwest precipitation won't stop Fraser Valley folks from gathering for barbecue, live music, and local arts.
For those preferring to stay dry, this weekend offers plenty of indoor alternatives, from exotic bird encounters at the City Library to craft beer launches, D&D adventures, and family-friendly activities across multiple venues.
This morning's news also highlights concerning developments in municipal decision-making, as Abbotsford and Mission's choice to prioritize short-term savings over inclusive employment could create long-term costs for taxpayers.
Meanwhile, positive developments in Indigenous language revitalization and local sports achievements remind us that progress happens through sustained community commitment, much like the dedicated organizers ensuring this weekend's events proceed regardless of weather!
Local Langley News
RibFest Langley Pioneers Bike Valet Service
RibFest Langley is debuting a free bike valet service this weekend, giving festival-goers a convenient alternative to driving despite forecasts calling for wet and rainy conditions.
The five organizing Rotary clubs secured a $9,000 provincial grant through the BC Cycling Coalition to provide secure, staffed parking for bikes, e-bikes, scooters, and mobility devices at McLeod Athletic Park.
The timing shows real commitment to the initiative, as organizers are moving ahead with the pilot program even with challenging weather expected throughout the festival weekend.
If you're biking to RibFest, make sure to dress for the rainy weather!
The BC Cycling Coalition's Jen Petersen emphasized that reliable bike parking infrastructure works for all kinds of local events, and the service will give hardy cyclists a dry, secure place to leave their rides while enjoying the barbecue competition and entertainment from Friday through Sunday.
29th Annual Arts Alive Festival Arrives Despite Weekend Rain Forecast
The Downtown Langley Business Association's signature Arts Alive Festival will go ahead as planned on Saturday despite forecasts calling for wet and rainy conditions throughout the weekend.
The free festival, featuring over 200 visual and performing artists along Fraser Highway between 204th and 206th Streets, has become a cornerstone event for the Lower Mainland arts community over nearly three decades.
Organizers are preparing for the challenging weather with live musical performances, artist demonstrations, and family activities running from 10am to 5pm.
Fort Langley Movie Night Cancelled as Weekend Weather Dampens Outdoor Events
The Township of Langley has cancelled Friday night's outdoor screening of "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle" at Fort Langley Community Park due to heavy rain in the forecast.
The free family film was scheduled to begin at 8:45pm as part of the Summer Nights in the Township series, which encourages residents to gather for community entertainment under the stars.
The cancellation reflects the challenging weather conditions affecting outdoor events across the region this weekend, with organizers prioritizing safety over programming.
While disappointing for families looking forward to the evening gathering, the decision demonstrates how community events must adapt to the unpredictable Pacific Northwest weather that can quickly turn summer evenings into soggy affairs.
Aldergrove's 6th Annual Gruesome Twosome Race Returns This Weekend
The uniquely challenging Gruesome Twosome race is back for its sixth year, inviting runners to grab a partner and tackle Aldergrove's scenic trails together.
This distinctive event requires participants to remain within 10 meters of their teammate throughout the course, creating a test of coordination and teamwork as much as endurance.
Runners can choose between several distance options, making the event accessible to participants of varying fitness levels.
The course winds through some of Aldergrove's most beautiful natural settings, providing a refreshing backdrop for the physical challenge.
Beyond the race itself, the event has evolved into a community celebration with post-run festivities, local food vendors, and activities for supporters and families.
Regional Vancouver / Fraser Valley News
Abbotsford and Mission End 42-Year Partnership with Archway Recycling, Displacing 62 Workers
The cities of Abbotsford and Mission have terminated their recycling contract with Archway Community Services, eliminating 62 jobs that provided crucial employment for people with disabilities, newcomers, and others facing barriers to traditional work.
While the municipalities may achieve short-term savings by switching to a for-profit contractor that uses automated processing, the decision could prove costly in the long run as displaced workers may require increased social services, housing supports, and healthcare interventions.
Archway, which has operated recycling programs since 1983 in Abbotsford and 1986 in Mission, processed over 10,000 tonnes annually through a model that prioritized local employment over machine efficiency.
Archway CEO Rod Santiago noted that many affected workers have barriers that make finding alternative employment extremely difficult. As a result, this decision has the potential to shift municipal costs from the waste management budget to social services, emergency housing, and mental health supports that municipalities help fund.
Parents Sue Surrey School District Over Indigenous Teen's Suicide
A heartbreaking case has emerged in Surrey as parents file a lawsuit against the Surrey School District and Fraser Health following the 2023 suicide of Indigenous teen Felicity Donovan.
The legal action alleges systemic failures in recognizing and addressing the teen's mental health struggles prior to her death.
The suit raises critical questions about the adequacy of mental health resources in schools, particularly for Indigenous students who often face unique challenges and barriers to care.
Advocates are pointing to the case as evidence of the need for culturally appropriate mental health services in educational settings.
The lawsuit also highlights broader concerns about youth mental health supports across the province, where demand for services consistently outpaces available resources.
National Canadian News
Preliminary Search of Winnipeg Landfill for Indigenous Victim Underway
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has announced that the long-awaited "test phase" search of a Winnipeg landfill has begun, marking a significant step in the effort to locate the remains of an Indigenous woman believed to be a victim of a convicted serial killer.
The search follows years of advocacy by families and community members demanding action.
The preliminary search will help determine the feasibility and methodology for a larger-scale recovery operation.
The case has highlighted the disproportionate violence faced by Indigenous women and girls across Canada and raised questions about how missing persons investigations are handled when victims are Indigenous.
Community members have established a support camp near the search site, providing cultural ceremonies and emotional support for families throughout the process.
Community Advocate Challenges Ottawa's 'Productivity Problem' Narrative as Cover for Austerity
Jasmine Ramze Rezaee from Community Food Centres Canada is pushing back against the federal government's claim that weak productivity growth justifies cuts to social programs and delayed investments in public services.
In a pointed critique of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney's economic messaging, Ramze Rezaee argues that framing social spending as dependent on GDP growth per hour worked is a dangerous return to trickle-down economics that ignores Canada's actual wealth distribution.
She points out that while Ottawa can find $9 billion for defense spending increases, social programs are treated as luxuries contingent on economic performance rather than essential infrastructure for human dignity and community resilience.
Her analysis highlights how productivity metrics completely exclude unpaid care work that predominantly falls on women, while rising inequality means GDP growth benefits primarily asset holders rather than minimum wage workers juggling multiple precarious jobs.
Speaking Like Our Ancestors: Program Successfully Revitalizing Squamish Language
An immersive language program has achieved remarkable success in bringing back the Squamish language, increasing the number of fluent speakers from just seven in 2016 to over fifty today.
The initiative's educators shared their innovative methodology at the Waves 2025 Global Indigenous Language Summit, providing a model for other revitalization efforts.
The program combines traditional teaching methods with modern technology, creating an immersive environment where learners of all ages can develop fluency. Cultural practices and ceremonies are integrated throughout the curriculum, ensuring language acquisition occurs within its proper cultural context.
This success story offers hope for the preservation of other endangered Indigenous languages across Canada, demonstrating that dedicated community-led initiatives can reverse generations of language loss.
Sports News
⚽ Vancouver FC Eagles One Victory Away From National Finals
Langley's professional soccer team, the Vancouver FC Eagles, have put themselves in prime position to advance to the national finals after defeating league second-place finishers Atletico in a thrilling home match.
The victory marks a significant milestone in the team's quest for the prestigious Voyageurs Cup.
Playing in front of a packed stadium of enthusiastic supporters, the Eagles demonstrated remarkable skill and determination.
The team's cohesive play and strategic execution have been steadily improving throughout the season, culminating in this crucial victory.
With just one more win needed to secure their place in the finals, the Eagles are focusing on maintaining their momentum and continuing their impressive run of form.
⚽ Knees of a 15-year-old: Müller Begins New Chapter with Vancouver Whitecaps
German soccer superstar Thomas Müller has officially begun his Vancouver Whitecaps journey with a charm offensive that has already won over local fans.
The World Cup winner displayed his signature wit and enthusiasm during his first press conference, joking that he has "the knees of a 15-year-old" despite his veteran status in the sport.
Müller's arrival represents one of the most significant international signings in Canadian soccer history. The decorated midfielder brings unparalleled experience and tactical intelligence to a Whitecaps squad looking to elevate their standing in Major League Soccer.
Already engaging with fans and media alike, Müller appears poised to make an impact both on and off the pitch in Vancouver.
⚽ Whitecaps, Forge Open Canadian Championship Semifinals with 2-2 Draw
The Vancouver Whitecaps and Canadian Premier League side Forge FC battled to an exciting 2-2 draw in the first leg of their Canadian Championship semifinal matchup.
Forge FC's Nana Ampomah played a starring role, contributing both a goal and an assist to help the Hamilton-based club secure the valuable result against their Major League Soccer opponents.
The closely contested match showcased the growing quality of Canadian soccer, with the CPL side demonstrating they can compete with established MLS teams.
Both clubs created numerous chances throughout the match, delighting the enthusiastic Hamilton crowd.
The teams will meet again in Vancouver for the decisive second leg, with a spot in the championship final at stake.
Weekend Happenings
Friday Aug 15th, 2025
RibFest Langley
- Time: 11:00am to 9:00pm
- Location: McLeod Athletic Park, 56 Avenue & 216 Street, Langley, BC
- Description: 🔥 RibFest Langley is back as one of the premier community events in the Lower Mainland! 🎉🍖
📅 Mark your calendars: August 15th to 17th, 2025, at McLeod Athletic Park.
🚗 HOT TIP: Rideshare, taxi, or get dropped off in our dedicated zone for the easiest way to arrive at the event—right in front of the main entrance! Use Langley Secondary School's address: 21405 56th Ave.
🎤 Enjoy fan-favourite bands and exciting new musical acts for a weekend packed with entertainment.🎶🔥
👨👩👧👦 Enjoy games, and special kids' activities—this event has something for everyone in the family!! 👨👩👧👦
🎟️ Entry is by donation, with all proceeds going to charities and service projects. - Please watch out for fake ticket sellers. No Tickets for the event will be sold 🎟️.
🍖 Get ready for a BBQ extravaganza! Six Ribbers will be serving up mouthwatering delights, including smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket, BBQ chicken, and smoked sausage.
Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary
- Time: 11:00 to 11:45am
- Location: City of Langley Library, 20399 Douglas Crescent Langley BC V3A 4B3
- Description: Celebrate Summer Reading Club with the Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary.
Ever wanted to see a live Quaker Parrot or Blue and Gold Macaw? This presentation by Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary will allow people of all ages to see avian friends and hear how they were rescued. Bring your curiosity and questions to learn more about these amazing birds.
Greyhaven Exotic Bird Sanctuary is a non-profit rescue and protection for parrots and other birds. They provide education on bird care and have been in operation for 25 years.
This program is for all ages.
Foster Caregiver Information Table
- Time: 2:30 to 4:30pm
- Location: Murrayville Library, 100 22071 48th Avenue Langley BC V3A 3N1
- Description: Thinking of becoming a foster caregiver? Or just want to learn more? A social worker from BC Public Service will be at Murrayville Library to answer all your questions and share valuable information.
Stop by the information table and discover the rewards and challenges of fostering a child in your community.
Saturday Aug 16th, 2025
RibFest Langley
- Time: 11:00am to 9:00pm
- Location: McLeod Athletic Park, 56 Avenue & 216 Street, Langley, BC
- Description: 🔥 RibFest Langley is back as one of the premier community events in the Lower Mainland! 🎉🍖
📅 Mark your calendars: August 15th to 17th, 2025, at McLeod Athletic Park.
🚗 HOT TIP: Rideshare, taxi, or get dropped off in our dedicated zone for the easiest way to arrive at the event—right in front of the main entrance! Use Langley Secondary School's address: 21405 56th Ave.
🎤 Enjoy fan-favourite bands and exciting new musical acts for a weekend packed with entertainment.🎶🔥
👨👩👧👦 Enjoy games, and special kids' activities—this event has something for everyone in the family!! 👨👩👧👦
🎟️ Entry is by donation, with all proceeds going to charities and service projects. - Please watch out for fake ticket sellers. No Tickets for the event will be sold 🎟️.
🍖 Get ready for a BBQ extravaganza! Six Ribbers will be serving up mouthwatering delights, including smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket, BBQ chicken, and smoked sausage.
29th Annual Arts Alive Festival
- Time: 10:00
- Location: Fraser Highway One-Way (204 Street to 206 Street),
- Description: With over 200 visual and performing artists, this "must attend festival" has become a signature event in the lower mainland.
This free, family event features live musical performances, artists and artisans show casing a myriad of mediums, live demonstrations, a family activity venue and special performance surprises all day long!
Dive-In Movie: Little Mermaid Live Action (2023)
- Time: 8:00 to 11:00pm
- Location: Al Anderson Memorial Pool - 4949 207 Street, Langley, BC
- Movie: Little Mermaid Live Action (2023)
- Description: Watch a movie under the stars while relaxing and or floating in our warm pool!
Cost to participate is $5.00 per person.
Regular pool admission rules apply.
Summer Seafood Boil
- Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm
- Location: Roots and Wings Distillery, 7897 240 St, Langley Twp, BC V1M 3P9
- Cost: $115.00 plus GST per ticket
- Description: Join Roots and Wings Distillery and Brine & Barnacle Boil Company for an unforgettable seafood dining experience! Let your tastebuds journey to the shores of Nova Scotia with fresh seafood paired perfectly with craft cocktails. Sip on refreshing cocktails as you listen to live music and gaze out at mountain views while your boil cooks! Guaranteed to leave you full and satisfied this event promises a feast you won’t forget!
Limited Tickets Available!
One Ticket per person!
CANADA PROUD CRAFT IPA LAUNCH PARTY AT DEAD FROG
- Time: 11:00am to 10:00pm
- Location: DEAD FROG BREWERY & TASTING ROOM, 8860 201 St #105, Langley, British Columbia V2Y 0C8
- Description: Here at Dead Frog we’re proud of our Canadian heritage and wanted to celebrate our amazing nation as well as the people that make it so great in the best way we know how – with great craft beer.
With so many resources here in our own country, at Dead Frog Brewery, we are focusing on using what we have at our fingertips. 🌾💧🌲The CANADA PROUD CRAFT IPA is a premium craft IPA brewed right here in Langley BC with all Canadian hops, Canadian water, Canadian malts, and Canadian yeast.
And of course, we have to have a party. 🥳 Here’s what we have going on Saturday, August 16:- 🍁1-Day only Maple Bacon Avo Toast
- 🍁1-Day Beertail
- 🍁Canada Proud Craft IPA on tap and in cans
- 🍁Canada Proud and Canada Not for Sale tshirts $5 off
- 🍁Free Maple Bacon Popcorn if you wear red and white
- 🍁Games and activities
Adult Dungeons & Dragons
- Time: 1:00 to 3:00pm
- Location: Murrayville Library, 100 22071 48th Avenue Langley BC V3A 3N1
- Description: Explore the mysteries of the lost necropolis of the Storm King. What horrors and treasures lurk within the stone walls, waiting to be claimed
Join us as we travel through a fifth-edition Dungeons & Dragons adventure.
For ages 18 and older. No experience or supplies required.
Code & Play
- Time: 2:00 to 3:30pm
- Location: Aldergrove Library, 26770 29 Avenue Aldergrove BC V4W 3B8
- Description: It's never too early to start learning logic and coding! Join us at the library for this drop-in program, designed to teach children the basics of computer programming through stories and hands-on play.
Suitable for children ages 3 to 6.
Live Music: David Marles
- Time: 7:00 to 10:00pm
- Location: Farm Country Brewing, 20555 56 Ave #5 Langley, British Columbia V3A 3Y9
- Description: Join us for an evening of acoustic guitar and soulful vocals with David Marles.
Sunday Aug 17th, 2025
RibFest Langley
- Time: 11:00am to 8:00pm
- Location: McLeod Athletic Park, 56 Avenue & 216 Street, Langley, BC
- Description: 🔥 RibFest Langley is back as one of the premier community events in the Lower Mainland! 🎉🍖
📅 Mark your calendars: August 15th to 17th, 2025, at McLeod Athletic Park.
🚗 HOT TIP: Rideshare, taxi, or get dropped off in our dedicated zone for the easiest way to arrive at the event—right in front of the main entrance! Use Langley Secondary School's address: 21405 56th Ave.
🎤 Enjoy fan-favourite bands and exciting new musical acts for a weekend packed with entertainment.🎶🔥
👨👩👧👦 Enjoy games, and special kids' activities—this event has something for everyone in the family!! 👨👩👧👦
🎟️ Entry is by donation, with all proceeds going to charities and service projects. - Please watch out for fake ticket sellers. No Tickets for the event will be sold 🎟️.
🍖 Get ready for a BBQ extravaganza! Six Ribbers will be serving up mouthwatering delights, including smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket, BBQ chicken, and smoked sausage.
Fandom Fun Sunday: World of Dog Man
- Time: 1:30 to 3:30pm
- Location: Muriel Arnason Library, 130 20338 65 Avenue Langley BC V2Y 2X3
- Description: Get the whole family together to celebrate your favourite fandoms at Muriel Arnason Library!
This week, we are exploring the universe of Dog Man. Craft a robot in Petey’s secret lab, help Dog Man capture some villains and more!
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