New Westminster youth will be celebrated across the city as part of an annual province-wide initiative next month.
Youth Week takes place throughout B.C. May 1 to 7 as a means to recognize young people aged 11 to 18 and their contributions to the community.
"At the City of New Westminster, we're proud to be part of this province-wide celebration, recognizing the positive impact that our youth make all year round," reads a statement from New West Youth Services (NWY).
Activities include a friendly basketball game, youth vs. New West police and firefighters, and a "Spring Thing" dance for middle school-aged kids.
As well, generations will mingle at Century House later in the week, bringing youth and seniors together over brunch and bingo.
For more information, you can visit the New West Youth Services website.
Youth Week's schedule for New Westminster is as follows:
Cultural Collab
- May 1, 4 to 8 p.m.
- New West Youth Centre (620 Eighth St.)
- $1 or free with NWY membership
- Share and learn about each other’s cultures and backgrounds! Expect food from different cuisines to try. If sharing is not your thing, just come to listen and enjoy. Come early as it's a popular event.
New West Youth Awards
- May 2
- Invitation only
- Our annual celebration of outstanding youth aged 13-18 in our community. There are five youth categories and a special recognition for an Adult Ally or organization that has gone above and beyond to support youth.
Basketball Showdown
- May 3, 4 to 10 p.m.
- tәmәseẃtxw Aquatic and Community Centre (65 E Sixth Ave.)
- $1 or free with NWY membership
- A friendly yet competitive match-up with youth versus New West Police and New West Firefighters! It's more than just a game; it's a celebration of teamwork, camaraderie, and community spirit.
Spring Thing Middle School Dance
- May 4, 7 to 9:30 p.m.
- Century House (620 Eighth St.)
- Tickets must be purchased in advance
- Grab a friend and dance into spring with us! We'll have games, prizes, concession, and music from our Bridge City Sound youth DJs. For age 11 - 13 years. Youth must show ID at the entrance (Student card, Youth Services membership, or government ID).
Bingo and Brunch
- May 5, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Century House (620 Eighth St.)
- $1 or free with NWY membership
- An afternoon of pancakes, bingo, and shared experiences between generations. Prizes to be won! Whether you fresh to the dotting scene or a bingo pro, this event guarantees a memorable time.
Art Showcase
- May 6, 4 to 8 p.m.
- New West Youth Centre (620 Eighth St.)
- $1 or free with NWY membership
- Get artsy and creative with paint, imagination and teamwork. Hop from canvas to canvas adding your special flair to each to build a shared masterpiece!
It's a Wrap Party
- May 7, 4 to 8 p.m.
- New West Youth Centre (620 Eighth St.)
- $1 or free with NWY membership
- That's a wrap! Roll up your sleeves and prepare a delicious sandwich in wrap form. From classic combos to your creative creations, let's see who impresses the Youth Services judges the most!
