July in Richmond, BC

It’s finally time to unpack those long-forgotten shorts and T-shirts from last year and dive into some sunny summertime pursuits. July kicks off with Canada Day celebrations—check out our insider’s guide for ways to join in the festivities in Richmond.

From there, the month unfolds with a full menu of special activities to add to your to-do list––from art shows to boat tours to free concerts and much more. Read on for our handpicked recommendations––and don’t forget to share your experiences via the #RichmondMoments hashtag!

1. COLOURFUL FLUTTERS: BUTTERFLY ENCOUNTER

Aberdeen Centre, 4151 Hazelbridge Way, Richmond, BC
On now until September 2
Admission: free

Fans of arguably the world’s favourite insect are already fluttering en masse to Aberdeen Centre for this charming, family-friendly butterfly celebration. Head to the mall’s Central Atrium to discover a selfie-ready diorama teeming with vibrant foliage and butterfly specimens––plus a dramatic 20-foot-tall butterfly sculpture. Alongside an Instagram butterfly count contest, you can also win a plush keychain critter at the Funburst Spinner ($25 mall purchase required).

2. FACES OF RICHMOND EXHIBITION

Steveston Museum & Post Office, 3811 Moncton Street, Richmond, BC
July 1 to July 31
Admission: free

Returning for its fourth year in 2025, this highly evocative exhibition features vibrant portraits of 20 Richmond seniors painted by different local artists––alongside links to recorded interviews where each senior talks about their life. A beautiful snapshot of diverse city residents, this show is one of the monthly-changing, admission-free art exhibitions on the walls at Steveston’s historic Post Office building.

3. VOYAGE OF THE GIKUMI

Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, 5180 Westwater Drive, Richmond, BC
July 5, 6, 19, 20 & August 2, 3, 16,17 sailings at 1:30pm
Admission: $98 + tax and service

Step aboard the MV Gikumi, a beautifully restored 1954 west coast work boat, for a two-hour guided journey along the Fraser River’s historic cannery channel. As you pass by quiet islands and coastal marshes, the experienced heritage interpreters will share stories of the river’s past—from rum runners and sturgeon sightings to rescued whales and abandoned boats. A relaxed and informative way to experience the natural and cultural history of the region.

4. STEVESTON ALIVE! WALKING TOUR VIGNETTES 

Steveston Museum & Post Office, 3811 Moncton Street, Richmond, BC
July 5, 12, 19, 26 & August 9 & 16
Tickets $8.79 (including fees)

Step back in time to yesteryear Steveston in the company of a costumed interpreter who will lead you on a guided stroll around the sights and sounds of the not-too-distant past. En route, you’ll hear colourful stories and intriguing tales of past village residents––and you’ll even meet some of them, brilliantly brought to life by talented student actors. Hot tip: book now for this popular, great-value tour.

5. WEST COAST WORK BOAT WEEKEND

Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, 5180 Westwater Drive, Richmond, BC
July 12 & July 13 (noon to 4:00pm)
Admission: free

Head to the Shipyards’ picturesque docks to see a fleet of historic boats gently bobbing in the water. Representing BC’s fishing, tugboat, and forestry sectors, each vessel has been beautifully restored, renovated, or converted—with their passionate owners on hand to share stories from the working coast. While you’re there, stop by Richmond Boat Builders for an interactive exploration of wooden boat building.

6. CONCERTS IN THE PARK 

Garden City Community Park, 6620 Garden City Road, Richmond, BC
July 16 (6:30pm to 8:00pm)
Admission: free

This laid-back alfresco event is a family-friendly favourite among locals and savvy visitors. Expect toe-tapping live music alongside lawn games and interactive arts and crafts activities. And don’t worry if you can’t make it this time around––you’ll have another opportunity to join in the fun on August 20. Hot tip: bring a chair or blanket to sit on the grass and fully enjoy the evening.

7. 10TH ANNUAL PRINCESS TEA

Globe@YVR, Fairmont Vancouver Airport, 3111 Grant McConachie Way, Richmond, BC
July 18 (1:00pm to 4:00pm)
Tickets: adults $129, children $69

A uniquely special fundraiser for B.C.’s beloved Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, your kids will feel like royalty as they dress in their finest sparkly party outfits––crowns and tiaras optional. Junior princes and princesses are equally welcome and everyone will be treated to delicious treats, face painting, sing-alongs, a silent auction and special appearances from Elsa, Glinda and Rapunzel.

8. NATIONS CUP SOCCER TOURNAMENT

Minoru Park, South Arm Community Park & Hugh Boyd Community Park, Richmond, BC
July 18 to July 20
Admission: free

The 44th edition of this cherished annual soccer competition features multiple teams, representing countries from China to England and from Mexico to Germany and beyond. Staged at three city venues, the atmosphere is like a mini World Cup, complete with thousands of spectators, lots of friendly flag-waving and––at Hugh Boyd Community Park, where the July 20 final will be played–– international food trucks and a chatty beer garden.

9. RICHMOND PRIDE WEEK

Various venues
July 28 to August 3
Admission: various

The city’s annual and all-inclusive celebration of diversity features a weeklong array of engaging events and interactive activities for all. This year’s offerings include True Voices: Pride Storytelling & Tea, hosted by Gateway Theatre on July 31. This special, admission-free event serves up inspiring stories from the city’s queer community as well as tea and a Q&A with the storytellers––register ahead of time via the Gateway website.

10. THE SWORDSMAN: FILM SCREENING & CONVERSATION

Richmond Cultural Centre, 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond, BC
July 31 (6:00pm to 8:30pm)
Admission: free

Dive into Hong Kong’s rich movie culture via a gratis screening of this popular 1990 martial arts thriller. Set during China’s Ming dynasty era and starring Sam Hui, Cecilia Yip and Jacky Cheung, the movie is subtitled in both English and Mandarin. After the screening, enjoy an engaging discussion with UBC Hong Kong Studies professor Helena Wu and Rebecca Wang from Richmond Art Gallery.

Last Updated on June 27, 2025 by Tourism Richmond