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SURREY EVENTS: Saturday Slam Jam, SPARK Stages shows & more this week

A guide to Surrey-area events, entertainment, activities and attractions
youth-basketball
Basketball games, dance, art and other youth-focused activities are part of Surrey Slam Jam, an annual free-admission event Saturday, May 17 at Guildford Recreation Centre, from noon to 8 p.m. See listing under Kids/Youth.

FESTIVALS/FAIRS

Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair returns for a weekend of rodeo action, live music, rides and other entertainment, May 16-19 at Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Concerts include Trooper, Corb Lund and others on six stages over three days. "Experience an original kind of country and get your tickets today by visiting https://cloverdalerodeo.com/tickets."  

Car Free Day Surrey returns to Newton on Saturday, June 7. Admission is free at the block party-like festival, which fills 137 Street with people, not cars, for a day of entertainment on multiple stages, food and more, noon to 8 p.m., rain or shine. Vendors are sought, apply on website. Info: carfree.ca/city/surrey.

CONCERTS

Elektra choir presents "Legacy" concert in celebration of Surrey's Morna Edmundson and her final bow as artistic director, 3 p.m. Sunday, May 25 at Church of the Good Shepherd, 2250 150 St, Surrey. Ticket link: https://elektra.ca/tickets/legacy. Ticket prices: Adults $42, Seniors $37, Students $20.

New World Men: This acclaimed Rush tribute band from Quebec performs at Surrey Arts Centre's Main Stage on Friday, May 30. Presented by Matt Grou Productions. Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.

Jazz Vespers in the Valley: Hour-long concerts at Northwood United Church on select Sundays from fall to spring, 3:30 p.m. start time at 8855 156 St. “Jazz meets the Spirit in a time of reflection and prayer.” Suggested donation $10 for admission. Info: northwood-united.org/events, or call 604-581-8454. May 25: Gabriel Mark Hasselbach Group.

DANCE

"All You Need is Love" show featuring Panorama School of Dance, May 24-25 at Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey. "Join us for an unforgettable celebration of joy, connection, and the power of love at this year’s dance recital. Our dancers will take the stage to share heartfelt performances that explore love in all its forms — from friendship and family to self-love and kindness." Info: bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355.

Platinum: Essence of Dance 20th Anniversary Recital at Bell Performing Arts Centre on May 30 and June 1. "This special recital is a celebration of the bonds we’ve built, the memories we’ve shared, and the generations of dancers who have grown together under one roof." Tickets and info: bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355.

KIDS/YOUTH

Surrey Slam Jam: Free admission at annual event for youth Saturday, May 17 at Guildford Recreation Centre, 15105 105 Ave., Surrey, from noon to 8 p.m., for ages 10-18. "This event is packed with a basketball tournament, dance battles, music, exciting workshops, and activities. Join us for great prizes, special guest appearances and more." 

Surrey's Summer Day Camps: Registration for summer day camps opened May 4, continuing until camps are full. Pick up a Summer Day Camps Guide at any Surrey recreation facility or library. For help and info, call Monday to Friday 8:30am–4:30pm at 604.501.5100.

Youth Arts Council of Surrey (YACOS) is a branch of the Arts Council of Surrey run by youth for youth (ages 13-21) who want to get involved in the local arts community, with talent shows, play-writing competitions, film festivals, fashion shows. Info: artscouncilofsurrey.ca/yacos, 604-594-2700, instagram.com/youthartsca.

THEATRE/STAGE

Roald Dahl's "Matilda The Musical" presented by Sullivan Heights Theatre & Music, May 14-16 at Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey, nightly shows at 7 p.m. Tickets at door, cash only. Featuring Sullivan’s Senior Concert Band. Info: on bellperformingartscentre.com, call 604-507-6355.

Surrey SPARK Stages: A weekend of family-friendly shows at Surrey Arts Centre from May 23-25 including Whipped Up!, A Simple Space, Ginalina Joins the Circus, I Wish I Was a Mountain and Braided Spirits. "Surrey's performing arts festival for kids is back with an all-new lineup of exceptional circus, music and theatre shows. Show tickets include drop-in bonus activities including hoop dancing with Notorious Cree, circus art with Circus Lab, and puppet play and artmaking." Presented by Surrey Civic Theatres. Tickets and info: surrey.ca/arts-culture/surrey-civic-theatres/surrey-spark-stages, 604-501-5566.

"The Merry Widow": Crescendo Operation Society celebrates its 20th anniversary with a production featuring music by Franz Lehar, at Surrey Arts Centre's Studio Theatre from June 20-22 (four show times). Artistic direction by Dolores Scott, choreography by Nancy Hasiuk-Lay, music by Natan Badue, stage direction by Robin Hahn. Info and tickets: crescendooperatic.org, tickets.surrey.ca.

COMEDY

Yuk Yuk’s comedy club at Elements Casino Surrey, with shows Friday/Saturday at 17755 60 Ave., Cloverdale. For calendar and tickets, visit yukyuks.com/surrey or call 1-800-899-9136, ext. 0.

FOOD

Surrey Greek Food Festival returns June 6-15 at church lot, 13181 96 Ave., Surrey, for food, live music, multi-cultural performances, raffle prizes, shopping and more. Weekday times 4 to 10 p.m., weekends noon to 10 p.m. "Come and join our food festival filled with delicious Greek food! We have everything from meals to snacks, coffee to dessert for you to enjoy. Each night features live entertainment from traditional Greek dances and bands to music from diverse groups in our local communities." Info: surreygreekfoodfest.com. 

COMMUNITY

United Church of Canada's 100th anniversary celebration Saturday, June 7 at Northwood United Church, 8855 156 St., in Fleetwood, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. "Join us for outdoor fun for all ages, including face painting, games, and a bouncy castle. Enjoy music by Sweet Pan Steel Drums. Savor lunch at the concession. Explore cherished memories and timelines of UCC's history." Info: northwood-united.org/events.

Surrey’s Environmental Extravaganza: From Earth Day to World Oceans Day (June 8), nearly 150 free programs and events available for people of all ages. "Whether you’re a budding community scientist, avid birdwatcher, or just looking for a new park to enjoy with friends, there’s something for everyone during the City of Surrey’s 28th annual Environmental Extravaganza." Events: surrey.ca/parks-recreation/parks/park-programs/environmental-extravaganza.

TALKS

Creative Writing Workshops: Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) has partnered with Surrey Libraries to offer a series of creative writing workshops led by talented KPU alumni. Each 90-minute workshop is free and open to the public, with focus on fiction on June 11. "Attendees are encouraged to register for one or all of the sessions to explore their creative potential." To register, visit surreylibraries.ca/events.

"A Brief History of Newton" event Tuesday, June 3 at the Museum of Surrey, 3 to 4 p.m. "Bring a friend for the brief history of Newton presented by the Surrey Archives team. This is a seated presentation in the Museum's theatre with enough space for 40 people. Please register to secure your spot. Q&A to follow." At 17710 56A Ave. Free admission. Info: 604-592-6956.

FUNDRAISERS

Breakfast With the Bank fundraiser for Surrey Food Bank on Friday, May 23 at Taj Park Convention Centre, Surrey, starting at 7 a.m. "Join us for a morning of community spirit, inspiring stories, and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while hearing firsthand how your support is helping us fuel a nourished and thriving community with good food and great people." Register here: surreyfoodbank.org/event/breakfast-with-the-bank-2025.

FOOD & BEVERAGES

Ukrainian Soul Food: Perogies, cabbage rolls and borscht available on the final Friday of every month as fundraiser, 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Ukrainian Cultural Centre, 13512 108 Ave, Surrey. “Hot takeout or choose to dine in, as well as frozen products to stock your freezer. Cash only. For information, call 604-531-1923 or 604-581-0313.

MUSEUMS

Museum of Surrey: At 17710 56A Ave., Cloverdale. "Explore the vibrant, interactive and ever-changing Museum of Surrey, your free local venue for wonder, dialogue and fun for the whole family." Ocean Bound exhibit, May 29 to Sept. 7:: "Discover how our actions on land impact aquatic life and ocean health in this interactive and family-friendly exhibit, which brings the science of watersheds to life." Info: Surrey.ca/museum, 604-592-6956.

ARTS & CULTURE

Surrey Muse: Interdisciplinary art and literature presentation group meets monthly on fourth Saturday (1-4 p.m., City Centre Library, 10350 University Dr. Surrey). Gatherings feature an author, a poet and an artist/performer at varying levels of artistic development, followed by an Open Mic session. Info: surreymuse.wordpress.com.

Surrey's Artswest Art Group meets on third Monday of every month (Sept. to May) at Newton Cultural Centre, 13570 72 Ave. Guests are welcome ($10); memberships are $35 annually. The club offers opportunities to connect with artists, six demos by professional artists, workshops, shows and more. Info: email wendy@artbywendy.com.

GALLERIES

Surrey Art Gallery: Multiple art exhibits and related events at Bear Creek Park, 88 Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery. A Tangled Thicket with Z·inc Artist Collective (Willa Downing, Lesley Garratt, Cora Li-Leger, Claire Moore), to June 8; Atheana Picha: Echoes, to June 2027; Sandeep Johal: It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see, to June 2027.

Surrey UrbanScreen outdoor digital art gallery: Surrey City Centre Library building facing Surrey Civic Plaza, 10350 University Drive. Exhibition begins 30 minutes after sunset and ends at midnight, free admission. Info: surrey.ca/urbanscreen.

Newton Cultural Centre features works by local artists at 13530 72 Ave., at venue of the Arts Council of Surrey. For calendar visit artscouncilofsurrey.ca, or call 604-594-2700.

Thursday Artist Talks: Events hosted by Surrey Art Gallery Association (SAGA) on the first Thursday of every month, 7:30 p.m. Free admission. Info: 604-501-5566, Arts.surrey.ca. On Facebook.surreyartgalleryassociation.

BARS/NIGHTLIFE

The Barn: Country music at former Taphouse Guildford location, Wednesday to Sunday at 15330 102A Ave., Surrey. Info: barncountrybar.com.

Donegal’s Irish House: Live music and jams at 12054 96th Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-584-2112, donegals.pub.

Whalley Legion’s Vimy Lounge: Live music Friday-Sunday, Tuesday karaoke at #102-10626 City Parkway, Surrey. Info: (604) 582-0697, whalleylegion.org.

Dublin Crossing: Live music on stage at 18789 Fraser Hwy. 604-575-5470, online at Dublincrossing.com.

Mojitos: Latin music and more at The Turf Hotel, by bands and DJs, 12411 King George Blvd. Info: 778-223-6936, facebook.com/mojitosurrey.

MOVIES

Landmark Cinemas 12 Guildford: 15051 101 Ave. 604-581-1716, Info: Landmarkcinemas.com.

Strawberry Hill Cineplex: 12161 72 Ave., Surrey. 604-501-9400, cineplex.com.

FLEA MARKET

The Cloverdale Market: “Your Weekly Treasure Hunt” in two buildings with 200 tables and 100+ outdoor spots, open every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, off 176 St. (Hwy 15) and 62 Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-837-1676, Cloverdalemarket.ca.

SPORTS

Surrey Eagles: Junior hockey games (BCHL) at South Surrey Arena from fall to spring. For schedule and tickets, visit surreyeagles.ca or call 604-531-GOAL (4625).

Surrey Knights: Junior A hockey games (PJHL) at North Surrey Sport & Ice Complex, 10950 126A St., in PJHL league action from September to March. Home games Thursdays, 7 p.m. Schedule: surreyknights.ca.

AWARDS

Surrey’s Top 25 Under 25 Awards on Thursday, May 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel. "Business and community members are invited to celebrate the winners and connect with our next generation of leaders at the awards reception." Register online at businessinsurrey.com or call 604.581.7130.

NATURE

Biodiversity Day Bioblitz on Thursday, May 22 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Fleetwood Park, 15802 80 Ave., Surrey. "Celebrate International Day for Biodiversity by recording nature sightings around Fleetwood Park. Visit different stations to learn about the importance of biodivesity, explore local birds, insects, plants, and practise using iNaturalist to document your discoveries. No nature knowledge is necessary. Drop-in event, all ages." Event hosted by Surrey Parks, part of Surrey's Environmental Extravaganza series. 

Community Tree Planting events in Surrey at various sites. “Help grow Surrey’s urban forest by planting trees and shrubs in your community park this spring.” Schedule and info: surrey.ca/news-events/events/community-tree-planting, email stewardship@surrey.ca.

Surrey Tree Sale Program: “Surrey residents can buy quality trees at an affordable price to help grow the urban forest.” Purchases are made online and then later picked up from Surrey Operations Centre. Info: surrey.ca/treesale. Next sale starts April 30. "At $20 per tree, Surrey residents can beautify their property and help keep Surrey green."

Nature Work Parties: “Help care for Surrey parks by removing invasive plant species, cleaning up litter, and enhancing habitat within the park. Remove invasive plant species, clean up litter, and enhance habitat within the park. Tools and training are provided. Bring your family and friends; all ages are welcome.” For info and dates, visit surrey.ca/news-events/events/nature-work-parties.

WORKSHOPS

Kids Zone Arts & Craft Workshops at Newton Cultural Centre hosted by the Arts Council of Surrey, on June 7, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. "A great opportunity for kids to come together, learn new arts & crafts and enjoy creative time." Fee $5 by e-transfer to info@artscouncilofsurrey.ca. For ages 5 to 12. Info: Call Aman, 604-621-3633.

The Network to Eliminate Violence in Relationships (NEVR) is offering free 3-hour online workshops every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. “Goal of the workshop is to learn to identify different types of abuse, support survivors of abuse and learn how to find additional supports and resources for survivors of abuse.” Email nevr@kpu to register for a free VIP workshop. Info: 604-599-2267.

EDUCATION

READ Surrey/White Rock Society’s Partners Program offers free, one-to-one tutoring for adults who want reading, writing or math support. “If you or someone you know needs literacy help, call Shanti at 778-242-7323 or email readswrs@gmail.com.” Info at readsurreywhiterock.com.

WALKS/RUNS

Guided Nature Walks at Surrey Nature Centre on various dates: “Join a Surrey Nature Centre team member for in-person guided walks to learn about nature and the diversity of Green Timbers Urban Forest. Walks are designed for all ages and will go rain or shine.” More info: 604-501-5100.

Surrey Trekkers Volksport Club: “A friendly walking club where everyone is welcome. We have a proud heritage as an associate of International Volkssporting with regularly scheduled walks throughout the Lower Mainland.” Walks are on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, most statutory holidays. Info: surreytrekkers.com.

Surrey Walks Together: City hall initiative encourages residents to “reconnect with others while walking to improve both mental and physical health.” Meeting locations are posted to Surrey Walks website (surrey.ca/parks-recreation/surrey-walks) along with other walking resources including trail maps, information on self-guided walks, walking groups, charity walks and more.

SENIORS

Belinda’s Connection Café at Newton Cultural Centre: “A free monthly event for 55+ seniors to connect with others while participating in art-related activities,” on select dates, 10 a.m. to noon, register by email to lyn.verra.lay@gmail.com, call 778-879-4097, search "Belinda’s Connection Café" on Facebook. May 22: Crocheted Coasters with Tanya Lui; June 26: Sun Prints with Desmond Tompkins.

Senior’s bingo every Saturday from 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre in Whalley. Cards are 25 cents each. Telephone registration is required: 604-598-5898.

Surrey Singles Over Sixty: "We are a friendly group that meet for dinners, card games, bowling, dancing, picnics, walks, etc. Our club is based in the North Surrey/North Delta area. New members are welcome." Call Julie, 604-218-2946.

TALK (Third Age Learning at Kwantlen): Program promises “creative and stimulating educational activities” for the 50-plus age group in Surrey and surrounding cities, with a mix of in-person and online events. TALK courses are “ideal for retirees who want to continue learning.” Fees range from $15 to $30, plus $10 annual membership fee. Info: kpu.ca/talk, 604-599-3077.

Seniors Centre Without Walls: Join various presenters for telephone-based exercises, literature or coffee clubs, learning mindfulness or estate planning. View details for information about the Seniors’ Centre Without Walls initiative by Seniors Come Share Society and register by calling 604-531S-9400 ext. 205 or scww@comeshare.ca.

ATTRACTIONS

Bear Creek Park Train and Mini Golf: Mini train rides through forest at Surrey’s largest park, 13750 88 Ave. Info: call 604-501-1232, visit bctrains.com.

Surreys Heritage Rail: Rides from Cloverdale Station. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to be able to enjoy all rides. Accessible. Parking is available at the station, at 17630 / Highway 10. Info: fvhrs.org.

HEALTH

Surrey No Longer Alone Nar-Anon Family Group (for people affected by someone else’s drug use) in-person meetings on Monday evenings, from 7-8 p.m. at Bethany-Newton United Church, 14853 60 Ave., Surrey (north entrance).

Recovery Canada: “We are a free, in-person, self-help support group for people experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. In-person meeting Tuesdays 1:30-3pm at St. Cuthbert Anglican Church, 11601 82 Ave, Delta BC. For more info contact Anita at anitaendorse@gmail.com or 604-788-4633. The virtual meeting will continue Thursdays 7-8:30 pm. Contact Gilles at gilber005@yahoo.ca for more info, or visit RecoveryCanada.ca.

Surrey Prostate Cancer Support Group meetings on last Saturday of month at Valley View Memorial Gardens 14644 72 Ave., Surrey (no meetings July and December). “Everyone is invited who are interested in knowing more about prostate cancer. Coffee & cookies provided. Call 604 594-5257.”

GROUPS

Surrey International Folk Dancing Society hosts dance events Thursdays at Walnut Road Elementary in Surrey, 16152 82 Ave., 7:15 p.m. start. First time is free. No partner or costume required. "Folk dancing is a recreational activity suitable for all ages and abilities. Beginners are welcome." Info: surreyfolkdance.org or call Dale, 604-496-4236.

Surrey Singles Over Sixty: “We are a friendly group that meet for dinners, card games, bowling, dancing, picnics, walks, etc. Our club is based in the North Surrey/North Delta area. New members are welcome.” Call Julie, 604-218-2946.

Surrey Air Cadets: 278 Cormorant RCACS, launched in 2017, welcomes new members aged 12-18. “We parade (train) on Tuesday Evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. from September to June of each year,” at Princess Margaret Secondary School, 12870 72 Ave, Surrey. Info: surreycadets.ca, 778-832-0278.

CALLS

Youth Artists wanted for exhibit at Newton Cultural Centre, deadline for entries June 1 (ages 13 to 21). "The Youth Arts Council of Surrey invites you to showcase your artwork at our upcoming exhibit at Newton Cultural Centre." Info on artscouncilofsurrey.ca.

The Vaudevillians seniors entertainment troupe seeks performers for local events, for singing, dancing, music instrument playing, also backstage. For details call Doris, 604-585-7409 or visit thevaudevillians.com.

Peace Arch Chorus: A capella group rehearses at Newton Cultural Centre under direction of Elvera Collier and assistant director Bev Feick. “Auditioned members are provided with excellent musical education and vocal coaching.” Chorus welcomes women to join. Info: peacearchchorus.ca.

Aequitas Singers: ”Located in Surrey, an adult, non-audition , social justice, community choir." First rehearsal of the season Tuesday, Sept. 10, Northwood  United Church, 8855 156 St., Surrey, 7-9 p.m. New members welcome! For more information: https://www.aequitassingers.ca.

Soundscape A Capella Chorus: A mixed-voice, auditioned community chorus for adults. Rehearsals Tuesday evenings at Fraser Heights Secondary, Surrey. Info: soundscapesings.ca/auditions.

Handel Society Choir invites new members. Rehearsals are Tuesdays 7.30 p.m. at Cloverdale Canadian Reformed Church, on 174 Street and 60 Avenue. Soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices wanted.” Phone 604 202 7801 for information.

Westcoast Harmony Chorus: Group rehearses in Surrey at Parkland Community Church (9574 160th St.) on Wednesday evenings, 7 p.m. “A group of women and people of marginalized genders who love to sing and are personally committed to excellence and lasting friendships.” New members sought. Visit westcoastsings.com for info.

South Fraser Community Band welcomes new members, particularly needing brass/horns. Rehearsals Thursdays 7:30-9:30 p.m., September to June, at Earl Marriott Secondary, 15751 16 Ave. Email Membership@sfcb.ca, visit sfcb.ca.

VOLUNTEERS

Surrey Memorial Hospital Auxiliary has provided volunteer services and fundraising since 1947, and needs additional volunteers. “We manage the hospital gift shop, the lottery booth and hospital gift cart. All funds raised go towards enhancing patient comfort and promoting patient welfare, assisting with much needed hospital expansions and equipment, fostering good relations between Surrey Memorial Hospital and the community.” Visit the gift shop to learn more. Info: fraserhealth.ca/about-us/volunteer-opportunities/volunteer-surrey-memorial-hospital-and-jim-pattison-outpatient-care-and-surgery-centre.

Bell Performing Arts Centre seeks new volunteers. “Our volunteers gain experience in box office sales, ushering, concession sales, working with the public, and more. Get a backstage view of the arts in your community. Learn about teamwork, and experience the joy of giving something back to your community. Volunteers of various ages and all cultural backgrounds welcome.” For info call 604-507-6355. Application form on bellperformingartscentre.com.

Volunteer Cancer Drivers organization needs drivers in Surrey and other cities. Visit volunteercancerdrivers.ca.

Community Thrift Store: “Can you spare 4 hours a day to volunteer at Newton’s Community Thrift Store, a joint project of Surrey Hospice Society and Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society?” At 7138 King George Blvd. Call Donna at 604-599-9930 or visit shscommunitythriftstore.com/volunteer to learn more.

Surrey Art Gallery docent program seeks volunteers to lead weekday school group tours of contemporary art exhibitions. Visit “Volunteering at the Gallery” page on surrey.ca/artgallery or contact Chris Dawson-Murphy, Volunteer Coordinator, artsvolunteer@surrey.ca, 604-501-5198.

READ Surrey/White Rock Society is recruiting volunteer adult literacy tutors for their fall training. Info: readsurreywhiterock.com.

Fraser Health Crisis Line is marking 50 years of operation this year; that’s 50 years of 24/7 service delivered by volunteers. If you would like to volunteer, contact the Fraser Health Crisis Line: options.bc.ca/volunteer-at-options.



Tom Zillich

About the Author: Tom Zillich

I cover entertainment, sports and news for Surrey Now-Leader and Black Press Media
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