The River Is Our Neighbour: Why the Fraser Matters to New West

The Fraser River is more than a beautiful backdrop to New Westminster. It helped shape the city's history, economy, transportation network, industries, public spaces, and identity. In this episode of the New West Spotlight Podcast, Carla McNeil takes a curious look at New Westminster's relationship with the Fraser River—from its role as a historic working waterfront to the riverfront parks, public art, historic vessels, and community events residents enjoy today. The episode explores how the Fraser helped establish New Westminster as an important port and commercial centre, the continuing importance of the working river, the recently completed westward expansion of Westminster Pier Park, and the fascinating history of Samson V, New Westminster's historic sternwheeler and maritime museum. The timing is especially appropriate because RiverFest 2026 is taking place during September, with City-listed programming on September 19 and September 26–27. The September 26–27 RiverFest programming at Samson V runs from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and includes opportunities to tour the historic vessel, participate in family activities, and learn more about the Fraser River. Admission is by donation. Whether you're a longtime New Westminster resident, a recent arrival, or simply someone who enjoys spending time beside the water, this episode offers a fresh way to look at one of the most familiar parts of the Royal City. 🌊 Featured Places Westminster Pier Park 📍 New Westminster waterfront, accessed via the Fourth Street and Sixth Street overpasses The expanded riverfront park now includes approximately two additional acres of parkland, with lawns, seating, picnic areas, outdoor fitness, ping-pong, a performance stage, public art, and river views. The westward expansion was completed in July 2026. Waterfront Esplanade 📍 Quayside Drive waterfront, New Westminster A 1.3-kilometre riverside linear park with viewpoints, benches, interpretive signage, public art, playgrounds, picnic areas, and connections toward Westminster Pier Park and Samson V. Samson V Maritime Museum 📍 880 Quayside Drive, New Westminster, BC A historic wooden steam-powered sternwheeler built in 1937 and preserved as a maritime museum. September visitor hours are currently listed as Saturday and Sunday, 12:00–4:00 p.m. RiverFest 2026 📅 September 19, 2026 📅 September 26–27, 2026 🎟️ Free / by donation depending on the specific program A community celebration of the Fraser River, including RiverFest programming at Samson V on September 26–27 in connection with World Rivers Day. 🌊 In This Episode Discover the Fraser River's role in New Westminster's development, the history of the city's working waterfront, the connection between the river and Indigenous communities, the newly completed Westminster Pier Park expansion, the Waterfront Esplanade, Samson V, and RiverFest 2026. This episode is about seeing a familiar part of New Westminster with fresh eyes—and remembering that the river beside us isn't just scenery. It's part of the city's continuing story. Event dates, programming, museum hours, and access details can change. Check the City of New Westminster's current event calendar before attending.