12 fun things to do this August

August is here, and it’s the last stretch of summer before Labour Day and the start of school, and it’s probably your last chance to seize the day before the weather turns cold and grey. I don’t know about you, but it seems like this summer passed way too fast, and I intend to make the most of the last few weeks of the season. Here are 12 fun things to do this August in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Langley, and Mission. 

Abbotsford

• Abbotsford Agrifair: Did you know the first Agrifair in Abbotsford took place in 1909? Back then, it was gypsies, crystal balls, and I can only imagine what other “curiosities” were on display back then! As the city has grown, so has the fair, and now it’s a massive event with dozens of vendors, displays, and competitions. Tickets are relatively affordable, and they’re cheaper if you buy them online, and no doubt the 3-day pass is the most economical if you intend to visit all weekend. The fair runs from August 1-3, at the Agrifair Exhibition Park at 32470 Haida Dr. 

• Laffs Fest: If world events are bringing you down or you need some cheering up, check out the lineup of indie comedians from August 1-3, with 20+ comedy shows at seven venues in Historic Downtown Abbotsford. 

• Abbotsford International Airshow, August 8-10. There are some spectacular images on the airshow’s website, and I imagine it will be even more breathtaking in person. For three days from August 8-10, you can watch aerial performances and see the impressive-looking planes at the 350,000-square-foot display of military and civilian aircraft. Plenty of other activities and displays at the event include the interactive S.T.E.M. Zone, where kids can explore science, technology, and engineering with flight simulators and souvenir building stations.

Chilliwack

• Chilliwack Mural Festival, August 7-17, street party August 15-16. This is the place to be if you love street art and murals. From August 7-17, you can watch mural artists work their magic, transforming barren walls into impressive works of art. Check out the website for a taste of the awe-inspiring murals the participating artists have created. I am sure they will be even more impressive up close, so make sure you see them in real life. 

• Chilliwack Fair, August 8-10, this year’s theme is barnyard bash. What do Vancouver Circus School, Logging Shows, racing pigs, and a ninja parkour course have in common? The answer is they’re all attractions you can see at the Chilliwack Fair. This year’s schedule even includes a rodeo.  

• Chilliwack Flight Festival Airshow, August 17, Chilliwack Airport, 46244 Airport Rd., admission is free. This annual family-friendly event features heart-stopping stunts, displays, and educational activities for anyone interested in learning more about aviation. 

Mission

• MissionFest: Downtown Mission street festival returns August 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., First Avenue from Horne to Grand. 

• Summer Splash, Friday, August 22, 1-3 p.m. It’s your last chance to get a splash in the pool before it closes for its annual maintenance. Activities include games with lifeguards, cannonball competition, and more. Mission Leisure Centre, 7650 Grand St.

Langley

• Langley Night Market. August 15, 5-10 p.m. Fort Langley. Support the local community by picking up some handmade local crafts and unique local finds as you browse the market’s 50+ local vendors. There will be live music, entertainment, food trucks, and even a beer garden. 

• Langley Pride Day, August 9. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and evening show, 5:30-10 p.m. Celebrate Pride or support your LGBTQ+ neighbours and friends at this all-day celebration of all the colours of the rainbow! Festivities start at 11 a.m. and continue until 10 p.m., with a morning and evening session. There will be dancing, music, arts and crafts, a drag show, drag bingo, face painting, and more! 

• The Sounds of Summer concert series continues on August 6, 13, and 20 at Douglas Park Spirit Square, 20550 Douglas Cres. Langley City Recreation, Culture & Community Services hosts these free musical performances on Wednesday nights starting at 6:30 p.m. Each week features two local musicians or bands performing various genres, so check the schedule to find the music and performers you want to see.  

• Ribfest Langley: Carnivores and barbecue-lovers will have a blast at the Langley Ribfest, August 15-17. But it’s more than just ribs and barbecue; there’s live entertainment, music, a kids' zone, and more.