Exploring Vibrant Senior’s Activities in Abbotsford
August 17, 2023
Seniors in Abbotsford are spoiled for choice when it comes to exciting activities and opportunities for personal growth! From farm markets to events and social gatherings, Abbotsford offers a wealth of options that cater to the unique interests and needs of its senior residents.
In this blog, we will dive into some of the vibrant senior activities available in Abbotsford, showcasing how they contribute to a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle.
Abbotsford Farm and Country Market
The Abbotsford Farm and Country Market showcases an array of local farmers, growers, and artisans. Explore bustling stalls brimming with a bounty of farm-fresh goods, including mouthwatering fruits and vegetables, savoury herbs, and stunning flowers. Each product is passionately grown by conscientious farmers who adhere to sustainable techniques and premium quality. Furthermore, browse the abundance of handcrafted goods, including one-of-a-kind textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and woodworking produced by skilled local artisans.
9 am to 12 pm every Saturday, May to October | Jubilee Park
BC 55+ Games
The BC 55+ Games are the largest annual multi-sport event for the 55+ population of BC. The Games offer an opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sports and activities.
Opening Ceremony
The Opening Ceremony will include a high-energy program with talented performances by Calvin Dyck, Abbotsford concert violinist and the Abbotsford Youth Orchestra, Chilliwack Harmony Chorus, Drumlines, the Legacy Dance Team and more!
August 23, 2023, 6:30pm to 7:45pm | Abbotsford Exhibition Park, Rotary Stadium
City in the Country in the Park
Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the multitude of cultural activations including printmaking with artist Natoya Ellis & button-making with artist Zaira Ramirez. The Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival will include Crepes by B&B and Kona Ice. Entertainment will be provided by Ryan McAllister & Country Dancers.
August 24, 2023, 6pm to 9pm | Mill Lake Park (Bevan Entrance)
Volunteer Opportunity
If you are interested in volunteering, even if you are not sure in which area, register below. You are able to select several areas of interest. After you have registered, someone from the Abbotsford 2023 Host Society will contact you to discuss volunteer placement and best fit.
Symphony in the Park
Experience the magic of music under the open sky at Symphony in the Park. Presented by Songs Strings and Steps, this enchanting event brings together a vibrant blend of orchestral melodies and nature’s beauty, creating an unforgettable evening for all. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Mill Lake’s lush greenery, this symphonic journey captivates hearts and souls with the harmonious sounds of the orchestra conducted by Calvin Dyck. Bring a lawn chair and join them for an evening of musical wonderment that celebrates the union of art and nature, creating cherished memories for families, friends, and music enthusiasts alike. Parking is available at the MSA Arena and Abbotsford Middle School. Food Trucks will be on-site and donations are gratefully accepted.
August 18th, 6:30pm | Mill Lake Park
MRC Senior Centre
Join the Matsqui Recreation Centre’s Senior Centre for community and fun games!
The Seniors Social Cafe is a lovely opportunity for great company, activities, exciting speakers, treats, and refreshments every Thursday from 10 am to 12 noon. Please bring $2 for each Thursday.
They also run a $2 Crafts & Chats event every Monday from 10 am to 11:30 am, including refreshments, crafts, music, games, and tech support.
Several organized games are available as well for just drop-in to play. On Mondays, Bridge is at 12:30 pm. On Tuesdays, Bingo is at 1:00 pm. On Thursdays, Whist is at 1:00 pm. On Fridays, Cribbage is at 1:00 pm.
Archway Lunch with the Bunch
A weekly social event called Lunch with the Bunch brings seniors together every Friday from 11 am to 1 pm (not including statutory holidays). An inexpensive light lunch, 10 minutes of exercise, informational seminars with guest speakers, bingo, and other games are among the activities being offered. All are welcome, but the program is intended for those 55 and older. Lunch with the Bunch is $5 payable at the entrance. Those without access to public transportation may request a ride for no additional cost; registration is essential due to space restrictions. Call 604.870.3764 by the previous Wednesday to confirm your attendance.
Upcoming Field Trips
Archway Urban Farm: August 25, 2023, 10:45 am to 1 pm | Cost: $5.00 | 1356 Sumas Way, Abbotsford BC
Banter Ice Cream: September 8, 2023, 11:00 am to 1 pm | Cost: $5.00 | Jubilee Park
The Reach Art Gallery Museum: October 20, 2023, 10:30 am to 1:00 pm | Cost: $5.00 | 32388 Veterans Way, Abbotsford BC
ARC/MRC Fitness Classes
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for seniors, and the ARC and MRC provide numerous opportunities to stay physically active. These activities promote strength, flexibility, and overall well-being, while also fostering a sense of community among participants.
Aqua Shallow is a gentle aerobic workout that is performed in shallow water while listening to music. The session features a variety of motions, focuses on resistance training and endurance, and is excellent for people who have joint-related health difficulties.
Align is a 45-minute class using tools like stretch bands, foam rollers, and blocks. It gives participants the skills necessary to increase their overall mobility while staying within their own particular comfort zone.
Bones and Balance is a 45-minute active aging session that focuses on functional motion, balance, stability, and all-around strength. All fitness levels can participate in this session thanks to the adaptations that are provided.
ARC Senior Activity Centre
The ARC Senior Activity Centre is an excellent place for seniors to participate in drop-in programs, play cards or pool and socialize. An activity membership allows Seniors to access other programs and activities. For a fee of $25 per year, you can enjoy the many activities that the Senior Activity Centre has to offer.
The Abbotsford Film Festival
The Abbotsford Film Festival returns in collaboration with The Reach, for its fourth edition, as part of an appreciation of the arts in our city. Enjoy this two-day festival that features a wide range of short films, documentaries, music videos, and live performances. On August 25, selected 48-hour film submissions will be screened. $15 day. Both nights will have craft beer, wine, and beverages, as well as food trucks for the breaks and live music in the evening.
Friday, August 25 and Saturday, August 26 | The Reach
If you’re trying out any of these fun activities, don’t forget to share your photos and tag @tourismabbotsford and #ExploreAbbotsford on Instagram!