Curiosity Collector: Two Days of Big Moments & Hidden Gems in Chilliwack

2SLGBTQIA+, Attractions, Dining, Itineraries, Outdoor Adventure, Shop, Summer

Your friends would say you have a serious case of FOMO — you crave the thrill of something new, the rush of the unexpected, and the joy of a day packed to the brim.

Festivals, fine dining, and one-of-a-kind treasures await. Chilliwack is ready to serve up exactly the kind of adventure you live for!

Day 1: Festivals and Flavours

Kick off your weekend at The Offy (45925 Thunderbird Lane), a hip local bistro tucked into District 1881 — a storybook shopping district with lively lanes and European-inspired charm, filled with boutiques, one-of-a-kind shops, and inviting restaurants.

At The Offy, brunch, mimosas, and Instagram-worthy plates set you up for a day of exploring. Try the Croque Madame — grilled sourdough layered with hand-carved ham, gruyère, onion mornay, a fried egg, and fresh greens. And don’t miss the Chocolat Viennois, a rich hot chocolate served with whipped cream on the side, ready to swirl in just like they do in Paris. C’est magnifique!

Next on the agenda? No matter which weekend you choose to visit Chilliwack, there’s always something happening! Here’s a roundup of festivals, fairs, and events to check out during Summer 2025.

July 13, 2025 | Chilliwack Pride Festival

• Love wins — big time. Head to Downtown Chilliwack and District 1881 for a day of vendors, food trucks, family-friendly drag performances, music, a sensory-friendly quiet space, and more. It’s all about celebrating who you are and lifting each other up. Hosted near Central Community Park (45951 Victoria Avenue). Find more details HERE.

August 2-4, 2025 | Sweet Corn Festival

• Corn like you’ve never seen it! Enjoy tasty corn treats, shucking competitions, games, live music, and the World-Famous Chilliwack Corn Maze at Greendale Acres Farm (41905 West Yale Road)—pure family fun with a sweet summer twist. Find more details HERE.

August 8-10, 2025 | Chilliwack Fair

• Now in its 153rd year, the Chilliwack Fair is going all out with rodeos, food trucks, circus acts, pig races, and everything in between. Get ready to yee-haw at Chilliwack Heritage Park (44140 Luckakuck Way)! Find more details HERE.

August 15-16, 2025 | Chilliwack Mural Festival & Street Party

• The Chilliwack Mural Festival Street Party lights up Downtown Chilliwack and District 1881 with live performances, food trucks, vendors, music, and of course, murals! Meet artists, add your own creative touch, and make memories. Find more details HERE. 

August 16, 2025 | Chilliwack Flight Festival Hangar Party

• It’s an airshow at golden hour as the sun sets at Firkus Aircraft Inc. (46206 Airport Road), with pilots putting on a dazzling display in the summer evening skies. Stay for the Hangar Party to dance, listen to live music, and mingle with aviation lovers. Find more details HERE.

August 17, 2025 | Chilliwack Flight Festival Airshow

• The skies come alive! Canada’s longest-running free airshow returns to the Chilliwack Airport (46244 Airport Road) with thrilling stunts, static displays, tasty food trucks, and family-friendly fun for all ages. Find more details HERE.

As the sun starts to dip, it’s time for a dinner that’s every bit as satisfying as your day. Head to Elevated Pizza (101-45939 Thunderbird Lane), tucked into the lanes of District 1881. This small spot serves up mouth-watering, freshly baked pizzas and a house-made garlic dip you absolutely have to try — all wrapped in the lively weekend buzz as visitors flock to Chilliwack in the summer. Be sure to call ahead to make sure they’ve got exactly what you’re after — they only make a set number of pizzas each day, which just makes this hot commodity all the more worth chasing!

Grab your pizza at their pickup window, then settle into a courtyard table in the heart of District 1881, or bring it back to your hotel for a cozy end to the day. And whatever you do, don’t skip the Focaccia Bites — they’re downright legendary.

Day 2: Tours, Taste, and Treasures

You’re on vacation — treat yourself to a lush, flavourful, and memorable start at Little Beetle (100J-6640 Vedder Road). This local café gem is loved for its gourmet brunch, artisanal drinks, and stunning interiors, making it the perfect place to begin your day.

Try the Biscoff Croffle: two house-baked croissant waffles topped with banana, homemade tuile (a delicate curved cookie), seasonal berries, homemade crumble, maple butter, and cold brew ice cream from Banter Ice Cream. Pair it with their Iced London Fog for the ultimate indulgence.

Next, dive deeper with an insider’s look at Chilliwack’s vibrant downtown. If local history, arts, and culture pique your interest, book a journey through time with Chilliwack Tours. You’ll discover local art installations, see murals created by artists from around the world for the Chilliwack Mural Festival, and uncover the fascinating stories that shaped the foundation of the city. Book your tour HERE!

Curious about the flavours and flair that define Chilliwack’s culinary scene? Set out with Chew On This Tasty Tours. Their “Discover The District” tour takes you through District 1881 to explore local restaurants and cafés, hear the stories and inspirations behind these businesses, and of course, sample their delicious creations. Book your tour HERE!

Whether you choose a colourful mural walk, a deep dive into downtown’s rich history, or a tasty food crawl, these tours bring Chilliwack’s heart and soul to life.

No matter which tour you’ve chosen, you’ll want to save room for a local lunch. Tucked in the lanes of District 1881, Bow & Stern is just the place — rich, flavour-packed dishes, an irresistible drink menu, and a patio perfect for photos. It’s the perfect spot to treat yourself before exploring more.

Known for their seafood, try the Cioppino — mussels, clams, prawns, salmon, and white fish in a tomato fennel broth with garlic, chili flakes, and grilled bread. Pair it with their Seashell Sangria*, a mix of wine, brandy, agave, pineapple, and orange juice.

*Please drink responsibly.

Now it’s time to explore the shops tucked into the lively lanes of District 1881 — but this isn’t just shopping, it’s a true treasure hunt:

Witchy Boo | 104-45939 Thunderbird Lane

• A mystical shop brimming with books, crystals, home décor, and handcrafted treasures you won’t find anywhere else. Watch cauldrons stir themselves under painted ceilings and keep an eye out for Clover, the shop’s black cat. With gifts that seem to choose you, you’re sure to leave with something that feels meant just for you. Check it out HERE.

CR Sabers | 108-45950 Thunderbird Lane

• Ever dreamed of owning a custom lightsaber and living out your Jedi fantasies? This brick-and-mortar shop is anything but far, far away! Discover incredible giftware, collectibles, apparel, and accessories. Star Wars fans, this one’s for you. May the force be with you on all your journeys! Check it out HERE.

SECTION 35 | 107-45945 Thunderbird Lane

• Bold streetwear rooted in Indigenous identity. Founded by Justin Jacob Louis, this brand fuses art, fashion, and storytelling to spark conversation and inspire pride. From clothing and hats to shoes, every piece is stylish, comfortable, and deeply connected to the community. Featured in Vogue and the MET, SECTION 35 makes statements that matter. Check it out HERE.

Goal Line Sports | 102-45922 Thunderbird Lane

• Where your card game hits championship level. This is Chilliwack’s go-to for hobby hockey, football, baseball, and basketball cards — plus jerseys and rare finds that’ll make any collector’s heart race. Buy, sell, trade, and build your dream lineup. Ready to play? Check it out HERE.

Homemade Community Shoppe | 46067 Princess Avenue

• Set inside a charming heritage home just behind District 1881, this one-stop shop is a trove of artisan goods and unique finds. Browse handcrafted creations, explore a full floor of vintage clothing and accessories, then swing by Old Soul Coffee on the left side of the house — the perfect spot to fuel up for more exploring. Check it out HERE.

After a day this full, it’s time to wind down at Fortitude Wine Bar (103-45922 Thunderbird Lane), tucked within the lively lanes of District 1881. This local hotspot is known for its wide selection of wines and artisanal, flavourful dishes. Casual yet elevated, it’s the perfect place to toast to a weekend well spent — and start plotting your next visit.

Start with the Grazing Board, piled high with tipsy Jill cheese, brie, feta, sharp cheddar, boursin, hank sausage, duck sausage, genoa salami, prosciutto, red pepper jelly, fruits, nuts, olives, and crostini. Then dive into the Salmon Bowl — honey-glazed salmon on jasmine rice with pickled carrot, cucumber, edamame, green onion, sesame seeds, and sriracha mayo. Pair it all with a glass* from their stellar wine list – have a look HERE.

*Please drink responsibly.

Let’s Get Going!

Now that you’ve got your itinerary set, let’s find you a place to rest your head each night!

Hotel Morado | 201-45636 Thunderbird Lane, District 1881

• With its enchanting, old English facade that feels lifted from a storybook, Hotel Morado is pure fairytale magic in District 1881. Inside, just 12 modern, beautifully unique rooms offer plush beds and views of bustling lanes or Chilliwack’s majestic mountains. A perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary comfort — and an unforgettable place to rest. Click HERE to book your stay.

Pro Tips for Maximum Experiences:

• Festivals: Always check Tourism Ch’illiwack’s Events Calendar before your trip — some festivals may require advance tickets, and plans could change subject to weather.
• Reservations: Bow & Stern and Fortitude Wine Bar books quickly — snag your spot at least a week in advance.
• Guided Tours: Reserve your Chilliwack Tours or Chew On This Tasty Tours experience early — mural tours and downtown walks are popular!
• Shopping: Many boutiques close early on Sundays — make Saturday your treasure-hunting day.
• Parking: Good news — parking in downtown Chilliwack is free! But with all the summer buzz, spots can fill up fast. District 1881 and the surrounding streets offer a mix of 2-hour parking and public lots on Victoria Avenue, Mill Street, and at Nowell & Princess, right behind District 1881 — all just a short stroll away.
• Driving electric: Plug in at the EV charging stations in the back lot of District 1881. A little planning means more time for exploring (and less circling the block).

So, what do you think? Pretty much the perfect day, right? We sure think so.

We’d love to come along for the ride — so don’t forget to tag us @tourismchilliwack and use #ShareChilliwack to show us your adventures.

Catch you out there — in The Great Outside!

Learn more about The Great Outside, click HERE.