Port Coquitlam’s social event of the year is back for its 102nd edition, ready to take over the city with parades, parties and pedal power.
What started in 1923 as a springtime celebration has grown into a week-long fest that draws tens of thousands to the heart of PoCo for music, food, maypole dancing and the iconic Rotary May Day Parade. On Sunday, May 4 and Saturday, May 10, the streets will be buzzing with community spirit and family-friendly fun for all ages to enjoy.
The festivities kick off with opening ceremonies at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre, with a full lineup of traditional performances that include the beloved kids maypole dance, plus the official presentation of the 2025 May Day Royal Party and more.
Ready, set, pedal
Things ramp up on Saturday as the City pulls out all the stops for a day packed with action.
The morning starts with the PoCo Kids Bike Race on Shaughnessy Street, a non-competitive event for young riders from ages three to 12.
Families will need to register their children for the bike race in advance on the PoCo site. Sign up options include:
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Ages 3–5: 100-metre dash at 10:10 a.m., 10:15 a.m., and 10:20 a.m.
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Ages 5–8: 1.3-kilometre race at 10:25 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
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Ages 9–12: 2.6-kilometre race at 10:35 a.m.
Kids must arrive with a bike that's in good condition and have a well-fit helmet.
“From the non-competitive PoCo Kids Bike Race to the iconic Rotary May Day Parade and an afternoon of live music across multiple stages, the streets of Port Coquitlam will be filled with family-friendly fun!” says Mayor Brad West.
Iconic parade returns
Right after the race, festival-goers can enjoy the iconic Rotary May Day Parade as it rolls its way through downtown Port Coquitlam in full colour and style. It’s one of the longest-running community parades in the region and always draws a crowd thanks to the energetic floats, live performances and creative displays from groups across Metro Vancouver.
The parade route will start on Shaughnessy Street, continue along Elgin Avenue to Mary Hill Road, proceed down Mary Hill to Hawthorne Avenue and end on Tyner Road.
Live music and treats
The celebration continues in Leigh Square with live music and entertainment that fill the afternoon. Youngsters can enjoy choral harmonies and circus acts from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on the Kids Stage.
Meanwhile, everything from soul to generational hits will take the main stage at Terry Fox Hometown Square. From 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. the square will be rockin' thanks to headliners that include Shauna Singer (local soulful musician), Nette Songs (indie-pop artist), Generations (local band playing popular generational hits), Johnny Bootleg (local band mixing country twang with rock energy) and The Limit (high-energy rock).
To cool down between each act, the May Days Market on Wilson Avenue is a great place to wander and recoup. It’s a go-to spot to support local vendors and pick up some unique finds. The market will be open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
“As we gear up for the 102nd May Days, the city is buzzing with excitement for another fantastic celebration of community spirit,” says Mayor Brad West. “The iconic Rotary May Day Parade and other beloved traditions will once again bring smiles and create new memories for everyone, continuing our century-long celebration.”
No festival is complete without delicious eats so be sure to stroll down Kelly Avenue, Wilson Avenue and PCCC Plaza for some tasty bites. To top it off, head over to the beverage garden where both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options will be poured so festival goers can raise a glass to another unforgettable year of May Days in PoCo.
To get involved or for more information about May Days, visit the City of Port Coquitlam site.
