Canada has a well-deserved global reputation for its fishing industry, particularly salmon, and a visit to Stevest ppon at Richmond brings the history and impact of the industry to life.

The weather was cooler and the sky threatening, but the rain held off and we enjoyed the Cannery which was a great educational and learning resource, supported by the Historical Society and volunteers. The displays were well planned and executed and many original items from the bustling days were interactive. A first class place to see the waves of immigrant Chinese and Japanese workers, Indigenous Canadian craftsmen and the legacy of what was a huge salmon canning industry.

We were also impressed by the display of the Haunted Sea, a seasonal theme around the damage human plastic waste is doing to the sea creatures, aimed at students, but a warning to us all.

The fish species turned our minds towards KOVE the restaurant at the boardwalk overlooking the water, and we enjoyed our brunch. The deep red and strong flavour of the sockeye salmon was very different from our southern waters around Australia. But delicious!

Then it was a gentle stroll through to the Steveston Bookstore where the gentle owner spends his retirement amongst cascading shelves of secondhand beauties….only bought two here. Very restrained.😀 Next door at the Social Enterprise supporting children in need, there was a lively band on the pavement entertaining a gathering and appreciative crowd. The streets are filled with Halloween displays and quirky and entertaining visuals, as well as opportunities for arts and crafts to thrive.

Halloween dominates.

The other bookstore, Village Books and Coffee, has a more contemporary feel with its coffees and yummy baked treats and sells both new and used books and gift items….and after its current refurb is completed it will have its new windows and its indoor seating back. A very pleasant place for browsing….and surrounded by interesting food and home decor outlets and only a few doors down from the Post Office / Steveston museum.

As we walked back towards the Cannery we decided to find the other historical site which shows how and where the workers lived, and the marshland landscape. Such a beautiful, peaceful reconstruction and very informative guides.

The lives, families, work, hardships, and legacy of the many people engaged in this area and industry have been beautifully preserved for all to share and learn from. This complex also sees an annual vibrant Tall Ships and festival event.

Steveston’s charm has also been captured on film in the series Once Upon a Time, and its place in Canada’s tourism landscape is assured. A wonderful day trip and highly recommended.