On the first Saturday of each May, we celebrate the release of the salmon into Noons Creek with a fabulous environmental festival that is visited by over 5,500 people of all ages. It is held both at the hatchery itself on Noons Creek (fish release)AND in the ice-rink of the Port Moody Recreation Complex (exhibitors).
This event is supported primarily by the City of Port Moody; other sponsors have included Pacific Coast Terminals (PCT), Port Metro Vancouver and Bold Properties.
For a number of years now, the big hit at the Festival is the releasing of approximately 40,000 young chum salmon from the hatchery into Noons Creek for their four-year journey in the Pacific Ocean. Buckets are donated to us and are provided free of charge each year so that all members of our community can get involved.
Exhibitors like World Wildlife Fund, Vancouver Aquarium, Wildlife Rescue, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), B.C. Used Oil Management Association, Sea Shepherds Society are just some of the fascinating groups you can meet and chat with at the Festival.
2016 was the Society’s ‘Silver Anniversary’ – and we are so proud of that! It is amazing to think that we have been an integral part of this community for a quarter century! And every year, it gets bigger and better!
As well as the usual Bobs & Lolo putting on concerts for the kids, great food from our fundraising hotdog lunch, adults & kids learning more about our local environment from over 60 exhibitors in the ice hockey rink, plus a wide variety of children’s activities including games, arts and crafts, nature puzzles and more, we work with the City of Port Moody to make it happen seamlessly each year.
It’s a free, educational and fun family day out every year – and that has always been our aim!!How can YOU be part of our amazing Festival?
Consider volunteering with us on the day!! Student volunteers and families are welcome!You may be a family that simply wishes to do something together, or as a student, you may need hours to graduate and this is a great way to accomplish that – and have fun at the same time!
As well as the satisfaction of fun community service, you will get a free lunch (hot-dog, pop and chips)! Shifts are normally allocated in 4 hour lots, so you do not have to be there all day.
Please note that all volunteers aged under 16 MUST BE ACCOMPANIED by a responsible volunteer.
Our 2023 Fingerling Festival will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023. Please mark your calendars!
Looking forward to seeing you next May.
Some Salmon Trivia: A fingerling is the name for a juvenile salmon as it’s about as long as your finger!
Dave Bennie, Festival Director, and the Festival Planning Team