BC Day is celebrated on the first Monday in August.
This year was no exception, as British Columbians paused to enjoy a day off and celebrate a holiday that highlights the province’s natural beauty, culture, and identity. Families headed to beaches and parks to enjoy the summer weekend. Although downtown Vancouver was crowded, the majority of community events were held across the province.
When asking people on the streets why they love BC, nature remained the most popular answer. “I suppose I’m biased because I was born and raised here in B.C., but it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world, and in my opinion.” Among other reasons for staying in BC is the local mentality. A newcomer from Colombia shared she felt a special connection moving to Canada, specifically to BC and Vancouver. “It’s something special, it’s like my home.”
However, while nature draws people in, not everyone stays. Among reasons for that is affordability, one resident explained: “The price of living here and how much it costs for rent, how much it costs for food, everything, it’s very expensive to live here.” According to the BC Government, the province experienced a net loss of approximately 1,400 people earlier this year, as more people left for other provinces than moved in.
While residents celebrate what makes BC special, they also reflect on the challenges the province faces. Homelessness, toxic drug crisis, affordability, price of living, and rush hour are the concerns among the people we asked, “the homelessness drug situation is also huge, it’s, you know, having lived here my whole life, it’s something that I’ve only seen recently in the numbers that it exists”, one resident noted.
The BC Coroners Service says more than 14,000 people have died from overdoses since the public health emergency was declared in 2016.
Even when examining the issues, BC Day remains a time of pride and hope. Communities across British Columbia marked the occasion with cultural showcases, festivals, and family gatherings – reminders of resilience and spirit. For many, the holiday is a celebration of what makes the province special and a source of hope for a future that keeps it both beautiful and livable.
– Lisa Kovtun, U Multicultural
