November 28, 2008 | Tips from Travellers >
Terrace, Festivals & Events
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We went to Terrace, my husband's hometown, for "Riverboat Days" this summer. Although I was somewhat skeptical of how big of a festival it would be, I was happy to go anyway because Terrace is lush and beautiful, with lots of outdoor stuff to do.
Riverboat Days is a really well organised 9 day festival. It definitely had a kind of old-time, northern vibe going on - I went to the "Happy Gang" pancake breakfast, and ended up sitting next to community matriarch, Betty Campbell. Dressed in her loveliest dress, she was ready to take her place on the parade float as the "2008 Riverboat Days Queen". The breakfast was packed, but everyone made room, rescued spilling juice from excited children, and talked to whoever sat nearby.
The parade was over an hour long, and included the Nisga'a dancers in traditional regalia, fire trucks (I had my 3 year old with me, so that was a hit!), some pretty talented bands, and Vancouver 2010 Olympic mascots Miga, Quatchi and Sumi.
The same day, we checked out the farmers market (mmm.... pakoras), went to the Kitsumkalum Salmon barbeque, and later watched Chilliwack perform in the park!
Another day, we went to Kitselas Canyon National Historic Site, (15km from Terrace) and watched four new Crest Poles - Wolf, Eagle, Raven and Killerwhate - being raised. Then, more salmon from the bbq! It was a crazy hot day, so on the way back, we stopped in at Kleanza Creek Provincial Park, and plunged into the ice-cold stream to cool down.
There was more to do as part of the festival and in the Terrace area, but I'll save that for another entry!
November 28, 2008 | Tips from Travellers >
Prince George, Gardens
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When I moved to the north 4 years ago, I had no idea how beautiful the wildflowers are here in the early summer. When my husband, son and I went for a drive on a Sunday afternoon in late June, we saw THOUSANDS of wildflowers, and even sat and watched (and photographed) a cow moose.
We also went to Goodsir Nature Park, about 30km north of Prince George, and wandered around on the trails. The whole place has been built by one man, Jim Good, who has been collecting plant samples from all over Canada. In addition to seeing the typical wildflowers - lupines, indian paintbrush and columbine - there are some more unususal species. I hadn't seen a chocolate lily before. There is also an old homestead cabin on the grounds. Take your camera, water and a snack with you if you go, as we ended up spending about 3 hours there. Admission is by donation.
This picture is actually taken in a ditch, at the side of Highway 97. (June 22, 2008)