Maple Ridge, B.C., June 15, 2026 – Downtown Maple Ridge is set to come alive for Canada Day with the community's biggest celebration yet as the City expands festivities with extended programming and Maple Ridge’s own award-winning country artist, Madeline Merlo as the headliner.
On July 1, Memorial Peace Park will transform into a full-day festival experience with a later start and end time of 2:00 to 10:00 p.m., featuring three stages of live entertainment, cultural performances, family activities, food trucks and FIFA World Cup festivities. For the first time, The ACT Arts Centre will showcase family entertainment, performances and activities.
"Canada Day in Maple Ridge is about celebrating our community and bringing people together," said Mayor Dan Ruimy. "This year, we're responding to community feedback and creating an even bigger experience with extended hours, great entertainment and FIFA festivities. We're proud to welcome Maple Ridge's own Madeline Merlo home as our headliner. We're excited to open up The ACT this year and welcome residents and visitors downtown for an unforgettable celebration into the night."
Headlining this year's celebration is Maple Ridge native Madeline Merlo, who returns home to perform for the community where her musical journey began. Merlo will bring her signature blend of polished vocals, emotional storytelling and high-energy stage presence. The BCCMA Entertainer of the Year and winner of Top Performing Album and Top Performing Single was also nominated for multiple CCMA Awards in 2025, including Female Artist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year.
Adding to the excitement, Maple Ridge's Canada Day celebration will also connect with FIFA World Cup festivities, bringing fans together downtown to celebrate both Canada Day and the global spirit of sport and community.
Event Highlights:
2:00 to 8:00 p.m.:
- The ACT Arts Centre & Theatre Activations: FIFA World cup viewings at 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Mainstage. Family and children’s activities in the Studio Theatre and lobby.
- Festivities throughout day, performances on two outdoor stages
- Kids Zone with inflatables, face painting, caricature artists, mini golf and interactive games
- A Sensory Room at the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre provides individuals with diverse abilities with a quieter space.
- Accessible seating area for main stage performances
- Laser Tag and Rock-Climbing Wall for thrill-seekers of all ages
- Zumba and dance activities to get the whole family moving
- Local vendors and community group displays throughout the park
- Eat Street featuring food trucks serving up global flavours
8:00 to 10:00 p.m.
- Live entertainment on three stages, including cultural dance, live music, and magic shows
- Madeline Merlo as Headliner, BC's own Bend Sinister as pre-Headliner and Opener Zada
- Alcohol Licensed areas in Memorial Peace Park and at the ACT Arts Centre
- Enhancement of City stage with lighting and additional viewing screens
New Bike Valet Makes It Easier to Get to the Celebration
New this year, attendees can take advantage of a free bike valet service, making it easier to enjoy the festivities. The secure valet will accommodate bicycles, e-bikes, scooters and strollers and is supported through a $10,000 grant from the BC Cycling Coalition. The enclosed facility will be staffed and monitored throughout the event, with a simple check-in and tag system ensuring equipment is securely stored until participants are ready to head home.
"This year's celebrations reflect the energy and diversity of our community while giving people even more reasons to spend the day downtown," said Russ Brummer, Manager of Arts, Culture and Events. "We've got something for everyone, from live entertainment and cultural performances to FIFA festivities and family-friendly activities. We’re also excited to introduce a free bike valet, thanks to support from the BC Cycling Coalition, making it easier for people to ride, roll and attend the celebration while supporting a more accessible, sustainable and enjoyable event experience."
Check out the full schedule of performances and activities at MapleRidge.ca/CanadaDay.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Partners
This community celebration is made possible with the support of the Government of Canada and sponsorship by the Maple Ridge Downtown Business Improvement Association, and the Rockwall. Community partners, local Indigenous groups and Ridge Meadows sports clubs help bring the event to life.
For more information, contact Russ Brummer, Manager of Arts, Culture and Events, at 604-467-7498 or RBrummer@MapleRidge.ca
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Media Contact:
Pardeep Purewal
Senior Manager of Corporate Communications & Public Engagement
T 604-467-4319 E Media@MapleRidge.ca