New Westminster Celebrates Spirit of BC Week 2008

New Westminster, one of more than 100 communities to celebrate Spirit of BC Week 2008, hosted Spirit of BC WinterFest, a series of events including a Parade of Champions that honoured lacrosse players and other athletes. A trek on the 2.2 km Millennium Trail in Queen's Park showcased minor sports teams, seniors, youth groups, community and service groups along with arts and multicultural organizations.

The two-year countdown event featured entertainment by a local band as well as lantern-making, skiing on grass, and commemorative medal-making. The 2009 World Police and Fire Games Tent featured a New Westminster Police Services dog demonstration, a firefighter bucket brigade and a tug of war.

There was also a special screening of the movie Miracle about the 1980 US Olympic Ice Hockey Team and their victory over the Soviet Union at the Winter Games in Lake Placid, New York. An event at the International Village at Centennial Lodge featured "Tastes of the World" international cuisine with participants dressed in traditional costumes and colours.

Spirit of BC Week is an annual province-wide celebration of British Columbia and its unique communities. Held each February, it is a week of over 300 events and activities showcasing local programs and services that strengthen community arts, literacy, sport, recreation and volunteerism. The celebration is supported by the Province of British Columbia.