Life in Hope

Rich First Nations Roots

Approximately 8,000 to 10,000 years ago, the Stó:lō First Nations settled in the area of Hope, the first traces of any people living in the Fraser Valley. An important Stó:lō community was located where the District of Hope sits today. The community, called ts’qo:ls, was a major population and transportation hub, home to thousands of people, and an essential junction for trade between nearby communities. In late 1782, a smallpox epidemic among the Stó:lō, theorized to be brought by European traders and settlers, killed thousands—an estimated two-thirds of the population.

First Nations traditions continue throughout the community today. The connection to our long-standing Indigenous history is displayed at various art galleries and gift shops in the area, such as the Ruby Creek Art Gallery, Heaven N Earth Native Art Gallery and Cultural Studio, and the Muskwa Gallery & Indian Crafts.

Community Events

Hope, B.C. is known for hosting many large-scale events throughout the year such as Brigade Days, the International Chainsaw Carving Competition, the Classic Car Show, Mini Stock Derby’s, and more. Throughout the year, our residents attend and participate in events such as motorsport races, stock car races, the Brigade Day’s parade, outdoor concerts, the Hope Hustle, Hope Floats Festival, The Hope Lions Club Barrel Race, Ken James 2-pitch softball tournament, Canada Day Celebrations, and more.

Recreation & Amenities

Hope, B.C. has countless options for recreation, including an open-air park, walking trails, swimming holes, and amenities for any sports enthusiast. There are also many local service clubs and organizations that provide opportunities for new residents to get involved in cultural, recreational, religious, community and youth-centred groups.

Outdoor Spaces

  • Memorial Park
  • Japanese Friendship Garden
  • Centennial Park
  • Hope’s off-leash dog park
  • Hope Skate Park
  • Hope Bike Park
  • Kawkawa Lake day-use area
  • Coquihalla River Community Park
  • Thacker Regional Park
  • Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park
  • Othello Tunnels
  • Silver Lake Provincial Park
  • Kawkawa Creek
  • Kawkawa Lake
  • Lake of the Woods
  • Trails of Hope

Amenities

  • Three basketball courts
  • Japanese Friendship Garden
  • Two bowling alleys
  • Racquetball
  • Pickleball
  • Long & short distance trails
  • Fraser Valley Regional Airpark
  • Motor sports venue

Arts & Culture

The Hope & District Arts Council, formed in 2005, puts community interests first by fostering and promoting arts and culture. They offer affordable, accessible arts programming and cultural activities with initiatives that include:

  • Hope Art Machine
  • Hope Arts Gallery
  • Concerts in the park
  • Hope Art Walk