The Birthplace of British Columbia

Forty minutes east of Vancouver is the delightful village of Fort Langley, British Columbia. On July 20, 1871, Governor James Douglas signed the Province into Confederation and Canada’s most western province was born. Fort Langley became a major port exporting barrels of salted salmon, cedar lumber and shingles to the Hawaiian Islands. Today it’s a haven of quaint shops, restaurants and antique stores. Strolling along Glover Road with an ice cream looking for curiosities is a favorite local activity.

Flashing back to the 1950s and stop in for lunch at Planet Java. This retro-themed soda fountain has some fabulous memorabilia — old records, juke boxes, movie posters and a life-sized statue of Elvis Presley. Across the street is Gaslight Alley, the narrow entrance opens into a relaxing nature themed area with coffee and antique shops.

Fort Langley has many family-oriented events throughout the year. At the end of April is the annual British Car show held on St. George’s Day. There’s a parade for Victoria Day, the third Monday in May and celebrations at the Fort on July 1st to celebrate Canada Day. Christmas in Fort Langley is a beautiful time with lots of craft fairs showcasing the work of…