A springtime theatrical production and farmers markets are just two of the signs that spring is in the air in New West.
The Royal City Musical Theatre Society takes to the stage for its annual production at Massey Theatre — just one of many events worth checking out in New Westminster this month.
The Record had rounded up some not-to-be-missed April events — and there’s something for folks of all ages and interests.
Tuesday, April 1
Brow of the Hill Residents Association meeting
The Brow of the Hill Residents’ Association’s April meeting includes a visit from Metro Vancouver representatives who will talk about the Annacis water supply tunnel project and answer questions. Brow of the Hill residents are invited to meet their neighbours and listen to speakers.
- When: Tuesday, April 1, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Century House, 620 Eighth St.
- Details: Free
Walk with the Mayor for WALK30
Mayor Patrick Johnstone is hosting a series of neighbourhood walks as part of the WALK30 Challenge. Today’s route will be a gentle walk along the Queensborough riverfront along South Dyke Road.
- When: Tuesday, April 1, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
- Where: Ryall Park, 920 Ewen Ave. (meet at the park’s Salter Street entrance)
- Details: Free. No registration required — just show up at the starting point by 10:30 a.m.
Everyone Can Jazz Jam
Uptown Swing Collective hosts the Everyone Can Jazz Jam, where attendees can learn about swing jazz music and how to play jazz music together, in a fun and supportive atmosphere, with enthusiastic and experienced facilitators. It’s a weekly drop-in event where participants play music in a group (small and large ensemble) and participate in a jazz jam. Participants under 15 years old are welcome to join with parent supervision.
- When: Tuesday, April 1, 7 to 8:20 p.m. (upcoming 2025 dates are April 8, 15 and 22; May 6, 13, 20 and 27; and June 3 and 10)
- Location: New Westminster Secondary School band room, 820 Sixth St.
- Details: Newcomers can enjoy a free visit to Everyone Can Jazz Jam; after that, there’s a $10 weekly drop-in fee per week. (Cash is accepted or e-transfer payments can be sent to [email protected].)
The M Factor
Spark Vitality is hosting The M Factor: Shredding the Silence On Menopause event. It features a viewing of the one-hour documentary film, The M Factor, followed by a Q&A with guest speakers who will share insights, tips and stories about this transition.
- When: Tuesday, April 1, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Douglas College, 700 Royal Avenue (second floor room N2201)
- Details: Free. Reserve a spot online.
Wednesday, April 2
Reading Theatre
Reading Theatre features a reading of Michel Tremblay’s Les Belles-soeurs (John Van Burek and Bill Glassco’s English translation). Led by senior artist in residence Allan Morgan, this community program invites people to take part in live play readings or just sit back and enjoy the reading.
- When: Wednesday, April 2, 2 p.m. Readers will be cast on arrival so people should arrive by 1:45 p.m. if they want to take part.
- Where: Plaskett Gallery, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Limited print copies will be available. You can download your own version in advance to prepare.
Join us for an Après-Midi of Canadian theatre with Michel Tremblay’s Les Belles-sœurs at our next Reading Theatre on April 2. We will be reading John Van Burek & Bill Glassco’s English translation. Learn more & find your script: www.eighthandeight.com/event/readin... #newwest #communityevent
— Massey Theatre (@masseytheatre.bsky.social) March 27, 2025 at 2:52 PM
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Thursday, April 3
NWPD information session
The New Westminster Police Department is holding an information session for folks interested in a career in policing.
- When: Thursday, April 3, 6 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster police station, 555 Columbia St.
- Details: Reserve a seat by emailing [email protected].
New West Farmers Market
New West Farmers Market features produce, prepared foods, food trucks, artisans, live music, children’s activities and more.
- When: Thursday, April 3, 3 to 7 p.m.
- Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
Saturday, April 5
Smartphone Photography Workshop
Fraser River Discovery Centre and the New Westminster Photography Club are hosting a workshop where you can learn how to make the most of your smartphone camera's tools and capabilities, including controlling control exposure, focus, and composition and understanding photo editing. The workshop includes a presentation and a photo walk with coaches. It’s intended for participants 16 years of age and older and is targeted at beginners in smartphone photography.
- When: Saturday, April 5, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
- Where: Fraser River Discovery Centre, 788 Quayside Dr.
- Details: Pre-registration is required. It’s $25 or $20 for students (student ID required), seniors (65 and older), or FRDC members.
Celebrating Poetry Month
The New Westminster Public Library, in partnership with the Royal City Literary Arts Society, is hosting an event to celebrate New Westminster’s newest poet laureate (Janet Kvammen) and National Poetry Month. Kvammen, Alan Hill (former poet laureate) and Emily Molinari will read from their recent poetry. The event includes an open-mic session; registration for five-minute open-mic sessions takes place at the start of the event.
- When: Saturday, April 5, 2 to 3:30 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave. (auditorium)
- Details: Free
New West Craft
New West Craft, a handmade market hosted by the Arts New West, features a selection of unique and diverse goods from designers, makers, crafters, artists, and small shop owners.
- When: Saturday, April 5, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.
Open Art Studios at Braid Studios
Open Art Studios at Braid Studios provides community members with a chance to visit 20 working studios and get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, meet local artists, and discover a diverse range of artwork.
- When: Saturday, April 5, noon to 4 p.m.
- Where: 321 Sixth St.
- Details: Free
Red Dress Day
The Spirit of the Children Society is shining a light on the ongoing crisis and honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women at its Red Dress Day ceremonial event. It includes a feature display, free Red Dress pins (while supplies last), free beverages (while supplies last), and family-friendly activities.
- When: Saturday, April 5, 1 to 3 p.m.
- Where: Hyack Square, Columbia Street at Eighth Street
- Details: Free
Spring Craft Market
Crochet collections, artwork, wreaths, homemade baking, and seasonal crafts are among the offerings at a Spring Craft Market. A free photo booth will be set up at the market.
- When: Saturday, April 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: 920 12th St. (inside Gastaldo Tailors)
- Details: Cash only
Relive the Music of the '50s and '60s
Relive the Music Diner gives folks a chance to relive the music of the 1950s and 1960s through a jukebox musical concert with a band and singers. It features dancing, costumes, tributes, video, and trivia.
- When: Saturday, April 5, 7 p.m.
- Where: Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Tickets are available online
Anand: A Soul’s Journey Home
Anand: A Soul’s Journey Home — a night of performing arts, is hosted by Sikh Heritage BC. This event features a variety of local artists, performers, and instruments, including spoken word, sarangis, violins, tablas, and dhaadi.
- When: Saturday, April 5, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Where: Anvil Theatre, 777 Columbia St.
- Details: Tickets are $15 and are available online
Tuesday, April 8
New Westminster Horticultural Society
The New Westminster Horticultural Society’s April meeting features Sage Kosa, who will speak about "decolonizing our gardens" — just in time for spring gardening.
- When: Tuesday, April 8, 7 p.m.
- Where: Centennial Lodge in Queen’s Park
- Details: Drop-in fee is $5, or an annual membership is $20.
Empower Through Music
Empower Through Music Society is hosting an evening of music and storytelling featuring inspiring performances from young artists who have found their voice through music, as well as special guest appearances from established musicians.
- When: Tuesday, April 8, 7 to 9 p.m.
- Where: Anvil Theatre, 777 Columbia St.
- Details: Tickets are available online
Wednesday, April 9
New Westminster Downtown Residents' Association public meeting
The New Westminster Downtown Residents’ Association is hosting a Q&A with MP Peter Julian (and potentially other election candidates in the 2025 federal election). The Q&A will be followed by the association’s AGM.
- When: Wednesday, April 9, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Anvil Centre (Level 4), 777 Columbia St.
- Details: Registration is required for this event. Registration opens April 1.
Climate Films: Food Synergy
The New Westminster Public Library’s new climate-themed movie series includes the screening of Food Synergy, which examines food waste (mostly in B.C.) — and the environmental, social, and economic benefits of addressing this issue. It will be followed by a discussion about the issues raised. Free popcorn is provided — but bring your own bowl. It’s open to anyone 12 and older.
- When: Wednesday, April 9, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster Public Library auditorium, 716 Sixth Ave.
- Details: Free
Thursday, April 10
Comedy Exposed
Comedy Exposed is an evening of stand-up comedy and burlesque. Performers featured at this event include Alannah Brittany (Just for Laughs, CBC), Niki Mohrdar (Just for Laughs), Jackie Amsden, Nicole Anne, Mz B Haven, and Fionna Flauntit.
- When: Thursday, April 10, 8 to 9:30 p.m.
- Where: The Flapper Lounge, 759 Carnarvon St.
- Details: Tickets are available online
New West Farmers Market
New West Farmers Market features produce, prepared foods, food trucks, artisans, live music, children’s activities and more.
- When: Thursday, April 10, 3 to 7 p.m.
- Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
Saturday, April 12
Walk with the Mayor for WALK30
Mayor Patrick Johnstone is hosting a series of neighbourhood walks as part of the WALK30 Challenge. Today’s walking route of the West End and Connaught Heights neighbourhood will focus on what’s envisioned for the area around the 22nd Street station in the future. Today’s walk is about 30 minutes/two kilometres and has some grades.
- When: Saturday, April 12, 1 to 2 p.m.
- Where: 22nd Street SkyTrain station
- Details: Free
NWPD electronic recycling event
The New Westminster Police Department is teaming up with the Electronic Recycling Association (ERA) to offer free electronics recycling. It’s giving residents a chance to get rid of unwanted electronics — while protecting their electronic data and personal information. ERA will data clean donated items and then recycle or refurbish the equipment.
- When: Saturday, April 12, noon to 4 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster City Hall, 511 Royal Ave.
- Details: Free. Community members can drop off items via a drive-thru or park and unload your items with the help of our volunteers.
Household appliances are not being accepted, but donated devices can include: desktop computers, gaming consoles, iPods, stereo equipment, smartphones, cell phones, tablets, laptops, printers, keyboards, mice and other accessories, servers, software, routers, etc. All passwords and security features must be removed before being donated.
Children's Swap Meet
Shop or sell children’s and baby items such as toys, clothing, and equipment at today's children's swap meet. (Eight-foot tables are available to rent for $25.)
- When: Saturday, April 12, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: Queensborough Community Centre, 920 Ewen Ave.
- Details: No ATM is available on site so bring cash.
Easter Market
The Ukrainian Easter Market is a celebration of authentic Ukrainian cuisine, culture and crafts.
- When: Saturday, April 12, noon to 5 p.m.
- Where: Holy Eucharist Ukrainian Catholic Church, 501 Fourth Ave.
Ndidi O
Ndidi Onukwulu (Ndidi O), an award-winning contemporary roots and blues singer-songwriter, is known for her soul, blues, contemporary roots, folk, and Americana music. It’s been described as “rootsy blues with a tinge of soul and country.” She’s a two-time Juno Award nominee and the 2019 Western Canadian Music Awards winner for Blues Artist of the Year.
- When: Saturday, April 12, 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Eighth & Eight Creative Spaces, Studio 1C, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Tickets are available online
Poetry + Art Salon
New Westminster poet laureate Janet Kvammen and the Royal City Literary Arts Society are hosting Poetry + Art Salon, a celebration of National Poetry Month. This afternoon drop-in event includes guests Alan Hill (poet laureate emeritus), Angela Kenyon,
and Jessica Lee McMillan.
- When: Saturday, April 12, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.
- Where: Anvil Centre, fourth floor, 777 Columbia St.
- Details: Free
Sunday, April 13
Creating a monotype collagraph/relief print workshop
Arts New West is hosting a free art workshop with Latin American Women's Art Collective "Hijas del Sol" members Priscila Holtz, Natalia Botero, Damarys Sepulveda and Mónica Moscoso, who will help attendees create a monotype collagraph/relief print.
- When: Sunday, April 13, 2 to 4 p.m.
- Where: Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia St. (Studio Room 411 on the fourth floor)
- Details: No registration is required but space is limited.
Monday, April 14
Music of Twilight
Academy Chamber Players, featuring faculty members from the Vancouver Academy of Music, present Music of Twilight. This concert features music by Boccherini and Schoenberg.
- When: Monday, April 14, 1 p.m.
- Where: Anvil Theatre, 777 Columbia St.
- Details: Tickets are available online
Tuesday, April 15
Walk with the Mayor for WALK30
Mayor Patrick Johnstone is hosting a series of neighbourhood walks as part of the WALK30 Challenge. Today’s walking route will be through the Massey-Victory Heights neighbourhood, giving attendees a chance to learn more about New Westminster’s official community plan and the parks and recreation department’s new People, Parks and Play plan. Today’s route is about 25 minutes/1.5 kilometres and has some steep grades.
- When: Tuesday, April 15, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
- Where: Skwo:wech Elementary School, 331 Richmond St. (meet at the Devoy Street entrance)
- Details: Free. Runs rain or shine. No registration is required.
Twilight and Tea Sound Bath meditation
Lyn Sakari, a certified meditation teacher, reiki practitioner, and sound bath musician, leads a curated sound bath meditation experience of connection and awareness through deep listening.
- When: Wednesday, April 16, 8 p.m.
- Where: Centennial Lodge, Queen’s Park
- Details: Tickets are available online
Thursday, April 17
Gene Kelly: Hollywood’s Dashing Dance Auteur
Classic film scholar Michael Van Den Bos showcases the work of the multi-talented Gene Kelly, showcasing some of his performances from classic movie musicals in today’s Hollywood’s Dashing Dance Auteur presentation. Kelly was not only a dazzling dancer, but an actor, singer, choreographer, and film director.
- When: Thursday, April 17, 7 p.m.
- Where: Eighth & Eight Creative Spaces, Studio 1B, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Tickets are available online
Bee’s Knees Burlesque
Bee's Knees Burlesque at the Flapper Lounge featuring Belle Jumelles, Ivory, Sugar L’Estrange and Terra Nova.
- When: Thursday, April 17. Seatings are at 7, 7:15 and 7:30 p.m.; show is at 8 p.m.
- Where: The Flapper Lounge, ground floor of Metro Hall, 759 Carnarvon St.
- Details: Tickets are available online. This is for 19 years and older.
New West Farmers Market
New West Farmers Market features produce, prepared foods, food trucks, artisans, live music, children’s activities and more.
- When: Thursday, April 17, 3 to 7 p.m.
- Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
Friday, April 18 to Sunday, April 20
Spring Salmon Eggs-travaganza
Fraser River Discovery Centre is hosting its Spring Salmon Eggs-travaganza, which includes salmon-themed activities, games, and crafts to help folks learn about these fish.
- When: Friday, April 18 to Sunday, April 20
- Where: Fraser River Discovery Centre, 788 Quayside Dr.
- Details: Regular admission rates apply
Saturday, April 19
New West Craft
New West Craft, a handmade market hosted by the Arts New West, features a selection of unique and diverse goods from designers, makers, crafters, artists, and small shop owners.
- When: Saturday, April 19, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.
Brunch with Bunny
Ubuntu Celebrations is hosting an Easter Bunny Brunch and Family Fun Day that include a catered lunch (featuring a mix of American and African-inspired breakfast and lunch dishes and desserts), an egg hunt, entertainment, and family games and activities (including a spoon race, a parent and child three-legged race, and a parent and child sack race). Attendees should bring baskets for collecting eggs and cameras for taking photos.
- When: Saturday, April 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Brunch is from 10:30 a.m. to noon, photos with the Easter Bunny are from noon to 1 p.m. Easter egg hunts will take place at 1:30 p.m. (ages three to five) and 2 p.m. (ages six and up)
- Where: Queen's Park Playground & Picnic Area
- Details: Space is limited so you must register to participate in activities. A family package (two adults and two children) is $80, or $40 for adults (15 years and up), $25 for children (five to 13 years), $15 for youngsters (two to four years), and free for infants (zero to one year). Photos with the Easter Bunny are $20 and Easter treat baskets can be pre-ordered for a fee.
WALK30 Walk – Queen’s Park and river views
BEST (Better Environmentally Sound Transportation) is hosting a guided walk as part of this year’s WALK30 Challenge. It starts at Queen’s Park, goes to the Fraser River, passes through Glenbrook Ravine trails, and returns to Queen’s Park. This 4.1-kilometre walk takes about 60 minutes and has about 80 metres of elevation. It’s free and open to all ages; furry companions welcome.
- When: Saturday, April 19, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park
- Details: Weather dependent. Attendees signing up for this walk must follow BEST’s code of conduct.
Tuesday, April 22
Councillor Café – Queen's Park Edition
Councillors Daniel Fontaine and Paul Minhas are hosting another edition of their Councillor Café events, giving community members to drop in and discuss issues about the Queen’s Park neighbourhood (and beyond). Coffee and snacks will be served.
- When: Tuesday, April 22, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Queen’s Park Arena boardroom at the north end of the building on the top floor
- Details: Free, Registration is not required.
Transforming Climate Emotions into Climate Action
If thinking about climate change cause you anxiety, sadness or fear, this session will provide tools to turn those feelings into action. Part of Earth Week at the New Westminster Public Library, this event is presented by Christine Coles with Space and Beyond Climate Action.
- When: Tuesday, April 22, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave.
- Details: Free
Thursday, April 24
Earth Week climate report
The City of New Westminster’s climate action team will give an overview of climate action work at the city, including actions being taken to make civic buildings and transportation greener. At this New Westminster Public Library Earth Week event, city staff will also provide suggestions for what residents can do and give participants information about the development of the climate change adaptation and resilience plan.
- When: Thursday, April 24, 3 to 4 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave.
- Details: Free
Gardening: Living Compost
The New Westminster Public Library’s Earth Week program includes a workshop, where people will learn about compost and find out to use it to improve the health and productivity of your garden and help the climate by capturing more carbon in your soil. It’s being led by Jo Tobias from RootShoot Soils, who specializes in natural management of soil health.
- When: Thursday, April 24, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster Public Library, 716 Sixth Ave.
- Details: This session will be presented live in person and be broadcast via Zoom.
New West Farmers Market
New West Farmers Market features produce, prepared foods, food trucks, artisans, live music, children’s activities and more.
- When: Thursday, April 24, 3 to 7 p.m.
- Where: Tipperary Park, 315 Queens Ave. (next to New Westminster City Hall)
Thursday, April 24 to Sunday, May 11
The Revolutionists
Vagabond Players Presents The Revolutionists in which “four beautiful, badass women lose their heads in this irreverent, girl-powered comedy set during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror.”
- When: Thursday, April 24 to Sunday, May 11. Shows run Thursday to Saturday at 8 p.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m.
- Where: Bernie Legge Theatre in Queen’s Park
- Details: Tickets are available online or by calling 604-521-0412. Warning: This play contains mature content and coarse language.
Friday, April 25
April Beer Friday
The New Westminster Chamber of Commerce is hosting April Beer Friday at the Legion. The Legion is open to members and non-members and provides a self-service bar that accept cash, debit, and credit.
- When: Friday, April 25, 4 to 6 p.m.
- Where: Royal Canadian Legion Branch #2, 631 Sixth St.
- Details: Register online
It's time to get your tickets to Royal City Musical Theatre's 9 to 5 The Musical! Three coworkers pushed to boiling point by their sexist and egotistical boss. They scheme to turn the tables on their despicable supervisor. Will the women succeed? www.masseytheatre.com/event/dolly-... #newwest
— Massey Theatre (@masseytheatre.bsky.social) March 28, 2025 at 12:05 PM
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Friday, April 25 to Sunday, May 11
Royal City Musical Theatre presents 9 To 5
The Royal City Musical Theatre Company presents 9 to 5, where three female coworkers — office manager Violet, frazzled divorcée Judy, and sultry secretary Doralee — concoct a plan to get even with their “sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot” boss. In this humour- and music-filled production, they live out their wildest fantasy — giving their boss the boot, their workplace a dream makeover, and taking control of the company that had always kept them down. It features music by Dolly Parton.
- When: Friday, April 25 to Sunday May 11. Shows run Thursday to Sunday, with evening and matinee performances.
- Where: Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Tickets are available online
Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26
Vintage and Collectibles Sale
The Fraser Valley Antiques and Collectibles Club is hosting its 30th annual Vintage and Collectibles Sale in New West.
- When: Friday, April 25 (5 to 9 p.m.) and Saturday, April 26 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Where: Queen’s Park Arena
- Details: Early admission on Friday night is $20 (covers both days). Regular admission on Saturday is $5.
Saturday, April 26
Climate friendly homes tour/sustainable home info sessions
The Climate Friendly Homes Tour is a chance to see climate-friendly homes, chat with experts and homeowners who have successfully implemented sustainable living practices in their homes and learn about technologies and techniques that improve home comfort and climate friendliness. Contractors, Energy Advisors, and other experts will be on site at some locations to share knowledge and answer questions.
The City of New Westminster Climate Action Hub is hosting select properties on the tour and will be providing talks by local experts on topics ranging from how to stay safe in significant heat events, stormwater management, increasing biodiversity and creating bird and pollinator habitat, building electrification. Registration is free, but it is required to visit these specific properties.
- When: Saturday, April 26, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: Various addresses in New West
- Details: Details about the tour (registration not required) and registration for the Sustainable Home Info Sessions homes is available online
Alex Cuba
Alex Cuba brings his blend of soul, funk, jazz, and pop to the New West stage. “A forward-thinking, indie-minded artist, Cuba’s sugarcane-sweet melodies, pop-soul hooks, and powerful guitar riffs have garnered him over 20 awards and nominations, including four Latin Grammys, two Juno Awards, three Grammy nominations, and one Grammy win.
- When: Saturday, April 26, 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Anvil Theatre, 777 Columbia St.
- Details: Tickets are available online
Pitchfest for Charity
Celebrate the power of innovation, creativity, and storytelling when judges will announce the winner of this year’s Vincenza’s Angels Pitchfest for Charity, all in support of the Canadian Mental Health Association – B.C. division. In addition to honouring this year’s Pitch Fest winner, this awards event includes a silent auction and food from local food trucks.
- When: Saturday, April 26, 5:30 to 10 p.m.
- Where: The Royal Westminster Regiment Armoury, 530 Queens Ave.
- Details: Tickets are $30
Amabilis Spring Concert
Amabilis Singers present a night of beautiful music and good vibes at their spring concert.
- When: Saturday, April 26, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster Christian Reformed Church, 8255 13th Ave. (just across the border in Burnaby)
- Details: Tickets are available online
Sunday, April 27
Low-Carbon Vacations in BC
Garey Carlson from HUB New West is leading a fun and practical information session on planning your next holiday by bike. It’s part of the New Westminster Public Library’s Earth Week programming and is presented in collaboration with HUB Cycling’s New Westminster chapter.
- When: Sunday, April 27, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
- Where: New Westminster public library, 716 Sixth Ave.
- Details: Free
Monday, April 28
Day of Mourning
New Westminster District and Labour Council is hosting its annual observance of the Day of Mourning for workers killed and injured on the job.
- When: Monday, April 28, 11 a.m.
- Where: Westminster Pier Park
- Details: Free. Everyone welcome