The City of Maple Ridge’s community building Rock the Block parties are back, starting today (Friday, May 8).
The city invites neighbours to connect at the free family friendly block parties that feature live music, food trucks, games, and activities close to home.
The series kicks off today at Pazarena Park (11270 Pazarena Pl.), continues with the city-wide Rock the Block event on May 23 at the city’s Operations Centre, and wraps up with a Summer Kick-off celebration on June 6 at Albion Community Centre.
“Events like Rock the Block play an important role in bringing people together, building social connections and creating a sense of belonging,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “We’re also excited to welcome residents to the City’s Operations Centre for a behind the scenes look at our equipment, services, and people working 24/7 to keep our parks, trails, and roads safe and deliver clean, reliable water and other services that people use every day.”
The Rock the Block kickoff today runs from 5 to 8 p.m. at Pazarena Park with an official park opening celebration.
A new addition to the series this year, Rock the Block at the city’s Operations Centre provides the opportunity to learn more about the essential services that keep Maple Ridge running.
Taking place May 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 23925 Dewdney Trunk Rd., this interactive event highlights public works services. There will be heavy equipment displays and live demonstrations including a backhoe, snowplow, sewer flushing, and street cleaner along with water meter and traffic signal demos.
The series concludes on June 6 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Albion Community Centre (24165 104 Ave.) with a city-wide celebration to launch summer.
The event features live music, food trucks, a rock-climbing wall, foam pit, arts and crafts, glow-in-the-dark Zumba, a licensed beverage area, and more. It also marks the start of summer programming at the centre, including daily activities in the backyard and Food Truck Fridays.
Since its launch in 2023, Rock the Block has created accessible opportunities for thousands of residents to connect and celebrate their neighbourhoods. All events are free, open to the public, and run rain or shine. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket and enjoy a relaxed, picnic-style atmosphere.
Residents can suggest future event locations by emailing Neighbours@MapleRidge.ca.