Abbotsford

The Raspberry Capital of Canada — fertile farmland, mountain views, and the gateway to BC.

Abbotsford sits in the heart of the Fraser Valley, just an hour east of Vancouver and minutes from the US border at Sumas. It is BC's third-largest city by area and one of the most productive agricultural regions in Canada. The surrounding farmland produces raspberries, blueberries, corn, and dairy on a scale that surprises most visitors, and roadside farm stands are a beloved summer tradition throughout the valley. The city has deep roots in Mennonite heritage, with early settlers arriving in the late 1800s to farm the rich valley floor. That agricultural identity remains strong today, even as Abbotsford has grown into a thriving urban centre with a diverse population and a growing arts and dining scene. The Abbotsford International Airshow, held every August, is one of the largest airshows in North America and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year with military and civilian aircraft performances that fill the sky over the Fraser Valley. For outdoor enthusiasts, Sumas Mountain Regional Park offers hiking trails with panoramic views over the valley and south to Mount Baker in Washington State. The Vedder River is one of the most popular salmon and steelhead fishing rivers in BC, drawing anglers from across the province every fall and winter. Cultus Lake, just minutes south of the city, is a beloved summer destination with swimming, boating, and a waterslide park that families have been visiting for generations. The Reach Gallery Museum showcases local art and cultural history, and the historic Trethewey House tells the story of early pioneer life in the valley. Abbotsford's downtown has seen significant revitalization in recent years, with craft breweries, independent restaurants, and a growing arts community adding new energy to the city.