One of the most famous landmarks of New Westminster that has endured the test of time and changing interests, the Queen's Park Arena is as eclectic in the events it hosts, as the kinds of people it attracts. Built in 1930 to serve as a venue for the sorting community's forays into badminton, basketball and even the occasional horse show, the area was later enlarged to support a larger variety of activities and also to allow more seating.
The Queen's Park Arena boasts of a capacity to accommodate an audience of 3,500 who gather here to view events which range from local community levels to championships of national repute. The summer months see the arena welcome lacrosse enthusiasts as the city is also home to the renowned New Westminster Salmonbellies. Soccer aficionados throng to the arena to avail of the indoor soccer facilities, while the venue also plays host to community events of varying proportions. Of these, annual Antique Bottle and Collectible Show, which is organized in late April, attracts visitors from all over the country. Come winter and the arena takes on an icy façade, which serves as the venue for the sporting events of the New Westminster Minor Hockey Association and the Vancouver Griffins Women's hockey team. If you're looking to challenge your friends to an exhilarating game of ice-hockey, you can even organize your own game here. What's more, if you can arrange to have 20 players and two goalies for your session, the arena also waives the admittance fee for the lucky goalies!
You can also stop by at the arena for a leisurely skating session; however, remember that the Queen's Park Arena does not rent out skates. Budding performers can choose to showcase their talents at the Bandshell, a spectacular venue which can seat up to 240 spectators.
The arena is open to visitors from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. For further information and rates, you can refer to the website http://www.nwpr.bc.ca/Queens%20Park%20Arena.html , or call the Queen's Park Arena at 604-777-5111
The Queen's Park Arena
1st Street and 3rd Avenue,
New Westminster, B.C
