Heritage BC is excited to kick off this year’s Heritage Week 2025, an annual celebration of the province’s rich and diverse heritage. Taking place February 17–23, this year’s theme, Pastimes in Past Times, invites everyone to explore how historical leisure activities have shaped the cultural fabric of their communities. Take this opportunity to uncover the pastimes that have contributed to the heritage of the place you call home. “This year’s theme, Pastimes in Past Times, is a wonderful celebration of heritage—reminding us that it’s far from stuffy”, says Kirstin Clausen, Executive Director of Heritage BC. “Heritage is about what we value and how we nurture the heart and soul of our communities and daily lives. This year’s theme encourages everyone to connect—whether by attending a heritage-themed trivia night, enjoying a concert in a historic space, exploring the legacy of a favorite sport, or revisiting a traditional hobby. Heritage Week is a chance to celebrate and reflect on how heritage shapes and enriches our lives.”
In preparation for Heritage Week, Heritage BC has distributed around 2,000 posters to museums, libraries, and heritage organizations across the province. Municipalities are also encouraged to join the Province of BC in proclaiming Heritage Week 2025 to further celebrate and raise awareness.
Communities throughout BC are hosting events and activities that showcase how historical pastimes have shaped their unique stories. Organizations are encouraged to share their events on the Heritage Week 2025 Events Calendar to make them easily accessible in one place. However, the calendar may not capture everything—there are likely events happening near you even if they’re not listed! We encourage everyone to discover local activities or even organize their own to celebrate Heritage Week. Britney Dack, Chair of Heritage BC, shared that Heritage Week is always a highlight for her. “It’s a chance to reflect on how cultural heritage enriches all of our lives, beyond the communities they originate from. Whether it’s the thrill of learning to play mahjong, practicing Ukrainian needle craft, or mastering the pronunciation of Indigenous languages, we all grow and become richer through shared experiences. This year’s theme, Pastimes of Past Times, allows organizations to showcase local traditions and invite the community to join in.”
Heritage BC