So, grab a pumpkin spice latte, and let’s take a journey through the centuries to uncover the origins of our favorite spooky holiday.

The Ancient Spark: The Celtic Festival of Samhain

Our story begins over 2,000 years ago with the ancient Celts in what is now Ireland, the UK, and northern France. They celebrated the festival of Samhain (pronounced "sah-win") on October 31st, marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the dark, cold winter.

To the Celts, this time of year was about more than just changing seasons. They believed that on Samhain, the boundary between the world of the living and the world of the dead became blurred. It was a night when the ghosts of the dead were said to return to earth.

To commemorate the event, people gathered to light massive community bonfires, a central feature of any Samhain celebration. They also wore costumes, typically made of animal skins, to ward off these roaming spirits. Think of it as the very first Halloween costume party!

A New Influence: The Arrival of Christianity

As the influence of Christianity spread throughout the Celtic lands, the church often incorporated older pagan traditions into its own holidays to make them more familiar to new converts. In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1st as a time to honor all saints and martyrs—a holiday known as All Saints' Day or All Hallows' Day.

The night before, October 31st, naturally became known as All Hallows' Eve—which, over time, was shortened to the name we know today: Halloween. The ancient traditions of Samhain, like lighting bonfires and wearing disguises, began to blend with this new Christian holiday.

Crossing the Ocean: Halloween Comes to America

Halloween was still a very limited and regional celebration for centuries. It was the wave of Irish immigrants fleeing the potato famine in the mid-19th century that truly brought Halloween to North America's doorstep.

They brought their rich folklore and traditions with them, including:

• Jack-O'-Lanterns: The original Irish legend spoke of "Stingy Jack," who tricked the devil and was doomed to roam the earth with only a burning coal in a hollowed-out turnip to light his way. Irish immigrants discovered that pumpkins, native to America, were much larger and easier to carve than turnips, giving birth to the iconic pumpkin jack-o'-lantern.

• Trick-or-Treating: This custom evolved from several practices, including the Irish and English tradition of "souling," where the poor would go from door to door on All Souls' Day, receiving food (called "soul cakes") in exchange for prayers for the household's dead relatives. The concept of "guising" in Scotland and Ireland, where children in costumes would perform a small trick—like singing a song—in exchange for a treat, also played a major role.

As these traditions mixed in the American "melting pot," they slowly evolved into the community-centered, kid-friendly holiday we know and love today.

More Than Just Candy: The Spirit of Community

At its heart, the evolution of Halloween mirrors the journey of finding a home. It’s about:

• Laying New Foundations: Just as the Celts marked a new year and Christians layered new meanings onto old traditions, moving to a new home is a fresh start.

• Blending Traditions: Every family brings its own unique "folklore" and traditions to a neighbourhood, creating a rich, diverse community much like the blending of Celtic, Christian, and American customs.

• Creating a Haven: The core of Halloween, from warding off spirits to welcoming trick-or-treaters, is about creating a safe, welcoming space. Isn't that what we all want from our homes?

Your Home, A Treat Without the Tricks

The search for a home can sometimes feel a little spooky, filled with uncertainties and scary sounding jargon. But it doesn't have to be a haunted house experience!

Just as Halloween transformed from an ancient ritual to a joyful community celebration, the home-buying process can be an exciting and positive journey with the right guide. My goal is to ensure your real estate experience is all treat and no trick, helping you find a home where you can build your own traditions for many Halloweens and all the other holidays to come.

Ready to find a home that’s sweeter than any candy? Contact me today, and let’s get started on your journey!

#HalloweenHistory #SpookySeason #RealtorLife #HomeSweetHome #HouseHunting #TrickOrTreat #JustListed #FallVibes #TriCitiesRealEstate #MoveWithMe #TaraKennedy #TaraKennedyRealtor #RoyalLepageEliteWest #HappyHalloween #Halloween2025

Key Takeaways:

• The BoC's rate cut directly lowers borrowing costs for those with variable-rate mortgages and HELOCs.

• Fixed mortgage rates are generally unaffected as they are tied to government bond yields.

• This marks a significant psychological shift in the market, potentially boosting buyer confidence.

• Navigating this new environment requires a clear strategy and expert guidance.

If you’ve been following the financial news, you already know the headline: The Bank of Canada (BoC) has cut its overnight lending rate by 25 basis points. This is the first rate cut in over four years, and it’s a significant moment.

But as a potential home buyer, seller, or current homeowner in the Tri-Cities area, what does this actually mean for you? The answer is more nuanced than the headlines suggest. Let’s dive in.

The Direct Impact: A Win for Variable Rates

In simple terms, the BoC’s overnight rate is the interest rate it charges big banks to borrow money. This rate directly influences the Prime Rate that commercial banks then offer to their customers.

Who benefits immediately?

• Homeowners with a Variable-Rate Mortgage: If your mortgage interest rate "floats" with the Prime Rate, you will likely see your next mortgage payment decrease. This provides direct, tangible relief and puts money back in your pocket.

• Those with a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): Since HELOCs are almost always tied to Prime, your borrowing cost on that line of credit will also drop.

For this group, the rate cut is exactly what they’ve been waiting for.

The Misunderstood Reality: Fixed Rates Sit on the Sidelines

Here is the most critical piece of information for anyone currently house-hunting or hoping for lower fixed rates:

This rate cut does not directly lead to lower fixed mortgage rates.

If you are in one of these situations, the immediate impact is minimal:

• You have an existing fixed-rate mortgage: Your rate is locked in and will not change.

• You are waiting for 5-year fixed rates to drop significantly: This announcement, on its own, does not guarantee that.

Why is that?

Fixed mortgage rates are not tied to the Bank of Canada's overnight rate. Instead, they are primarily determined by the performance of Government of Canada bond yields, particularly the 5-year bond. Lenders use these yields to price their long-term fixed-rate mortgages.

Bond yields trade based on long-term market expectations for inflation and economic growth. While the BoC’s cut signals a shift in monetary policy, the bond market operates on its own timeline and set of expectations. So, while we may see some positive movement, a sustained drop in fixed rates requires a broader shift in the bond market.

The Bigger Picture: A Shift in Market Psychology

While the mechanical impact on fixed rates may be limited for now, the psychological impact of this cut cannot be overstated.

For months, the market has been defined by a "wait-and-see" approach. This first cut is a powerful signal that the tide of high-interest rates has officially turned. It boosts buyer confidence by providing a clearer picture of the future borrowing landscape. Buyers who were hesitant may now feel empowered to re-enter the market, knowing that the era of rate hikes is likely over.

This can lead to increased market activity, which is a crucial factor for sellers to consider.

Your Next Move: Strategy is Key

Whether you are a first-time buyer, looking to upgrade, or considering selling your property, this turning point makes having a smart strategy more important than ever.

• For Buyers: This is a signal to get your finances in order and get pre-approved. Understanding your mortgage options and the critical difference between fixed and variable - is the first step to making a powerful move in a shifting market.

• For Sellers: Increased buyer confidence can translate into more foot traffic and competitive offers. Positioning your home correctly and pricing it strategically will be essential to capitalize on this new momentum.

• For Homeowners: It’s an excellent time to review your mortgage. Should you consider breaking and locking into a fixed rate? Or, if you have a variable rate, how does this change your financial planning? A mortgage review can provide clarity.

The Bottom Line

The Bank of Canada's rate cut is undoubtedly positive news. It provides immediate relief for variable-rate holders and marks a crucial turning point for the Canadian housing market.

However, the path forward is not one-size-fits-all. Fixed rate seekers will need to keep a close eye on the bond market, while everyone else should view this as a green light to re-engage with their real estate goals with a clear, informed plan.

Navigating the Tri-Cities real estate market requires a trusted partner who understands these economic nuances. If you’re wondering how these changes impact your unique situation, I’m here to provide the clarity and strategy you need. Let’s connect and discuss your next steps.

📞 Tara Kennedy – REALTOR®
📱 236-992-8989
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com
🌐 www.TaraKennedy.ca

#BankOfCanada #RateCut #BOC #MortgageNews #RealEstateUpdate #VariableRate #FixedRate #HomeBuyerTips #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #SellingYourHome #TriCitiesRealEstate #PortCoquitlamRealtor #CoquitlamRealtor #PortMoodyRealtor #TaraKennedySells #MarketUpdate #MortgageRates #RealEstateAdvice #InvestmentProperty #HomeEquity #PocoRealtor #NewWestRealtor #BurnabyRealtor #VancouverRealtor #FraserValleyRealEstate #LowerMainlandRealEstate #RoyalLePage #GreaterVancouverRealEstate

A landmark court decision by the Supreme Court of British Columbia (BCSC) has recognized Aboriginal title and fishing rights for the Cowichan Tribes over a portion of land and waters in Richmond, B.C., raising important questions for homeowners, governments and property rights.

📜 What happened

• On August 7 , 2025, the BCSC issued its decision in Cowichan Tribes v. Canada (Attorney General), 2025 BCSC 1490. MLT Aikins+2JFK Law+2

• The case was brought by the Cowichan Tribes, joined by other First Nations, claiming Aboriginal title over land known historically as “Tl’uqtinus” (a traditional village site on what is now Lulu Island in Richmond) and Aboriginal fishing rights for the south arm of the Fraser River.

• The court found the Cowichan Tribes had established Aboriginal title to roughly 800 acres (approximately 3.2 km²) in the Richmond/Lulu Island area, and recognized Aboriginal right to fish for food in those waters.

• The court held that many of the Crown’s grants of fee-simple title to land (i.e., the federal government, the provincial government and the City of Richmond) in that area were defective and invalid, as they “unjustifiably infringe” the Cowichan Aboriginal title.

• Importantly, the decision directs the Crown (federal and provincial governments) to negotiate with the Cowichan in good faith to resolve the overlapping titles and rights.🏠 What this means for homeowners & private property

• The article you referenced reports that the Mayor of Richmond, Malcolm Brodie, sent letters to homeowners warning that the ruling “could negatively affect title” of some homes, and that the “status and validity” of their ownership might be compromised.

• However — and this is crucial — the court decision did not explicitly order private homeowners to be evicted or automatically surrender their land. The decision dealt primarily with lands held by the Crown and did not directly invalidate all private fee-simple titles.

• That said, there is legal uncertainty: the interplay between Aboriginal title and existing private (fee simple) title is now more complex. Some legal commentary notes that the decision raises questions like “what remains of fee simple title after Aboriginal title is recognized in the same lands?”

• If your property lies in the “Claim Area”-map published by the city (or affected area), you may want to monitor developments, attend city information sessions, or seek legal advice.

🔍 Key legal & policy implications

• Aboriginal title is a uniquely Canadian legal concept: a collective Indigenous right to the land that was not extinguished by colonization and gives more than simple occupancy. (See earlier landmark cases such as Tsilhqot’in Nation v. British Columbia from 2014.)

• The Cowichan decision is considered precedent-setting because it deals with Aboriginal title over lands that include Crown fee-simple grants and possibly private lands — a particularly complex scenario.

• The decision emphasises the duty to negotiate: the provincial government stated it will appeal the ruling, emphasising concern about potential implications for “fee simple private property rights in B.C.”

• For governments, municipalities and property markets, the decision alerts to possible ripple effects in terms of land-use, zoning, mortgages, and investor confidence.

🧭 What to watch going forward

• The appeals process: The provincial government and the City of Richmond have indicated they will appeal the decision, which means legal uncertainty will remain until higher court rulings.

• Negotiations & reconciliation: The Crown, Cowichan Tribes and affected parties will need to negotiate how to reconcile Aboriginal title with existing private and Crown tenure. How that plays out could determine property rights, compensation regimes, development permissions, etc.

• Mapping and identifying affected lands: For homeowners, it will be important to determine whether your property is within the “Claim Area” or land subject to overlapping rights.

• Impact on financing, deeds, mortgages: If a property’s legal title is deemed uncertain, that could in theory affect mortgage eligibility, insurance, and resale value. Watching lender and insurer responses will be important.

• Broader implications for B.C. and Canada: This judgement may influence many other Aboriginal title cases in Canada, especially those overlapping previously settled fee-simple lands or urban/suburban areas.

✅ Bottom Line

While this ruling is historic and may introduce significant legal changes, it’s not a sudden “evict homeowners now” order. For most homeowners, it’s a signal to stay informed and possibly seek counsel, but not immediate cause for panic. The real shifts will happen over time as negotiations, appeals and settlements proceed.

📌 Official Citations & Sources

• “B.C. Supreme Court recognizes Cowichan Aboriginal title in landmark ruling” – ML Tainterins article, Aug 8 2025. MLT Aikins

• “B.C. First Nation wins rights, title along Fraser River in Lower Mainland” – CityNews, Aug 8 2025. CityNews Vancouver

• “B.C. government to appeal historic land claim ruling for 4 First Nations” – Global News, Aug 11 2025. Global News

• “Landmark Decision in Cowichan Tribes Case” – JFK Law summary. JFK Law

• “Uncertainty in dealing with private property rights and Aboriginal title” – Cassels insights. Cassels

• “Claimants of Aboriginal Title Over Private Lands Not Required to Provide Notice” – Lexology. Lexology

#AboriginalTitle #CowichanTribes #RichmondBC #PropertyRights #FirstNations #LandClaim #CanadaLaw #RealEstateBC #IndigenousRights #LegalPrecedent

British Columbia is experiencing a major policy shift when it comes to parking and it is starting to cause real concern.

Not long ago, it was standard for new homes and condos to include one or two parking stalls per unit. Today, both the B.C. government and many municipalities are actively encouraging developers to build with little to no on site parking.

Under new provincial legislation, four-to-six unit buildings can now be built on most single family lots & with no parking requirements. The City of Vancouver has gone even further, eliminating minimum parking rules entirely and leaving the decision up to developers.

This “car-lite” planning approach aims to reduce building costs and carbon emissions, while promoting walking, cycling, and public transit. But it’s raising real world challenges. Families, tradespeople, and small business owners still depend heavily on vehicles, especially in areas where transit options remain limited.

Large scale projects like the Sen̓áḵw development in Kitsilano are setting the tone with 6,000 units planned and only one (1) parking stall for every seven (7) homes. Critics argue that this trend will increase pressure on already crowded streets, hurt local retailers who rely on customer access, and make daily life harder for those who simply can’t live car-free.

Meanwhile, cities are being forced by the province to approve high density housing near transit hubs without the option of requiring on site parking, regardless of community feedback or infrastructure readiness.

Has the NDP government lost sight of the real world impact of its decisions? This growing disconnect between planning policies and the everyday needs of residents is sparking debate: "Are we moving too far, too fast - and at what cost to livability, convenience, and local business?"

#UrbanPlanning #VancouverRealEstate #HousingCrisis #TransportationPolicy #BCHousing #CityDevelopment #Sustainability#MetroVancouver #DevelopmentTrends #HousingPolicy#RealEstateInsights #NDP #NDPGovernment #BCNoParking 

The City of Vancouver is taking a bold new approach to addressing the housing shortage — by becoming a for-profit real estate developer.

City Council is expected to approve the creation of a wholly owned municipal development company that will build and operate market rental housing on six City-owned sites.

This new entity will operate as an independent “government business enterprise,” similar to the Surrey City Development Corporation (SCDC) model.

💰 What’s Planned

The City will sell six development sites worth a combined $412 million to the new company, with the goal of creating approximately 4,000 market rental homes across mixed-use projects.

Key sites include:

• 625–777 Pacific St. (Granville Bridge north end): ~1,000 homes ($144M)

• Burrard/Hornby/900 Pacific St.: ~1,100 homes ($79.3M)

• 1510 Quebec St. & 1405 Main St. (near Science World): ($97.7M)

• 2400 Kingsway (2400 Motel): ~900 homes ($36.4M)

• Granville St. (Marpole): ($36.3M)

• Main St. (Riley Park–Little Mountain): ($17.9M)

The Vancouver Housing Development Office (VHDO) is already advancing rezoning applications for several of these locations.

🎯 Purpose and Benefits

The City aims to deliver more rental housing without increasing its debt load or risking its credit rating.
By operating through a separate company, it can:

• Secure its own financing

• Generate long-term, sustainable revenue

• Return profits to the City through dividends

• Help stabilize taxes and fund future infrastructure

These projects will primarily target working- and middle-income households seeking secure, purpose-built rental options.

🧭 Governance & Funding

• Startup funding: up to $8 million from the City’s Property Endowment Fund (over 5 years)

• Debt cap: $200 million

• Board: nine directors (six independent industry experts + three City representatives)

• The company may partner with private developers, generally maintaining a 50%+ ownership stake in each project.

🔍 Context

Vancouver’s move mirrors similar strategies across the region.

• Surrey’s SCDC pioneered this model in 2007, successfully completing major projects around City Centre.

• TransLink recently launched its own real estate division to redevelop underused transit lands, aiming to boost both housing supply and transit ridership.

💬 Realtor Perspective

This initiative raises important questions for our industry:

• How might this shift affect private development opportunities and land values?

• Could municipal-led for-profit development influence market pricing or competition?

• And most importantly — is this a model other cities will follow?

What are your thoughts?

📎 City of Vancouver: New Strategy for Market Rental Housing on City Land (Official Release)

#VancouverHousing #CityDevelopment #UrbanHousing #RentalHousingVancouver #HousingShortage #VancouverNews #CityPlanning #AffordableHousing #MarketRentals #UrbanPolicy #HousingCrisis #VancouverCityCouncil #GovernmentDevelopment #MunicipalProjects #HousingInnovation #VancouverUrbanism #CivicNews #CityGrowth #SustainableHousing #CommunityDevelopment #VancouverFuture #UrbanPlanningBC #HousingStrategy #LocalGovernment #CityInvestments

The landscape of housing in British Columbia is changing - and it could impact your neighbourhood. With the passing of Bill 44 in November 2023, the province is moving to increase housing supply by allowing small scale multi unit housing (SSMUH) on lots that previously allowed only single-family homes.

If you live in Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, Port Moody, Maple Ridge, or Pitt Meadows, this is something you’ll want to understand.

What is Bill 44?

Bill 44, formally known as the Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Amendment Act, is a provincial law that requires municipalities to update their zoning bylaws to allow more housing options on existing residential lots.

Previously, most single family lots in Metro Vancouver could only accommodate one home. Now, depending on lot size and proximity to transit, you may be able to build duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, secondary suites, or laneway houses.

It’s important to note: homeowners are allowed to build more units but are not required to. The law is about increasing supply, not forcing construction.

Key Dates and Implementation

• November 2023 – Bill 44 is passed by the BC Legislature.

• June 30, 2024 – Municipalities are required to update their zoning bylaws to comply.

• December 31, 2025 – Deadline for full implementation in all municipalities, including Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.

How the Changes Look Locally

Coquitlam

• Lots ≤ 280 m² → up to 3 units

• Larger lots → up to 4 units

• Lots near frequent transit → up to 6 units (still uncommon in most areas)

Port Coquitlam

• Many single-family zones now allow up to 4 units

• Near frequent bus stops → triplex + secondary suite (up to 6 units)

Port Moody

• Single-family/duplex lots → 3–4 units

• Within 400 m of frequent transit → up to 6 units

Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows

• Denser infill possible near transit nodes such as Haney Place Exchange

• Municipalities are updating Official Community Plans and zoning bylaws to comply

Why This Matters

Benefits

• More housing supply → more rental and ownership options

• Opportunities for homeowners → build extra suites or laneway homes for income

• Neighborhood-friendly density → “missing middle” homes that fit better than high-rise apartments

Potential Challenges

• Changes to neighborhood character → new housing forms may alter streetscapes

• Infrastructure strain → roads, sewers, parking may need upgrades

• Variability across lots → not all properties qualify, and local design rules still apply

What’s Next?

Homeowners, developers, and neighbours should monitor their municipal zoning updates, as each city may have slightly different rules, timelines, and incentives.

If you’re considering building or investing, understanding the “missing middle” opportunities now can give you a head start.

Final Thoughts

Bill 44 represents a major shift in BC’s approach to housing. By opening single family lots to small scale multi-unit housing, the province hopes to address the housing shortage while keeping communities walkable and diverse.

Whether you see it as a housing revolution or a change to neighborhood character, the impact will be visible in our cities over the next few years.

#BCHousing #Bill44 #Bill44BC #SmallScaleHousing #AffordableLiving #AffordableLivingBC #MetroVancouver #MetroVanHousing #HousingRevolution #HousingRevolutionBC #PortCoquitlam #PortCoquitlamHousing #Coquitlam #CoquitlamLiving #PortMoody #PortMoodyHomes #MapleRidge #MapleRidgeLiving #PittMeadows #PittMeadowsHomes #LanewayHomesBC #GardenSuitesBC #TriplexLiving #TownhomeLivingBC #MultiplexHousing #HousingForAllBC #TransitOrientedDevelopmentBC #HousingPolicyReformBC #AffordableHousingSolutions #CommunityDrivenHousing #SustainableHousingBC

🌾🌿 Long before European settlers arrived, Indigenous peoples across Canada celebrated the fall harvest with feasts, ceremonies, and songs - giving thanks for the abundance of the land and the changing seasons. 🌾🌿

🌊🇨🇦 In 1578, English explorer Martin Frobisher and his crew held what’s considered the first recorded Thanksgiving in Canada. They gathered in what is now Nunavut, giving thanks for surviving a dangerous journey through Arctic waters on their way from England. 🌊🇨🇦

🤎🍂 Over time, Thanksgiving evolved into a day of gratitude, harvest, and togetherness, officially becoming a national holiday in 1879. In 1957, Parliament set the date as the second Monday in October, perfectly timed for Canada’s earlier harvest season. 🤎🍂

🥧🍷 We don’t all celebrate the same way - regional specialties, traditions, and cultural roots make every table unique. Whether it’s pumpkin pie, butter tarts, or a favourite family recipe, it’s the gratitude shared that matters most. 🥧🍷

🕯🍁 Wishing you a Thanksgiving weekend full of warmth, gratitude, and moments that remind you how much there is to be thankful for. 🕯🍁🧡

#HappyThanksgiving #CanadianThanksgiving #ThanksgivingCanada #GratefulHeart #HarvestSeason #FallVibes #GiveThanks #Thankful #CozySeason #AutumnVibes #PumpkinSeason #FallInCanada #Gratitude #CanadaStrong #ThanksgivingWeekend

The wait is almost over — after decades of conversation and several years of construction, the long-awaited Pattullo Bridge Replacement Project is nearing completion. On December 25, 2025, Metro Vancouver residents will officially welcome a safer, modern bridge across the Fraser River.

🚧 Why Replace the Pattullo Bridge?

Opened in 1937, the current Pattullo Bridge has long been considered functionally obsolete:

• Narrow lanes without separation

• Seismic vulnerability

• High crash rates

• Lack of safe pedestrian or cycling access

At 88 years old, it’s past its lifespan, and a new bridge has been badly needed.

🌉 Key Features of the New Bridge

• Four wide lanes (10% wider than before)

• Centre median to separate traffic

• Pedestrian & cyclist pathways with protective barriers

• Improved roadway connections on both sides of the Fraser

• Future expansion ready — the design allows for up to six lanes if demand, funding, and community approvals align.

🚦 Why Only Four Lanes for Now?

While many commuters, particularly in Surrey, argue for a six-lane crossing immediately, there are important reasons for starting with four:

1. Road Network Constraints – On the New Westminster side, streets like McBride Boulevard, East Columbia Street, and Royal Avenue cannot accommodate six continuous lanes without major expansion that would cut through neighborhoods.

2. Bottleneck Concerns – Six lanes on the bridge would still funnel into four-lane roads on either end, shifting congestion into city streets.

3. Future-Proofing – The bridge is designed with the structural capacity to expand, should the need arise.

This phased, cautious approach balances current demand with community impacts.

🌀 The Four Opening Phases

The opening will not be a simple ribbon-cutting. Instead, the new Pattullo will launch in four stages to carefully integrate with the road network:

Phase 1 – The new bridge partially opens; the Royal Avenue southbound on-ramp remains closed.
Phase 2 – A full closure for about a week, with no bridge crossing while final tie-ins at McBride and King George are completed.
Phase 3 – Traffic split: northbound shifts entirely to the new bridge, while some southbound traffic continues on the old bridge.
Phase 4 – All traffic moves onto the new bridge. The old bridge will close and eventually be removed.

🌿 A New Identity

Beyond its structural upgrades, the new bridge will also receive a new Indigenous name in hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓, chosen in collaboration with the Musqueam and Kwantlen First Nations. The name is expected to be announced in the coming months, symbolizing respect for the land and history of the area.

🖼️ Community Enhancements

The project includes a new public art installation beneath the Highway 17–Old Yale Road overpass, as well as better pedestrian and cycling connections in both Surrey and New Westminster.

📅 What’s Next?

December 25, 2025, won’t just mark a holiday — it will mark the beginning of a new chapter for Metro Vancouver commuters. While the debate over four vs. six lanes will continue, one thing is certain: the new Pattullo Bridge will provide a safer, more reliable connection across the Fraser River for generations to come.

👩‍💼
Big changes like new infrastructure often influence local real estate trends.  Whether you’re considering upsizing, downsizing, or making your first move, let’s chat about how today’s market is shifting.

✨ Tara Kennedy
🏡 REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
📞 236-992-8989
🌐 TaraKennedy.ca
📧 TaraKennedySells@gmail.com

#PattulloBridge #PattulloReplacement #BridgeOpening #FraserRiver #McBrideBoulevard #KingGeorgeBoulevard #SurreyBC #NewWestminster #Infrastructure #BridgePhases #TransitFuture #BCTransportation #MetroVancouver #IndigenousNaming

The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 is on, and excitement is building in Vancouver as the city prepares to host seven matches at BC Place. For many fans, the first big question is: what will tickets cost?

Ticket Pricing: Putting It in Perspective

FIFA has officially opened the first phases of ticket sales, with pricing divided into four categories. For Vancouver matches, here’s a look at the approximate ranges (in Canadian dollars):

• Category 1: ~$662

• Category 2: ~$495

• Category 3: ~$230

• Category 4: ~$230

For Canada’s opening match in Toronto — the country’s debut on home soil — tickets are understandably higher:

• Category 1: ~$2,434

• Category 2: ~$1,730

• Category 3: ~$997

• Category 4: ~$495

At first glance, these numbers may feel steep, but when compared to other major sporting or entertainment events, they’re not unusual. Courtside seats at an NBA game, front-row tickets to the Stanley Cup Finals, or VIP access at a sold-out concert often carry a similar premium. As with most major events, the top-tier tickets are aimed at the elite, while lower categories give everyday fans a chance to be part of the magic.

How to Secure Tickets

There are two primary paths for fans in Canada to purchase tickets:

1. FIFA Ticketing Portal

   • Fans must register for a FIFA Ticketing Account. Tickets are released through lotteries, presales, and eventually, first-come-first-served phases.

   • FIFA Ticketing:  https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/tickets

2. CanadaRED Membership

   • Canada Soccer offers its CanadaRED membership program, which provides weighted access to World Cup tickets. Higher membership tiers give better odds in ticket draws.

   • CanadaRED:  https://canadared.canadasoccer.com/

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

For soccer fans in Vancouver — and across Canada — the World Cup is about more than just a ticket price. It’s a historic, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the world’s biggest sporting event unfold in our own backyard. Whether you’re in the upper bowl or sitting pitch-side, the atmosphere will be unforgettable.

Yes, the top tiers come with a hefty price tag, but so do the most exclusive seats at any major sporting event. The important takeaway? There are still accessible options for fans who want to experience the excitement live.

Final Thoughts

The FIFA World Cup is unlike any other sporting spectacle, and Vancouver will be at the heart of it in 2026. Whether you’re a die hard supporter or just looking to soak in the atmosphere, now is the time to register, plan, and be ready when ticket windows open.

🎟️ FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets - https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/tickets

🎟️ CanadaRED Membership - https://canadared.canadasoccer.com/

#WorldCup2026 #Vancouver #FIFA #BCPlace #SoccerFans #CanadaSoccer #SoccerCulture #VancouverEvents #SoccerLife #FootyFans #VancouverBC #FIFAWorldCup #VancouverSoccer #SoccerCommunity #TicketInfo #CanadaRED #SoccerLove #TheBeautifulGame #FIFA2026Tickets