Do you want to escape from all the noise and traffic?

Do you want to experience life at a farm but still be able to shop at your favorite stores?

Do you want to offer your children a safe life in a safe community?

If you answered "Yes!" to all these questions, then Abbotsford is the perfect place for you to live, or even just to spend a wonderful quiet holiday.

History

Abbotsford became a colony in 1858 when the Royal Engineers surveyed the area in response to the Gold Rush along the Fraser River. This led to the building of Old Yale Road, the first transportation route to linki the Fraser Valley. In 1889 a former Roayl Engineer, John Cunningham Maclure applied for a crown grant to obtain the 160 acres that would later become Abbotsford. The Maclures named this city after a family friend, Harry Abbot.

At the moment Abbotsford is the 5th largest municipality in British Columbia, and the 37th largest in Canada, home to over 123,000 people. It is also home to the University of the Fraser Valley and Abbotsford International Airport, which hosts every year the magnificent Abbotsford International Airshow. More, Abbotsford is located right next to the U.S. border.

What to visit

Abbotsford is also known as the "City in the Country", and this is for a good reason. As soon as you enter this city, you realize it is not like any other urban area. Somewhere between the quietness and wilderness of the farms, a very modern environment was created so that you can enjoy the benefits of the country but not feel lost without technology.

One of the most interesting locations in Abbotsford is the Clayburn Village. Clayburn is a unique, secluded little village situated in the shelter of the west side of Sumas Mountain. The Village and brick plant were founded in 1905 by Charles Maclure, son of John Maclure. Little evidence remains of the once-thriving clay products manufacturing plant which operated at Clayburn shortly after the turn of the 20th century. However, the brick homes which housed employees, the village store, church, and school are still standing. Many young couples choose Clayburn as their wedding destination because of the archaic romantism that constantly floats in the air.

Another irresistible attraction is the Historic Downtown Abbotsford. As you step on the old pavement on a sunny afternoon you immediately re-live the 1900's. You cannot help but to admire the old charming shops and restaurants that after all those years are still guarding the sidewalk like some tired soldiers. The smell of sweet English tea makes its way onto the street, luring everyone inside.

The Silverbrook U-Catch Trout is a great family experience that should definitely be marked in your  itinerary. The ponds are permanently stocked with fresh and healthy trout, and the best part is that you only pay for what you catch. Plus, you don't even need a fishing license.

Mill Lake is the heart of Abbotford and the mirror that is home for many bird species. You'll find everything from quietpicnic areas to an impressive spray park and playgrounds for children. Being one of the most popular parks for walkers, joggers and fishermen, Mill Lake is a great location even if you want to just sit on one of the lakeside benches and admire themarvelous view of Mt. Baker or take a quiet walk on the floating boardwalk.

Events

The most anticipated event of all is the Berry Beat Festival.This is a family friendly country street festival that takes place between July 4th-5th every summer. Abbotsford being one of the world's best and most beautiful berry producing communities, you are guaranteed to have a great time, that will definitely leave a stain on your memory. You can taste the delicious products of the farmers from all over Fraser Valley, visit hundreds of community booths or listen to great local stars performing on stage.

Another event that portrays the beautiful community of Abbotsford is the Jammin' in Jubilee.Every year , on day in July is reserved for this entertaining concert in the Jubilee Park. All you have to to is grab your lawn chair and enjoy all genre of music, from Contemporary Rock to Motown, Hillbily Blues to Classics and Classic Rock. Admissions are free!

Where to shop

The only words that describe easy and fun shopping is Sevenoaks Mall! With over 100 stores, thismall will make it impossible for you to walk out of it without the pair of shoes you have always dreamed of. It is a big mall, but it's also very easy to locate every store because of the convenient way the businesses are placed. Sevenoaks has everything for everyone, and for accessible prices as well.

Where to eat

More than 200 local restaurants offer a diverse choice of dining experiences catered to the tastes and budgets of all Abbotsford visitors. Foods prepared by award winning local chefs are always fresh and savory, especially when accompanied by a glass of Fraser Valley wine. Some of the highly recommended restaurants are: bluStone Restaurant,  Duke of Dublin Olde Irish Pub, Mitch Millers.

Abbotsford invites you to discover the only City in the Country!