June 19th 2026 - September 4th 2026

Make the most of free Cannery admission this summer with all-new Summer Mini-Tours! Between June 19th-September 4th, 2026, join live, interactive Cannery tour sessions led by costumed tour guides and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Cannery when it was in operation.

Dive into the history of fishing, salmon canning, and herring reduction operations with unique and exclusive sensory experiences running daily. See the Cannery’s 1930s-1950s era mechanized canning line in action; put yourself in the actual shoes (of lifejacket) of 20th century cannery fishers; and smell the legacy of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery’s herring reduction processes firsthand!  

Get ready for Mini-Tours with a big impact – on for a limited time only at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site! 

About the Tours

Please note that schedules are tentative, and that daily tours are subject to change day-to-day. Please call ahead to confirm daily availability (604 664 9009).

Machine Demonstration 
Join Cannery staff for an exclusive chance to see three of our authentic canning line machines come to life! This tour takes you back to the mid-1900s, when machine-operated canning processes were revolutionizing the salmon canning industry. Experience the filling machine, weighing machine, and vacuum sealer like never before as you learn about how salmon was canned by machine along BC’s West Coast! 
Life of a Fisher
What was it like to be out on the water for days, bringing in the catch that made West Coast canning possible? In the Life of a Fisher tour, follow the footsteps of fishers from the early and mid 20th century as they braved the rivers and oceans of BC. Step into wheelhouse of a replica fishing boat, weigh your catch to get your pay, and see the ongoing legacy of fishing in Steveston on this immersive journey through the Cannery! 
Sights and Smells of Herring Reduction
What’s that smell? The lasting legacy of herring reduction processes in Steveston is the smell that wafted through the village as workers produced what they called “black gold”. Herring was a smelly, messy, process that left its mark both in the Cannery and beyond, and this tour brings the legacy of this process right to you. See, touch, and smell the primary products produced by the Gulf of Georgia’s herring reduction plant on this interactive, sensory-based experience! 
Coming in August: Staff Features Mini-Tours!
There’s always more to see at the Cannery! Come back in August to experience custom Mini-Tours led by interpretive guides, highlighting their favourite exhibit pieces, activities, and stories! 

Daily Tour Schedule

Date/Time: Daily between June 19 to September 4, 2026 

Tour schedule is only an estimate and is subject to change to support operational needs. To confirm whether a specific tour will be available during your visit, please call our Front Desk at 604-664-9009. 

Daily Schedule – July 2026

11:00 am – Machine Demonstration
12:30 pm – Life of a Fisher
2:30 pm – Machine Demonstration
4:00 pm – Sights & Smells of Herring Reduction 

Location: Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, 12138 Fourth Avenue, Richmond, VC, V7E 3J1
Admission cost :  Free

August Tour Schedule Coming Soon! 

*Registration not required, tours are first-come, first-serve. Tour scheduling is subject to change day-to-day. Please call ahead to confirm daily schedules: (604) 664 9009. 

Movie Matinees in the Boiler House Theatre
February 23-December 21, 2026
Movie Matinees in the Boiler House Theatre

2026 Canada Strong Pass - Free Admission to the Cannery
June 19-September 07, 2026
2026 Canada Strong Pass – Free Admission to the Cannery

Cyanotype Workshop Series with Cat Hart
June 27-July 25, 2026
Cyanotype Workshop Series with Cat Hart