5 Things You Didn’t Know About Surrey, BC

Surrey, BC, is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada. While many people are familiar with its affordable real estate, rapid development, and diverse communities, there are still hidden gems about the city that even some locals don’t know.

In this guide, we’ll uncover five surprising facts about Surrey—from its massive urban forests to its thriving Punjabi community, shopping centers, and arts scene.

Whether you’re considering moving to Surrey or just curious about its unique characteristics, this list will give you a new perspective on what makes Surrey special.

1. Surrey Has One of the Largest Urban Forests in Canada 🌲

Surrey is home to over 6,000 acres of parkland, featuring hundreds of trails, green spaces, and conservation areas. Among them, Green Timbers Urban Forest stands out as one of Canada’s largest urban forests.

Why Green Timbers is Special:

✅ 200+ species of birds – A paradise for birdwatchers.
✅ Extensive walking and biking trails – Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
✅ Rich history – Once a key logging area, now a protected natural space.

For those who love hiking, jogging, or simply escaping the city life, Green Timbers offers a scenic retreat right in the heart of Surrey.

Surrey’s commitment to green spaces ensures that even with rapid urban development, residents still have access to nature—something that sets the city apart from many others in Metro Vancouver.

2. Surrey Has a Strong Agricultural Heritage 🌾

Despite being a booming urban center, Surrey still has a rich agricultural history dating back to the 19th century.

Surrey’s Farming Legacy Lives On:

🏡 Cloverdale & South Surrey – Home to working farms that offer fresh produce, local goods, and farm tours.
🛍️ Farmers Markets – Popular spots like Cloverdale Farmers Market and Surrey Urban Farmers Market provide fresh, locally grown produce year-round.
👨‍🌾 Agricultural Tourism – Many farms allow tours and workshops, giving visitors a firsthand experience of how food is grown and harvested.

Even as Surrey expands with new developments, it continues to preserve and celebrate its farming roots, making it a great place for farm-to-table experiences and fresh local food.

3. Surrey Has One of the Largest Punjabi Communities Outside India 🏡🇮🇳

Surrey has one of the largest Punjabi populations outside of India, with over 130,000 Punjabi residents as of 2021 (and growing).

This vibrant cultural influence can be seen throughout the city:

🎉 Events & Festivals – The Vaisakhi Parade in Surrey is one of the largest Sikh celebrations outside of India, attracting over 500,000 people annually.
🍛 Punjabi Cuisine – Surrey is a foodie’s paradise with authentic Indian restaurants, serving everything from butter chicken to fresh samosas.
🛍️ Little India Market – The Punjabi Market features shops selling traditional Indian clothing, jewelry, and spices.

The Punjabi influence is deeply woven into Surrey’s identity, adding to its rich multicultural fabric.

4. Surrey is a Shopping Haven 🛍️

While many think of Vancouver as the shopping hub, Surrey is home to some of the largest shopping centers in Canada—including Guildford Town Centre.

Shopping in Surrey:

🏬 Guildford Town Centre – One of Canada’s biggest malls with 200+ stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
🎥 Central City Shopping Centre – Located near the SkyTrain, this mall offers shopping, dining, and office spaces.
🛒 Grandview Corners & Morgan Crossing – Upscale shopping districts in South Surrey featuring boutiques, cafes, and specialty stores.

No need to drive to Vancouver—Surrey has everything you need when it comes to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

5. Surrey Has a Thriving Arts & Culture Scene 🎭

Surrey isn’t just about parks and real estate—it has a growing arts and cultural community that surprises many people.

Where to Experience Surrey’s Arts & Culture:

🎨 Surrey Art Gallery – Features local and international artists showcasing contemporary art.
🎭 Bell Performing Arts Centre – Hosts theater performances, concerts, and cultural shows year-round.
🌍 Surrey Fusion Festival – One of BC’s biggest multicultural events, celebrating food, music, and dance from around the world.
🏛️ Surrey Museum – A hidden gem where you can explore the city’s history and heritage.

For those who enjoy live performances, cultural events, or exploring local art, Surrey has plenty to offer beyond just real estate and green spaces.

Final Thoughts: Is Surrey Right for You?

Surrey is more than just an affordable alternative to Vancouver. It’s a diverse, fast-growing city with:

✅ Expansive parks & nature trails
✅ A rich agricultural & farming heritage
✅ One of the largest Punjabi communities in North America
✅ A thriving shopping scene with top malls
✅ An underrated arts & culture sector

If you’re considering moving to Surrey, there’s a lot to love about the city beyond what most people know.

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