Tradex

Tradex is Abbotsford's premier multi-purpose venue that transforms throughout the year to host exciting family events, from toy shows and comic expos to holiday markets and children's festivals. This massive indoor facility provides a comfortable, climate-controlled space where families can explore diverse events and activities, making it especially popular for weekend family outings regardless of British Columbia's weather.

• ✓Wide variety of rotating family events including toy and collectible shows, children's festivals, and holiday markets
• ✓Spacious, indoor climate-controlled facility perfect for year-round activities
• ✓Many events feature interactive activities, character meet-and-greets, and hands-on experiences for kids
• ✓Large exhibition halls with plenty of room for strollers and active children to explore
• ✓On-site concessions and food vendors during major events

1. 1.Check the Tradex event calendar online before your trip, as events are scheduled throughout the year and admission varies by event. Many family shows offer online ticket discounts.
2. 2.Arrive early for popular family events (within the first hour of opening) to avoid crowds and lineups, especially during holiday weekends.
3. 3.Parking is free and plentiful in the large adjacent lot. Enter from Cornell Street and park close to the main entrance to minimize walking with young children.
4. 4.Bring Canadian dollars or a credit card, as many vendors at trade shows and expos prefer cash. ATMs are available on-site but can have lines during busy events.
5. 5.Pack snacks and refillable water bottles. While concessions are available, they can be pricey and options may be limited depending on the event.

Visit during spring and fall months for the best variety of family-friendly events including toy shows, comic expos, and seasonal fairs. Weekday events (when available) are less crowded than weekends, though most family programming occurs on Saturdays and Sundays.

Admission prices vary by event (typically $10-25 CAD per person, with children under 3 often free). The venue is fully accessible with wheelchair access, family washrooms, and stroller-friendly wide aisles throughout the exhibition halls.

December features popular holiday markets and Christmas-themed events perfect for families. Summer months (July-August) may have fewer family events as many shows move outdoors. Spring and fall host the most diverse family programming including Easter events and Halloween expos.

Nearby family-friendly dining includes White Spot (classic Canadian family restaurant with a kids menu, 5 minutes away) and Boston Pizza (casual chain with kids eat free nights, located nearby on South Fraser Way). For quick meals, a food court at Sevenoaks Shopping Centre is approximately 10 minutes drive.