Welcome to Richmond
Richmond: Gateway to British Columbia
Richmond is the ideal location as your ensemble's destination choice for MusicFest 2007. Centrally located between the Peace Arch Border Crossing and Downtown Vancouver, Richmond is home to the Vancouver International Airport and is serviced by several major highways and throughways. Steveston Village and the Golden Village are key tourism districts that abound with touring potential.
All ensembles participating in MusicFest Canada 2007 who require accommodation are reminded that they must use the space contracted by Ellison Travel and Tours. Please visit our accommodation and travel section for more information.
The Golden Village is home to the second largest Asian community in North America. This district displays its exciting culture by being host to numerous shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, shops and karaoke bars that are all within walking distance from each other. These shops and services offer local residents and visitors an assortment of goods from jewelry stores, art galleries and high-tech equipment to the latest in designer fashions, all within the heart of Richmond. The Golden Village captures the imagination and history of Hong Kong and creates an experience that boasts its Asian roots.
Richmond is an impressive, multi-cultural community that has proven success in fostering growth while preserving its historic sites and scenic beauty. Through innovative programs and environmental initiatives, Richmond has undergone enormous changes while still protecting its charm and community involvement. You will find our city diverse in culture, rich in history and arts, exciting, entertaining and picturesque, all with your first breath.
Time Zone
Richmond is located within the Pacific Standard Time Zone, which puts it three hours behind the Eastern Time Zone (when it is 11a.m. here, it is 2p.m. in cities like Toronto) and four hours behind the Atlantic Time Zone.
Area Code
The telephone area code for Richmond is 604. This area code must be used when dialing local telephone numbers (ie. 604-888-8888), and also when dialing long distance telephone numbers (ie. 1-604-888-8888). The 604 area code applies when dialing anywhere in the Lower Mainland.
Climate / Temperature
Richmond has a moderately tempered climate, with no drastic changes in season. As it is on the West Coast, precipitation can be expected at any time throughout the year. British Columbia is protected by a ring of mountains, therefore Richmond temperatures remain mild all year through.
The average high temperature for the month of May in Richmond is 15.3 degrees celcius, or 60 degrees farenheit.
Taxation
- Goods & Services Tax (GST) at 5%
- Provincial Sales Tax (PST) at 7.5%
- Out of country visitors are eligible for rebates of the GST paid on certain goods and accommodations. Receipts will verify the amount of tax paid. Exemptions from GST exist for certain goods and services. For more information, call within Canada 1 800 66-VISIT, or outside Canada 902 432-5608.
Learn more about B.C. sales taxes

