Abbotsford, British Columbia, is a vibrant city nestled next to the Canada–United States border, Greater Vancouver, and the Fraser River. With a population of 153,524 people as per the 2021 census, it stands as the largest municipality in the province outside metropolitan Vancouver. The city is home to a diverse community, with the Abbotsford–Mission area having the third-highest proportion of visible minorities among census metropolitan areas in Canada.
The Stó:lō Nation were the first residents of the area that is now Abbotsford. European settlement began in 1858, following the gold rush along the Fraser River. The area grew rapidly, with the production of butter, milk, and tobacco beginning by the late 1860s. The city's name, Abbotsford, is believed to have been named after Henry Braithwaite Abbott, the western superintendent of the Canadian Pacific Railway, or after Sir Walter Scott's home, Abbotsford House.
The city has seen significant growth and development over the years. The Village of Abbotsford was incorporated in 1892, and the city as we know it today was formed following the amalgamation of the Village of Abbotsford and the District of Sumas in 1972, and later with the District of Matsqui in 1995. The city has faced challenges, including a major flood in 1948 and ongoing issues related to gang-related crime and homelessness. However, it continues to develop and thrive, with a strong commitment to addressing these issues.
As of the 2021 Census, Abbotsford had a population of 153,524. Immigrants make up 28.6% of the total population, with the majority originating from India, followed by the United Kingdom, Philippines, United States of America, and the Netherlands.
The Abbotsford–Mission CMA had a population of 195,726 as per the 2021 census. Immigrants comprise 26.1% of the total population, with the majority hailing from India, followed by the United Kingdom, Philippines, United States of America, and Germany.
Abbotsford enjoys an oceanic climate, with warm, dry summers and rainy, mild winters. Snowfall can be heavy but is usually short-lived, occurring mostly in December and January.
Abbotsford is a hub of arts and culture, hosting numerous local events and festivals. The city is home to The Reach Gallery Museum, which features exhibitions from across Canada and around the world, and the Mennonite Heritage Museum, which tells the story of the Anabaptist/Mennonite movement. The city also boasts a vibrant performing arts scene, with organizations like Gallery 7 Theatre and Performing Arts producing several mainstage productions every year.
Public bus transportation in Abbotsford is provided by the Central Fraser Valley Transit System, while passenger rail service to Vancouver runs from neighbouring Mission. The city is also served by the Abbotsford International Airport, which hosts the annual Abbotsford International Airshow.
Abbotsford is divided into several neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm and character. Major transportation routes leading into Abbotsford include the Trans-Canada Highway, the Abbotsford-Mission Highway, and the Fraser Highway.
Abbotsford has a sister city relationship with Fukagawa, Hokkaidō, Japan, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two cities.
