5 minute read
STEVESTON SOUND & STAGE
Christmas is drawing near, and with it comes a tradition many Stevestonites eagerly await — the Steveston Santa Claus Parade. With floats and other decorated vehicles, costumed mascots, seasonal music and much more, the merry parade winds through the village, spreading joy on Christmas Eve. People bundle up and watch outside their houses while others stand along the parade route to take in the magic.
The popular event was cancelled during the pandemic, and this is when Alex Sagert, the owner and operator of Steveston Sound & Stage, stepped in. A lifelong Steveston resident, Alex was committed to keeping the well-loved tradition alive.
He rented a trailer, decorated it with large Christmas-themed blowups and lights, and continued collecting donations for the Richmond Food Bank for three consecutive years. Once things started returning to normal, he contacted the original parade organizers. Since some had moved away, he took over the parade with the support of the Richmond Firefighters Union. Alex is hoping to bring the event back again this year. Follow his social media for updates.
Last year, we brought the full parade back, and the turnout was incredible—it was amazing to see the community come together again!
While attending McMath Secondary, Alex became interested in sound and lighting. He was the school’s sound and lighting director for all its theatre productions and events.
“From there, I started doing small events here and there, and eventually, I decided to start Steveston Sound & Stage so I could take on more projects and contribute to the community. Steveston has such amazing traditions, and I really enjoy playing a part in helping them continue and thrive.”
Steveston Sound & Stage provides comprehensive audio and visual solutions, ensuring your events are both seamless and memorable.
From intimate gatherings to large-scale events, Steveston Sound & Stage is dedicated to creating the perfect audiovisual experience. Alex also offers DJ services.
Professional speaker systems provide highquality sound for all event sizes. Lighting solutions with customizable lighting setups, including stage lighting, mood lighting, and spotlights, enhance the atmosphere of your event.
Clear, vibrant projection screens for presentations, films, or visual effects ensure that all guests have a great view, and special effects such as fog machines, confetti cannons, and more add that extra wow factor to your function.
Steveston Sound & Stage recognizes that every event has unique needs, and its services are tailored accordingly. Although they quote pricing on an event-by-event basis to ensure clients get exactly what they need, pricing remains highly competitive across the basic, enhanced and premium packages. Each package is designed according to the size and needs of the occasion.
Alex has worked on various events, from local community gatherings including the Steveston Block Party, Winter in the Village, the Christmas dog walk and classic car cruise. He has also been part of corporate parties, high school reunions, dry after grads, weddings, and Oval Community Day. On a larger scale, he has worked on events such as the 2023 Wheelchair Curling Championship and the Invictus Games 2025 "I AM" installation unveiling at Jack Poole Plaza.
The holiday season and summer months are especially busy for Alex’s business.
He says, “We get a lot of bookings for holiday events, weddings, and other celebrations during those times. With so many people planning gatherings and celebrations, it’s always a lively period. If anyone is considering booking for those times, I recommend reaching out early to secure a spot.”
Working in this industry, Alex witnesses and plays a part in many memorable moments. During last year’s Salmon Festival, he had the opportunity to be involved with the Richmond Jets Minor Hockey Association parade float.
“We set up large speakers, subwoofers, and smoke machines on a 53’ tractor-trailer, creating a giant party on wheels as we rolled through historic Steveston Village. It was so much fun, especially since I remember looking forward to this parade every year while growing up in the village. To top it all off, we won the Gillnetter Award for best sports team float! It was a memorable experience, and I loved being part of such a vibrant community celebration.”
Alex is also an active member of the Steveston Merchants Association. He got involved two years ago to contribute to local events and support the SMA’s great work in helping Steveston's businesses thrive.
“This year, I was honoured to be elected to the board, and I'm excited to continue working with the association to keep the community vibrant and connected.”
“I have lived in Steveston my entire life, so it’s always been home for me. I love this tightknit community and its rich history. What really excites me is finding ways to connect people through fun events that bring everyone together. It’s a special place, and I feel lucky to give back to a community that’s been such a big part of my life.”
Steveston Sound and Stage
Phone 604-401-6948
Instagram: @stevestonsoundandstage
Story by Sarah Gordon (Nov 2024) @PALLAMEDIA