Surrey, established in 1879, was initially a rural municipality primarily focused on agriculture and forestry, named after the county of Surrey in England, reflecting the settlers' British origins.

Geographically, Surrey occupies a significant portion of the Fraser Valley, characterized by flatlands near the Fraser River and gradually rising terrain towards the south, contributing to its diverse ecosystems.

Surrey's population has experienced rapid growth, becoming one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, driven by immigration and its strategic location within the Metro Vancouver region.

The economy of Surrey is diverse, with major sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, technology, health, education, and retail, positioning it as a significant economic hub in the province.

Agriculture in Surrey remains a vital industry, with fertile lands supporting a variety of crops, including blueberries, cranberries, vegetables, and greenhouse products, contributing to local food security.

Surrey's cultural landscape is highly diverse, reflecting its multicultural population, with vibrant communities representing South Asian, Filipino, Chinese, and many other heritages.

The annual Surrey Fusion Festival is a major cultural event, celebrating the city's diverse cultures through music, dance, food, and art, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Bear Creek Park, a large urban park in Surrey, offers a range of recreational activities, including gardens, playgrounds, walking trails, and an outdoor pool, providing green space for residents and visitors.

Holland Park, located in the heart of Surrey City Centre, is a popular venue for events, festivals, and concerts, serving as a central gathering place for the community.

The Surrey Arts Centre presents a wide array of performing arts, visual arts, and cultural programs, contributing to the city's artistic vibrancy and offering opportunities for creative expression.

The Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), with multiple campuses in Surrey, plays a significant role in providing post-secondary education and research opportunities for students in the region.

Surrey's role in transportation is vital, as it serves as a major transportation hub for the region, with extensive road networks, public transit systems, and connections to the Vancouver International Airport.

The historic Surrey Museum explores the region's history from its Indigenous roots to its modern-day development, offering exhibits and programs that educate and engage the public.

While Surrey does not have a UNESCO World Heritage Site within its borders, its proximity to Vancouver allows residents easy access to sites of national and international significance.

Surrey continues to invest in sustainable development, with initiatives focused on green infrastructure, renewable energy, and reducing its carbon footprint, aiming to create a more environmentally friendly city.