The weather has been cooler than usual, giving us a break from the heat. It’s actually the perfect time to go on a hike or check out some of the many new and fun activities in Vancouver.
From the PNE starting up, to amazing food festivals and sport events, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
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Things to do in Vancouver this weekend
PNE Opening Weekend (Aug 17)
Vancouver’s Summer just isn’t the same without a visit to our iconic amusement park and fair. This year’s fair will runs daily from August 17 to September 2, only closed on Monday, August 19th and 26th . Welcoming back visitors for another year of fun fair festivities. This year, visitors can also ride on their new roller coaster, ThunderVolt, which will be the fastest launch coaster in Canada!
For their opening weekend, the PNE is offering tickets for just $7 online, and $9 in person. This is typically the price of a child’s admission but is applicable to adults too, for one weekend only, so everyone can feel like a kid again!
When & Where: August 17-September 2 at 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver
Cost: From $20-$25 (Discounts here)
Ribfest Langley (Aug 16-18) FREE
This popular event brings the local community together for a fun-filled weekend full of delicious barbecued ribs, live music, and family-friendly activities. More than 40,000 people are expected to attend this 3 day event. Attendees can expect live entertainment, great food, a huge KidZone and site-wide alcohol service.
When & Where: August 16-18 from 11am – 9 pm at McLeod Park, Langley
Cost: Free Admission but donations are encouraged
Ball Don’t Stop Summer Pro-Am Classic (Vancouver) (Aug 17)
Get ready for an electrifying basketball experience as the Ball Don’t Stop Pro-Am Classic returns to Simon Fraser University on August 17. This year’s event promises to be a thrilling showcase, with several NBA stars expected to hit the court.
When & Where: Aug 17, from 2:30 – 9 pm at Simon Fraser University – Burnaby Campus, 8888 University Dr W, Burnaby
Cost: $40
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Downtown Port Coquitlam Car Show (Aug 17 & 18)
The popular Downtown Port Coquitlam Car Show is back this weekend, featuring hundreds of collectible vehicles. On Saturday night, over 400 cars will participate in the Car Cruise and BBQ, cruising through the neighborhood. On Sunday, the main show will display more than 500 vehicles, with organizers expecting over 70,000 visitors. You’ll find everything from custom builds to classic rides.
Several streets, including Shaughnessy Street, Wilson Avenue, McCallister Avenue, and Donald Street, will be closed during the event.
When & Where: August 17 (Cruise), from 6 to 8 pm and August 18 (Show), from 10 am to 7:15 pm at Downtown Port Coquitlam
Cost: Free admission
Edmonds City Fair (Aug 17) FREE
The Edmonds City Fair is the perfect spot for family fun! The event this weekend will feature a ground-shaking earthquake simulator, music and entertainers, food trucks, and tons of classic cars.
When & Where: August 17th from 11am – 2 pm
Cost: Free admission
Festival of India (Aug 17-18) FREE
Join us for the Festival of India, Vancouver’s annual Ratha-Yatra at Science World / Creekside Park. This 2-day free celebration features lively entertainment along False Creek’s walkway from Creekside to Stamps Landing.
It then continues at Creekside Park, where you can enjoy a free 3-course meal, live entertainment, Kirtan, children’s fun zones, face painting, and more in the picturesque setting overlooking Downtown Vancouver’s beautiful waters and mountains. On Sunday, guests can also enjoy the full festival experience with a grand parade.
When & Where: August 17 from 12-6pm and August 18 from 11am – dusk at Science World – Creekside Park
Cost: Free Admission
Chilliwack Mural Festival (Aug 15-17) FREE
The Chilliwack Mural Festival is back, transforming Downtown Chilliwack into a colourful canvas from August 15 to 17. This annual, free event offers live music across five stages, interactive art activities, food trucks, an art market, kid’s activities, and more. The festival celebrates the creativity and culture of local and international artists, and promises to be bigger and better than ever.
When & Where: Aug 15-17 at various times in Downtown Chilliwack
Cost: Free
Red Truck Company Truck Stop Concert (Aug 17)
Red Truck is hosting its 8th annual summer concert series, featuring a diverse lineup of local and international performers. This three-show outdoor concert series brings together music, food, and beer in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Their last show of this Summer season will be taking place on Saturday August 17th.
When & Where: August 17 from 4-10pm at Red Truck Brewery 295 East 1st Avenue Vancouver
Cost: Tickets starts at $57.20
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Cosmic Sound Journey at The Vancouver Planetarium (Aug 17)
Step into a transcendent realm of healing and serenity under the vast canopy of the cosmos at the Vancouver Planetarium for an evening of meditation and sound healing with Farhad Khan.
Immerse yourself in the soothing vibrations of crystal bowls, gongs, chimes, and the enchanting melodies of the handpan while you gaze at the stars and planets above, visually travelling through the cosmos.
When & Where: August 17 from 7-8:30 pm at the Vancouver Planetarium, 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver
Cost: $75
Supermoon (Aug 19) FREE
The clear warm summer nights are perfect for stargazing, so why not catch the Blue Sturgeon Supermoon peaking on Wednesday, August 30. This is the second full moon of the month (the first one being on August 1st), and will be the largest supermoon this year. If you’re keen to catch a glimpse, the peak time is 9:36 pm.
When & Where: August 18 after dark, anywhere with a clear sky
Cost: Free
Elvis Has Left The Building – Darren Lee and The Memphis Flash! (Aug 18)
The Act Theatre welcomes back Darren Lee, the multi-award winning, internationally renowned Elvis Tribute Artist.
Darren presents “Elvis Has Left the Building”, a commemoration of the 47th anniversary of the passing of the King of Rock and Roll. Walk back in time with Darren Lee as he brings Elvis Presley’s music and hip-swivelin’ moves back to life with performances of your favourite Elvis hits such as Little Sister, Hound Dog, Suspicious Minds, and Burning Love – backed by the Memphis Flash and his 13 year old, guitar-slingin’ daughter, Shayla.
When & Where: August 18, from 7:30 -9:30 pm
Cost: $55 +fees
Karan Aujla It Was All A Dream Tour in Vancouver (Aug 17)
Fresh off his win at the Juno ‘Fan Choice’ Awards, Karan Aujla, the rising global Panjabi artist, is excited to announce his first-ever world tour starting in Canada, and this weekend he will be in Vancouver. This tour is extra special because Karan Aujla grew up in Metro Vancouver, and the concert will be a homecoming event.
When & Where: August 17 at Rogers Arena, 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Cost: Varies
Transforming Trauma with Fascial Maneuvers (Aug 17)
Our mind is very powerful, but it can’t heal us entirely by itself. To really heal from trauma, it’s essential that we also move our body.
After years of practicing, perfecting, and teaching millions worldwide, we have found that Fascial Maneuvers can access your body’s stored trauma energy & allow you to finally release these stuck emotions that keep you in mental and physical dis-ease.
When & Where: August 17th from 10am to 3pm, at the Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
Cost: $81.67 USD – $95.83 USD
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Summer Night Markets
Locarno Beach – Vegan Night Market (15 & 29) FREE
Vegan foodies, you’ll want to mark your calendars as Vancouver is getting another vegan night market by Peaces.ca – and this time, it’s at the beach! Indulge in a wide range of delectable eats and drinks at the market, from boozy kombucha to plant-based tacos and desserts.
The lively event also offers live music, giving you the perfect chance to dance, whether in your dancing shoes or flip-flops. Additionally, visitors can partake in activities like paddle boarding, yoga, and exciting giveaways for a day full of enjoyment.
When & Where: August 1, 15 & 29 from 6-10pm at Locarno Beach, Vancouver
Cost: Minimum donation of $4 or canned goods, pet food, clothing
Shipyards Night Market (Every Friday) FREE
The popular North Vancouver’s Shipyards Night Market is set to return this May. The free waterfront market is a perfect place to spend a relaxing evening with family and friends, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and exploring the best of the local community.
When & Where: Every Friday from May 10 – Sept 13 at North Vancouver’s Shipyards.
Cost: Free admission
Fridays on Front (Every Friday) FREE
Downtown New Westminster’s popular event Fridays on Front returns for another year.
The legendary block party is a beloved summertime tradition. It brings people together to enjoy food, live music and a variety of activities for all ages. Each week there will be a different theme, featured live performer, and food truck/vendor line up.Best part, the event is free for all to attend
Where & When: Friday August 9, 16, 23 from 5-9pm at Downtown New Westminster, Front Street Mews, New Westminster
Cost: Free admission
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Fort Langley Night Market (Every Friday) FREE
The popular Fort Langley Night Market is set to make a return for another year of excitement and entertainment. This year’s edition promises to be bigger and better than ever before. There will be over 40 local vendors, delectable food trucks, refreshing craft beer, wine, cider, and cocktails, as well as captivating live music performances.
When & Where: Every Friday, July 7- August 25, from 5-10 pm at Pop Up Park, Mary Avenue & Glover Road, Langley Twp
Cost: Free admission
Richmond Night Market
The Richmond Night Market is returning this April for their 2024 season.
This is the largest night market in North America and is loved by both locals and tourists alike. The market attracts over a million visitors annually, and its popularity keeps increasing. In fact, The Amazing Race Canada’s Season 8 finale showcased it last year, introducing viewers across the country to the unique spectacle.
When & Where: April 26 – Early October, Richmond Night Market, 8351 River Road, Richmond
Cost: $8.50+
Ongoing things to do in Vancouver
Richmond Sunflower Festival
Richmond’s Sunflower Festival is a popular annual celebration of one of nature’s most vibrant flower.
Located in the picturesque city of Richmond, the event offers a mesmerizing experience as visitors meander through over 20 acres of sunflowers in full bloom.
When & Where: Starting August 8th, open daily
Cost: $12 for weekdays and $15 weekends
Free Outdoor Movies FREE
Outdoor film screenings are taking place all over Metro Vancouver for everyone to enjoy. And here’s the best part, entry is completely free of charge!
So, gather your blanket or lawn chair, grab some snacks, and get ready for a delightful evening filled with movie magic. Remember though, these are extremely popular events, so arrive early to secure a spot and make the most of the experience.
Here are the outdoor movies taking place in July. Check out our full guide for the event details.
Port Coquitlam: Cinema Under the Stars – Sunday, August 11, 25 at 9:15pm
Vancouver:
- Evo Summer Cinema at Stanley Park – Tuesdays, August 20, 27 at dusk at the Grand Lawn at Ceperley Meadows near Second Beach
- Summer Movie Night in Downtown Vancouver – Thursday, August 15 with activities at 5 pm and screenings around 9 pm at Šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (formerly known as the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza)
- Free Outdoor Movies outside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre – Wednesday 21, 28 at dusk at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn outside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre
- Deckchair Cinema on Cates Deck at the Shipyards – Thursday, August 15, 22, 29 with activities at 7 pm, and screening around 9 pm at Cates Deck (The Shipyards) in front of The Polygon Gallery
- Sunset Cinema at the Shipyards – Wednesday, August 21, 28 from 9 pm
- Civic Square – Friday, August 16, 23, 30 from dusk at 6100 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby
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Bard on the Beach
The 34th Season of Bard on the Beach is back and will run until September 30. This year’s lineup includes:
- Twelfth Night (BMO Mainstage) Jun 11 – Sept 21 (More Details)
- Hamlet (BMO Mainstage) Jun 13 – Sept 20 (More Details)
- The Comedy of Errors (Howard Family Stage) Jul 2 – Sept 21
- Measure for Measure (Howard Family Stage) Jul 4 – Sept 20
When & Where: June 8 – September 30 at Vanier Park – 1695 Whyte Avenue, Vancouver
Cost: $30 – $90.
Theatre Under the Stars (Ends Aug 24)
Vancouver, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, is eagerly anticipating the return of Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) this summer. This is a beloved annual tradition that brings the magic of musical theatre to the beautiful outdoor setting of Stanley Park’s Malkin Bowl.
This year’s lineup will feature “Cats” and “School of Rock.” Both shows run from July 5 to August 24 on alternate nights.
When & Where: July 5 – August 24 with various shows at the Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park, 610 Pipeline Rd, Vancouver
Cost: $20-$65
Summer Nights in the Township – FREE
Summer is here, and with it comes the return of the beloved “Summer Nights in the Township” series. This season is packed with free concerts and outdoor movies that will delight both residents and visitors. From early July to the end of August, every Thursday evening promises to be a highlight of the week.
When & Where: Various dates and locations
Cost: Free
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Cypress Mountain Coaster
Adventure seekers of all ages can once again enjoy the ultimate rollercoaster ride at Cypress Mountain this Summer. At 1.7 kilometres, the Eagle Coaster has been dubbed the longest mountain coaster in Canada. The thrilling ride features a 279 metre vertical drop (or about 900 feet).
When & Where: Open Now until September 2nd, the Eagle Coaster at Cypress Mountain
Cost: $35
Lavender Land
Stop and smell the roses (or lavender in this case). Richmond’s massive lavender farm ‘Lavender land’ is open for the season. This lavender farm is an 8 Acres leisure farm with 7 acres covered in a variety of different lavenders.
When & Where: Open Now till end of Summer at 8460 Steveston Highway, Richmond
Cost: $13-$15
Neighbourhood Patio (Every Wednesday/Thursday) FREE
The highly anticipated annual summer pop-up beer and wine garden, Neighbourhood Patio is back at Bentall Centre.
This vibrant event, proudly sponsored by Bentall Centre and Downtown Van, promises an unforgettable summer experience filled with live music, refreshing drinks, and a variety of unique weekly events.
When & Where: Every Wednesday/Thursday in August, from 1-8pm at Three Bentall Centre Breezeway, 595 Burrard St. Vancouver
Cost: Free
Burnaby Village Museum (FREE)
The Burnaby Village Museum, a beloved and free attraction in British Columbia, is set to reopen for the season on May 4. With its commitment to preserving and showcasing local history in an engaging and interactive way, visitors can explore its historic buildings, exhibits, and beautiful surroundings.
When & Where: May 4 – Sept 1, Tuesday through Saturdays from 11 am – 4:30 pm
Cost: Free admission
Visit a Vancouver Outdoor Pools & Spray Parks (FREE)
The city of Vancouver usually reopens their pools and spray parks in May, along with providing lifeguards at the local beaches. Unfortunately, although the popular Kits pool was originally scheduled to reopen as well, recently announced that there will be delays due to unforeseen repairs.
When & Where: All over Metro Vancouver
Cost: Registration online preferred. Cost varies
Waterparks
Make a splash at one of the best water adventures in and around Metro Vancouver that are actually fun for adults too.
- Cultus Lake Water Park – With over 11 waterslides, five large hot tubs throughout the park, a lazy river, and four children areas, Cultus is considered the largest waterpark in British Columbia.
- Big Splash – Only half an hour drive away from Vancouver, this park has massive waterslides, including a 6-storey tube slide called the Boomerang (the only one in Western Canada), adult hot tubs, main pool, kids splash pad, a patio area, and more.
- Harrison Water Park – Imagine travelling on a little boat to go to a floating water park in the middle of a pristine lake. Then challenging obstacles mimicking a ‘Wipeout-style’ course you would see on the TV show.
Langley’s The Outdoor Experience – This is one of the Lower Mainland’s most affordable water parks. Located at the Aldergrove Credit Union Community Centre, this waterpark features a lazy river, wave pool and a series of waterslides.
For more upcoming events, check out our new events calendar.
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