Don’t let the cooler-than-usual weather dampen your spirits! While the temperature might be dropping, the fun is just heating up this weekend.
There’s no shortage of exciting events and fun things to do in Vancouver this weekend, from vibrant festivals to cozy gatherings. And for those who can’t wait for autumn, Starbucks’ famous Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back and ready to warm you up.
So grab your favorite fall beverage, bundle up, and make the most of these crisp, lively days ahead!
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Things to do in Vancouver this weekend
New West Hyack festival + Fireworks (FREE)
Bid farewell to summer with a bang at the New Westminster Quay this August. It will be a spectacular day featuring artisan market vendors, live entertainment, delicious food, and the highlight of the event: an extraordinary Fireworks display to close out the night.
When & Where: Aug 24 from 3-10:30 pm at the River Market at Westminster Quay
Cost: Free admission
Light up Chinatown (FREE)
The 4th annual Light Up Chinatown is back and brighter than ever! Enjoy a free two-day outdoor festival that promises to enchant with live performances, exciting food collaborations, delicious hawker street food, and a stunning display of vibrant lanterns. Experience the magic of Chinatown as it comes alive with festivities, flavor, and fun!
When & Where: Aug 24-25 from 11am – 9pm, and 11am – 6pm the second day at the 300 – 127 East Pender Street, Vancouver
Cost: Free admission
Richmond Maritime Festival (FREE)
Attend a fun nautical experience this summer and experience the Steveston waterfront turn into a massive shipyard. The Richmond Maritime Festival will return to the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site this month. The festival will take place over 2-days and bring back to life the rich and nautical history of the shipyards.
When & Where: August 24-25 from 11am – 6pm Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site, 5180 Westwater Dr, Richmond
Cost: Free admission
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Steveston Dragon Boat Festival (FREE)
This is a thrilling annual event that is held in Steveston. It celebrates the tradition of dragon boat racing. The festival attracts teams from all over to compete in the scenic waters of Steveston’s harbour. With a lively atmosphere, cultural performances, and delicious food offerings, it promises a fantastic day of entertainment for participants and spectators alike.
When & Where: August 24 from 9am – 6:30 pm at Imperial Landing, Steveston, Richmond
Cost: Free admission
Granville Block Party (FREE)
Get ready for the return of the free two-day street party in the heart of the Granville Entertainment District! After a successful debut last year, the City of Vancouver is bringing back another exciting edition of the Granville Block Party. Visitors can look forward to fantastic music, refreshing beer, a variety of vendors, and much more, making this a must-attend event for everyone.
When & Where: Aug 24-25 from 1-7 pm at the Granville & Robson Intersection
Cost: Free admission
Fish and Sips at the Aquarium
Fish and Sips is an exclusive after-hours event at the Vancouver Aquarium, catering to adults only. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the diverse marine life of over 65,000 animals while savoring beverages and delectable small bites.
Additionally, the event will showcase live entertainment, and ticket holders are encouraged to take advantage of the 4D theatre experience and exclusive talks and feedings, which will vary depending on the day.
When & Where: August 24 from 7-10pm at the Vancouver Aquarium
Cost: $35
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Vancouver Beatboxing Championships 2024
It’s the 5th annual Vancouver Beatbox Championships, hosted by The West Coast Groove, featuring British Columbia’s TOP 8 beatboxers as they go head-to-head and duke it out for the Vancouver Beatbox Champion title.
Electrifying battles and special showcases from world class judges. Don’t miss out.
When & Where: August 24, from 4 – 9 pm at The Beaumont Studio
Cost: $27.99
52 & YOU the Magic show – with Shawn Farquhar
An evening unlike any you have experienced before. Join Two-Time World Champion of Magic, Shawn Farquhar, as he invites you to experience an entire show using just playing cards.
Not just any playing cards, your playing cards. This is a BYOD (Bring Your Own Deck) event. Throughout the show Shawn will randomly have decks selected to be used in amazing demonstrations of sleight of hand. Each show is bespoke as the cards chosen will determine which effects are presented.
When & Where: Aug 26 at the Hidden Wonders Showroom, 662 Clarkson St
New Westminster
Cost: $60
VPL Rooftop Remix
The popular Rooftop Remix summer event is back this year on Friday, August 23rd from 5-8pm. Come together with other like-minded literary folks to enjoy drinks, snacks, a DJ, and a better-than-ever bookswap at VPL’s Central Library, levels 8 & 9 and rooftop garden.
When & Where: August 23 from 5-8pm at Vancouver Public Library, Central Library
Cost: $50
Seed Paper Workshop (Aug 10 & 24)
Make your own seed paper using recycled materials. Seed paper can be planted to grow your own indoor herbs. All materials are provided. Learn tips and tricks on growing your own indoor garden.
When: August 10 & 24, form 12:00pm – 2:00pm at Beaumont Studios Patio, 316 W 5th Ave Vancouver
Cost: $40
Ending Soon
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 – Sun, Aug. 25 – 8:45pm: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
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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White Rock Free Summer Concerts At The Pier (FREE)
The iconic Summer free outdoor concert series at White rock’s waterfront pier ends this weekend. Similar to previous years, this free event will feature a number of national touring acts, beloved local artists, and great tribute bands.
When & Where: August 22, 29 from 7-10pm at both East Beach and West Beach, as well as Five Corners, White Rock
Cost: Free
Fridays on Front (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 23 from 5-9pm at Downtown New Westminster, Front Street Mews, New Westminster
Cost: Free admission
Theatre Under the Stars
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
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
Summer Night Markets
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
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+
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Ongoing things to do in Vancouver
Othello Tunnels re-opening (FREE)
After enduring the aftermath of a colossal atmospheric river event in 2021, the iconic Othello Tunnels in Coquihalla Canyon Park have remained closed until now.
The extensive damage means that repairing the entire trail will take a long time. The partial reopening was originally planned for mid-July, however it was then pushed due to unexpected rock instability. Fortunately, as of August 19th, the repairs have finally been made, and the first part of the tunnel has been reopened to visitors.
When & Where: August 19 at Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, Hope
Cost: Free
PNE Fair
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!
When & Where: August 17-September 2 at 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver
Cost: From $20-$25 (Discounts here)
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
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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.
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
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
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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