Your Ultimate Guide to Free Summer Fun in Metro Vancouver!
Summer is officially here, and you know what that means: it’s time to soak up the sunshine and enjoy all the fantastic activities Metro Vancouver has to offer! The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to have an amazing time. We’ve rounded up some incredible free, family-friendly festivals and events happening across the city, packed with live performances, unique artisan markets, tempting food trucks, and fun games for kids. Some events will keep the good times rolling until school’s back in session, while others are special, one-time seasonal offerings you won’t want to miss. Get ready to mark your calendars because here are five standout free events that caught our eye!
Unwind at the Shipyards Night Market
Imagine a perfect Friday evening: delicious food, unique crafts, and live music, all with a stunning waterfront backdrop. That’s exactly what you’ll find at the Shipyards Night Market!
- When: Every Friday night until September 12
- Where: Shipyards District, North Vancouver
- Info: shipyardsnightmarket.com
With a constantly changing lineup of diverse food trucks and approximately 50 artisan vendors, you’ll discover plenty of unique items to browse and buy. Plus, with two stages featuring artists ranging from country rocker Blake Havard to DJ Mike Madness, you’ll definitely find your rhythm and get your dance on!
Celebrate Community at Langley’s Big Day Out
Get ready for a day of pure community joy at Langley Community Day! This event promises entertainment and delicious treats for everyone.
- When: June 14, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Where: Douglas Park, 20550 Douglas Crescent, Langley
- Tickets/Info: Free
Enjoy fantastic entertainment from bands like Fleetwood Magic, and feast on a mouth-watering selection from 23 food trucks serving everything from classic BeaverTails and Slavic Rolls to refreshing ice cream and cookies. Add an artisan market, a licensed beverage zone for adults (think “kids” at heart!), and various community information booths, and you’ve got the recipe for a truly great day out.
Experience Culture on National Indigenous Peoples Day
Step into a rich cultural experience at the Fort Langley National Historic Site for National Indigenous Peoples Day. This special event offers a profound celebration of Indigenous cultures.
- When: June 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: Fort Langley National Historic Site, 23433 Mavis Avenue
- Tickets/Info: Free
You’ll witness captivating live performances from groups like the Red Hawk Singers and Wild River Dancers, listen to engaging storytelling, and join fascinating plant walks led by local experts. Furthermore, the Ancestor’s Café will serve up delicious Indigenous nosh, and an artisan market will feature the incredible work of over 30 vendors. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn and connect.
Jazz Up Your Weekend at Downtown Jazz
Get ready to tap your feet and sway to the rhythm! The opening weekend of the 40th annual Vancouver International Jazz Festival offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy world-class music for free.
- When: June 21-22, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Where: Vancouver Art Gallery, 750 Hornby
- Tickets/Info: Free, coastaljazz.ca
Catch leading local, national, and international acts performing on one of two free stages right next to the Vancouver Art Gallery. Highlights this year include various talented high school jazz bands in the “Sounds of Youth” series, the acclaimed American composer/percussionist Makaya McCraven, and Vancouver’s very own psychedelic cumbia crew, Empanadas Illegales. What a treat for music lovers!
Big Fun at the Summer Market at the Met
Head to Metrotown for a multi-day extravaganza at the Summer Market at the Met! This event promises non-stop entertainment and excitement.
- When: July 3-5, 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.; July 6, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Where: South Plaza, Metrotown Mall, Bby.
- Tickets/Info: metropolismetrotown.com
Prepare for thrilling drum shows by Smash!, zany fun from Yuki the Juggler, a captivating closing evening fire show, and so much more! This bustling event takes place at the South Plaza, conveniently located just across from the SkyTrain Station, which means you can easily skip the car and enjoy a stress-free trip. Which of these fantastic free events will you check out first?
