Vancouver Chinatown Festival 2025: A Weekend of Culture, Food, and Fun
Celebrate Community and Tradition in the Heart of Vancouver
Mark your calendars for a weekend bursting with color, flavor, and community spirit. The 23rd-annual Vancouver Chinatown Festival returns this July, inviting everyone to experience the vibrant heart of one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. Organized by the Vancouver Chinatown Business Improvement Area Society (VCBIA), this free, all-ages event promises unforgettable memories and a taste of local culture.
When and Where to Join the Festivities
The festival kicks off on Saturday, July 12, and continues through Sunday, July 13, from noon to 6 p.m. each day. The action unfolds along Keefer and Columbia streets, where the streets come alive with music, dance, and family-friendly activities.
What’s Happening at the Festival?
Prepare for a dazzling lineup of entertainment that celebrates the rich diversity of Vancouver’s Chinatown. Highlights include performances by the Boogaloo Dance Academy, Colours of Dance Academy, and the marimba ensemble Muevete. Music lovers will enjoy sets from the B.C. Chinese Music Association and the rock/pop group Rain City 6. Cultural showcases feature Japanese Yosakoi dance by Appare and Brazilian rhythms by Samba Fusion, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Family Fun and Hands-On Activities
The Children’s Theatre area is bigger and better than ever, with magician Blake Aleong and a host of new attractions. Watch as giant bubble stilt walkers roam the festival, or join in with Story on Wheels and Science World On the Road. Kids can get creative with face painting, balloon twisting, t-shirt painting, MiniMakers crafts, and games throughout the day.
Step into the Cultural Zone for walking tours led by Bob Sung of A Wok Around, Chinese painting and calligraphy demonstrations, mini massages, and workshops on making paper lanterns and fans. Don’t miss the giant Mahjong board for a unique group experience.
Join the Hunt: Where’s Van Van the Panda?
Festival-goers can take part in the interactive “Where’s Van Van the Panda?” contest. Track the festival’s mascot using the Vancouver Chinatown Festival app or follow @visitchinatown on Instagram for a chance to win tickets to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Chinese Canadian Museum, and Chinatown Storytelling Centre.
Savor Local Flavors and Shop the Market
No festival is complete without delicious food and unique finds. The Artisans Market offers products from local makers and food vendors. Meanwhile, nearby favorites like New Town Bakery and Fat Mao Noodles serve up classic Chinatown flavors for every palate.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
“The Vancouver Chinatown Festival is a celebration of culture, community, and connection,” says Joey Kwan, executive director of VCBIA. “We’re proud to see the festival continue to grow with new and returning experiences for all ages. It’s a reflection of the energy and resilience that define Chinatown, and we can’t wait to share this year’s festivities with everyone.”
Grab your friends and family and head to Chinatown this July for a weekend of free, fun, and unforgettable experiences.
