10 Summer Events to Attend in Vancouver
March 11, 2018
While we’ve earned a global reputation for snow-peaked mountains, yoga-clad residents, and real estate in Vancouver, those living outside of the city may not know about our incredible events we hold each summer.
After months of rain boots and umbrellas, the city of Vancouver comes alive as soon as the weather starts warming up, spending as much time as possible outdoors. From music to food to beer (and everything in between), here’s a list of must-see summer events to attend in Vancouver.
Always a huge party in the city, we celebrate our nation’s birthday with free events across Metro Vancouver. This includes a Truly Canadian Pancake Breakfast, parades, and of course fireworks.
2. Khatsahlano Music & Arts Festival
Get ready for a street party! This free one-day music festival in Kitsilano showcases local bands, musicians, and performers.
3. Vancouver International Jazz Festival
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The biggest music festival in the city, VIJF is a signature event for the city. It attracts over 400,000 visitors, features 1800 musicians, and offer 400 concerts (150+ are free!).
As the North Shore’s premiere summer event, there are endless activities to do for the family. From the outdoor concerts sponsored by Onni Group, to movies, performances, food and more, this free event is always a worth a few trips!
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Peruse through hundreds of vendors selling everything from toys to shoes (to pretty much anything else you can think of). Make sure you come hungry, as there are seemingly endless vendors cooking up classic Asian street food.
There’s a reason locals and tourists alike wait for more than 12 hours to secure their seat. This annual Vancouver International Fireworks Competition bring international teams to light up the sky over English Bay, synchronized to music.
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Bard on the Beach is one of Canada's largest not-for-profit, professional Shakespeare Festivals. Situated on the stunning waterfront setting of Vancouver's Vanier Park, the Festival offers Shakespeare plays, related dramas, and several special events in two performance tents from June through September.
Mini doughnuts, Superdogs, and stomach-dropping rides -- what more could you ask for? The annual Fair at the PNE will bring out the kid in anyone!
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Canada’s first ever craft beer week has turned into a cultural engine that showcases music, food, art, and of course, craft beer (and cider) from over 100 providers. Cheers!
10. Vancouver Folk Music Festival
Named one of the best outdoor concerts in North America by USA Today, the three-day festival offers world, folk, and roots music on eight outdoor stages overlooking the picture-perfect downtown Vancouver and North Shore mountains.