Posted by Adam Chahl on Wednesday, July 31st, 2024 1:13am.
Welcome to Vancouver, a vibrant city bustling with cultural diversity, natural beauty, and a calendar full of exciting events. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something happening in this beautiful city. Let’s dive into the best 5 events that you absolutely cannot miss when you’re in Vancouver!
No single location in Vancouver captures the spirit and history of this city, its people, and its many achievements like the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE). Since 1910, millions of guests have enjoyed shows, exhibits, sporting events, amusement rides, concerts, cultural activities, and, of course, the annual summer Fair at the PNE.
From thrilling rides to entertaining shows, the PNE Fair has something for everyone. You can indulge in delicious fair food, marvel at the SuperDogs show, or take a ride on the historic wooden roller coaster.
The PNE has been the site of hundreds of famous events – from a live performance by the Beatles to the historic Miracle Mile. For the past ten decades, the Pacific National Exhibition has showcased the best of Vancouver to the rest of Canada and the world.
Dates: August 17th - September 2nd, 2024 (closed August 19th & 26th)
A diverse destination, it’s no surprise that Vancouver is home to one of Canada’s largest pride celebrations. The Vancouver Pride Festival is a testament to the city's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The festival includes more than 20 official events that bring together the LGBTQ community and their friends, allies, and supporters. In the two-week lead-up to Pride Weekend, the community comes out for concerts, tea parties, youth dances, block parties, a fundraising run, and a family-friendly picnic in Stanley Park.
In 2024, the Vancouver Pride Festival will collaborate with Canada Pride, featuring a brand new Human Rights Conference and other exciting additions.
Canada Pride: July 26 - August 4, 2024
Ready, set, glow! Jump-start the festive season, bundle up the family, and prepare to be amazed. Canyon Lights returns to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, transforming it into an unforgettable holiday light experience.
Walk across the world-famous bridge, lit end-to-end with multicolour-changing displays above an illuminated Capilano River. Journey into a magical glowing rainforest and gain a new perspective high above the forest floor on Treetops Adventure’s seven suspended bridges. Wind your way along Cliffwalk and its “Arc de Lumina” light tunnel.
Tickets must be purchased in advance online, with a limited quantity of tickets available. Visits are scheduled in 30-minute arrival increments. BC Annual Passholders are also required to reserve their time online prior to their visit. Book early to avoid missing out!
Date: November 2024 - January 2025
The Asian Arts and Culture Society is excited to present the 3rd Annual BC Dumpling Festival in the Tri-Cities. This festival is a celebration of the diverse community we live in and brings together families, friends, neighbors, community organizations, and businesses from different cultures to share food, entertainment, and laughter.
The BC Dumpling Festival is a multicultural, family-friendly event that will showcase dumplings from different cultures. Enjoy a variety of delicious dumplings, live entertainment, and cultural performances.
Date: August 10, 2024
Location: Town Centre Park
Address: 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, V3B 4S1
Admission: Free (donations welcomed)
Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival's 35th Season will run from June 11 to September 21, 2024. Tickets are available to purchase now!
June 11th - September 21st. Director Diana Donnelly celebrates the topsy-turvy world of Twelfth Night, packed with romance and laughs, adventure and self-discovery, set to original music by a beloved Vancouver singer-songwriter.
June 13th - September 20th. Shakespeare’s classic tale of vengeance, love, and loss, Hamlet, adapted and directed by Stephen Drover.
July 2nd - September 21. You’ll be rolling in the aisles at this uniquely ridiculous production that takes its comedy deadly seriously, adapted and directed by Rebecca Northan.
July 4th - September 20th. This sharp and irreverent production helmed by Rumble Theatre’s Jivesh Parasram brings one of Shakespeare’s most painfully relevant tales of coercion and hypocrisy to darkly absurdist new heights.
Location: Sen̓áḵw/Vanier Park
Dates: June 11 - September 21, 2024
From the historical significance of the PNE Fair to the vibrant celebration of the Vancouver Pride Festival, the enchanting lights of Capilano Canyon, the multicultural flavor of the BC Dumpling Festival, and the timeless performances at Bard on the Beach, Vancouver truly offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on these fantastic events that showcase the best of what this amazing city has to offer.
Vancouver is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what activities you enjoy. For outdoor activities and festivals, summer (June to August) is ideal. For winter sports and holiday events, December to February is perfect.
Absolutely! Events like the PNE Fair, Capilano Canyon Lights, and the BC Dumpling Festival are perfect for families. They offer a variety of activities that cater to all age groups.
Tickets for most events can be purchased online through their official websites. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for popular events like the PNE Fair and Bard on the Beach.
In addition to these events, Vancouver boasts numerous attractions such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, the Vancouver Aquarium, and the Museum of Anthropology. There’s always something to see and do!
Yes, Vancouver has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus, making it easy to get to these events without a car.