Top Things to Do in Vancouver This Weekend: October 25–27, 2024

Looking for fun and exciting things to do in Vancouver this weekend? You’re in luck! Whether you're a local or just visiting, Vancouver offers a wide range of activities that promise to make your weekend memorable. From nature-focused events to delicious food festivals and magical light shows, there’s something for everyone. Let's dive into the top things to do in Vancouver this weekend, from October 25 to 27, 2024.

Why Vancouver is the Perfect Weekend Destination

Vancouver is a city that thrives on its diversity, with its vibrant arts scene, incredible food culture, and outdoor activities that cater to every type of adventurer. Whether you love hiking, eating your way through local cafes, or experiencing cultural events, there’s always something happening here. This weekend is no exception, offering a blend of nature, food, and entertainment that perfectly captures the spirit of Vancouver.

Event Highlights for October 25–27, 2024

This weekend brings together some of the city's most exciting events. Let's explore the highlights that you definitely won’t want to miss!

Salmon Come Home Event

If you’re looking for an activity that connects you with nature, head to Hoy Creek Hatchery in Coquitlam for the annual Salmon Come Home event. This free, family-friendly event celebrates the return of local salmon to their spawning grounds. It's a great opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem and witness one of nature's incredible phenomena.

Salmon Spawning at Hoy Creek Hatchery

Visitors will get a close-up view of the salmon-spawning process, with live demonstrations and educational exhibits. This is a fantastic way to learn about the lifecycle of salmon and their importance to the region’s environment.

Family-Friendly Activities

The event features hatchery tours, interactive children’s activities, musical performances, and even a salmon dissection for the curious. Rain or shine, this is an event you and your family won't want to miss!

Vancouver Fall Food Festival 2024

Foodies rejoice! The Vancouver Fall Food Festival runs until October 27th, making this the last weekend to savor some of the city’s best treats. With limited-time offerings and specialty dishes from Metro Vancouver's top cafes, this festival is a must for anyone who loves exploring local cuisine.

Participating Vendors

Discover a wide range of participating vendors, including Angus T Bakery & Cafe, Boketto Tea Bar, Daan Go Cake Lab, Glenburn Soda Fountain, and many more. Each vendor has crafted unique seasonal items for the event, so it’s the perfect excuse to go on a food crawl.

Festival Missions and Passport

Want to make the experience more interactive? Join the Festival Passport challenge by visiting various participating locations and earning stamps. You can also take part in festival missions for a chance to win fantastic prizes!

GloFest at Camp Howdy in Belcarra

For an evening of magic and enchantment, check out GloFest at Camp Howdy. Known for its stunning light displays and immersive experiences, GloFest is the perfect spot for a romantic night out or a family gathering.

Magical Light Displays

Step into a wonderland of 100,000 glowing lights, all synchronized to music, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. You can wander through glowing butterflies, unicorns, and other captivating light displays.

Fine Dining at GloFest

For an extra special experience, book a spot for the GloDome 5-course gourmet dinner, where you can dine under the lights with organic, fine dining creations. It's an experience you won’t forget.

Other Must-See Weekend Events

Aside from the main events, there are several other fun activities to explore this weekend in Vancouver.

Vancouver Aquarium Family Day

Head to the Vancouver Aquarium for a day of marine adventure with the whole family. With interactive exhibits and animal encounters, it's a perfect way to learn more about ocean life while keeping the kids entertained.

Stanley Park Ghost Train

If you're in the mood for something spooky, hop aboard the Stanley Park Ghost Train. This seasonal favorite takes riders on a creepy yet fun journey through the park, featuring ghostly sights and spooky decorations. Ideal for both kids and adults.

Insider Tips for a Fun Weekend in Vancouver

Maximizing your Vancouver weekend is easy if you plan ahead. Here are a few tips to ensure your weekend goes smoothly.

Plan Your Weekend Around the Weather

October in Vancouver can be unpredictable, so it’s always smart to check the weather forecast. Bring an umbrella for those sudden rain showers, especially if you plan on attending outdoor events like the Salmon Come Home event.

Navigating Public Transportation

Getting around Vancouver is a breeze thanks to its excellent public transportation system. The SkyTrain, buses, and Seabus provide easy access to most events. If you're visiting the Salmon Come Home event, the Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station is just a short walk away.

Conclusion

Vancouver truly comes alive on the weekends, and the variety of activities available from October 25–27, 2024, makes it clear why it's such a beloved city. Whether you’re witnessing the magic of salmon spawning, indulging in the local food scene, or immersing yourself in the glowing lights of GloFest, there’s no shortage of things to do. Get out there, explore, and make the most of this unforgettable weekend!

FAQs

1. Are these events suitable for kids?

Yes! Many of the events, such as the Salmon Come Home event and the Vancouver Aquarium Family Day, are designed to be family-friendly and perfect for kids.

2. How much does the Vancouver Fall Food Festival cost?

Entry to the Vancouver Fall Food Festival is free, but food items vary in cost depending on the vendor.

3. What should I wear to outdoor events?

It's always smart to dress in layers and bring an umbrella, especially for outdoor events like Salmon Come Home, as Vancouver’s weather can be unpredictable.

4. Do I need tickets for GloFest?

Yes, GloFest requires tickets for entry, which you can purchase online in advance. Different packages are available depending on the experience you’re looking for.

5. How do I get to the Salmon Come Home event?

The event is located at Hoy Creek Hatchery, and the easiest way to get there is by taking the SkyTrain to the Lafarge Lake-Douglas station, followed by a short walk.