The Vancouver Hong Kong Fair is a cultural celebration in North Vancouver. The event features exhibitions, market vendors, food, live entertainment and more.

In 2024 the Vancouver Hong Kong Fair was on May 5th. That was the same weekend as Royal Canadian Circus shows in Surrey and Cinco de Mayo events at various places. The date for the fair’s return in 2025 is to be confirmed.

To learn about what else is happening this month in the Lower Mainland, see our May Calendar of Events. To learn about the Vancouver Hong Kong Fair, continue reading.

Vancouver Hong Kong Fair at the Shipyards

The Vancouver Hong Kong Fair is an annual event that’s been running since 2022. It claims to be the largest Hong Konger cultural celebration in Canada! The fair is presented by HK House which is a community organization run by volunteers. They support Hong Kong culture while educating and bringing people together.

Last year’s fair happened at the Anvil Centre in New Westminster. 2024’s fair was at a different location, at the Shipyards on the North Shore, allowing it to be an even bigger event. There were things to do both indoors and outdoors this year. Free festivities included cultural exhibitions, performances, games and interactive activities. There was also a ticketed market with close to 70 stalls. The event is a wonderful place to learn about the culture of Hong Kong and taste traditional Hong Kong and other Chinese foods.

When and Where

The third annual Vancouver Hong Kong Fair took place in 2024 on Sunday, May 5th (which was also Cinco de Mayo). Festivities raun from 11:00 am until 7:00 pm.

The event was held at the Shipyards in North Vancouver. The venue is located at 125 Victory Ship Way in Lower Lonsdale. It’s at the bottom of Lonsdale Avenue just a five-minute walk from the Lonsdale Quay Public Market and the SeaBus terminal. The Shipyards is a beautiful place by the waterfront that’s easily accessible using public transit.

TIP: Also right at the Shipyards is the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier and Reckless Shipyards. The first is a really nice hotel. If you want to make your visit to the Hong Kong Fair into a mini staycation, the Pinnacle at the Pier is a great spot to stay. Reckless Shipyards, meanwhile, is an e-bike shop. If you want to buy an e-bike, or rent a pair for the afternoon, Reckless Shipyards is a great place to do that.

Hong Kong Fair Admission Details

General admission to the Vancouver Hong Kong Fair is free. However, tickets are still required. They can be reserved online for free. When you get to the fair, you’ll need to check in and receive an entry stamp.

Meanwhile, access to the cultural market costs $3 per person. Market tickets are available online for one-hour timeslots. They can also be purchased on-site, but it’s best to book your tickets in advance to guarantee entry.

What to Expect

The Vancouver Hong Kong Fair is full of things to see and do. The fair in 2024 was the biggest one so far. Expect to see people of all ages walking around The Shipyards. There are food vendors selling Hong Kong street snacks and meals. There are areas with storytelling and classic games like mahjong. The event also offers a photo exhibition and immersive experiences about the region’s traditions.

People can enjoy live music and other performing arts on the fair’s outdoor stage. The market is a busy part of the event as well. It features dozens of booths by Hong Kongers selling all sorts of products. The market is a good way to support local brands and businesses.