Lower Mainland Ocean Day Celebrations

World Ocean Day is a day to remind everyone about the importance of oceans. Events take place around the globe hoping to raise awareness and protect the natural resource.

Ocean Day events in the Lower Mainland take place on or around June 8th. In 2025 there’s a range of events focused on ocean conservation, education and fun by the water. From shoreline cleanups to interactive exhibits at local museums, the region offers multiple ways to mark the day and learn about our marine ecosystems.

Below are details about three different Ocean Day events happening in 2025.

Vancouver Maritime Museum

The Vancouver Maritime Museum is a must-visit attraction any time of the year. The museum is usually open daily, Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

In celebration of World Ocean Day, there’s a special event on Sunday, June 8th. It features a screening of Ocean with David Attenborough. The new film shows at 1:00 pm at the museum and is included with general admission. Visitors can also expect to interactive exhibits, crafts and educational activities related to the ocean and maritime history.

On the Saturday of the same weekend, so on June 7th, the museum has an Open House with Canoe Cultures. On that day, between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, admission is free (although donations are greatly appreciated).

TIPS: On days other than Open Houses when the museum is free, if you use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER, you can save 25% on admission.

For more information, see the Vancouver Maritime Museum website.

Vancouver Maritime Museum Photos — Vancouver Maritime Museum

World Ocean Day at the Cannery

In Richmond, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery also hosts both World Ocean Day and Spot Prawn Day programming. Located in Steveston Village, the museum features ocean-themed displays and activities. In 2025 the event runs from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturday, June 7th. There’s also a drop-in Gyotaku Workshop throughout the day, and admission to the attraction is free (but only on June 7th).

On most other days of the year, folks ages 18 and older have to pay, but only about $12 or $12. Children and youth ages 17 and under, however, are always free!

For full details about the event in June, see the Gulf of Georgia Cannery website.

Gulf of Georgia Cannery at Waterfront — Gulf of Georgia Cannery

Stanley Park Event

Vancouver Ocean Day takes place at Lumbermen’s Arch in Stanley Park. It’s a 4-minute walk from the Vancouver Aquarium.

In collaboration with Ocean Wise, the Vancouver Aquarium, Stanley Park Ecology Society and Water Rangers host a cleanup event from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The event schedule includes a Shoreline Cleanup running from 10:30 am until noon. A BioBlitz nature survey begins at 10:00 am and continues until noon. There is also a water-quality testing demonstration at 11:00 am. Informational booths are set up throughout the event, and all supplies for cleanup are provided.

For full details about this event, see click World Ocean Day Vancouver.