Vancouver’s May calendar features 2022 festivals and events in the Lower Mainland including markets and Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day and Victoria Day events.

JANUARY – FEBRUARY – MARCH – APRIL

MAY – JUNE – JULY – AUGUST – SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER – NOVEMBER – DECEMBER

Vancouver’s May Calendar of Events

May 8, 2022 – Mother’s Day
May 23, 2022 – Victoria Day (Stat Holiday)

2022 May Events in Vancouver

Below is what’s happening on the different days of the month in May 2022.

(NOTE: Event dates and other details are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information and statuses of events, see official event websites.)

Week of May 1st to 8th

May 1-8 | May 9-15 | May 16-22 | May 23-29 | May 30-31

Sunday, May 1, 2022

Richmond Community Block Party – over 20 food trucks, live music and a BC Shop Local marketplace outside Lansdowne Centre mall in Richmond. Admission is free.
City Nature Challenge – free guided walks at Minnekhada Regional Park. (This event is hosted by the Fraser River Discovery Centre and spaces are limited).
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Forbidden Vancouver and Really Gay History tours.
Vancouver Marathon – one of the top marathon events in Canada.
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.
Jazz Vespers – at St. Andrews-Wesley United Church located at 1018 Nelson Street in Vancouver. Today features Brazilian Flavours. Admission is by donation.

Special Featured Attractions

Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!

Farmers Markets

Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – first market of the season in West Vancouver. (TBC)
Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
Kitsilano Farmers Market – first market of the season outside the Kitsilano Community Centre.
White Rock Farmers Market – at 15154 Russell Avenue in White Rock.

Flea Markets

Cloverdale Flea Market – a large weekly flea market at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds in Surrey.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue.
Abbotsford Flea Market – a giant flea market at Abbotsford Exhibition Park.

Monday, May 2, 2022

Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be (so long as you remain far enough away from other people).
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Tuesday, May 3, 2022

Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Vancouver Art Gallery – admission is by donation from 5 to 9 pm (because it’s Tuesday).
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach from early evening until sunset on Tuesday evenings.
Cheap Movie Night – on Tuesdays at most theatres throughout the Lower Mainland.
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Wednesday, May 4, 2022

May the Fourth – a day when you get to dress up like your favourite Star Wars character and say “May the Fourth be with you” to all your friends. It’s also a day with a few Star Wars-themed events around town most years.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown and Dark Secrets of Stanley Park tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. For example, a number of North Shore parks are nice this time of year, as are multiple other parks in the region.
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Thursday, May 5, 2022

Cinco de Mayo – a Mexican celebration with various events around town both today and on the weekend.
Cinco de Mayo at Bar None – a Mexican-themed party at the Bar None nightclub in Yaletown.
HMS Pinafore at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre – the Vancouver Opera presents the comic English musical by Gilbert and Sullivan.
Art Vancouver – an art fair featuring both local and international artists and galleries at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Poco’s May Days Spring Festival — family-friendly activities in Port Coquitlam.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre on Granville Island.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
New Westminster Farmers Market – at Tipperary Park in New Westminster.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown tour.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music tonight.

Friday, May 6, 2022

Art Vancouver – an art fair featuring both local and international artists and galleries at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Just For Laughs Comedy Festival – a series of live comedy events celebrating stand-up, improv and other funny stuff. Today Andrew Schulz performs on his The INFAMOUS Tour at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
Search for the Perfect Pint – a craft beer-tasting event put on by the local Rotary Club at Port Moody City Hall.
Poco’s May Days Spring Festival — family-friendly activities in Port Coquitlam.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown and Forbidden Vancouver tours.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre at Granville Island.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies show at various venues around town.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music tonight.

Special Featured Attractions

Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre (because it’s Friday).
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.

Saturday, May 7, 2022

HMS Pinafore at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre – the Vancouver Opera presents the comic English musical by Gilbert and Sullivan.
Coquitlam Community Block Party – over 20 food trucks, live music and a BC Shop Local marketplace at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park. Admission is free.
Art Vancouver – an art fair featuring both local and international artists and galleries at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
CityFest – a youth-focused festival and skate competition in North Vancouver.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown, Forbidden Vancouver and Dark Secrets of Stanley Park tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre at Granville Island.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Poco’s May Days Spring Festival – family-friendly activities in Port Coquitlam.
Hug the Mountain – an anti-Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion protest where people plan to join hands and circle Burnaby Mountain. There will also be a flotilla of kayaks.
Free Comic Book Day – a number of independent comic bookstores give out free comic books on the first Saturday of May. (TBC)
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today.

Special Featured Attractions

WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre (because it’s Saturday).
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.

Saturday Markets

Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – in the parking lot of Burnaby‘s City Hall.
Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – at 9025 Glover Road in Fort Langley.
Haney Farmers Market – at the Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
Lonsdale Quay Farmers Market – a small artisan market in North Vancouver.
Riley Park Farmers Market – a small to medium-sized market near Nat Bailey Stadium.
Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish.
Trout Lake Farmers Market – at Vancouver’s John Hendry Park.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.

Sunday, May 8, 2022

Mother’s Day – don’t forget to spoil your mom (or give her a call, send her a card or at least take a moment to remember her). For ideas on what to give her see our article about Experiential Mother’s Day Gifts.
Mother’s Day at Kilby Historic Site – the historic farm in Harrison Mills (near Harrison Hot Springs) has a special Afternoon Mother’s Day Tea.
Art Vancouver – an art fair featuring both local and international artists and galleries at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Coquitlam Community Block Party – over 20 food trucks, live music and a BC Shop Local marketplace at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park. Admission is free.
HMS Pinafore at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre – the Vancouver Opera presents the comic English musical by Gilbert and Sullivan.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Forbidden Vancouver and Really Gay History tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Darts Hill Garden – a semi-private garden park that’s open to the public in Surrey today.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – a family-friendly museum at Vanier Park. TIP: Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!

Sunday Markets

Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – in West Vancouver.
Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street.
Kitsilano Farmers Market – outside the Kitsilano Community Centre.
Steveston Village Farmers Market – in the parking lot of the Steveston Community Centre.
White Rock Farmers Market – in White Rock between 10 am and 2 pm.
Cloverdale Flea Market – at the Cloverdale fairgrounds in Surrey.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue.
Abbotsford Flea Market – at Exhibition Park.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.

Week of May 9th to 15th

May 1-8 | May 9-15 | May 16-22 | May 23-29 | May 30-31

Monday, May 9, 2022

WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature can be “best places” to be!
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Vancouver Art Gallery – admission is by donation from 5 to 9 pm (because it’s Tuesday).
Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach from early evening until sunset on Tuesday evenings.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be.
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.
Cheap Movie Night – on Tuesdays at most theatres throughout the Lower Mainland.

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown and Dark Secrets of Stanley Park tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature can be “best places” to be!
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Thursday, May 12, 2022

A Sound Like This: Chor Leoni & The Leonids – a choir concert by Chor Leoni at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church in Vancouver.
New Westminster Farmers Market – at Tipperary Park in New Westminster from 3 until 7 pm.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown tour.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Faces of the Fraser – part of the Fraser River Discovery Centre‘s online speaker series, this virtual event features a talk by Ruby Banwait who is the Senior Lead of Community Partnerships with the Invasive Species Council of BC
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre at Granville Island. Tonight features both The Playground and Drag at the Improv.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today. (TBC)
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature can be “best places” to be!
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Friday, May 13, 2022

Shaun Majumder’s The LOVE Tour – stand-up comedian Shaun Majumder performs at the Massey Theatre in New Westminster.
A Sound Like This: Chor Leoni & The Leonids – a choir concert by Chor Leoni at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church in Vancouver.
Jurassic Quest – a family-friendly dinosaur exhibition at the Vancouver Convention Centre from May 13 to 15. (It’s also in Abbotsford at the Tradex Centre from May 20 to 23).
Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre (because it’s Friday).
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown and Forbidden Vancouver tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy Theatresports shows at Granville Island.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.

Saturday, May 14, 2022

Jurassic Quest – a family-friendly dinosaur exhibition at the Vancouver Convention Centre. (It’s also in Abbotsford at the Tradex Centre from May 20 to 23).
Vanman Summit Concert – Chor Leoni and the Leonids perform at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at UBC.
River Basin Days – the Fraser River Discovery Centre hosts an “Environmental Extravaganza” event in Surrey.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown, Forbidden Vancouver and Dark Secrets of Stanley Park tours.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre at Granville Island. Today features a drop-in workshop, Theatresports shows and Kids in Charge!
ExplorASIAN Festival – a series of events celebrating Asian culture in the Lower Mainland.
TJ Fest – a multicultural and Taiwanese-themed community event at the Tian Jin Temple in Burnaby.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today.

Special Featured Attractions

Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre.

Saturday Markets

Abbotsford Farm and Country Market – from 9 am until noon in Abbotsford.
Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – in the parking lot of Burnaby’s City Hall.
Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – at 9025 Glover Road in Fort Langley.
Haney Farmers Market – at the Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
Lonsdale Quay Farmers Market – a small artisan market in North Vancouver.
Riley Park Farmers Market – a small to medium-sized market at Riley Park near Nat Bailey Stadium.
Squamish Farmers Market – at the corner of Victoria Street and Cleveland Avenue in Squamish.
Trout Lake Farmers Market – at Vancouver’s John Hendry Park.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue not far from Science World.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.

Sunday, May 15, 2022

Jurassic Quest – a family-friendly dinosaur exhibition at the Vancouver Convention Centre. (It’s also in Abbotsford at the Tradex Centre from May 20 to 23).
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Forbidden Vancouver and Really Gay History tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Spot Prawn Festival – a 1-day festival celebrating spot-prawn season at Fishermen’s Wharf not far from Granville Island.
Darts Hill Garden – a semi-private garden park that’s open to the public in Surrey.
Centre.
ExplorASIAN Festival – a series of events celebrating Asian culture in the Lower Mainland.
TJ Fest – a multicultural and Taiwanese-themed community event at the Tian Jin Temple in Burnaby.
DOXA Film Festival – a documentary film festival. Movies normally show at various venues around town.
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Special Featured Attractions

Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.

Sunday Markets

Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – in West Vancouver.
Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
Kitsilano Farmers Market – outside the Kitsilano Community Centre.
Whistler Farmers Market – near the base of Blackcomb Mountain.
White Rock Farmers Market – at 15154 Russell Avenue in White Rock.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue not far from Science World.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.

Week of May 16th to 22nd

May 1-8 | May 9-15 | May 16-22 | May 23-29 | May 30-31

Monday, May 16, 2022

Vancouver International Wine Festival – a wine festival featuring more than 150 wines from over a dozen different countries. (It normally takes place in February, but not this year).
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature can be “best places” to be!
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Vancouver International Wine Festival – a wine festival featuring more than 150 wines from over a dozen different countries. (It normally takes place in February, but not this year).
Vancouver Art Gallery – admission is by donation from 5 to 9 pm (because it’s Tuesday).
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cheap Movie Night – on Tuesdays at most theatres throughout the Lower Mainland.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach from early evening until sunset on Tuesday evenings.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be.

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Vancouver International Wine Festival – a wine festival featuring more than 150 wines from over a dozen different countries. (It normally takes place in February, but not this year).
West of Main Art Walk Preview – an art exhibition at the Roundhouse Community Centre in Yaletown.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown and Dark Secrets of Stanley Park tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature can be “best places” to be!
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

ROPES COURSES AND ZIPLINES

For some of the best ropes courses, ziplines and other outdoor adventures, check out WildPlay in Maple Ridge. It’s such a fun place!

Thursday, May 19, 2022

Vancouver International Wine Festival – a wine festival featuring more than 150 wines from over a dozen different countries. (A number of events take place today including the International Festival Tastings at the Vancouver Convention Centre).
West of Main Art Walk Preview – an art exhibition at the Roundhouse Community Centre.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre at Granville Island. Tonight features The Playground and Stand Up at the Improv.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown tour.
New Westminster Farmers Market – at Tipperary Park in New Westminster.
Guilt & Company – live entertainment at the music venue in Gastown.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today. (TBC)
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be.
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Special Featured Attractions

Beaty Nocturnal – the Beaty Biodiversity Museum at UBC is open by donation in the evening.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.

Friday, May 20, 2022

Vancouver International Wine Festival – a wine festival featuring more than 150 wines from over a dozen different countries. (A number of events take place today including the International Festival Tastings at the Vancouver Convention Centre).
Jurassic Quest – a family-friendly dinosaur exhibition at the Tradex Centre in Abbotsford from May 20 to 23. (It was also at the Vancouver Convention Centre on May 13 to 15.)
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown and Forbidden Vancouver tours.
Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy Theatresports shows at Granville Island.
More Irish, More Black, More Dogs – a unique stand-up comedy show featuring a number of acts including one by a dog and another by Ola Dada (a semi-finalist of Canada’s Got Talent). It takes place at The MOTN at 582 Powell Street in Vancouver.
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be.

Special Featured Attractions

Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre.

Saturday, May 21, 2022

Vancouver All British Field Meet – a car show featuring hundreds of British-built vehicles at VanDusen Garden.
Vancouver International Wine Festival – a wine festival featuring more than 150 wines from over a dozen different countries. (A number of events take place today including the International Festival Tastings at the Vancouver Convention Centre).
Jurassic Quest – a family-friendly dinosaur exhibition at the Tradex Centre in Abbotsford (from May 20 to 23).
Victoria Day Weekend Boat Party – Vancouver Boat Parties hosts an adults-only night club-style cruise around the waters of Vancouver.
Vancouver Comic Arts Festival – comic workshops, presentations, games, vendors and children’s activities at the Roundhouse in Yaletown. Free admission.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre at Granville Island. Today features a drop-in workshop, Theatresports and Kids in Charge!
Shirley Valentine at Deep Cove Theatre – the one-actor play is put on by North Vancouver’s First Impressions Theatre.
Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre (because it’s Saturday).
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today.

Special Featured Attractions

Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre.

Saturday Markets

Abbotsford Farm and Country Market – in Abbotsford.
Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – in the parking lot of Burnaby’s City Hall.
Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – in Fort Langley.
Haney Farmers Market – at the Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
Lonsdale Quay Farmers Market – a small artisan market in North Vancouver.
Riley Park Farmers Market – at Riley Park near Nat Bailey Stadium.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.
Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish from 10 am to 3 pm.
Trout Lake Farmers Market – at Vancouver’s John Hendry Park.
West End Farmers Market – at 1100 Comox Street.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue.

Sunday, May 22, 2022

Vancouver International Wine Festival – a wine festival featuring more than 150 wines from over a dozen different countries. (It normally takes place in February, but not this year).
Jurassic Quest – a family-friendly dinosaur exhibition at the Tradex Centre in Abbotsford (from May 20 to 23).
Vancouver Comic Arts Festival – comic workshops, presentations, games, vendors and children’s activities at the Roundhouse in Yaletown. Free admission.
Vancouver Train Celebrations – an event honoring the anniversary of the arrival of Engine 374 as the first passenger train in Vancouver over 130 years ago. There are usually speeches, cake and brass band music at the Roundhouse. (May 22, 2022.)
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown, Forbidden Vancouver and Dark Secrets of Stanley Park tours.
Royal Victorian Party – old fashioned celebrations at Stewart Farm in Surrey. (TBC)
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.

Farmers Markets

Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – in West Vancouver.
Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
Kitsilano Farmers Market – outside the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
Steveston Village Farmers Market – in the parking lot of the Steveston Community Centre.
Whistler Farmers Market – near the base of Blackcomb Mountain.
White Rock Farmers Market – at 15154 Russell Avenue in White Rock.

Flea Markets

Cloverdale Flea Market – at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds in Surrey.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue.
Abbotsford Flea Market – at Abbotsford Exhibition Park.

Week of May 23rd to 29th

May 1-8 | May 9-15 | May 16-22 | May 23-29 | May 30-31

Monday, May 23, 2022

Victoria Day – the statutory holiday features numerous special events throughout the Lower Mainland (including at Burnaby Village, Cloverdale, Fort Langley, Squamish and Whistler). Click Victoria Day for details.
Jurassic Quest – a family-friendly dinosaur exhibition at the Tradex Centre in Abbotsford (from May 20 to 23).
Fort Langley Parade and Fort Events – historic demonstrations at the fort and a community fair in the park following the Fort Langley May Day Parade.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature can be “best places” to be!

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Vancouver Art Gallery – admission is by donation from 5 to 9 pm (because it’s Tuesday).
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be.
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.
Cheap Movie Night – on Tuesdays at most theatres throughout the Lower Mainland.
Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach from early evening until sunset on Tuesday evenings.

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

Just For Laughs Comedy Festival – a series of live comedy events celebrating stand-up, improv and other funny stuff. Today features performances by Brandon Wardell, Chris Fleming, Maria Bamford, Joel Kim Booster and other comedians at various venues around Vancouver.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre at Granville Island. Tonight features the first weekly Date Night show.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown and Dark Secrets of Stanley Park tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature can be “best places” to be!
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Just For Laughs Comedy Festival – a series of live comedy events celebrating stand-up, improv and other funny stuff. Today features performances by ALOK, Monét X Change, The Scrawny Show and Comedy World at various theatres around Vancouver.
New Westminster Farmers Market – at Tipperary Park in New Westminster.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown tour.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy theatre at Granville Island. Tonight features The Playground show.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. (Just remember though to stay far enough away from other people).
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

LADNER MAY DAYS

Looking for some fun things to do with your friends or family? Then check out Ladner May Days! It’s a community event that includes a parade, carnival rides and other fun activities on the weekend of May 27 to 29.

Friday, May 27, 2022

Just For Laughs Comedy Festival – a series of live comedy events celebrating stand-up, improv and other funny stuff. Today features performances by Andrew Santino, Michael Kosta, Roy Wood Jr., Havana Moon Comedy, and other comic acts at various theatres around Vancouver.
Ladner May Days – first day of the 3-day community event in Ladner’s Memorial Park with live music, amusement rides and a fastball tournament.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown and Forbidden Vancouver tours.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy Theatresports shows at Granville Island.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today. (TBC)
Darts Hill Garden – a semi-private garden park that’s open to the public in Surrey.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be.

Special Featured Attractions

Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre (because it’s Friday).
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.

Saturday, May 28, 2022

Just For Laughs Comedy Festival – a series of live comedy events celebrating stand-up, improv and other funny stuff. Today features performances by Caleb Hearon, Marc Maron, Dana Gould, Rosebud Baker, Brian Simpson, Cameron Esposito, James Adomian, Jimmy O. Yang and other comic acts at various theatres around Vancouver.
West of Main Art Walk – an open studio tour and art sale at artist’s studios between Main Street and Point Grey, and from 41st Avenue to Granville Island.
Ladner May Days – a community event with live music, amusement rides, beer garden, family-friendly activities and a fastball tournament.
Super Saturday at FRDC – the Fraser River Discovery Centre hosts a special bird feeder-making event in New Westminster. The event is specially designed for families with children ages 6 and older, but everyone is welcome. Guided tours are also available in the afternoon.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Hyack International Parade – a parade with over floats, marching bands and other entries in New Westminster.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Lost Souls of Gastown, Forbidden Vancouver and Dark Secrets of Stanley Park tours.
Improv Centre Theatre – live comedy Theatresports shows at Granville Island plus a free Community Jam session and Kids in Charge!
Deep Cove Brewery – the craft beer brewery and distillery in North Vancouver has live music today.

Special Featured Attractions

Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Guided Tours at the FRDC – tours can be booked for this morning at New Westminster’s Fraser River Discovery Centre.

Saturday Markets

Cloverdale Market Days – a large once-a-month summer artisan market featuring over 100 vendors in downtown Cloverdale on 176th Street.
Abbotsford Farm and Country Market – in Abbotsford.
Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – in the parking lot of Burnaby’s City Hall.
Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – in Fort Langley.
Haney Farmers Market – at the Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
Lonsdale Quay Farmers Market – a small artisan market in North Vancouver.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.
Riley Park Farmers Market – near Nat Bailey Stadium.
Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish.
Trout Lake Farmers Market – at Vancouver’s John Hendry Park.
West End Farmers Market – at 1100 Comox Street.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue.

Sunday, May 29, 2022

Safe and Sound Music Festival – a Hip Hop and R&B music festival at Burnaby’s Swangard Stadium. Hosted by DJ Flipout and Zizzy Dlux, artists at the festival include Ty Dolla Sign, Ckay, Ayra Starr, Boslen and many more.
Just For Laughs Comedy Festival – a series of live comedy events celebrating stand-up, improv and other funny stuff. Today features performances by Jimmy O. Yang, Gavin Matts and other comic acts at various theatres around Vancouver.
West of Main Art Walk – an open studio tour and art sale at artist’s studios between Main Street and Point Grey, and from 41st Avenue to Granville Island.
Ladner May Days – a community event in Ladner’s Memorial Park with live music, amusement rides, pancake breakfast and fastball tournament. Today is also the day of the May Day Parade!
British Columbia Polish Festival – food, dancing and other activities celebrating Polish culture in Port Coquitlam. It’s a free event with a component benefitting those suffering from the war in Ukraine this year.
Walk for Alzheimer’s – a fundraising event starting at John Lawson Park in West Vancouver.
Brookswood Community Car Show – a car show where funds raised benefit Brookswood Secondary School in Langley. Admission to see the cars is free.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today features the Forbidden Vancouver and Really Gay History tours.
Richmond Night Market – Vancouver’s famous weekend Asian market in Richmond.

Special Featured Attractions

Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Cirque du Soleil – the world-famous circus company is at Concord Pacific Place with its Alegria show. (TIP: See our article about Cirque du Soleil to learn about 2-for-1 tickets at a different circus coming to Vancouver too!)
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.

Farmers Markets

Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – in West Vancouver.
Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
Kitsilano Farmers Market – outside the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
Whistler Farmers Market – near the base of Blackcomb Mountain.
White Rock Farmers Market – at 15154 Russell Avenue in White Rock.

Flea Markets

Cloverdale Flea Market – a large weekly flea market in Surrey.
Vancouver Flea Market – at 703 Terminal Avenue not far from Science World.
Abbotsford Flea Market – a giant flea market at Abbotsford Exhibition Park.

Week of May 30th to 31st

May 1-8 | May 9-15 | May 16-22 | May 23-29 | May 30-31

Monday, May 30, 2022

Bike to Work Week – a week where people are encouraged to ride their bicycles to and from work.
WildPlay Element Park – ropes courses and ziplines at the outdoor adventure facility in Maple Ridge.
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature can be “best places” to be!
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

CHILLIWACK COMMUNITY BLOCK PARTY

The next Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival event is the Chilliwack Community Block Party which takes place at the Chilliwack Coliseum on June 4 & 5 in 2022.

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Vancouver International Children’s Festival – a child-focused event featuring live performances, music and kid-friendly things to do on Granville Island.
Vancouver Mysteries Games – play an outdoor adventure game in downtown Vancouver, or a virtual game from the comfort of your home. Use promo code BESTPLACES and save 10% on games with 3 or more people.
Vancouver Maritime Museum – in addition to its permanent collection, currently showing is a temporary exhibition about Indigenous Canoe Cultures. Use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER and save 25%!
Stargazer – a new space-themed exhibition at Sensea Immersive at Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The attraction features films and displays about space travel, astronauts, planets and outer space.
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours – guided walking tours in downtown Vancouver. Today’s tour is the Lost Souls of Gastown.
Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach from early evening until sunset on Tuesday evenings.
Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be.
Cheap Movie Night – on Tuesdays at most theatres throughout the Lower Mainland.
Vancouver Art Gallery – admission is by donation from 5 to 9 pm (because it’s Tuesday).
Lower Mainland Golf Courses – check out our list of top places to hit a ball around outdoors in the fresh air.

To return to the top of the page, click May Calendar.

To see what’s happening next month, click June Calendar of Events.

Other Possible May Events in 2022

Below are other events that may or may not also take place this month in 2022 (with some details to be confirmed).

Shows & Entertainment

Just For Laughs Comedy Festival – a series of live comedy events celebrating stand-up, improv and other funny stuff. (It usually happens in February, but got postponed until May 25 to 29 in 2022.)
Talking Stick Festival – an Indigenous event that’s free. (TBC)
The Rogue Folkies Jam – live music by Jim Byrnes at Mel Lehan Hall at The St. James in Vancouver on May 20th in 2022.
Jazz in the Vine – live Jazz at a winery in Langley. (TBC)
The Flying Dutchman – the Vancouver Opera presents the opera by Richard Wagner about a sailor, his daughter and their encounter with a ghost at sea. The show is in German with English surtitles at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. (April 29 and May 4 & 7 in 2023.)

Festivals and Events

Vancouver Turkic Festival – a free event celebrating Turkish culture with live music and market vendors. (TBC)
Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair – bucking broncos, a midway, carnival rides and live entertainment. (Not happening in 2022.)
Whistler Go Fest – a “Great Outdoors Festival” which includes all kinds of sporting events and live evening concerts. (Cancelled for 2022.)
European Festival – a festival highlighting European culture at the Vancouver Alpen Club in late May. (TBC, but not likely happening.)
BC Cider Festival – a cider-sampling event at the Pipe Shop in North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale District. (TBC, but not likely happening.)
British Columbia Polish Festival – a cultural event at 2253 Leigh Square in Port Coquitlam. (Formerly called Polish Culture & Heritage Day.) (May 29, 2022)
The Pull of the Net: A Multicultural Celebration – a free family-friendly cultural event at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery in late May. (TBC)
Public Lego Exhibition – Lego toy exhibits at the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond. (Not taking place as an in-person event until 2023.)
Royal Canadian Family Circus – under big tops at various locations in the Lower Mainland. (It normally happens sometime in May. In 2022, however, its dates are June 23rd to July 3rd.)
Whistler Children’s Festival – two weekends of activities for the whole family, including yoga, magic shows, crafts and more. (May 20-22 and 27-29 in 2022.)
Surrey International Children’s Festival – art activities, workshops, storytelling, and live performances at the Surrey Arts Centre and Bear Creek Park. (This event no longer happens. In its place is a new Surrey SPARK Stages event.)

Markets and Trade Shows

Shipyards Night Market – an evening concert and market activities at the Lower Lonsdale waterfront in North Vancouver. (Not happening in 2022.)
BC Rock & Gem Show – presented by the BC Lapidary Society and featuring over 40 rock and crystal artists and vendors at the Abbotsford Ag-Rec Building in Abbotsford. (May 13 to 15, 2022.)
BC Bike Show – a bicycle trade show featuring road bikes, mountain bikes, electric bikes and cycling equipment at the Vancouver Convention Centre. (It took place on March 5 and 6 in 2022.)
Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show – a trade show featuring adventure travel and outdoor gear at the Vancouver Convention Centre. (It happened from March 5 to 6 in 2022.)
Coastal Swap Meet – an automotive-themed swap meet featuring as many as 500 vendors at the Tradex Centre in Abbotsford. (May 27 and 28 in 2022.)
Eastside Flea – a bi-weekly weekend market with about four dozen vendors selling vintage, collectibles, handmade and other items at 550 Malkin Avenue in East Vancouver (about 1.2 km from Science World). (TBC)
The Olde Farmhouse Market – a vintage market featuring dozens of vendors selling antiques, collectibles, jewellery, handmade goods and other home and garden treasures at Tradex at 1190 Cornell Street in Abbotsford. (TBC)
Vancouver Marathon Health & Sports Expo – a running and other health and fitness-themed trade show at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Admission is free. (Happens on April 29 and 30 in 2022.)

Sports and Sporting Events

Vistas Run – a 5 km walk/run and 10 km race event benefiting the Ridge Meadows Hospice Society at Kanaka Creek Regional Park. (TBC)
Vancouver Whitecaps – soccer game against various teams at BC Place Stadium.
Run for Women – 5 km, 10 km and 1 km (Little Steps for kids) runs benefiting the BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre Foundation. Starts at Wesbrook Village at UBC. (Happening next on May 6, 2023.)
Vancouver Canucks Hockey – the team plays against various teams at Rogers Arena.
Survival of the Fittest – 18 km and 35 km runs on rugged trails in Squamish. (May 28, 2022.)
Vancouver Marathon Kids Run – the Kids Run would ordinarily take place today in Stanley Park for children ages 5 to 12.
5K Foam Fest – an obstacle course event with slides, bubbles, mud and foam. (Next taking place on June 17, 2023.)

Free Stuff & Free Admission Days

Museum of Vancouver – admission is by donation from 5 pm to 8 pm (on the last Thursday of the month, but to be confirmed for 2022.)
Seniors Day at MOV – admission to the Museum of Vancouver is just $5 today for anyone age 65+ (on the first Tuesday of the month, but to be confirmed.)
Roedde House – admission to the historic museum in Vancouver’s West End is by donation on the last Friday of the month (but to be confirmed for 2022).

Food-Related Events

Tonight for Tomorrow – Mealshare is a program where participating restaurants buy a meal for a youth in need when you purchase one of their participating dinner items. When it happens, for every $1 you spend at select restaurants $1 is donated to Mealshare. So dine out on whatever day it happens, enjoy the food, and make a difference! (TBC)
Abbotsford Food Truck Festival – a food truck event at Thunderbird Square in the Abbotsford Civic Plaza. (TBC)
Cloverdale Food Truck Festival – a food truck event in Surrey. Admission is free. (Takes place in April in 2022, but in May some years.)
Fort Langley Beer & Food Festival – a craft beer-themed event at Fort Langley Park. (May 21, 2022.)

Other Events

Glades Garden Open House – a beautiful garden in Surrey that’s open to the public only a small number of days. (TBC)
Mother’s Day at Glades Garden – live music and refreshments for sale on Mother’s Day at the semi-private garden park in Surrey. (TBC)
Mother’s Day Tea & Plant Sale – at London Heritage Farm in Richmond. (Likely not happening in 2022.)
Restaurant Brunch Buffets – most years a number of restaurants put on fancy brunch events where people can spoil their moms on Mother’s Day.
Thomas the Train – rides with Sir Topham Hatt on the classic storybook train at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park in Squamish. (May 28 and 29 in 2022.)
Nikkei Spring Bazaar – a Japanese-themed rummage sale at the Nikkei Cultural Centre in Burnaby. (TBC)
Fair in the Square – a free event featuring live music and family-friendly activities at Vancouver’s Victory Square. (TBC)
Playland – rides at Vancouver’s favourite amusement park. (The rides start up in late May most years. In 2022, however, the first day of the season is June 17.)

Top Things to do in Vancouver

Below are the top five things to do in Vancouver in May.

Treat Mom out to brunch, lunch or dinner for Mother’s Day at any of Metro Vancouver’s best restaurants, and combine it with a family walk at one of Vancouver’s Best Places in Parks and Nature, or just make it a picnic.
Head over to Victoria on Vancouver Island for the May Long Weekend and take in the Victoria Day Celebrations over there.
Go camping on the May Long Weekend at Alice Lake, Rolley Lake, Alouette Lake, Porteau Cove or Cultus Lake, but make your reservations months in advance and take your rain gear just in case.
Go for a bike ride, especially during Bike to Work Week towards the end of the month. Also, check out Vancouver’s Best Places for a Jog, Walk or Cycle for suggestions on leisurely cycling routes.

Typical May Vancouver Weather

Summer is close and the beautiful weather is finally here, at least normally. May is typically one of the nicest months of the year in Vancouver – definitely in the top five.

The days in May are long, the temperature is getting warm, and the sun seems to shine more often than not. It still rains, but less than eight of the other months of the year.

Average high temperatures in May are 16 degrees C (or 61 F) and the lows are in the range of 8 C (or 46 F). It usually only rains about 60 mm (or less than 2.5 inches), which in Vancouver is something to celebrate.

Oddly, the weather almost always seems to be nicer in May than in June – nobody really knows quite why.

Recommended May Activities

Spring flowers are in full bloom around Vancouver in May, and all the trees finally have their leaves. This, plus the increasingly sunny weather and all the snow still usually on the mountain peaks, means that Vancouver is visually at its most spectacular.

May is a great time to check out Vancouver’s beautiful gardens, especially those at Stanley Park, VanDusen Garden, Queen Elizabeth Park and Sun Yat-Sen Garden, or any of Vancouver’s sandy beaches or other best places for nature.

The Cleveland Dam and Capilano River Regional Park in North Vancouver can be especially picturesque this time of the year, with all the green everywhere, but still snow-covered peaks on the Lions mountain peaks in the background.

With the snow-melt run off, Shannon Falls (not far from Squamish) and Bridal Veil Falls in the Fraser Valley can also be especially large and spectacular. If it’s a sunny day, then May is a good month to be almost anywhere outside!

To return to the top of the page, click May Calendar.

To see what’s happening next month, click June Calendar of Events.