In August there are numerous free events in Metro Vancouver including festivals, Outdoor Movies, markets, parades and Outdoor Summer Concerts.

This year in the Lower Mainland there are art displays to enjoy with the Art Downtown Summer Program. There are also a number of free live music events happening at various venues around the region, including with Live & Local in North Vancouver.

There are also free attractions like Burnaby Village, the Museum of Surrey, Pavilion 374 Train Museum, Shipyard Pals walking tours and Stanley Park, as well as Beaches to hang out at and Nature to explore. August is also a great time to visit Farmers Markets and events like the Shipyards Night Market.

Best FREE Activities in August

The following is a list of the top free festivals, events and other activities in Vancouver and the surrounding area in August in 2025. Most activities are completely free, although a few are by donation or for a nominal fee.

(Note: Schedules and details are subject to change.)

For lists of other inexpensive things to do, see our articles about Vancouver on a Budget and Lower Mainland Parks and Nature. Other good places to find free activities are Vancouver Outdoor Movies and Free Summer Concerts.

Friday, August 1st (2025)

• Place des Arts’ Summer Theatre Troupe   the arts centre puts on the play Munsch at Play in Coquitlam. It’s free to attend with advanced registration.
• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• Dance Dance Dance – Vogue dancing at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn which is the plaza outside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in downtown Vancouver.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• Bill Reid Gallery – there is free admission on the first Friday of the month at this Indigenous art gallery from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
• Vancouver Art Gallery – admission to the city’s main art gallery at 750 Hornby Street is free today (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – beaches at Ambleside, Crescent Beach, White Rock, Stanley Park, Kitsilano, Belcarra Park and elsewhere are especially popular this time of year.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Saturday, August 2nd (2025)

• Place des Arts’ Summer Theatre Troupe – the arts centre puts on the play Munsch at Play in Coquitlam. It’s free to attend with advanced registration.
• Brigade Days – a special event at Fort Langley National Historic Site. (Note: It’s not free every year, but it is this year.)
• Pride at the Pier – an event celebrating Pride Week with drag shows and other live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• White Rock Sea Festival – a community event by the beach in White Rock.
  
• Tsawwassen Sun Festival – a softball tournament and community fair in Delta.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Maple Ridge Caribbean Festival – a multicultural event with food, market vendors and live music in Maple Ridge.
• Powell Street Festival – a Japanese-themed event with food and entertainment at a park in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

Saturday Markets

• Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm in downtown Abbotsford.
• Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall at 4949 Canada Way.
• Chilliwack Farmers Market – at Central Community Park from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – at 9025 Glover Road in the parking lot of St. Andrews Historic Church.
• Haney Farmers Market – at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – at Vancouver’s Riley Park which is across the street from Nat Bailey Stadium.
• Squamish Farmers Market – from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm in downtown Squamish.
• Trout Lake Farmers Market – at John Hendry Park in the north parking lot.
• West End Farmers Market – at 1100 Comox Street in Vancouver’s West End.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Sunday, August 3rd (2025)

• Place des Arts’ Summer Theatre Troupe – the arts centre puts on the play Munsch at Play in Coquitlam. It’s free to attend with advanced registration.
• Brigade Days – a special event at Fort Langley National Historic Site. (Note: It’s not free every year, but it is this year.)
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• White Rock Sea Festival – a community event by the beach in White Rock.
  
• Tsawwassen Sun Festival – a softball tournament and community fair in Delta.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Maple Ridge Caribbean Festival – a multicultural event with food, market vendors and live music in Maple Ridge.
• Vancouver Pride Parade – a massive and very colourful parade with a 2SLGBTQ+ theme in downtown Vancouver.
• Powell Street Festival – a Japanese-themed event with food and entertainment at a park in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours hosted by the Museum of North Vancouver around the Shipyards District.
• Summer Sundays Concerts – live music in the afternoon at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.
• Vancouver Maritime Museum – admission to the museum at Vanier Park is “pay-what-you-can” today because it’s the first Sunday of the month. You can also wander around on the docks at Heritage Harbour in front of the museum today (and other days of the week at other times of the year too).

Sunday Markets

• Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Ambleside Park in West Vancouver.
• Brentwood Artisan Farmers Market – at the Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market – next to Dude Chilling Park at 8th Avenue and Guelph Street.
• Coquitlam Farmers Market – from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
• Whistler Farmers Market – in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in the Miramar Plaza.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Vancouver Maritime Museum – folks ages 6 and older usually have to pay to go in, but not today as it’s the first Sunday of the month (which means admission is “pay-what-you-can” for everyone).
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Monday, August 4th (2025)

• BC Day – various special events take place throughout this August Long Weekend. Click BC Day for details.
• Celebrate BC – a new, family-friendly, multicultural festival celebrating BC’s birthday with live entertainment, food, and other activities in Coquitlam.
• Brigade Days – a special event at Fort Langley National Historic Site. (Note: It’s not free every year, but it is this year.)
• Tsawwassen Sun Festival – a softball tournament and community fair in Delta.
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – beaches at Ambleside, Crescent Beach, White Rock, Stanley Park, Kitsilano, Belcarra Park and elsewhere are especially popular this time of year.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.

Tuesday, August 5th (2025)

• Summer Cinema – a free film shows outdoors in Stanley Park.
• Cheap Movie Night – at various Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – if it’s sunny, informal drumming happens at Third Beach in the evening.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Junction Public Market – Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – beaches at Ambleside, Crescent Beach, White Rock, Stanley Park, Kitsilano, Belcarra Park and elsewhere are especially popular this time of year.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Wednesday, August 6th (2025)

• Sunset Cinema – a movie shows at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn which is the plaza in front of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in downtown Vancouver.
• Downtown Farmers Market – held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in the North Plaza.
• Sunset Cinema at the Shipyards  – a movie plays in Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Darts Hill Garden Park in Surrey.
• Mission Twilight Concerts – live music happens in Mission at Fraser River Heritage Park starting at 7:00 pm.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – beaches at Ambleside, Crescent Beach, White Rock, Stanley Park, Kitsilano, Belcarra Park and elsewhere are especially popular this time of year.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, August 7th (2025)

• Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work outdoors in Lot 19 at 855 West Hastings Street which is just a couple of blocks from Canada Place (weather permitting).
• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• KitsFest – a sports festival at Kitsilano Beach. It features numerous sports competitions and a live DJ.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. (Note: It’s by donation, but with a suggested amount of $10, so it’s not actually free.)
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours hosted by the Museum of North Vancouver around the Shipyards District.
• Summer Movie Nights – a film shows outdoors on a giant screen in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery at night.
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• False Creek Farmers Market – in Olympic Village Square.
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a larger market at Tipperary Park at 315 Queens Avenue.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – beaches at Ambleside, Crescent Beach, White Rock, Stanley Park, Kitsilano, Belcarra Park and elsewhere are especially popular this time of year.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, August 8th (2025)

• White Rock Night Market – a monthly event with vendors, food trucks and live music by the promenade in White Rock.
• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• Dance Dance Dance – Hustle dancing at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn which is the plaza outside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in downtown Vancouver.
• KitsFest – a sports festival at Kitsilano Beach. It features numerous sports competitions and a live DJ.
• Fridays on Front – a night market in New Westminster with vendor stalls, food trucks, live music and more.
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Lower Mainland Beaches – beaches at Ambleside, Crescent Beach, White Rock, Stanley Park, Kitsilano, Belcarra Park and elsewhere are especially popular this time of year.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Saturday, August 9th (2025)

• BC Dumpling Festival – a multicultural food festival celebrates its fourth anniversary at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam.
• African Descent Festival – an event celebrating African music, food and culture at English Bay Beach. (CANCELLED)
• Vancouver Outdoor Salsa Festival – salsa workshops, Latin dance performances and other activities at Hasting Mills Park (just down the road from Jericho Beach).
• Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival – a music festival at Deer Lake Park in Burnaby.
• KitsFest – a sports festival at Kitsilano Beach. It features numerous sports competitions and a live DJ.
• Pleasant Day Festival – a street party on Main Street.
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.

Saturday Markets

• Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm in downtown Abbotsford.
• Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall.
• Chilliwack Farmers Market – at Central Community Park from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm at 9025 Glover Road.
• Haney Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Vancouver’s Riley Park at 50 East 30th Avenue.
• Squamish Farmers Market – from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm in downtown Squamish.
• Trout Lake Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at John Hendry Park.
• West End Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm in Vancouver’s West End.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Sunday, August 10th (2025)

• African Descent Festival – an event celebrating African music, food and culture at English Bay Beach. (CANCELLED)
• KitsFest – a sports festival at Kitsilano Beach. It features numerous sports competitions and a live DJ.
• Harmony Arts Festival – a free arts and music festival in West Vancouver.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours hosted by the Museum of North Vancouver around the Shipyards District.
• Summer Sundays Concerts – live music in the afternoon at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.

Sunday Markets

• Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm in West Vancouver.
• Brentwood Artisan Farmers Market – at the Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Clayton Community Farmers Market – in the parking lot of Clayton Heights Secondary School in Surrey.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – at the Kitsilano Community Centre.
• Ladner Village Market – a large artisan market in Delta.
• Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
• Whistler Farmers Market – in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – in the Miramar Plaza.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Monday, August 11th (2025)

• Music on the Wharf – live music in Maple Ridge (with admission by donation).
• Zumba at Canada Place – at Canada Place from 6:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.

Tuesday, August 12th (2025)

• Cheap Movie Night – at various Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
• Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – if it’s sunny, informal drumming happens at Third Beach in the evening.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Summer Cinema – a free film shows outdoors in Stanley Park.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Wednesday, August 13th (2025)

• Sunset Cinema – a movie shows at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn which is the plaza in front of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in downtown Vancouver. Admission is free.
• Downtown Farmers Market – held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in the North Plaza.
• Sunset Cinema at the Shipyards  – a movie plays in Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Clayton Community Centre in Surrey.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Mission Twilight Concerts – live music happens in Mission at Fraser River Heritage Park starting at 7:00 pm.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, August 14th (2025)

• Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work outdoors in Lot 19 at 855 West Hastings Street which is just a couple of blocks from Canada Place. Today features a painting competition.
• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours hosted by the Museum of North Vancouver around the Shipyards District.
• Summer Movie Nights – a film shows outdoors on a giant screen in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery at night.
• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. (Note: It’s by donation, but with a suggested amount of $10, so it’s not actually free.)
• Concerts at the Pier – a free concert at the West Beach in White Rock.
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a larger market at Tipperary Park.
• False Creek Farmers Market – in Olympic Village Square.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, August 15th (2025)

• Ribfest Langley – an event with barbecued rib vendors, a beer garden, child-friendly activities, live music and other entertainment. All you have to pay for is what you eat and drink. Other than that, admission is by donation.
• Symphony in the Park – a free outdoor concert at Mill Lake Park in Abbotsford.
• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Dance Dance Dance – Swing dancing at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn which is the plaza outside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in downtown Vancouver.
• Fridays on Front – a night market in New Westminster with vendor stalls, food trucks, live music and more.
• Burnaby Summer Cinema – a free movie shows outdoors at Civic Square in Burnaby.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Chilliwack Mural Festival – murals to admire as well as music and dancing in downtown Chilliwack.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Saturday, August 16th (2025)

• Ribfest Langley – an event with barbecued rib vendors, a beer garden, child-friendly activities, live music and other entertainment. All you have to pay for is what you eat and drink. Other than that, admission is by donation.
• Chilliwack Flight Fest – airplanes and other family-friendly things to see at the Chilliwack Airport.
• Chilliwack Mural Festival – murals to admire as well as music and dancing in downtown Chilliwack.
• PoCo Car Show – a community event that includes a barbecue and classic cars cruising around downtown Port Coquitlam.
• Burnaby Summer Cinema – a free movie shows outdoors at Confederation Park in Burnaby.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• New West Pride – an LGBTQ-themed street party on Columbia Street in New Westminster.
• Squamish Arts Festival – an outdoor event with live music from 4:00 until 11:00 pm.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.

Saturday Markets

• Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – in downtown Abbotsford.
• Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall.
• Chilliwack Farmers Market – at Central Community Park from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – outside St. Andrews Historic Church.
• Haney Farmers Market – at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square.
• at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – at Vancouver’s Riley Park.
• Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish.
• Trout Lake Farmers Market – at John Hendry Park.
• West End Farmers Market – in Vancouver’s West End.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Sunday, August 17th (2025)

• Ribfest Langley – an event with barbecued rib vendors, a beer garden, child-friendly activities, live music and other entertainment. All you have to pay for is what you eat and drink. Other than that, admission is by donation.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours hosted by the Museum of North Vancouver around the Shipyards District.
• Summer Sundays Concerts – live music in the afternoon at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.
• Chilliwack Flight Fest – airplanes and other family-friendly things to see at the Chilliwack Airport.
• PoCo Car Show – lots of fancy vehicles to admire in downtown Port Coquitlam.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.

Sunday Markets

• Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm in West Vancouver.
• Brentwood Artisan Farmers Market – at the Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm next to Dude Chilling Park at 8th Avenue and Guelph Street.
• Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
• Steveston Village Farmers Market – at Garry Point Park.
• Whistler Farmers Market – in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – in the Miramar Plaza.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Monday, August 18th (2025)

• Zumba at Canada Place – at Canada Place from 6:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.

Tuesday, August 19th (2025)

• Summer Cinema – a free film shows outdoors in Stanley Park.
• Cheap Movie Night – at various Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – if it’s sunny, informal drumming happens at Third Beach in the evening.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Wednesday, August 20th (2025)

• Sunset Cinema – a movie shows at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn which is the plaza in front of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in downtown Vancouver. Admission is free.
• Downtown Farmers Market – held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in the North Plaza.
• Sunset Cinema at the Shipyards  – a movie plays in Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at T. E. Scott Park in Surrey.
• Mission Twilight Concerts – live music happens in Mission at Fraser River Heritage Park.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, August 21st (2025)

• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. (Note: It’s by donation, but with a suggested amount of $10, so it’s not actually free.)
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a larger market at Tipperary Park at 315 Queens Avenue between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours hosted by the Museum of North Vancouver around the Shipyards District.
• False Creek Farmers Market – in Olympic Village Square.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Beaty Nocturnal – admission to UBC’s Beaty Biodiversity Museum is by donation this evening between 5:00 and 8:30 pm.
• Concerts at the Pier – a free concert at the West Beach in White Rock.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, August 22nd (2025)

• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• Burnaby Summer Cinema – a free movie shows outdoors at Civic Square in Burnaby.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Fridays on Front – a night market in New Westminster with vendor stalls, food trucks, live music and more.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Saturday, August 23rd (2025)

• Summer Music & Fireworks Festival – market vendors, live entertainment and fireworks at the waterfront in New Westminster.
• Rotary’s Chilliwack Outdoor Book Sale – a fundraising event at 44870 Wolfe Road. The books aren’t free, but they are really inexpensive!
• Granville Street Block Party – a street party-style festival with live music in downtown Vancouver.
• Cloverdale Market Days – an artisan market in downtown Cloverdale.
• Burnaby Summer Cinema – a free movie shows outdoors at Confederation Park in Burnaby.
• Cruise the Shore – a free car show that’s also a fundraising event at Park Royal Mall in West Vancouver.
• Richmond Maritime Festival – at the Britannia Shipyard in Steveston Village.
• Steveston Dragon Boat Festival – dragon boat races at Imperial Landing Park. (TBC)

Saturday Markets

• Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – in downtown Abbotsford.
• Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall.
• Chilliwack Farmers Market – at Central Community Park from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – outside St. Andrews Historic Church.
• Haney Farmers Market – at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – at Vancouver’s Riley Park.
• Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish.
• Trout Lake Farmers Market – at John Hendry Park.
• West End Farmers Market – in Vancouver’s West End.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Sunday, August 24th (2025)

• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours hosted by the Museum of North Vancouver around the Shipyards District.
• Pet-a-Palooza – a street party for pets and their owners in Yaletown.
• Richmond Maritime Festival – at the Britannia Shipyard in Steveston Village.
• Summer Sundays Concerts – live music in the afternoon at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.
• Granville Street Block Party – a street party-style festival with live music in downtown Vancouver.
• Indonesian Festival – a free cultural festival in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery.
• Cruise the Shore – a free car show that’s also a fundraising event at Park Royal Mall in West Vancouver.

Sunday Markets

• Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Ambleside Park in West Vancouver.
• Brentwood Artisan Farmers Market – at the Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Clayton Community Farmers Market – in the parking lot of Clayton Heights Secondary School in Surrey.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Ladner Village Market – a large artisan market in Delta.
• Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
• Whistler Farmers Market – in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – in the Miramar Plaza.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Monday, August 25th (2025)

• Music on the Wharf – live music in Maple Ridge (with admission by donation).
• Zumba at Canada Place – at Canada Place from 6:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.

Tuesday, August 26th (2025)

• Summer Cinema – a free film shows outdoors in Stanley Park.
• Cheap Movie Night – at various Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
• Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – if it’s sunny, informal drumming happens at Third Beach in the evening.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Wednesday, August 27th (2025)

• Sunset Cinema – a movie shows at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl’a7shn which is the plaza in front of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in downtown Vancouver. Admission is free.
• Downtown Farmers Market – held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in the North Plaza.
• Sunset Cinema at the Shipyards  – a movie plays in Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Surrey Civic Plaza.
• Mission Twilight Concerts – live music happens in Mission at Fraser River Heritage Park starting at 7:00 pm.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, August 28th (2025)

• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours hosted by the Museum of North Vancouver around the Shipyards District.
• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. (Note: It’s by donation, but with a suggested amount of $10, so it’s not actually free.)
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a larger market at Tipperary Park at 315 Queens Avenue.
• False Creek Farmers Market – in Olympic Village Square.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Lower Lonsdale Walking Tours – the Museum of North Vancouver hosts walking tours with admission by donation.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, August 29th (2025)

• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Live & Local in North Vancouver – free live music takes place today on the North Shore.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Burnaby Summer Cinema – a free movie shows outdoors at Civic Square in Burnaby.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Saturday, August 30th (2025)

• Labour Day Weekend – a number of free events happen throughout the Lower Mainland this weekend.
• Carnavalito – a Latin-themed festival with music, dancing, food vendors and family-friendly activities at Douglas Park in Langley.
• TAIWANfest – various activities and live entertainment happen along Granville Street and outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in downtown Vancouver.
• Bands on the Beach – free outdoor concerts at Harrison Hot Springs.
• Labour Day Weekend Boat Party – a nightclub-style event hosted by Vancouver Boat Parties with Hip Hop and EDM music.

Saturday Markets

• Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – in downtown Abbotsford.
• Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall.
• Chilliwack Farmers Market – at Central Community Park from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – outside St. Andrews Historic Church.
• Haney Farmers Market – at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
• Junction Public Market – from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Granville Square.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – at Vancouver’s Riley Park.
• Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish.
• Trout Lake Farmers Market – at John Hendry Park.
• West End Farmers Market – in Vancouver’s West End.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Sunday, August 31st (2025)

• Labour Day Weekend – a number of free events happen throughout the Lower Mainland this weekend.
• PNE Fair – Vancouver’s annual summer fair isn’t free, but for what you get it’s a really good deal.
• TAIWANfest – various activities and live entertainment happen along Granville Street and outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in downtown Vancouver.
• Burnaby Car Free Day – a street party-style event near Edmonds Park.
• Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
• Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.

Sunday Markets

• Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm in West Vancouver.
• Brentwood Artisan Farmers Market – at the Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Junction Public Market – at Granville Square with vendors, a bar and live music.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Mt. Pleasant Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm next to Dude Chilling Park at 8th Avenue and Guelph Street.
• Coquitlam Farmers Market – at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
• Steveston Village Farmers Market – at Garry Point Park.
• Whistler Farmers Market – in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – in the Miramar Plaza.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
  • Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
  • Museum of Surrey – an interesting museum with free admission in Cloverdale.
  • Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
  • Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island, Old Hastings Mill Store Museum, London Farm, Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Other Information

For more, check out Vancouver’s Best Places for Summer Activities.

To learn about other things to do this month, including things that aren’t free, check out our August Events Calendar.

For other free activities, see Vancouver’s Best Beaches and the Lower Mainland’s best Parks and Places in Nature.

For other affordable things to do, see Vancouver on a Budget.

To see what’s happening next month, check out the September Calendar of Events.

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