For suggestions about other inexpensive things to do, see our article about Vancouver on a Budget. To learn about other activities happening on different days of the month, including events that aren’t free, see Vancouver’s July Calendar of Events. For a list of free and almost free things to do in the Lower Mainland in July, continue reading.

Best FREE Activities in July

Below is a list of some of the top free events and things to do in the Lower Mainland in July 2025. Most are completely free, although a few are by donation or just very cheap.

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

Tuesday, July 1st (2025)

• Canada Day Celebrations – festivities take place throughout the Lower Mainland including in the following communities:
  • North Vancouver – live music, art displays and family-friendly activities happen at the Shipyards.
  • Richmond – Canada’s birthday is celebrated with a parade, salmon barbecue and family-friendly activities at the Steveston Salmon Festival.
  • Surrey – carnival rides, fireworks, food trucks and more at the Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre.
  • Fort Langley – there are family-friendly Canada Day activities in town. Admission to the national historic site is also free today.
  • Other places to celebrate Canada Day include Abbotsford, Aldergrove, Chilliwack, Coquitlam, Delta, Harrison Hot Springs, Maple Ridge, Mission, New Westminster, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, Vancouver, White Rock, Whistler and other communities.
• Golden Spike Days – the family-friendly event happens at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody. (Admission is by donation.)
• 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.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Fleet Week – there are free tours of Canadian Navy ships today in North Vancouver.
• 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.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Wednesday, July 2nd (2025)

• Downtown Farmers Market – in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Glades Garden in Surrey.
• Mission Twilight Concerts – live music happens in Mission at Fraser River Heritage Park starting at 7:00 pm.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Thursday, July 3rd (2025)

• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. Admission is by donation.
• Summer Movie Nights – a movie shows outdoors on a giant screen in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery at night.
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a market with vendors selling fresh produce at New Westminster’s Tipperary Park at 315 Queens Avenue between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, July 4th (2025)

• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival – today features live performances, workshops, market vendors and more at the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza.
• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• Whey-ah-Wichen Canoe Festival – an Indigenous canoe racing event hosted by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation at North Vancouver’s Cates Park.
• Fleet Week – there are free tours of Canadian Navy ships today in North Vancouver.
• Vancouver Art Gallery – admission to the city’s main art gallery at 750 Hornby Street is by donation today (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
• Bill Reid Gallery – free admission at the Bill Reid First Nation’s art gallery between 2:00 and 5:00 pm (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
• Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Saturday, July 5th (2025)

• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival – today features live performances, workshops, market vendors and more at the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza.
• Khatsahlano Street Party – a large outdoor street party in Kitsilano.
• Symphony at Sunset Beach – the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra performs outdoors at Sunset Beach.
• Whey-ah-Wichen Canoe Festival – an Indigenous canoe racing event hosted by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation at North Vancouver’s Cates Park.
• Fleet Week – free boat rides and tours of Canadian Navy ships in North Vancouver. There are also interactive displays to check out.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
• 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 for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Saturday Farmers 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 – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Central Community Park in Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market – from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm at 9025 Glover Road in the parking lot of St. Andrews Historic Church.
• Junction Public Market – from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Vancouver’s Riley Park at 50 East 30th Avenue 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 – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at John Hendry Park in the north parking lot.
• West End Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at 1100 Comox Street.

Sunday, July 6th (2025)

• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival – today features live performances, workshops, market vendors and more at the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Whey-ah-Wichen Canoe Festival – an Indigenous canoe racing event hosted by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation at North Vancouver’s Cates Park.
• Fleet Week – free boat rides and tours of Canadian Navy ships in North Vancouver. There are also interactive displays to check out.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• Summer Sundays Concerts – free live music at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• 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).
• Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
• World Naked Bike Ride – a rather strange event where participants can cycle around town in next to nothing. (Helmets are mandatory.)

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 Burnaby’s Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Junction Public Market – from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Poirier Street Market – from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Dogwood Pavilion parking lot at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
• Whistler Farmers Market – between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at 15154 Russell Avenue in the Miramar Plaza.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap. The market is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market with primarily (but not exclusively) second-hand goods between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.

Monday, July 7th (2025)

• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.

Tuesday, July 8th (2025)

• 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.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• Summer Cinema – a free screening of The Princess Bride outdoors in Stanley Park near Second Beach.
• Cheap Movie Night – at various Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, Mackin House, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Wednesday, July 9th (2025)

• Gastown Grand Prix – a cycling event in Gastown that’s free to watch.
• Downtown Farmers Market – in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• 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.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Francis 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 – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, July 10th (2025)

• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. Admission is by donation.
• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• Downtown Summer Movie Nights – a movie shows outdoors on a giant screen in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery at night.
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a market with vendors selling fresh produce and artisan products at New Westminster’s Tipperary Park between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
• False Creek Farmers Market – a smaller market with a couple dozen vendors at Olympic Village Plaza from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• 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.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Concerts at the Pier – free live music takes place in White Rock.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, July 11th (2025)

• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• 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.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Saturday, July 12th (2025)

• Carnaval del Sol – live music and family-friendly activities at Vancouver’s major Latin festival at David Lam Park. Admission is free all day for children and seniors.
• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival – free activities take place at Surrey City Hall (as well as ticketed performances).
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and artisan vendors at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Abbotsford Berry Fest – a block party-style event celebrating the summer berry season in downtown Abbotsford.
• Chinatown Festival – lion dancing and other cultural performances and activities in Vancouver’s Chinatown.
• Red Truck Brewery – to celebrate its 20th anniversary, the Red Truck Beer Company is at the BC Liquor Store at 39th & Cambie with free beer samples, games and prizes between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm. They are also giving away complimentary hot dogs for people buying 15 packs of their beer.
• Symphony in the Park – a free concert by the Vancouver Symphony Deer Lake Park in Burnaby.
• Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• 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.
• Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

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 – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Central Community Park in Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market – from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm at 9025 Glover Road in the parking lot of St. Andrews Historic Church.
• Junction Public Market – from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Vancouver’s Riley Park at 50 East 30th Avenue 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 – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at John Hendry Park in the north parking lot.
• West End Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at 1100 Comox Street.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap. The market is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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.
  • 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Sunday, July 13th (2025)

• Carnaval del Sol – live music and family-friendly activities at Vancouver’s major Latin festival at David Lam Park. Admission is free all day for children and seniors.
• Festivibe – live music, a community market, live entertainment and family-friendly activities at the Shipyards in North Vancouver.
• Youth Concert Showcase Series – free live music at the Fort Langley Heritage CNR Station on Sundays leading up to the Fort Langley Jazz Festival.
• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival – free activities take place at Surrey City Hall (as well as ticketed performances).
• Opera in the Park – a free concert with the Vancouver Opera at Burnaby’s Deer Lake Park.
• Chilliwack Pride Festival – an event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in Chilliwack.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and artisan vendors at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Chinatown Festival – lion dancing and other cultural performances and activities in Vancouver’s Chinatown.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• 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.
• Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
• Summer Sundays Concerts – free live music at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.

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 Burnaby’s Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Clayton Community Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in the parking lot of Clayton Heights Secondary School in Surrey.
• Junction Public Market – from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Poirier Street Market – from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Dogwood Pavilion parking lot in Coquitlam.
• Steveston Village Farmers Market – in the parking lot of the Steveston Community Centre from 10:30 am until 3:30 pm.
• Whistler Farmers Market – between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in the Miramar Plaza.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap. The market is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market with primarily (but not exclusively) second-hand goods between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Monday, July 14th (2025)

• Music on the Wharf – live music at the Port Haney Wharf in Maple Ridge.
• 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.
• Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Tuesday, July 15th (2025)

• Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – if it’s sunny, informal drumming happens at Third Beach in the evening.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and artisan vendors at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Summer Cinema – a free screening of The Land Before Time outdoors in Stanley Park near Second Beach.
• 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.
• Cheap Movie Night – at various Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
• The Improv Centre – tickets for the show at the theatre at Granville Island start at just $10 today (so it’s not free, but it is extra inexpensive).
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, Mackin House, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Wednesday, July 16th (2025)

• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and artisan vendors at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Newton Athletic Park in Surrey.
• Mission Twilight Concerts – live music happens in Mission at Fraser River Heritage Park starting at 7:00 pm.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.
• Downtown Farmers Market – in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.
• 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.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, July 17th (2025)

• Art Downtown – a group of local artists create, display and sell their work at 855 West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver.
• Chiquitzin Kids Fiesta – affiliated with Carnaval del Sol, this event in Richmond features free shows and workshops for children. Donations are appreciated.
• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. Admission is by donation.
• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• Summer Movie Nights – a movie shows outdoors on a giant screen in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery at night.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and artisan vendors at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• 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.
• Concerts at the Pier – free live music takes place in White Rock.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a market with vendors selling fresh produce and artisan products at New Westminster’s Tipperary Park between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
• False Creek Farmers Market – a smaller market with a couple dozen vendors at Olympic Village Plaza from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Beaty Nocturnal – admission to UBC’s Beaty Biodiversity Museum is by donation this evening between 5:00 and 8:30 pm.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, July 18th (2025)

• Port Moody Ribfest – a beer garden, live music, and BBQ rib vendors at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody. Admission to the venue is free but you have to pay for your food and drinks.
• Dance Dance Dance – free house dance lessons outdoors in the plaza at Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
• White Rock Night Market – vendors and music by the pier and promenade in White Rock.
• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and artisan vendors at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Aldergrove Fair Days – a fair featuring midway games, a beer garden, food trucks, live entertainment and more at Aldergrove Athletic Park.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• 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.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Saturday, July 19th (2025)

• Port Moody Ribfest – a beer garden, live music, and BBQ rib vendors at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody. Admission to the venue is by donation, but you have to pay for your food and drinks.
• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Community Days –  workshops, art and live music happen at the Taiwanese Cultural Centre.
• Boundary Bay Airshow – a free airplane-themed event at Boundary Bay Airport.
• Surrey Fusion Festival – a multicultural event at Holland Park with food vendors, music and other performances.
• Aldergrove Fair Days – a fair featuring midway games, a beer garden, food trucks, live entertainment and more at Aldergrove Athletic Park.
• Celebration of Light Fireworks – live music and fireworks at Vancouver’s English Bay.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and artisan vendors at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• 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 1:00 pm in Abbotsford.
• Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall.
• Chilliwack Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Central Community Park in Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market – from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm in the parking lot of St. Andrews Historic Church.
• Junction Public Market – from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Vancouver’s Riley Park 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 – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at John Hendry Park in the north parking lot.
• West End Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at 1100 Comox Street.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap. The market is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends.
• 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.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Sunday, July 20th (2025)

• Port Moody Ribfest – a beer garden, live music, and BBQ rib vendors at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody. Admission to the venue is free but you have to pay for your food and drinks.
• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Community Days –  workshops, art and live music happen at the Taiwanese Cultural Centre.
• Youth Concert Showcase Series – free live music at the Fort Langley Heritage CNR Station on Sundays leading up to the Fort Langley Jazz Festival.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and artisan vendors at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Aldergrove Fair Days – a fair featuring midway games, a beer garden, food trucks, live entertainment and more at Aldergrove Athletic Park.
• Surrey Fusion Festival – a multicultural event at Holland Park with food vendors, music and other performances.
• The Improv Centre – tickets for the show at the theatre at Granville Island start at just $10 today (so it’s not free, but it is extra inexpensive).
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• 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.

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 Burnaby’s Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Junction Public Market – from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Poirier Street Market – from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Dogwood Pavilion parking lot in Coquitlam.
• Whistler Farmers Market – between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in the Miramar Plaza.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market with primarily (but not exclusively) second-hand goods between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Monday, July 21st (2025)

• 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.
• Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Tuesday, July 22nd (2025)

• 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.
• 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.
• Summer Cinema – a free screening of Legally Blonde outdoors in Stanley Park near Second Beach.
• Cheap Movie Night – at various Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, Mackin House, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Wednesday, July 23rd (2025)

• Celebration of Light Fireworks – live music and fireworks at Vancouver’s English Bay.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Bear Creek Park 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 – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.
• Downtown Farmers Market – in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.
• 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.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, July 24th (2025)

• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. Admission is by donation.
• Summer Movie Nights – a movie shows outdoors on a giant screen in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery at night.
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a market with vendors selling fresh produce and artisan products at New Westminster’s Tipperary Park between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• False Creek Farmers Market – a smaller market with a couple dozen vendors at Olympic Village Plaza from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• 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.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, July 25th (2025)

• Chilliwack Ribfest – food trucks, rib vendors, live entertainment and a beer garden at Chilliwack’s Vedder Park.
• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• Theatre at Place des Arts – the production Munsch at Play shows outdoors in Coquitlam. (Tickets are free, but you have to reserve your spot in advance.)
• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• 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.
• Dance Dance Dance – free salsa lessons outdoors in the plaza at Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • 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, Mackin House, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Saturday, July 26th (2025)

• Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival – a music festival that features exceptional jazz musicians and local artists. In addition to ticketed events, today features free live music and activities including the Mardi Gras Strolling Parade.
• Chilliwack Ribfest – food trucks, rib vendors, live entertainment and a beer garden at Chilliwack’s Vedder Park.
• Celebration of Light Fireworks – live music and fireworks at Vancouver’s English Bay.
• Theatre at Place des Arts – the production Munsch at Play shows outdoors in Coquitlam. (Tickets are free, but you have to reserve your spot in advance.)
• Harrison Dragon Boat Festival – dragon boat racing at Harrison Lake in the Fraser Valley.
• Caribbean Days Festival – a multicultural festival at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam.
• Raj’s Birthday Party – the Museum of Surrey hosts a free event with crafts, scavenger hunts, storytelling, birthday cake and more.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows Country Fest – a country fair-style community event in Maple Ridge.
• 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.

Saturday Markets

• Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm in Abbotsford.
• Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall.
• Chilliwack Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Central Community Park in Chilliwack.
• Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market – from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm in the parking lot of St. Andrews Historic Church.
• Junction Public Market – from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Vancouver’s Riley Park 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 – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at John Hendry Park in the north parking lot.
• West End Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at 1100 Comox Street.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap. The market is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • 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, Mackin House, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Sunday, July 27th (2025)

• Chilliwack Ribfest – food trucks, rib vendors, live entertainment and a beer garden at Chilliwack’s Vedder Park.
• Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival – a music festival that features exceptional jazz musicians and local artists. In addition to ticketed events, today features free live music and activities.
• Theatre at Place des Arts – the production Munsch at Play shows outdoors in Coquitlam. (Tickets are free, but you have to reserve your spot in advance.)
• Caribbean Days Festival – a multicultural festival at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam.
• Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows Country Fest – a country fair-style community event in Maple Ridge.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• The Improv Centre – tickets for the show at the theatre at Granville Island start at just $10 today (so it’s not free, but it is extra inexpensive).
• Summer Sundays Concerts – free live music at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• 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.

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 Burnaby’s Amazing Brentwood Mall from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
• Clayton Community Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm in the parking lot of Clayton Heights Secondary School in Surrey.
• Junction Public Market – from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Poirier Street Market – from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at 624 Poirier Street in Coquitlam.
• Whistler Farmers Market – between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm in the Upper Village Stroll.
• White Rock Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in the Miramar Plaza.
• Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $5 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
• Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market with primarily (but not exclusively) second-hand goods between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm in Surrey. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • 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.
  • 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Monday, July 28th (2025)

• Music on the Wharf – live music at the Port Haney Wharf starting at 7:30 pm in Maple Ridge.
• 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.
• Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.

Tuesday, July 29th (2025)

• 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.
• Summer Cinema – a free screening of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off takes place outdoors in Stanley Park near Second Beach.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• 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.
• Cheap Movie Night – at various Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • 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.
  • 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, Mackin House, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Wednesday, July 30th (2025)

• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at the Surrey Civic Plaza.
• 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.
• Theatre at Place des Arts – the production Munsch at Play shows outdoors in Coquitlam. (Tickets are free, but you have to reserve your spot in advance.)
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• 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.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be.
• Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are great places to visit.
• Downtown Farmers Market – in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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.
  • Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
  • 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, Mackin House, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, July 31st (2025)

• Live & Local Concert Series – free live music in North Vancouver.
• North Van’s Deckchair Cinema – a movie plays outside the Polygon Gallery near Lonsdale Quay. Admission is by donation.
• Summer Movie Nights – a movie shows outdoors on a giant screen in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery at night.
• New Westminster Farmers Market – a market with vendors selling fresh produce and artisan products at New Westminster’s Tipperary Park between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
• False Creek Farmers Market – a smaller market with a couple dozen vendors at Olympic Village Plaza from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Theatre at Place des Arts – the production Munsch at Play shows outdoors in Coquitlam. (Tickets are free, but you have to reserve your spot in advance.)
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• 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.
• Shipyard Pals – free walking tours happen today in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Junction Public Market – a market at Granville Square with live music, vendors, food trucks and a bar.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Lower Mainland Parks – on days with good weather, and it’s not too hot, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle and Vancouver’s Best Beaches.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

• Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
  • 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 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, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Other Information

Other articles that might be of interest include the following:

• Best Places for Summer Activities
• July Events Calendar
• Vancouver’s Best Beaches
• Parks and Places in Nature
• Lower Mainland Hiking Trails
• Vancouver on a Budget

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