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 2026. Most are completely free, although a few are by donation or just very cheap.

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

 

Wednesday, July 1st (2026)

• 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 typically 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.
• Vancouver Jazz Festival – the music festival has free performances at a number of venues.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Summer of Soccer in Coquitlam – live World Cup broadcasts and other family-friendly things to do at Town Centre 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.
• 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.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage. Today though features extra entertainment for Canada Day.
• 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%.
• 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 2nd (2026)

• Vancouver Jazz Festival – the music festival has free performances at a number of venues.
• 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.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• 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.
• 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, 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 3rd (2026)

• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Vancouver Art Gallery – admission to the city’s main art gallery at 750 Hornby Street is free between 4:00 and 8:00 pm (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• 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).
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Vancouver Jazz Festival – the music festival has free performances at a number of venues.
• 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 4th (2026)

• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival – today features live performances, workshops, market vendors and more at the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza.
• Vancouver Jazz Festival – the music festival has free performances at a number of venues.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• 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.
• 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 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at The City of Lougheed Shopping Centre.
• 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 6:00 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 5th (2026)

• Taiwanese Canadian Cultural Festival – today features live performances, workshops, market vendors and more at the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Vancouver Jazz Festival – the music festival has free performances at a number of venues.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• 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 Sundays Concerts – free live music 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).
• Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.

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.
• Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
• Ladner Village Market – a large farmers and artisan market in downtown Ladner.
• Coquitlam Farmers 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 6th (2026)

• Richmond Celebrates Soccer – a free event at South Arm Community Park celebrating FIFA in Vancouver.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• 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 7th (2026)

• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Richmond Celebrates Soccer – a free event at King George Park celebrating FIFA in Vancouver.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – if it’s sunny, informal drumming happens at Third Beach in the evening.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery – admission to the historic site in Steveston Village is free this summer.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• 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 8th (2026)

• 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.
• 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 Glades Woodland Garden 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.
• 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 9th (2026)

• 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.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• False Creek Farmers Market – a smaller market with a couple dozen vendors at Olympic Village Plaza from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at Leigh Square from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 10th (2026)

• Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Kitsilano Showboat – free live music and entertainment happens at Kitsilano Beach on the Showboat stage.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Fort Langley – admission to the national historic site is free for Canadians this summer.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• 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.)

 

 

Saturday, July 11th (2026)

• Khatsahlano Street Party – a large outdoor street party in Kitsilano.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at Surrey Civic Plaza and the Cloverdale Agriplex.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and other performances at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Richmond Celebrates Soccer – a free event at Burkeville Neighbourhood Park celebrating FIFA in Vancouver.
• Abbotsford Berry Fest – a block party-style event celebrating the summer berry season in downtown Abbotsford.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• 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 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at The City of Lougheed Shopping Centre.
• 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.
• 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 12th (2026)

• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and other performances 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.
• 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%.
• 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 6:00 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.
• Coquitlam Farmers 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 13th (2026)

• 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 14th (2026)

• 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 other performances at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at the Cloverdale Agriplex, South Surrey Athletic Park and Surrey Civic Plaza.
• Summer Cinema – a free film screening outdoors in Stanley Park near Second Beach.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• Richmond Celebrates Soccer – a free event at Hugh Boyd Community Park celebrating FIFA in Vancouver.
• 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.
  • 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, Mackin House, POMO Museum, Museum of Surrey and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

 

 

Wednesday, July 15th (2026)

• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and other performances 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 Bear Creek Garden in Surrey.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at the Cloverdale Agriplex, South Surrey Athletic Park and Surrey Civic Plaza.
• 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.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• 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 16th (2026)

• Summer Movie Nights – a movie shows outdoors on a giant screen in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery at night.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
  • 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 17th (2026)

• 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.
• 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.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and other performances 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.
• 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 18th (2026)

• Symphony in the Park – a free concert by the Vancouver Symphony Deer Lake Park in Burnaby.
• 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.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at the Cloverdale Agriplex, South Surrey Athletic Park and Surrey Civic Plaza.
• Richmond Celebrates Soccer – a free event at Steveston Community Park celebrating FIFA in Vancouver.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• 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.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and other performances 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 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at The City of Lougheed Shopping Centre.
• 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 6:00 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 19th (2026)

• Opera in the Park – a free concert with the Vancouver Opera at Burnaby’s Deer Lake Park.
• 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.
• Richmond Celebrates Soccer – the final event of the community series takes place at Aberdeen Neighbourhood Park today.
• Soccer in the Square at UBC – World Cup live stream viewings and activities at Wesbrook Village.
• Granville Island Watch Party – free soccer broadcasts and community programming in Vancouver.
• Summer of Soccer in Coquitlam – live World Cup broadcasts and other family-friendly things to do at Percy Perry Stadium.
• Harrison Festival of the Arts – live music and other performances at Harrison Hot Springs. The entertainment is free but donations are appreciated.
• Surrey Soccer Fan Zones in Surrey – free screenings of FIFA games and other fun activities at the Cloverdale Agriplex, South Surrey Athletic Park and Surrey Civic Plaza.
• Aldergrove Fair Days – a fair featuring midway games, a beer garden, food trucks, live entertainment and more at Aldergrove Athletic Park.
• FIFA Fan Festival – live match broadcasts, performances and other soccer-related activities at the PNE.
• Surrey Fusion Festival – a multicultural event at Holland Park with food vendors, music and other performances.
• 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 6:00 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.
• Ladner Village Market – a large farmers and artisan market in downtown Ladner.
• Coquitlam Farmers 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.
  • 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 20th (2026)

• 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 21st (2026)

• 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 film screening 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).
• 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 22nd (2026)

• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Sullivan Heights 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.
  • 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 23rd (2026)

• 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.
• Burnaby Summer Stages – free live music and other entertainment takes place today at Confederation Park.
• 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.
• 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.
  • 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 24th (2026)

• Chilliwack Ribfest – food trucks, rib vendors, live entertainment and a beer garden at Chilliwack’s Vedder Park.
• Sounds of Summer Music Concert – free live music at Brownsville Bar Park in Surrey.
• Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows Country Fest – a country fair-style community event in Maple Ridge.
• Theatre at Place des Arts – the production The Emperor’s New Threads 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.
• Summer Sounds at Wesbrook Village – free live music in Norman Mackenzie Square at UBC’s Wesbrook Village.
• 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.
  • 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 25th (2026)

• 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.
• Chinatown Festival – lion dancing and other cultural performances and activities in Vancouver’s Chinatown.
• Theatre at Place des Arts – the production The Emperor’s New Threads 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.
• Summer Sounds at Wesbrook Village – free live music in Norman Mackenzie Square at UBC’s Wesbrook Village.
• Caribbean Days Festival – a multicultural festival at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam.
• 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 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at The City of Lougheed Shopping Centre.
• 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 6:00 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 26th (2026)

• 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 The Emperor’s New Threads shows outdoors in Coquitlam. (Tickets are free, but you have to reserve your spot in advance.)
• Chinatown Festival – lion dancing and other cultural performances and activities in Vancouver’s Chinatown.
• 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.
• 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 6:00 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.
• Coquitlam Farmers 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.
  • 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 27th (2026)

• 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.
• 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 28th (2026)

• 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 film screening 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).
• 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.
  • 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 29th (2026)

• 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.
• 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 The Emperor’s New Threads shows at Coquitlam Public Library. (Tickets are free, but you have to reserve your spot in advance.)
• 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%.
  • 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 30th (2026)

• 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 The Emperor’s New Threads shows at Coquitlam Public Library. (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.
• 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.
• 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.
  • 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 31st (2026)

• Theatre at Place des Arts – the production The Emperor’s New Threads 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.
• Summer Sounds at Wesbrook Village – free live music in Norman Mackenzie Square at UBC’s Wesbrook Village.
• 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.
  • 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

For a list of things happening in communities within two or three hours of the Lower Mainland, see the calendars of events on the VictoriasBestPlaces.com and WhatToDoInWhistler.ca websites.

Other websites you might also find of interest include VancouverFoodFestivals.ca, VancouverForKids.ca, and VancouverMarkets.ca.