September is a fabulous month to be in Metro Vancouver. The weather is still usually nice, plus there are great free events and things to do in the region.
Best FREE Places in September in Vancouver
Free (or almost free) things to do in September most years include various festivals, plus many of the summer’s regular great activities like Farmers Markets and exploring the great outdoors. There are also free attractions like Burnaby Village (in the first week of the month), the Polygon Gallery, Britannia Heritage Shipyards, Shipyard Pals walking tours and Stanley Park, as well as Beaches and Nature to explore.
Below is a list of some of the best free and extra-inexpensive things to do this month in the Lower Mainland.
(Note: Event locations, times, prices and other details listed below are subject to change. Check with each event’s website for the most up-to-date information.)
Friday, September 1st (2023)
- Labour Day Weekend – a number of free events happen at various venues in the Lower Mainland this weekend.
- Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
- PNE Fair – Vancouver’s annual summer fair isn’t free, but for what you get it’s a really good deal. What makes it an even better deal? If you use the promo code VBP23, you can buy four admission tickets online for just $40 (which is less than half the full price for adults at the gate)! To redeem the offer and save up to $60, click VBP’s PNE Deal and use the VBP23 promo code.
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work outside the Vancouver Convention Centre in Jack Poole Plaza (weather permitting).
- 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).
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- 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).
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Saturday, September 2nd (2023)
- Labour Day Weekend – a number of free events happen throughout the Lower Mainland this weekend.
- PNE Fair – Vancouver’s annual summer fair isn’t free, but for what you get it’s a really good deal. What makes it an even better deal? If you use the promo code VBP23, you can buy four admission tickets online for just $40 (which is less than half the full price for adults at the gate)! To redeem the offer and save up to $60, click VBP’s PNE Deal and use the VBP23 promo code.
- Bands on the Beach – free outdoor concerts at Harrison Hot Springs.
- Taiwanfest – various activities and live entertainment happen along Granville Street in downtown Vancouver between around 11:00 am and 9:30 pm.
- Orpheum Theatre Public Tours – a free tour of the Orpheum Theatre takes place from 11:00 am until 12:30 pm.
- 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 in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.
Saturday Markets
- Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm in downtown Abbotsford.
- Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall at 4949 Canada Way.
- Lonsdale Quay Artisan Farmers Market – a market outside North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- 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.
- Haney Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
- Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Vancouver’s Riley Park near Nat Bailey Stadium.
- Squamish Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 3:00 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 in Vancouver’s West End.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Sunday, September 3rd (2023)
- Labour Day Weekend – a number of free events happen throughout the Lower Mainland this weekend.
- Vancouver Polish Festival – music, dancing, food and other cultural activities in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. Admission is free!
- PNE Fair – Vancouver’s annual summer fair isn’t free, but for what you get it’s a really good deal. What makes it an even better deal? If you use the promo code VBP23, you can buy four admission tickets online for just $40 (which is less than half the full price for adults at the gate)! To redeem the offer and save up to $60, click VBP’s PNE Deal and use the VBP23 promo code.
- 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).
- Bands on the Beach – free outdoor concerts at Harrison Hot Springs.
- Taiwanfest – various activities and live entertainment happen along Granville Street in downtown Vancouver between around 11:00 am and 9:30 pm.
- Victory Square Block Party – a free event featuring live music in Vancouver’s Downtown East Side. (TBC)
- 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 in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.
Sunday Farmers Markets
- Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Ambleside Park in West Vancouver.
- Chilliwack Farmers Market – at 9360 Mill Street from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
- Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
- Mount Pleasant Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 8th Avenue & Guelph Street.
- 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.
Flea Markets
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
- Cloverdale Flea Market – between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm at Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Admission is $1.50, but free for children ages 12 and under.
Monday, September 4th (2023)
- Labour Day – a statutory holiday with various events happening throughout the Lower Mainland this weekend.
- PNE Fair – Vancouver’s annual summer fair isn’t free, but for what you get it’s a really good deal. What makes it an even better deal? If you use the promo code VBP23, you can buy four admission tickets online for just $40 (which is less than half the full price for adults at the gate)! To redeem the offer and save up to $60, click VBP’s PNE Deal and use the VBP23 promo code.
- Taiwanfest – various activities and live entertainment happen along Granville Street in downtown Vancouver between around 11:00 am and about 6:00 pm.
- Labour Day at Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum celebrates its final day of the summer season.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Tuesday, September 5th (2023)
- Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach if the weather is sunny from early evening until sunset. Free!
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Wednesday, September 6th (2023)
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work at 855 West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver (weather permitting).
- 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).
- Downtown Farmers Market – held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in the North Plaza from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Thursday, September 7th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at the Sevenoaks Shopping Centre in Abbotsford today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Opening Reception at Place Des Arts – an event celebrating the opening of 3 new exhibitions at the Coquitlam arts centre.
- New Westminster Farmers Market – a market at Tipperary Park between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
- False Creek Farmers Market – from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm in Concord Community Park near False Creek.
- Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at the Terry Fox Hometown Square outside the Port Coquitlam Community Centre from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Vancouver Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Lower Mainland beaches are also great places to visit.
Friday, September 8th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at the Sevenoaks Shopping Centre in Abbotsford today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
- Fully Charged LIVE – a large electric vehicle and home energy exhibition at the Vancouver Convention Centre. You have to buy tickets to the indoor event, but there are free things to see outside in Jack Poole Plaza. Also, if you use the promo code FCFIFTY, you can save 50% on tickets to the show.
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work outside the Vancouver Convention Centre in Jack Poole Plaza (weather permitting).
- Kerrisdale Days – a small community event that features a free outdoor movie in the evening.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
Saturday, September 9th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at the Sevenoaks Shopping Centre in Abbotsford today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Fully Charged LIVE – a large electric vehicle and home energy exhibition at the Vancouver Convention Centre. You have to buy tickets to the indoor event, but there are free things to see outside in Jack Poole Plaza. Also, if you use the promo code FCFIFTY, you can save 50% on tickets to the show.
- Recovery Day BC in New West – a free street party in New Westminster between 12:00 and 6:00 pm. It features information about mental health and addiction issues as well as live music.
- Commercial Drive Car Free Day – a free street party along Vancouver’s Commercial Drive.
- Kerrisdale Days – a small community event in Vancouver.
- Lights Up Chinatown – food trucks, festive decorations and entertainment in Vancouver’s Chinatown.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Saturday Markets
- Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm in downtown Abbotsford.
- Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall at 4949 Canada Way.
- Lonsdale Quay Artisan Farmers Market – a market outside North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- 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.
- Haney Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
- 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 10:00 am to 3:00 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 in Vancouver’s West End.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Sunday, September 10th (2023)
- Grandparents’ Day
- Fully Charged LIVE – a large electric vehicle and home energy exhibition at the Vancouver Convention Centre. You have to buy tickets to the indoor event, but there are free things to see outside in Jack Poole Plaza. Also, if you use the promo code FCFIFTY, you can save 50% on tickets to the show.
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at the Sevenoaks Shopping Centre in Abbotsford today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Port Coquitlam Car Free Day – a free street party on McAllister Avenue.
- Lights Up Chinatown – food trucks, festive decorations and entertainment 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).
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Sunday Farmers Markets
- Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Ambleside Park in West Vancouver.
- Chilliwack Farmers Market – at 9360 Mill Street from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
- Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
- Mount Pleasant Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 8th Avenue & Guelph Street.
- Nikkei Garden Farmers Market – fresh produce and artisan vendors at the Nikkei Centre in Burnaby.
- 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.
Flea Markets
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
- Cloverdale Flea Market – between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm at Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Admission is $1.50, but free for children ages 12 and under.
Ways to Save on Adult Refreshments!
Did you know that there are a number of parks and plazas on Vancouver’s North Shore where you can drink alcohol in public? You can buy your beverages at the liquor store and enjoy them with your friends at some fabulous places. See our article about North Shore Alcohol-Friendly Parks for details.
Monday, September 11th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at the Sevenoaks Shopping Centre in Abbotsford today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Tuesday, September 12th (2023)
- Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach if the weather is sunny from early evening until sunset.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Wednesday, September 13th (2023)
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work at 855 West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver (weather permitting).
- Downtown Farmers Market – held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in the North Plaza from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.
- 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 – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Thursday, September 14th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Guildford Town Centre in Surrey today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- New Westminster Farmers Market – a market at Tipperary Park at 315 Queens Avenue between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
- False Creek Farmers Market – from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm in Concord Community Park near False Creek.
- Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at the Terry Fox Hometown Square outside the Port Coquitlam Community Centre from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
Friday, September 15th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Guildford Town Centre in Surrey today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work outside the Vancouver Convention Centre in Jack Poole Plaza (weather permitting).
- MCC Festival for World Relief – an event with free admission, family-friendly activities, food and other items for sale at TRADEX in Abbotsford.
- SFU StreetFest – a street party-style event at Simon Fraser University on Burnaby Mountain.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
Saturday, September 16th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Guildford Town Centre in Surrey today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Shipyards Festival – a free music festival featuring concerts, a beer garden and family-friendly activities in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District from 12:00 until 10:00 pm.
- MCC Festival for World Relief – an event with free admission, family-friendly activities, food and other items for sale at TRADEX in Abbotsford.
- SFU StreetFest – a street party-style event at Simon Fraser University on Burnaby Mountain.
- Main Street Car Free Day – a free street party along Main Street in Vancouver.
- Cloverdale Market Days – an artisan market in downtown Cloverdale.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Saturday Markets
- Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm in downtown Abbotsford.
- Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall at 4949 Canada Way.
- Lonsdale Quay Artisan Farmers Market – a market outside North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- 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.
- Haney Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
- 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 10:00 am to 3:00 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 in Vancouver’s West End.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Sunday, September 17th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Guildford Town Centre in Surrey today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Terry Fox Runs – running events at various venues around the Lower Mainland. They are free to watch, but they are also fundraising events for cancer research.
- 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).
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Sunday Farmers Markets
- Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Ambleside Park in West Vancouver.
- Chilliwack Farmers Market – at 9360 Mill Street from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
- Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
- Mount Pleasant Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 8th Avenue & Guelph Street.
- 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.
Flea Markets
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
- Cloverdale Flea Market – between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm at Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Admission is $1.50, but free for children ages 12 and under.
Monday, September 18th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Guildford Town Centre in Surrey today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Tuesday, September 19th (2023)
- Taste of Abby – a celebration of the harvest season and local restaurants in Abbotsford. Today features the Taste of Abby Pickleball + Pints event at Jubilee Park. Registration is free.
- Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach if the weather is sunny from early evening until sunset.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Wednesday, September 20th (2023)
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work at 855 West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver (weather permitting).
- Taste of Abby – a celebration of the harvest season and local restaurants in Abbotsford. Today’s free event is Grape-Stomping at Singletree Winery.
- Downtown Farmers Market – held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in the North Plaza from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.
- 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 – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Thursday, September 21st (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Tsawwassen Mills Mall in South Delta today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Beaty Nocturnal – admission to UBC’s Beaty Biodiversity Museum is by donation this evening between 5:00 and 8:30 pm.
- New Westminster Farmers Market – at Tipperary Park at 315 Queens Avenue between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
- False Creek Farmers Market – from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm in Concord Community Park near False Creek.
- Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at the Terry Fox Hometown Square outside the Port Coquitlam Community Centre from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Friday, September 22nd (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Tsawwassen Mills Mall in South Delta today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work outside the Vancouver Convention Centre in Jack Poole Plaza (weather permitting).
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Saturday, September 23rd (2023)
- Riverfest – free family-friendly activities hosted by the Fraser River Discovery Centre in New Westminster. Also today, admission to the museum is free.
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Tsawwassen Mills Mall in South Delta today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Vancouver International Flamenco Festival – free dance performances take place at Granville Island.
- Fire Dragon Festival – a free event in Vancouver’s Chinatown.
- Shipyards Festival – a free community event with live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
- Orpheum Theatre Public Tours – a free tour of the Orpheum Theatre takes place from 11:00 am until 12:30 pm.
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Saturday Markets
- Artisan Market at Kits Church – there is live music, artisan vendors, face painting and plants, clothes and food for sale in the parking lot at Kitsilano Christian Community Church at 1708 West 16th Avenue from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm.
- Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm in downtown Abbotsford.
- Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall at 4949 Canada Way.
- Lonsdale Quay Artisan Farmers Market – a market outside North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- 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.
- Haney Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
- 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 10:00 am to 3:00 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 in Vancouver’s West End.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Sunday, September 24th (2023)
- Circo Osorio Circus – the circus is at Tsawwassen Mills Mall in South Delta today. The shows aren’t free, but they are very affordable (especially as up to 2 children get in for free per paying adult)!
- Riverfest – free family-friendly activities hosted by the Fraser River Discovery Centre in New Westminster. Today features a variety of tours in different places. Also today, admission to the museum is free.
- Vancouver International Flamenco Festival – free dance performances take place at Granville Island.
- West End Car Free Day – a street party along Denman Street in Vancouver’s West End.
- Fire Dragon Festival – a free event in Vancouver’s Chinatown.
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
- Shipyard Pals – last day of the season for the free walking tours in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District. They are hosted by MONOVA (a.k.a. the Museum of North Vancouver).
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Sunday Farmers Markets
- Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm at Ambleside Park in West Vancouver.
- Chilliwack Farmers Market – at 9360 Mill Street from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
- Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre in Vancouver.
- Mount Pleasant Farmers Market – from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at 8th Avenue & Guelph Street.
- Nikkei Garden Farmers Market – fresh produce and artisan vendors at the Nikkei Centre in Burnaby.
- 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.
Flea Markets
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
- Cloverdale Flea Market – between 6:00 am and 3:00 pm at Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Admission is $1.50, but free for children ages 12 and under.
Monday, September 25th (2023)
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
Tuesday, September 26th (2023)
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
- Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – drumming takes place at Stanley Park’s Third Beach if the weather is sunny from early evening until sunset.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Wednesday, September 27th (2023)
- Downtown Farmers Market – held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery in the North Plaza from 2:00 until 6:00 pm.
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work outside the Vancouver Convention Centre in Jack Poole Plaza (weather permitting).
- 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).
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Thursday, September 28th (2023)
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
- New Westminster Farmers Market – at Tipperary Park at 315 Queens Avenue between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
- False Creek Farmers Market – from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm in Concord Community Park near False Creek.
- Port Coquitlam Farmers Market – a small market at the Terry Fox Hometown Square outside the Port Coquitlam Community Centre from 3:00 until 7:00 pm.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Friday, September 29th (2023)
- Art Downtown – a group of local artists display their work outside the Vancouver Convention Centre in Jack Poole Plaza (weather permitting).
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
- Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks and admire the boats in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Saturday, September 30th (2023)
- National Day for Truth & Reconciliation – a day for people to remember and acknowledge the racist history of Canada’s former residential school system and work towards a better tomorrow.
- Made in the 604 Market – an artisan market showcasing the work of local artisan vendors at the Shipyards in North Vancouver.
- BC Culture Days – live and online events take place at various venues in the Lower Mainland and around the province.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if it’s nice out, then enjoy the outdoors in one of the region’s best parks and places in nature.
- Lower Mainland Beaches – especially if the weather is good, Vancouver beaches are also great places to visit.
Saturday Markets
- Abbotsford Country Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm in downtown Abbotsford.
- Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm outside Burnaby City Hall at 4949 Canada Way.
- Lonsdale Quay Artisan Farmers Market – a market outside North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- 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.
- Haney Farmers Market – between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm at Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge.
- 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 10:00 am to 3:00 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 in Vancouver’s West End.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
For a full list of things to do in September, including events that aren’t free, see Vancouver’s September Calendar or the Festivals & Events Calendar.
For other affordable things to do, see Vancouver on a Budget.
To see what’s happening next month, check out the October Calendar of Events.