There are usually many free things to do in May in Vancouver including Victoria Day celebrations, Ladner May Days, markets and other fun activities.
Most years in May there are also food truck festivals, parades, the BMO Vancouver Marathon to watch, and a number of other free fun events. See below for details.
Free Vancouver Activities in May
For a list of May events including activities that aren’t free, click May Events Calendar.
For a list of FREE (and almost free) activities and events this month, see below.
(Note: Schedules are subject to change. Check official websites for exact details.)
Monday, May 1st (2023)
- 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 – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Vancouver on a Budget
In addition to checking out all the free activities listed below on specific dates, click Vancouver on a Budget for a list of great activities that don’t cost a lot of money throughout the year.
Tuesday, May 2nd (2023)
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – an informal drumming event at Third Beach in Stanley Park from early evening until sunset (but only on sunny days). A few people arrive with their drums and many more just show up for the fun!
- Cheap Movie Night – at most Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
- 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 – on days with good weather, many of the region’s top parks are the best places to be!
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Wednesday, May 3rd (2023)
- 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 – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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%.
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
THE CIRCUS IS IN TOWN!
The Royal Canadian International Circus is in the Lower Mainland between May 4th and May 22nd. It’s not free, but if you use the promo code VANSBESTPLACES you can get 2-for-1 pricing on general admission, which is a fabulous deal! The circus has shows in Surrey from May 4th to 7th, in Vancouver from May 11th to 14th, and in Richmond from May 18th to 22nd.
Thursday, May 4th (2023)
- May the Fourth – a day to celebrate everything to do with Star Wars. A number of activities happen in Vancouver most years (although most aren’t free).
- 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.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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%.
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Friday, May 5th (2023)
- Cinco de Mayo – a Mexican holiday with various events around town most years (although most of them aren’t free).
- Vancouver Art Gallery – admission to the city’s main art gallery at 750 Hornby Street is by donation today (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
- Bill Reid Gallery – free admission to the First Nations art gallery between 2:00 and 5:00 pm (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
- 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 – 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 – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
Other Free & Affordable Activities
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Saturday, May 6th (2023)
- CityFest – a skateboarding festival with free live entertainment and other youth-oriented activities in North Vancouver.
- Navy Fleet Weekend – Canadian Navy ships are at Shipbuilders’ Pier in North Vancouver for people to see. You can go aboard the ships and explore them.
- TJ Fest – a free community event with Taiwanese food, market vendors and live entertainment at the Taoist Tian Jin Temple in Burnaby.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Saturday Markets
- Lonsdale Quay Farmers Market – a small 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 in Fort Langley.
- Haney Farmers Market – at Memorial Peace Park on 224th Street in Maple Ridge between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Riley Park Farmers Market – a market with around 30 or so vendors at 50 East 30th Avenue across the street from Nat Bailey Stadium between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Abbotsford Farm and Country Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm at Jubilee Park at 2552 McCallum Road.
- Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.
- Trout Lake Farmers Market – a large market at the north end of Trout Lake from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Other Free & Affordable Activities
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Sunday, May 7th (2023)
- Mother’s Day – an important day to remember Mom! Free ways to make her feel special include spending time with her (like at a Park or Outdoors in Nature, if the weather is good), or at least giving her a call and saying “thanks” and “I love you!”
- Community Block Party – a food truck event featuring more than twenty food vendors, an artisan market and live entertainment at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam. Admission to the venue is free.
- Navy Fleet Weekend – Canadian Navy ships are at Shipbuilders’ Pier in North Vancouver for people to see. You can go aboard the ships and explore them. Today there is also a ceremony and small parade to commemorate the Battle of the Atlantic which took place during the Second World War.
- TJ Fest – a free community event with Taiwanese food, market vendors and live entertainment at the Taoist Tian Jin Temple in Burnaby.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Museum of Vancouver – admission to the museum at Vanier Park is by donation today. (TIP: The Vancouver Maritime Museum is just a couple of blocks away. If you want to visit that museum too, while you’re in the area, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when booking 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.
Farmers Markets
- Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – in West Vancouver at the foot of 13th Street between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Coquitlam Farmers Market – a market at Coquitlam’s Dogwood Pavilion at 624 Poirier Street between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm.
- Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre.
- Steveston Farmers Market – at the Steveston Community Centre from 10:30 am until 3:30 pm.
- White Rock Farmers Market – at 15154 Russell Avenue from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Flea Markets
- Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market in Surrey. Admission is $1.50, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Monday, May 8th (2023)
- Navy Fleet Weekend – Canadian Navy ships are at Shipbuilders’ Pier in North Vancouver for people to see. You can go aboard the ships and explore them.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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 and London Farm. There is also Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Tuesday, May 9th (2023)
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – an informal drumming event at Third Beach in Stanley Park from early evening until sunset (but only on sunny days). A few people arrive with their drums and many more just show up for the fun!
- Cheap Movie Night – at most Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
- 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%.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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 and London Farm. There is also Britannia Heritage Shipyard, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Wednesday, May 10th (2023)
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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%.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Thursday, May 11th (2023)
- 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.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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%.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Friday, May 12th (2023)
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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%.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Saturday, May 13th (2023)
- Coquitlam Block Party – a food truck event featuring more than twenty food vendors, an artisan market and live entertainment at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam. Admission to the venue is free.
- Rotary May Day Parade & Party in the Square – a parade in downtown Port Coquitlam followed by live music at Terry Fox Hometown Square.
- 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%.
Saturday Markets
- Abbotsford Farm and Country Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm at Jubilee Park at 2552 McCallum Road.
- Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – the market normally happens at Burnaby City Hall from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Today, however, it’s at Deer Lake Park as part of a bigger event between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm.
- Fort Langley Village Farmers Market – from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm in Fort Langley.
- Haney Farmers Market – at the Memorial Peace Park on 224th Street in Maple Ridge between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Lonsdale Quay Farmers Market – a small market outside North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Riley Park Farmers Market – a market with around 30 vendors at 50 East 30th Avenue across the street from Nat Bailey Stadium between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.
- Trout Lake Farmers Market – a large market at the north end of Trout Lake from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Sunday, May 14th (2023)
- Mother’s Day – today is a day to spoil moms, grandmother’s and mothers-in-law.
- Mother’s Day at Greendale Acres – the Fraser Valley farm has all kinds of kid-friendly things to see and do. Today is the last day of their Sweet Spring season and mother’s get in for free!
- Coquitlam Block Party – a food truck event featuring more than twenty food vendors, an artisan market and live entertainment. It takes place at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam. Admission to the venue is free.
- Israeli Festival – a community festival with a food market, music and dancing at the Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Sunday Markets
- Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – in West Vancouver at the foot of 13th Street just inside the entrance to Ambleside Park between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Coquitlam Farmers Market – a market at Coquitlam’s Dogwood Pavilion at 624 Poirier Street between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm.
- Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre.
- White Rock Farmers Market – at 15154 Russell Avenue from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in White Rock.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. 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 – a giant market with primarily (but not exclusively) second-hand goods. It runs from 6:00 am until 3:00 pm in Surrey. Admission is $1.50, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Granville Island and Old Hastings Mill Store Museum in Vancouver. In Richmond there is London Farm and Britannia Heritage Shipyard. Elsewhere this is the Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Monday, May 15th (2023)
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Tuesday, May 16th (2023)
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – an informal drumming event at Third Beach in Stanley Park from early evening until sunset (but only on sunny days). A few people arrive with their drums and many more just show up for the fun!
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Cheap Movie Night – at most Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- 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%.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Wednesday, May 17th (2023)
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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%.
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
THE CIRCUS IS IN TOWN!
The Royal Canadian International Circus is in the Lower Mainland between May 4th and May 22nd. It’s not free, but if you use the promo code VANSBESTPLACES you can get 2-for-1 pricing on general admission, which is a fabulous deal! The circus has shows in Surrey from May 4th to 7th, in Vancouver from May 11th to 14th, and in Richmond from May 18th to 22nd.
Thursday, May 18th (2023)
- West of Main Art Walk – previews of the types of art that will be on display in artist’s studios around Vancouver on May 28th and 29th. Today’s exhibition is at the Roundhouse Community Centre in Yaletown from 10:00 am until 9 :00 pm.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- 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 – a market with vendors selling fresh produce at New Westminster’s Tipperary Park at 315 Queens Avenue between 3:00 and 7:00 pm.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- 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%.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Friday, May 19th (2023)
- Vancouver Comic Arts Festival – a comic-themed event at the Roundhouse in Yaletown. This evening there is a special pre-festival event featuring the launch of well-known BC author and artist Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas’s new book, JAJ: A Haida Manga.
- Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
- Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair – admission to the fairgrounds is free for children ages 12 and under (and only about $15 for everyone else).
- 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%.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Saturday, May 20th (2023)
- Vancouver Comic Arts Festival – a free event featuring hundreds of artists as well as authors, workshops and comic art at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair – admission to the fairgrounds is free for children ages 12 and under (and only about $15 for everyone else). This morning is also when the Cloverdale Rodeo Parade takes place, and that’s free for everyone!
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Saturday Markets
- Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – at Burnaby City Hall from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
- Lonsdale Quay Farmers Market – a small 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 in Fort Langley.
- Haney Farmers Market – at the Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Riley Park Farmers Market – a market with around 30 vendors near Nat Bailey Stadium between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.
- Trout Lake Farmers Market – a large market at the north end of Trout Lake from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm.
- West End Farmers Market – at 1100 Comox Street between Thurlow and Bute from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm.
- Abbotsford Farm and Country Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm at Jubilee Park at 2552 McCallum Road.
- 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, May 21st (2023)
- Vancouver Comic Arts Festival – a free event featuring hundreds of artists as well as authors, workshops and comic art at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
- Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair – admission to the fairgrounds is free for children ages 12 and under (and only about $15 for everyone else).
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Engine 374 Anniversary – a party at the Roundhouse Community Centre in Yaletown celebrating the anniversary of the first passenger train to arrive in Vancouver over 135 years ago.
- Jazz Vespers – from 4:00 until 5:00 pm in the sanctuary at St. Andrews-Wesley United at 1018 Nelson Street in Vancouver. Today features Benjamin MacRae’s Grand Slam.
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Farmers Markets
- Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – in West Vancouver at the foot of 13th Street between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Coquitlam Farmers Market – a market at Coquitlam’s Dogwood Pavilion at 624 Poirier Street between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm.
- Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre.
- Steveston Farmers Market – at the Steveston Community Centre from 10:30 am until 3:30 pm.
- Whistler Farmers Market – between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm at the bottom of Blackcomb Mountain.
- White Rock Farmers Market – at 15154 Russell Avenue from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in White Rock.
Flea Markets
- Cloverdale Flea Market – a giant market with primarily (but not exclusively) second-hand goods in Surrey. Admission is $1.50, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
- 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.
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Monday, May 22nd (2023)
- Victoria Day – the statutory holiday of the May Long Weekend.
- Fort Langley May Day Parade & Festival – a large parade along Glover Road and community festival in the park.
- Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair – admission to the fairgrounds is free for children ages 12 and under (and only about $15 for everyone else).
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Tuesday, May 23rd (2023)
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – an informal drumming event at Third Beach in Stanley Park from early evening until sunset (but only on sunny days). A few people arrive with their drums and many more just show up for the fun!
- Cheap Movie Night – at most Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
- 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 good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Wednesday, May 24th (2023)
- 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 good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Thursday, May 25th (2023)
- Movie Night at the Museum – The NeverEnding Story shows for free at MONOVA: The Museum of North Vancouver.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- 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.
- 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 good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Friday, May 26th (2023)
- Ladner May Days – a community fair at Memorial Park. The amusement rides cost money, but the live music and admission to the site are free.
- Shipyards Night Market – artisan vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District.
- 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 good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Saturday, May 27th (2023)
- West of Main Art Walk – numerous art studios around Vancouver are open to the public today between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm.
- Ladner May Days – a community fair at Memorial Park. The amusement rides cost money, but the live music and admission to the site are free.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Hyack Parade – a parade and community festival in New Westminster.
- White Rock Buskers & Comedy Fest – buskers perform at various locations in the streets of White Rock today.
Saturday Markets
- Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market – at Burnaby City Hall from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
- Lonsdale Quay Farmers Market – a small 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 in Fort Langley.
- Haney Farmers Market – at the Memorial Peace Park on 224th Street in Maple Ridge between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Riley Park Farmers Market – a market with around 30 vendors at 50 East 30th Avenue across the street from Nat Bailey Stadium between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Squamish Farmers Market – in downtown Squamish between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.
- Trout Lake Farmers Market – a large market at the north end of Trout Lake from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm.
- West End Farmers Market – at 1100 Comox Street between Thurlow and Bute from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm.
- Abbotsford Farm and Country Market – between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm at Jubilee Park at 2552 McCallum Road.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Sunday, May 28th (2023)
- West of Main Art Walk – numerous art studios around Vancouver are open to the public today between 11:00 am and 5:00 pm.
- BC Polish Festival – a fun event with music, dancing and food at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre from 1:00 until around 9:00 pm.
- Ladner May Days – a community fair at Memorial Park. The amusement rides cost money, but the live music and admission to the site are free.
- Spot Prawn Festival – an event celebrating spot-prawn season at Fishermen’s Wharf in False Creek. Admission to the venue is free, but you have to pay for the prawns and any other food you purchase.
- Brookswood Car Show – antique and collectible cars fill the parking lot at Langley’s Brookswood Secondary School. Admission for the public is by donation.
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Farmers Markets
- Ambleside Artisan Farmers Market – in West Vancouver at the foot of 13th Street just inside the entrance to Ambleside Park between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.
- Chilliwack Farmers Market – at 9360 Mill Street from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm in downtown Chilliwack.
- Coquitlam Farmers Market – a market at Coquitlam’s Dogwood Pavilion at 624 Poirier Street between 9:00 am and 1:00 pm.
- Kitsilano Farmers Market – between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm at the Kitsilano Community Centre.
- Whistler Farmers Market – between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm at the bottom of Blackcomb Mountain.
- White Rock Farmers Market – at 15154 Russell Avenue from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in White Rock.
Flea Markets
- 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 $1.50, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
- Vancouver Flea Market – an indoor flea market at 703 Terminal Avenue in Vancouver between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Admission ranges from $2 to $4 depending on the day’s event, so it’s not free, but it is pretty cheap.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Monday, May 29th (2023)
- Bike to Work Week – the week of May 29th to June 4th people are encouraged to bike to work instead of driving or taking transit.
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Tuesday, May 30th (2023)
- Brahm’s Tam Drum Circle – an informal drumming event at Third Beach in Stanley Park from early evening until sunset (but only on sunny days). A few people arrive with their drums and many more just show up for the fun!
- Bike to Work Week – the week of May 29th to June 4th people are encouraged to bike to work instead of driving or taking transit.
- 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%.
- Cheap Movie Night – at most Metro Vancouver cinemas (so it’s not free, but it is extra cheap).
- Lower Mainland Parks – if good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Wednesday, May 31st (2023)
- Burnaby Village – the outdoor museum is open from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm.
- Bike to Work Week – the week of May 29th to June 4th people are encouraged to bike to work instead of driving or taking transit.
- 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 good weather, various parks and places in nature are “best places” to be. Other great areas to enjoy include Best Places to Walk, Jog and Cycle.
- Vancouver Beaches – if the weather is warmer then go check out some of Vancouver’s best beaches! It might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean, but it might be good enough for a picnic or lying on the sand.
Other Places on a Budget
- 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.
- Fort Langley Historic Site – admission is free for folks under the age of 18.
- Gulf of Georgia Cannery – kids ages 17 and under are free at the historic site in Steveston Village.
- 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, Museum of Surrey, Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, Port Moody Station Museum and Stewart Farm. (See attraction articles and website for details about hours and admission.)
Other Information
For a more complete list of things to do in May, including activities that aren’t free, see Vancouver’s May Events Calendar.
And for a list of great activities that don’t cost a lot of money throughout the year, click Vancouver on a Budget.
Other articles that might be of interest include the following:
- Lower Mainland Parks and Nature
- Camping in the Lower Mainland
- Vancouver Activities for Children
- Hiking Opportunities in the Lower Mainland
- Rainy Day Activities
For a list of things happening in communities within two or three hours of the Lower Mainland, see the calendars of events on the WhatToDoInWhistler.ca and VictoriasBestPlaces.com websites.