Weekend in Vancouver
This weekend in Vancouver is dominated by the iconic PNE Fair, offering a wide array of entertainment, food, and thrilling rides. Beyond the fairgrounds, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Richmond Night Market, catch live music from global artists, explore compelling art exhibitions, or cheer on local sports teams. It's a fantastic blend of big summer traditions and unique cultural highlights.
Friday Evening - Concerts & Markets
Friday, August 22Deftones Concert
Experience the North American Tour 2025 featuring Deftones, with special guests Phantogram and The Barbarians of California.
This highly anticipated rock concert promises an energetic start to the weekend for music enthusiasts.
Deftones is a popular alternative metal band known for their dynamic live performances. Phantogram is an electronic rock duo. Attending a concert at Rogers Arena is a classic Vancouver nightlife experience. Expect a large crowd and a lively atmosphere.
Rogers Arena is easily accessible by SkyTrain. Take the Expo or Millennium Line to Stadium-Chinatown Station, or the Canada Line to Vancouver City Centre and walk a few blocks east.
Shipyards Night Market
Kick off your weekend at the lively Shipyards Night Market in North Vancouver, offering live music, food vendors, and market activities.
This is a popular local spot to enjoy the evening by the waterfront.
Enjoy performances by local bands like Darling Skies and Aristo-Cats while sampling diverse food truck offerings and browsing artisan stalls. It's a family-friendly atmosphere that extends into the evening, perfect for a relaxed yet vibrant start to the weekend.
Take the SeaBus from Waterfront Station in Downtown Vancouver across to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver. Shipbuilder's Square is just a short walk from the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal.
Saturday - Fair Fun & Cultural Exploration
Saturday, August 23PNE Fair Day
Spend the day at the iconic PNE Fair (Pacific National Exhibition), a beloved annual summer event.
Enjoy thrilling amusement rides at Playland, explore various exhibits, try unique fair food, and experience live shows.
The PNE offers a diverse range of entertainment for all ages, from the adrenaline-pumping rides of Playland to agricultural displays, interactive attractions, and various performances throughout the day. It's a quintessential Vancouver summer tradition.
The PNE is accessible by various TransLink bus routes. Check the TransLink website for specific routes to Hastings Park. Public transit is highly recommended due to parking limitations.
Bard Shakespeare Play
Immerse yourself in a world-class outdoor theatre experience at Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival.
Witness a matinee performance of one of their 2025 season plays, such as 'Much Ado About Nothing' or 'The Two Gentlemen of Verona'.
Bard on the Beach offers an unparalleled setting with a stunning backdrop of the ocean, mountains, and city skyline. The 2025 season features both classic and innovative productions of Shakespeare's works, providing a unique cultural experience. 'Much Ado About Nothing' is a witty comedy, and 'The Two Gentlemen of Verona' is presented with an '80s twist.
Vanier Park is reachable by bus. Take bus routes like the R4 41st Ave or 84 VCC-Clark and connect to local routes towards Kitsilano Beach, followed by a short walk. Cycling paths are also popular.
Live Art Creation
Witness art in the making at the Vancouver Fine Art Gallery's Live Painting Event.
Every summer weekend, represented artists create paintings or sculptures in real time, offering a unique opportunity to connect with artists and observe their creative process.
The gallery also features ongoing exhibitions, including 'Christine Reimer | Nature Reimagined in Abstraction,' 'Frida Kahlo | Icon of Mexican Art,' and 'Sculpting the Spirit – Gao Feng,' as well as a collection of 'World-Renowned Masters.' This provides a more intimate art experience compared to larger galleries.
The gallery is located on Granville Street, easily accessible by bus routes such as the #10 Granville or #16 29th Ave Station. Street parking may be available.
Richmond Night Market
Dive into North America's largest night market, the Richmond Night Market, celebrating its 25th anniversary. Explore hundreds of international food stalls offering 'over-the-top eats,' along with retail vendors, carnival games, and live performances.
This vibrant, family-friendly market is a cultural phenomenon known for its diverse culinary offerings and lively atmosphere. New for 2025, experience a 600-foot zipline! Come after 10 PM for 'After Dark' discounted admission. Remember to bring cash as many vendors do not accept card.
Take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Bridgeport Station. The Richmond Night Market is a short walk or shuttle ride from the station. Driving is not recommended due to heavy traffic and limited parking.
Sunday - Art, Sports & Movement
Sunday, August 24Art Gallery Workshop
Engage your creative side at the Vancouver Art Gallery's 'The Making Place | Monoprints and Pastels' family workshop.
Explore various current exhibitions on display, including 'Otani Workshop: Monsters in My Head' and 'Emily Carr: Navigating an Impenetrable Landscape'.
The Vancouver Art Gallery is a significant cultural institution in the city, offering a wide range of contemporary and historical art. 'The Making Place' provides a hands-on experience suitable for families and anyone interested in artistic expression.
The Vancouver Art Gallery is centrally located and easily accessible by SkyTrain (Vancouver City Centre or Granville Station) and numerous bus routes. It's a short walk from most downtown locations.
Canadians Baseball Game
Catch a thrilling baseball game as the Vancouver Canadians take on the Tri-City Dust Devils at Nat Bailey Stadium. Enjoy the quintessential summer experience of minor league baseball, a local favourite.
The Vancouver Canadians offer a fun, affordable, and family-friendly atmosphere at their historic stadium. Enjoy classic ballpark food, fan entertainment between innings, and cheer on Vancouver's resident minor league team. A great way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon.
Nat Bailey Stadium is accessible by bus. Take the #15 Cambie bus southbound from downtown, which stops directly outside the stadium. Limited parking is available on-site.
BEST Move Festival
Participate in or observe 'BEST Move,' a free event celebrating active and sustainable transportation.
This community event often features various activities and demonstrations promoting environmentally friendly ways to get around the city.
BEST Move is a great opportunity to connect with local initiatives promoting sustainability and healthy living. It's a casual outdoor event perfect for enjoying the beautiful waterfront park in Yaletown while engaging with the community's commitment to active transportation.
David Lam Park is easily accessible by Canada Line SkyTrain (Yaletown-Roundhouse Station) or by bus routes that serve the Yaletown area. It's also a popular destination for cycling and walking along the False Creek Seawall.
This weekend itinerary for Vancouver can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.