Longer nights, crisp air. Fall is upon us and for us Vancouverites that means Thanksgiving, Halloween and much, much more.
We’ve compiled a list for you to make the most of your fall: consider this your Fall 2014 bucket list!
50 Things to do in Vancouver This Fall
Free Things to do this Fall in Vancouver
Eastside Culture Crawl
Vancouver’s largest art crawl. The 18th Annual Eastside Culture Crawl – Vancouver’s 4-day visual arts, design and crafts festival. This event involves more than 20,000 people visiting artists in their studios in the area bounded by Main Street and Victoria Drive north of First Avenue in Vancouver, Canada. More information here.
Etsy “Made in Canada” Vancouver Market at Robson Square
On Saturday, September 27, 23 locations across Canada will host a one-day marketplace, bringing together local Etsy sellers and communities in celebration of the country’s maker movement. As a part of the first-ever Made in Canada event Robson Square in Vancouver (800 Robson St.) will host a market showcasing Etsy’s handmade and vintage goods.
Go for a skate at Robson Square
Every year the Ice Rink at Robson Square entertains thousands. Grab your skates, your friends and family and head on over to enjoy the free (skate rentals available for those that don’t have any ice skates) public outdoor rink. Opening sometime mid to late November.
Grow a mustache for Movember
November is the time of the year that men in the city start to resemble a budding ’70s pornstar. Make sure to join the movement and also donate to the cause at movember.com.
Doors Open Vancouver
Vancouver’s inaugural Doors Open Vancouver event takes place on Saturday, October 4. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 20 Vancouver venues will be open to the public in three walkable clusters: downtown, around City Hall and in the False Creek Flats.
- When: Saturday, October 4
- Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Where: All around Vancouver
- Website: www.doorsopenvan.ca
Volunteer at a soup kitchen this Thanksgiving
Take the time to be thankful by helping those in need. Also, offer up your time at other points of the year. Check out your options here.
Attend the Remembrance Ceremony at Victory Square
The program begins with a performance by the Vancouver Bach Youth Choir and Sarabande starting at 10 a.m. Led by the Vancouver Flag Party, the parade of veterans, military marching units and bands will arrive at Victory Square before the ceremony begins at 10:30 a.m.
- When: Monday, November 11 at 10 a.m.
- Where: Cenotaph at Victory Square at West Hastings Street, between Cambie and Hamilton Streets
Food and Drink
OktoberFest at the Alpen Club
The original Oktoberfest celebration in Vancouver takes place once again at the German House (Vancouver Alpen Club) and cheer with all fans of Oktoberfest.
The Continentals and Dj Mike Holzhaus will provide you with the best of Ohhmpah pah, classic German Schlager Songs and the top ’40s of today on all three designated Oktoberfest weekends.
Available tickets are for following dates:
- October 3 – Doors @ 7:30 p.m.
- October 4 – Doors @ 7:30 p.m.
- October 10 – Doors @ 7:30 p.m.
- October 11 – Doors @ 7:30 p.m.
- October 17 – Doors @ 7:30 p.m.
- October 18 – Doors @ 7:30 p.m.
Ticket Price:
- Regular Ticket – $30 per Person *These Ticket includes the Entrance Fee – they don’t take any table reservations!
- VIP Ticket – $80 per Person *These Ticket includes the Entrance Fee, reservable Table in the VIP Area, Access to the Bavaria Lounge, Table Service, Bavarian Buffet and a special memorabilia
Harvest Haus
Oktoberfest in Vancouver just got a whole lot merrier. The home of the Christmas Market will have another more beer friendly themed event taking up its space.
This October, Harvest Haus brings an authentic European style Oktoberfest celebration to downtown Vancouver.
- When: October 2 to 5
- Tickets: Tickets start at $25, get them here.
- Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza
Sit back and enjoy some wine at these fall hot spots
Fall nights are best made for sipping with in the company of friends and family. Check out UVA, Vancouver Urban Winery and other great wine hot spots in the city.
The Feast Worldwide
For the first time, The Feast Worldwide, day of global dinner parties in over 40 cities across six continents, comes to Vancouver. The goal? To spark collaboration that drives local entrepreneurs and social initiatives forward. More information at feastongood.com/worldwide
- Where: Groundswell Cafe & Learning Space – 566 Powell St
- When: Saturday, October 18 from 7 to 10p.m.
- Tickets: You can purchase tickets here.
Hit up a local bar to watch a Canucks Game
Whether it be the big screens at The Charles Bar or Colony in Kits, there are plenty of bars for you to take in a Canucks game this season.
BC Beer Awards
The BC Beer Awards & Festival celebrates the very best craft beer brewed in British Columbia.
- When: Saturday, October 25
- Where: Croatian Cultural Centre – 3250 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
- Tickets: Purchase early bird tickets here – $27, starting October 10 tickets increase to $32
Try some hot chocolate
From Blenz Coffee’s award winning hot chocolate (seriously, it’s hands down the best in the city) to other great spots in the city, there are plenty of options in Vancouver.
Fall Farmers Markets in Vancouver
Farmers Markets will still be going strong for the first little bit of fall. Check out our Vancouver Farmers Market Guide for complete information.
Check out Hawkers Market
They have some good stuff planned this fall starting with their September 27 market. Good food and music. Keep up with them on VcB as we’ll be presenting their markets this fall.
Taste of Yaletown
Taste of Yaletown will return October 16 to 30. Menus will be unveiled soon.
From October 16 to 30, Yaletown kitchens will offer featured menus, special tastings and innovative pairings to tempt the most adventurous foodie. With a fresh approach to fixed price menus of $25, $35 and $45 restaurants will offer combinations of food and drink or even special in-house events.
Go to the Night Market
The one in Chinatown may be cancelled, but Surrey added their own and then there are still the returning three night markets – two in Richmond and one in North Vancouver. Check out our guide to Night Markets.
Concerts and Parties
Mad Decent Block Party
Diplo, Flosstradamus, Dillon Francis, Fatboy Slim, Bear Mountain. Twerk those bubble butts and say goodbye to summer as the Mad Decent Block Party is coming to Vancouver this year.
- When: Sunday, September 21
- Where: PNE Amphitheatre, 2901 East Hastings, Vancouver
- Website: www.maddecentblockparty.com
Dooms Night 2014 Vancouver
The ultimate Halloween party takes place at the PNE over two nights. Headlining on Day 1 is Martin Garrix. Martin Garrix is currently the most sought out act in the world. Bound to be one of the future biggest stars and we are honoured to have him make his first ever Vancouver appearance. The star-studded lineup doesn’t stop here as returning on the main stage will feature #1 World Hardstyle artist Headhunterz with mega house stars Madeon,Bassjackers, and Jay Hardway.
Day 2 will feature Dash Berlin‘s return to Vancouver. Fresh off the heels of his latest Album release “We Are”. With countless #1 songs and endless classics we are honoured to have his presence yet again with all of us here at Dooms Night. The Halloween extravaganza will have trance super star Audien, and the most sought out Hardstyle artist Audiofreq alongside house stars Dubvision and Mike Hawkins.
- Dates: Fri Oct 24 & Sat Oct 25
- Location: Pacific Coliseum
- BUY DOOMS NIGHT TICKETS HERE
Take in a concert at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver
Don’t want to venture all the way into downtown Vancouver to get some excitement. The Hard Rock Casino Vancouver offers plenty of entertainment options.
Concerts galore
Plenty of acts are rolling through Vancouver this fall. Rap icon Nas is in town for two shows, Usher, Black Keys, Ryan Hemsworth, Bauuer, Banks and many more. Check out our concerts page for more information.
“Somebody gonna get a hurt real bad”
Canadian comedian and actor Russell Peters has announced a tour to his home country for his new show “Almost Famous.”
- When: Saturday, September 27
- Where: Rogers Arena, Vancouver
- Tickets: Available on June 16 at 10 a.m. through www.ticketmaster.ca
Halloween in Vancouver
Halloween Parade Vancouver
For the first time ever, Vancouver will host a downtown Halloween Parade. See the supernatural, heroes and villains from films, comics, games, sci-fi and myths join the Halloween Parade with marching bands, vehicles and floats.
- When: Sunday, October 19
- Time: Noon to 3 p.m.
- Where: Begins at Granville and Davie, goes north along Granville, turns West on Smithe, continues on Howe and finishes at Howe and Davie
- Cost: Free!
Parties all around the city
Deck out in your scariest or most revealing costume and head ot one of the many bars and clubs hosting Halloween parties. Check back with us for the ultimate Halloween party guide in the city.
Take a tour of the city’s haunted past
From the long running haunted trolley tours to the Lost Souls of Gastown tour put on by Forbidden Vancouver, you’ll learn more about the ghosts that still roam the streets of Vancouver.
Haunted Trolley Tour
- When: October 15 to 31, excluding sundays and mondays
- Visit one of the many haunted locations in the city
Lost Souls of Gastown
- Cost: $19 for seniors and students $22 for adults
- Tour times: Tuesday to Saturday at 8 p.m.
- Depart Cathedral Square, across from Holy Rosary Cathedral at Dunsmuir & Richards Streets
Check out one of the city’s haunted hot spots
Although Vancouver is a young city, there are plenty of haunted spots in the city. Make sure to check back with us closer to Halloween as we shed light on some of the city’s haunted hot spots including the The 7 Ghosts of Hycroft Mansion and the Fairmont’s Hotel Vancouver Famous Lady in Red
Parade of Lost Souls
Although the original organizers of the festival disbanded, they have said that the parade will continue, with another organization taking over. The original Halloween Parade takes place in the Commercial Drive ‘hood the Saturday prior to Halloween night.
Stanley Park Ghost Train
Each year the Stanley Park Ghost Train takes our riders on a journey through a mystical and magical world, themed by Halloween and other creepy tales.
The theme for 2014 is “Mother Goose’s Ghastly Garden”. The train is covered, but dress warmly.
The Ghost Train operates from Friday, October 10 to Saturday, November 1, 2014, and is closed on Monday, October 13 for Thanksgiving. More information here.
Fright Nights and other Haunted Houses
Although the Dunbar Haunted House is no more, there are plenty of other options to get your freak on. From the popular Fright Nights at PNE to the Potter’s House of Horrors in Surrey. There will be plenty of haunted houses to check out this Halloween season.
Zombie paintball
Zombie Combat Zone is a fight for your life through a ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE! North America’s most authentic live action paintball scenario game. Upon arrival you will undergo a crash course bootcamp including a briefing on the situation, weapons training, then time to suit up and head out into the zone. You will be briefed on your mission prior to entering the zone.
- Where: 16799 Beach Road & Hwy 99, White Rock (just before the Peace Arch Border Crossing)
- Info: www.zombiecombatzone.com
Carve a pumpkin and dress up your house
Go to your local grocery store or pumpkin patch and get carving. if you’re really into Halloween, decorate your house and spook your neighbours.
Light off some fireworks
Diwali and Halloween night are to opportunies to illuminate the light in your own back yard. Last year was the first time fireworks were being set off in downtown Vancouver as well. Remember to be safe.
Festivals and other events
Grey Cup Festival, parade and the big game
The 102nd Grey Cup Festival is shaping up to be the biggest and best Grey Cup Festival Vancouver has ever hosted! This year’s Festival kicks-off on Wednesday, November 26 and runs right through the weekend to the 102nd Grey Cup Championship on Sunday, November 30.
Writers Festival
The Vancouver Writers Fest turns reading into a community experience, bringing people together to share thoughts, explore ideas, and witness brilliant conversations. All of the Festival venues are located on Granville Island. Set in the heart of Vancouver, Granville Island is Vancouver’s cultural hub.
Writers Fest takes place from October 21 to 26.
Diwali the Festival of Lights
Diwali Fest is proud to present “Unity in Diversity” at the 2014 Diwali Fest. Taking place from Friday, October 17 through to Sunday, October 26 at various venues throughout Vancouver and Surrey.
Light Your Spirit at two different main events: “Diwali Downtown” in Vancouver & Surrey, and the Opening Gala – “IndiGlam” in Surrey and the return of Chai House to Vancouver!
Tickets on sale at www.brownpapertickets.com.
Art of Leadership Conference
Canada’s top leadership event is coming to Vancouver on September 30. The Art Of Leadership brings world-renowned leaders and international bestselling authors for a full day of cutting edge thinking and real-world experience on today’s most critical leadership issues.
Connect with over 1,500 of Vancouver’s most notable professionals and learn from:
– Rudy Giuliani – Former Mayor of New York City
– Hayley Wickenheiser – Olympic Gold Medalist of the Canadian Women’s Hockey Team
– Charles Duhigg – NYTimes Investigative Reporter & Bestselling Author
– Dan Roam – International Bestselling Author
– Dr. Vince Molinaro – NYTimes Bestselling Author
Use the promo code VANCITY32 and save $50 when registering, and save an additional $50 off each pass for groups of three or more.
Christmas Market, it starts in November, which is still fall
The annual Christmas Market at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre plaza starts in late November. Be sure to check back with us when we announce the opening date.
TEDxVancouver 2014
TEDxVancouver 2014, get ready to TILT. After a brief hiatus, TEDxVancouver is back in its 5th edition at the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Theatre on Saturday, October 18, 2014. This will mark the largest TEDxVancouver event in history. Attendees can expect an inspiring, thought-provoking program designed to awaken curiosity and shift perspectives.
- When: October 18
- Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Get interior design inspiration
Two big shows, IDS WEST and Home and Design Show come to Vancouver this fall. IDS West takes place in late September and the Home and Design Show Vancouver takes place mid October.
After Hours at the Vancouver Aquarium
On October 29 the aquarium is having its next After Hours event. This uniquely aquatic adult-only evening includes access to our wet lab, special programming and time to explore our galleries with a glass of wine or beer in hand.
Important Info
- 19+ event. Photo ID required for entry.
- No tickets available for purchase at the door.
- Membership cards will be required for member priced ticket holders.
Also check out their Toast to the Coast event happening on October 17, the Aquarium’s fundraising soiree in their newly expanded galleries. The event has sold out for the last four years!
Take in some arts and theatre action
Forbidden City Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery will be transformed into the Court of China’s Emperors for the landmark exhibition The Forbidden City: Inside the Court of China’s Emperors. From October 18, 2014 to January 11, 2015, nearly 200 treasured objects from the collections of Beijing’s Palace Museum will come under the spotlight at the Gallery.
Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF)
As one of the largest film festivals in North America, the 33rd annual Vancouver International Film Festival brings Vancouver audiences some of the best films from around the globe.
More information on VIFF.org.
Vancouver Short Film Festival
The Vancouver Short Film Festival (VSFF) is a celebration of the vibrant community of short film, video, and animation artists on the Canadian West Coast. Building ties between emerging and established professionals, and provide an arena where all short filmmakers, including students, can screen their films in public and support their fellow colleagues.
This year’s festival will be taking place November 14 to 16.
Take in some local theatre
Vancouver is home to an emerging theatre scene. With performances happening all over the city, Fall is definitely the best time for theatre lovers. Check out our Arts section for some of the most in depth theatre coverage in the city.
Phrike FilmFest
The Phrike FilmFest 72 Hour Film Competition hits Vancouver the weekend of October 10 to 13.
$20,000 in prizing is up for grabs including, $5,000 for Best Film and the Grand Goblin Award. The FilmFest screenings take place at The Imperial on October 19.
Named for the goddess of horror from Greek mythology; PHRIKE, her spirit of trembling fear will inspire Filmmakers, Actors and Makeup Artists to compete to see who can make the Best Horror Film within 72 hours and take home the Grand Goblin Award.
Do something different and check out Ballet BC
If you’re looking to expand your cultural horizons look no further than Ballet BC. Check out their schedule of performances.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Pumpkin Patches in Vancouver
As Halloween approaches, many will visit their local pumpkin patch. It’s the quintessential activity that brings together family, the outdoors and seasonal fun. Look out for our full guide coming out in early October.
Stay in shape and enter a race
The fall marathon season is in full swing. Check out the following:
- September 26 – Night Race Vancouver 5k, 10k
- September 27 – 5 Peaks British Columbia Race 5 10k, 15k, Other
- September 27 – Neon Run Vancouver 5k, Fun Run
- September 28 – MEC Vancouver Race Six 5k, 10k, 15k
- October 4 – MEC North Vancouver Race Four 10k, Other
- October 5 – BlueShore Financial Spirit of the Shore Half Marathon Half-marathon
- October 5 – CIBC Run for the Cure 5k 5k, Other
- October 13 – Granville Island Turkey Trot 10k 10k
- October 18 – Whistler 50 Ultra
- October 18 – Around The Lake Give R Take Other
- October (TBD) Diva on the Run Half Marathon and 10k 10k, Half-marathon
- October 23 – Strachan Hartley 5k and10k Legacy Run 5k, 10k
- October 25 – Hallow’s Eve Trail Race 10k, Half-marathon, Marathon
- October 26 – Vancouver Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon 10k, Half-marathon
- November 2 – MEC North Vancouver Race Five 5k, 10k
- November 2 – Boundary Bay Marathon 5k, 10k, Half-marathon, Marathon
- November 16 – New Balance Fall Classic 10k, Half-marathon
- November 16 – MEC Vancouver Race Seven 5k, 10k, Half-marathon, Marathon
- November 16 – Miles for Mental Health 5k
- November 22 – Moustache Miler 5k, Fun Run
- November 30 – Vancouver Historic Half 5k, 10k, Half-marathon
Go in for an early skiing session
Keep your fingers crossed for an early snowfall on the local mountains.
For more events happening around Vancouver, see our Vancouver Events Calendar.
Feature Image: Stanley Park seawall fall via Shutterstock