86 things to do in Vancouver this spring

Spring is here and fun events and activities are blooming all over the city and beyond. From hiking to farmers’ markets, concerts to comedy and Easter, here are a 86 Vancouver spring events you need to check out.

And for more things happening around town be sure to check out our events section.

Enjoy the great outdoors

For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from North Shore Rescue and AdventureSmart.

The Grouse Grind

• What: Mother Nature’s Stairmaster, a gruelling climb up 2,830 steps on the side of Grouse Mountain. In less than 2.9km, the trail climbs more than 853m. Why do it? Well, the glory obviously… and maybe the free entry to Grouse Mountain attractions at the top.
• Where: Parking lot at the base of Grouse Mountain on the North Shore
• When: Spring to fall depending on weather, check Grouse Mountain for conditions/opening.

The Stawamus Chief

• What: Thought to be the second largest granite monolith in the world. Hike or rock climb your way to The Chief’s three peaks for spectacular views of Howe Sound and Garibaldi Provincial Park.
• Where: Next to Shannon Falls off the Sea To Sky Highway, Squamish
• When: Spring to fall, check BC Parks for conditions/opening

Stanley Park

• What: Walk, run, bike, skateboard, rollerblade, swim, picnic – or even enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride – in the gorgeous Stanley Park, our favourite Vancouver oasis of green. (Note bikes, boards and blades should always go around the park in an anti-clockwise direction!)
• Where: Stanley Park, Vancouver
• When: All year round

Capilano Suspension Bridge

• What: A suspension bridge hanging 70 m above the Capilano River on the North Shore. Entry is $38 – but includes access to seven treetop footbridges and a Cliffwalk along a granite precipice overhanging the river – and BC residents get unlimited admission for one year after their first visit.
• Where: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
• When: All year round

Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge

• What: The budget version of Capilano’s bridge, this suspension bridge stretches across a beautiful canyon, 50 m above raging waters and waterfalls. It may not be as high as Capilano but it’s certainly narrower – and it’s completely free.
• Where: Lynn Canyon Park – 3663 Park Road, North Vancouver
• When: All year round

Spring Break at Sea-to-Sky Gondola

• What: For families looking take their spring break to new heights this year, the Sea-to-Sky Gondola in Squamish is the place to be. From March 17 to 29, the scenic attraction is offering free day tickets for children 12-years-old and younger. Up to three children can ride the gondola for free – accompanied by at least one adult – to enjoy the activities and outdoor adventure at the summit.
• When: Saturday, March 17 to Thursday, March 29, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 5 pm, with the last ride down at 6 pm
• Where: Sea-to-Sky Gondola – 36800 BC-99, Squamish
• Tickets: Free day tickets for children 12-years-old and younger. Adult day tickets are $39.95 when purchased online and $41.95 at the ticket window.

Spring Fling

• What: ​Celebrate the first day of spring at the Surrey Nature Centre, with face painting, guided walks, nature stories, eco-crafts and more.
• When: Wednesday, March 21, 2018
• Where: Surrey Nature Centre – 14225 Green Timbers Way, Surrey
• Admission: Free

Biggest Dog Meet-up Vancouver #2

• What: What’s better than a dog? Hundreds and hundreds of dogs. Biggest dog meet-up Vancouver is returning for a second event at Trout Lake Park. The event is hosted by Dogs of Vancity, so expect a lot of photos. If you have a furry friend who plays nice with others, bring them along and introduce them to other canines.
  
• When: Sunday, March 25, 2018
• Time: 12:30 pm to 3 pm
• Where: Trout Lake Park
• Admission: Free

Pacific PTSD Awareness 5km Walk/Run

• What: The third annual 5km Run/Walk for all first responders and the community is in promotion of PTSD awareness. Partial funds raised will go towards the Honour House Society in recognition of their work with first responders and their families.
• When: Sunday, March 25, 2018
• Time: 10:30 am
• Where: Mill Lake Park – Abbotsford
• Register: Online, $40-$45

Vancouver Bike Rave – UBC Edition

• What: Vancouver Bike Raves explores the “dance party” capabilities of the city – without the use of alcohol or drugs. The ride will be pumped up with a sound system strong enough to support over 1000 riders. In addition to the bright lights and heart-pumping music, there will also be bike limbo and a bike fashion show. Presented by Party4Health.
  
• When: Thursday, March 29, 2018
• Time: 8 pm to 11 pm
• Where: Start at the UBC Bookstore – 6200 University Blvd
• Tickets: Register Online for free

Enchanted Forest

• What: Find out how trees talk to each other through their roots and look for forest sprites and rock trolls, on this one hour nature quest.
• When: Thursday, March 29, 2018
  
• Time: 10 am to 1:30 pm
• Where: Aldergrove Regional Park – Meet at Blacktail Picnic Shelter by the main park entrance on 8th Ave
• Admission: Free

Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival

• What: The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival (VCBF) is Vancouver’s signature springtime event. Wake-up from winter hibernation to an explosion of some 41,000 blossoming cherry trees. Originally gifted from Japan in the 1930’s, the cherry blossoms now inspires a month of arts and cultural community events. Presented by Vancouver Board of Parks & Recreation and Coromandel Properties.
  
• When: Tuesday, April 3 to Sunday, April 29, 2018
• Where: Streets and venues all over Vancouver
• Admission: Free to enjoy cherry blossoms all over the city. Tickets for events can be found online

Whistler World Ski and Snowboard Festival

• What: The main events taking place on the mountain include the Saudan Couloir Ski Race Extreme, the Monster Energy Boarderstyle World Championships, and Big Air events in both skiing and snowboarding. A 72-hour filmmakers and photographer showdown will run during the course of the week. There will also be apres-ski and late-night parties held on a regular basis around the city, with live music constantly being played at the Skiers Plaza. A number of clubs around Whistler will also be holding evening events.
  
• When: Tuesday, April 10 to Sunday, April 15, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Various venues in Whistler
• Admission: Free. Tickets for evening events can be purchased online.

Explore the city

Richmond Outdoor Spring Carnival 

• What: West Coast Amusements, the largest Canadian midway operation in Western Canada will be making a stop at the Lansdowne Centre in Richmond. They’ll be setting up shop with a massive selection of rides, games, and traditional carnival eats. And no, it’s never too early in the day to have a cotton candy.
• When: Friday, March 16 to Sunday, March 25, 2018
• Time: 12 to 10 pm, hours may change based on weather.
• Where: Lansdowne Centre – 5300 #3 Road, Richmond
• Tickets: Available on-site

Chelsea Hotel: The Songs of Leonard Cohen

• What: In celebrating its 35th anniversary season, the Firehall Arts Centre has remounted Chelsea Hotel: The Songs of Leonard Cohen. The storyline centres on a writer with a past history of tumultuous relationships, who checks into New York’s historic Chelsea Hotel. He arrives hoping to self-reflect and find the inspiration for his next song, but in doing so he is forced to revisit memories from past relationships.
• When: Saturday, March 17 to Saturday, April 21, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: The Firehall Arts Centre – 280 East Cordova St, Vancouver
• Tickets: from The Firehall Arts Centre, $20-$40

Ladies Against Humanity

• What: Join The Fictionals, and special guests, at the Rio Theatre for the annual Ladies Against Humanity special. Some of the funniest women from around Vancouver will bring Cards Against Humanity to life, award sweet prizes to witty audience members, and crown the next Most Horrible Person in Vancouver.
• When: Wednesday, March 21, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Rio Theatre – 1660 East Broadway , Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $12

Trading opportunities with Japan

• What: In partnership with the Canada-Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group and other organisations, this event will stimulate discussion on where trading opportunities can be found and how more can be created.
• When: Thursday, March 22, 2018
• Time: 11:30 am
• Where: Coast Coal Harbour – Coal Harbour Ballroom – 1180 West Hastings Street, Vancouver
• Register: Online, $69-$138

Ready Player One Vancouver Takeover

• What: In celebration of Steven Spielberg’s new movie “Ready Player One,” a massive downtown Vancouver takeover will go down at the Vancouver Art Gallery. The transformation will allow visitors to step inside the film and enter “the Oasis,” showcasing the stage of Spielberg’s new movie. The exhibit takes place at the stackable housing apartments and will show off 25 ft. tall artwork, massive lights, and special effects, as well as actors dressed in the part of the movie. The inside of the exhibit will continue to amaze with eye-catching special effects, VR demos, a retro arcade, and chances to win film-related prizes.
• When: Friday, March 23 and Saturday, March 24, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 9 pm, daily
• Where: 750 Hornby St, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

International Day Against Racism & Bigotry March

• What: Witness and be a part of a march against all forms of racism, bigotry, and oppression in Metro Vancouver, taking place later this month. The rally is being held as part of the United Nations’ (UN) International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which was made as a proclamation by the UN back in 1966. All are welcome to attend.
• When: Saturday, March 24, 2018
• Time: 1 to 5 pm
• Where: Thornton Park – 1166 Main Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Cheech & Chong

• What: Richard “Cheech” Marin and Tommy Chong perform their classic comedy duo at Hard Rock Casino.
• When: Saturday, March 24, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Hard Rock Casino Vancouver – 2080 United Boulevard, Coquitlam
• Tickets: Online

PlayDome at BC Place

• What: Western Canada’s largest indoor carnival is back for spring break 2018 with six fun-filled days of carnival rides, games and sweet treats. With over 45 rides and attractions all under one roof, there is no better place for indoor family fun this spring break than at PlayDome.
• When: Wednesday, March 28 to Monday, April 2, 2018
• Time: The event is open daily at 10 am or 11 am, (depending on date) and runs until 5 pm or 6 pm (depending on date.) See PlayDome’s website for specific, daily schedules.
• Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

An Evening with Kevin Smith

• What: An Evening with Kevin Smith is a chance to get up close and personal with the legendary writer, comedian, podcaster, and film director. Proceeds from this event go directly towards supporting the #SavetheRio campaign.
• When: Friday, March 30, 2018
• Time: 7 and 9:30 pm
• Where: Rio Theatre – 1660 East Broadway , Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Youth Achieving Success Conference 2018

• What: A full day of engaging workshops, with a wide variety of speakers who will be covering careers such as medicine, journalism, tech, culinary arts, and more.
• When: Saturday, March 31, 2018
• Time: 8:30 am to 4 pm
• Where: SFU Harbour Centre Campus – 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $15

Mr. Burns, a post-electric play 

• What: The performance takes a look at the world after a global nuclear holocaust. In the aftermath of civilization’s collapse, a group of survivors piece together the plot of The Simpsons. But in a world with no electricity, no TV, how do you make sure that your memories are accurate? What do you do when your memories, which seem so familiar and true, clash with someone else? The play looks not just at The Simpsons but storytelling as a whole, and how pop-culture and media can go from daily essentials to an almost-forgotten myth.
• When: Tuesday, April 3 to Saturday, April 21, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Studio 1398 – 1398 Cartwright Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $23-$28

Canadian Internet Marketing Conference (CIMC) 2018

• What: CIMC is providing businesses with the best tools and practices to not just survive, but thrive in the digital marketing wilderness. At this year’s event, you’ll discover how to best navigate the ever-changing digital marketing landscape and learn insider tips from founders, CEOs, marketing specialists, and more, from some of the world’s biggest companies.
• When: Thursday, April 5 to Friday, April 6, 2018
• Where: West Coast Railway Heritage Park – 39645 Government Road – Squamish
• Tickets: $350 – $1,000 – Tickets available via Picatic

The Herbal Chef Pop-Up Dinner

• What: The Herbal Chef AKA Christopher Sayegh is inviting Vancouver diners to take part in an eight-course tasting menu comprised of exclusively cannabis-infused dishes. Attendees will gather at a secret Downtown Vancouver restaurant (to be announced the day-of to ticket holders), to enjoy plates topped with local fare enhanced by THC and CBD extracts. There will also be BC wine pairings and lively music to carry you throughout the night, which aims to spread awareness of the benefits of incorporating cannabis into cuisine.
• When: Friday, April 6 and Saturday, April 7, 2018
• Time: 7 pm
• Where: Downtown Vancouver restaurant (to be announced day-of)
• Tickets: $200 (including gratuity and a gift bag); to buy tickets email [email protected]

International Pillow Fight Day

• What: Get ready to relive the glory days of childhood slumber parties as the largest pillow fight in Vancouver returns. In past years, hundreds of Vancouverites have flocked to Vancouver’s downtown core, armed with goose-down and ready to take on fellow pillow-wielding assailants. For everyone’s safety, make sure to use soft pillows only, and swing them lightly. As with any pillow fight, PJs are welcome.
• When: Saturday, April 7, 2018
• Time: 3 pm
• Where: Vancouver Art Gallery – 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

BC Distilled 2018

• What: The spirits-centric celebration will brings together 40 distilleries from across the province – veterans and newbies alike – and will give attendees the chance to interact and taste samples from each and every one of ’em. Participants of BC Distilled can also purchase bottles to bring home and there will also be a charity silent auction hosted by the Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (which mean dogs and puppies will be on site).
  
• When: Saturday, April 14, 2018
• Time: Trade Tasting from 2 to 4:30 pm, Public Tasting from 6 to 9 pm
• Where: Croatian Cultural Centre, 3520 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
• Tickets: Starting at $57; buy online

Canada Beer Run – Vancouver 2018

• What: An 8.9 kilometre fun run with stops at five different breweries: Big Rock Brewery, Red Truck Brewery, Andina Brewing Company, Off The Rail Brewing Company, Parallel 49 Brewing Company.
• When: Sunday,  April 15, 2018
• Time: 11 am
• Where: Event starts at Big Rock Brewery
• Admission: $66.49; buy via event website

BrickCan 2018 at the River Rock

• What: BrickCan is the largest public exhibition of LEGO creations ever held in British Columbia. Guests of all ages can check out hundreds of models built by LEGO fans from all over the world, shop with dozens of unique LEGO vendors, and let their imagination run wild in the BrickCan Creation Station.
  
• When: Saturday April 21 to Sunday, April 22, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: River Rock Casino Resort – 8811 River Road, Richmond
• Tickets: Online, $15

David Blaine

• What: The American-born magician, who specializes in combining magic and stunts, has made a name for himself through television specials that defy seemingly all odds. His first one-man show was televised at the young age of 23. He’s one of the world’s most highly-regarded magicians, mostly for his ability to create a unique, thrilling, and fresh takes on performing magic. Some of his stunts involve spending a week buried alive in New York City and being trapped inside a six-ton block of ice for three days.
  
• When: Friday, May 18, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 30 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $49

Douglas Coupland – Vortex

• What: Acclaimed Canadian artist Douglas Coupland is launching a new exhibition highlighting ocean plastic pollution at the Vancouver Aquarium this May. The year-long major sculpture Vortex exhibition aims to immerse visitors in a contemplative, emotive, and transformative experience. A large part of Coupland’s exhibit will be a “creative reimagining” of the Pacific Trash Vortex, also referred to as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
  
• When: Opens Friday, May 18, 2018 for one year
• Time: 10 am to 5 pm
• Where: Vancouver Aquarium – 845 Avison Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: Included in Aquarium tickets, $30-$39

CodeDay Vancouver

• What: CodeDay is a worldwide event where programmers come together to build apps and games for 24 straight hours. The event is open to not just student programmers, but individuals of any other background and skill level. Complete rookies, seasoned veterans, HTML, C++, CodeDay is open to all. Because the event runs overnight, participants will have the option to sleep over at the venue or, more realistically, code through the night.
  
• When: Saturday, May 26 to Sunday, May 27, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 2 pm the following day.
• Where: Location to be announced
• Tickets: Online, prices to be announced.

Hot Tub Cinema Club 2018

• What: The best of two different worlds: watching a classic flick on the big screen and the comfort of your own hot tub. Films include Anchorman, Wedding Crashers, Hangover, Mean Girls, Dirty Dancing, and Zoolander.
• When: Tuesday, June 5 to Sunday, June 10, 2018
• Time: 7 to 9:30 pm
• Where: Secret location, TBA
• Tickets: Online, starting at $45 for entry and movie admission

Kevin Hart

• What: One of comedy’s biggest stars, Hart has been going non-stop since his career first began. Along with this year’s tour, Hart’s memoir I Can’t Make This Up debuted at Number One on the New York Times Bestseller list and remained there for ten consecutive weeks. Hart voiced a lead character in Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie. He also appeared in the Sony reboot of the classic film Jumanji with Dwayne Johnson and Jack Black.
  
• When: Saturday, June 16, 2018
• Time: Doors 6 pm, show at 7 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: via LiveNation

Get fresh at farmers’ markets

Catch the last of the farmers’ markets at Hastings Park (Sundays 10 am to 2 pm until April 29) and Nat Bailey Stadium (Saturdays 10 am to 2 pm until April 21), then head to these spring sellers:

Downtown Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Thursday from Thursday, June 7 to Thursday, October 4, 2018
• Time: 3 to 7 pm
• Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 650 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Kitsilano Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Sunday from Sunday, May 6 to Sunday, October 21, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 2 pm
• Where: Parking lot of Kits Community Centre – 2690 Larch Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Trout Lake Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday from Saturday, May 5 to Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: 9 am to 2 pm
• Where: Lakewood Drive and 13th Avenue, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

West End Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday from Saturday, May 26 to Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: 9 am to 2 pm
• Where: West End Farmers Market – 1100 Comox Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Main Street Station Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Wednesday from Wednesday, June 6 to Wednesday, October 3, 2018
• Time: 2 to 6 pm
• Where: Main Street Station – 1100 Station Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Sunday from Sunday, May 27 to Sunday, October 7, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 2 pm
• Where: Dude Chilling Park – 2390 Brunswick Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Riley Park Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday from Saturday, April 28 to Saturday, October 27, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 2 pm
• Where: Riley Park – 50 East 30th Avenue, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

River District Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday from Saturday, May 13 to Saturday, October 14, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: Kerr Street Plaza – 8683 Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Ambleside Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Sunday from Sunday, May 6 to Sunday, October 28, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: Ambleside Park – 1000 Argyle AveWest Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Lonsdale Quay Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday from May to Saturday October 27, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: East Plaza of the Lonsdale Quay Market – 123 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Clayton Community Farmers’ Market

• When: Select Sundays starting on May 13 until September 30, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: Clayton Heights Secondary School, 7003 188 St, Surrey
• Admission: Free

Kwantlen Street Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Tuesday from Tuesday, May 29 to Tuesday, October 2, 2018
• Time: 12 to 4 pm
• Where: Plaza in between the Richmond Public Library and the Minoru Place Seniors’ Centre – 7660 Minoru Gate, Richmond
• Admission: Free

Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market

• When: Alternate Sundays starting Sunday, May 6 to September 16, 2018
• Time: 10:30 am to 3:30 pm
• Where: Easthope Parking Lot (across the street from the Steveston Community Centre) – 4111 Moncton Street, Richmond
• Admission: Free

Burnaby Artisan Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday from May 5 to October 27, 2018
• Time: 9 am to 2 pm
• Where: North Parking Lot of Burnaby City Hall (4949 Canada Way at Deer Lake Pkwy)
• Admission: Free

Enjoy Easter

Stanley Park Railway Easter Train

• What: Both kids and adults will be able to take part in activities like a “Bunny Burrow” maze, face painting, an egg hunt in the farmyard, Easter crafts, inflatable bouncers, and carnival games. Food will also be available at the train ride, with Stanley Park’s concession stand open as well as food trucks from Cloud Nine Cotton Candy Company, Insomniac Coffee, and the Praguery.
• When: Saturday, March 17 and Sunday, March 18 (train only), Thursday, March 22 to Sunday, March 25, Thursday, March 29 to Tuesday, April 2, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 5 pm, last egg hunt is at 4:40 pm.
• Where: Stanley Park
• Admission: Access to the train ride costs $6, the farmyard egg hunt costs $5, and tickets required for carnival activities cost $2 each. Tickets for the train can be purchased in advance online; tickets for other activities can be purchased on-site.

Bunny Hop Toonie Skate

• What: ​​Enjoy ice skating, face painting, crafts, and more, for Easter fun.
• When: Saturday, March 24, 2018
• Time: 12 to 3 pm
• Where: Bill Copeland Sports Centre – 3676 Kensington Avenue, Burnaby
• Admission: $2 per person, free for children 3 years and under

VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Great A-Mazing Egg Hunt

• What: Take part in the Annual A-Maze-ing Egg Hunt at VanDusen Botanical Garden. Afterwards, enjoy some fun crafts and activities or check out the yummy food selections and explore the beauty in our 55 acre garden.
• When: Friday, March 30 to Sunday, April 1, 2018
• Time: Four sessions daily: 9 am to 10 am, 10 am to 11 am, 11 am to 12 pm, and 12 pm to 1 pm
• Where: VanDusen Botanical Garden – 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $6.45-$15

Easter at the Cannery

• What: The Easter Salmon makes its annual return this year to hide eggs for the little ones to find throughout the historic cannery. At 10:30 am, The Great Salmon “Egg” Hunt will start and repeat every 30 minutes throughout the day with the last egg hunt at 4:30 pm. There will also be Easter crafts, games and an interactive story-time suitable for kids ages 2 to 12 years old.
• When: Friday, March 30 to Sunday, April 1, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 5 pm
• Where: The Cannery – 12138 4th Avenue, Richmond
• Admission: $3.90-$4.90

Easter Eggstravaganza

• What: Celebrate with an Easter Egg Hunt, crafts, games and a visit with the Easter Bunny.
• When: Saturday, March 31, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 12 pm
• Where: Steveston Community Centre – 4111 Moncton Street, Richmond
• Admission: $10 per child. Parent participation and registration of child only required.

Easter Chocolate Making

• What: Bunnies, eggs and other tasty treats for spring. Experience milk and dark chocolate fun with Rocky Road, Rice Krispie Caramel Clusters, and more. Hands on class so bring an apron. For ages 4 to 8.
• When: Saturday, March 31, 2018
• Time: 12 to 1 pm
• Where: Coquitlam Heritage – 1116 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam
• Tickets: Online, $10

Old Fashioned Easter at the Historic Stewart Farm

• What: Meet the Easter bunny, make your own DIY rabbit ears, and decorate egg-shaped cookies. Plus take part in scavenger hunts and enjoy face painting.
• When: Saturday, March 31, 2018
• Time: 11 am to 3 pm
• Where: Historic Stewart Farm – 13723 Crescent Rd, Surrey
• Admission: Free

Cheer on the home teams

Vancouver Canucks

• What: The Vancouver Canucks continue their NHL season throughout March at Rogers Arena.
• When: Tuesday, March 27, Thursday, March 29, Saturday, March 31, Tuesday, April 3, and Thursday, April 5, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Vancouver Whitecaps

• What: Vancouver Whitecaps continue their MLS season throughout the Spring at BC Place.
• When: Saturday, March 24, Friday, April 13, Friday, April 27, Friday, May 11, Wednesday, May 16, Saturday, May 26, and Saturday, June 9, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

BC Lions

• What: BC Lions kick off their 2018 season with a pre-season game the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday, June 8, and their home opener against Montreal Alouettes on Saturday, June 16 at BC Place.
• When: Friday, June 8 and Saturday, June 16, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Stars on Ice 2018

• What: This year’s Stars on Ice 12-city tour will feature a number of Canada’s top skaters hot off the ice in South Korea including Canadian gold medal sweethearts Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir. The event will be a star-studded affair as Pyeongchang Olympians Patrick Chan, Kaetlyn Osmond, and Meagan Duhamel and Eric Radford will also be performing in addition to a number of other Canadian skating legends including Elvis Stojko.
• When: Thursday, May 17, 2018
• Time: 7 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: Available online for as low as $12

Festivals

UBC HOLI Festival 2018

• What: The highly anticipated festival is celebrating equality with colours and UBC’s Indian Students Association wants you to be a part of it. Come to the event dressed in all white and be prepared to have a ton of fun. The event will feature an Indian food truck so you can enjoy the aromas and flavourful food on offer, and acclaimed Bollywood music maker, Khanvict from Decibel Entertainment will be spinning his favourite tracks throughout the day to celebrate Holi and keep you dancing.
  
• When: Saturday, March 24, 2018
• Time: 11 am to 4 pm
• Where: 6190 Agronomy Road, UBC
• Tickets: Online, $7

40th Annual Vancouver Greek Food Fest

• What: The Greek Food Fest features exciting performances, delicious food, and lots of kef. Get your fill of baklava, spanakopita, and tzatziki sauce in this celebration of everything Greek!
• When: Friday, April 20 to Sunday, April 22, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Hellenic Community of Vancouver – 4500 Arbutus Street, Vancouver

DOXA Documentary Film Festival

• What: Western Canada’s largest documentary film festival, featuring public screenings, panel discussions, public forums, and educational programs.
• When: Thursday, May 3 to Sunday, May 13, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Venues across Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

12th Annual Spot Prawn Festival

• What: Each year at the Spot Prawn Festival, Chefs’ Table Society Members from across the Lower Mainland serve you fresh-from-the-boat Spot Prawns.
• When: Saturday, May 12, 2018
• Where: False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf – 1505 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Vancouver Virtual Reality Film Festival (YVRFF)

• What: The annual Vancouver International Children’s Festival inspires young minds with top-notch professional artistic experiences, across theatre, music, dance, circus, puppetry, and storytelling. The multi-disciplinary programming is always culturally diverse and representative of both local and international artists.
• When: Friday, May 18 to Sunday, May 20, 2018
• Where: CBC Studio 700 – 700 Hamilton St, Vancouver
• More Info: Online

The Vancouver International Children’s Festival

• What: The annual Vancouver International Children’s Festival inspires young minds with top-notch professional artistic experiences, across theatre, music, dance, circus, puppetry, and storytelling. The multi-disciplinary programming is always culturally diverse and representative of both local and international artists.
• When: Monday, May 28 to Sunday, June 3, 2018
• Where: Granville Island
• Tickets: Online

Bard on the Beach

• What: Bard on the Beach is one of Canada’s largest not-for-profit, professional Shakespeare Festivals. Presented in a magnificent setting on the waterfront in Vancouver’s Vanier Park, the Festival offers Shakespeare plays, related dramas, and several special events in two performance tents from June through September. The lineup this year includes As You Like It, Macbeth, Timon of Athens, and Lysistrata.
• When: Wednesday, June 6 to Friday, September 22, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Vanier Park – 1695 Whyte Avenue, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Queer Arts Festival

• What: An annual artist-run multi-disciplinary summer arts festival at the Roundhouse in Vancouver, BC. QAF produces, presents and exhibits with a curatorial vision favouring challenging, thought-provoking work that pushes boundaries and initiates dialogue. Each year, the festival theme ties together a curated visual art exhibition, performing arts series, workshops, artist talks, panels, and media art screenings.
• When: Saturday, June 16 to Thursday, June 28, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: The Roundhouse – 181 Roundhouse Mews, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Rock out a Concert

Bear Grillz

• What: Bear Grillz is throwing a Massive Forest Rave Party with special guests AFK , HeklerMusic and Walter Wilde.
• When: Thursday, March 22, 2018
• Time: Doors 10 pm
• Where: VENUE – 881 Granville Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $20

Let’s Hear It! Live – Vancouver

• What: “Let’s Hear It! Live – Vancouver” will showcase various artists from different music scenes across the province. The festival will take place in the North Plaza of the Vancouver Art Gallery, and includes The Funk Hunters, Desi Subculture, Peach Pit, MusiCounts StarBand with Dear Rouge, and many more acts.
• When: Friday, March 23 and Saturday, March 24, 2018
• Time: 12 to 9 pm
• Where: Vancouver Art Gallery, North Plaza – 850 W Georgia St, Vancouver
• Admission: Free to attend

OMD

• What: Synth-pop pioneers OMD are touring in support of their 13th studio album The Punishment of Luxury, which sees them combine the wistful nostalgia and idealized romance of their previous work while stepping out of their comfort zone. Featuring guests GGOOLLDD.
• When: Friday, March 23, 2018
• Time: 7:30 pm
• Where: Commodore Ballroom – 868 Granville St, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

JUNOS: Hosted by Michael Bublé

• What: 12-time JUNO Award winner and beloved Canadian crooner is set to host The 2018 JUNO Awards, with many more live performances to enjoy.
• When: Sunday, March 25, 2018
• Time: 5 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $59

Clean Bandit 

• What: Clean Bandit were one of the biggest breakthrough successes in the UK and Europe in 2014. That story is quickly replicating itself in the US and around the world. Their global hit single “Rather Be,” the biggest-selling single by a UK act in 2014, hit #1 on the iTunes single chart in over 25 countries after its release in June. The single has achieved triple-platinum certification in the UK, as well as double-platinum sales in the US.
• When: Monday, March 26, 2018
• Time: 9 pm
• Where: Commodore Ballroom– 867 Granville Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $29

Seasons 2018 Festival

• What: Seasons fills Vancouver with concerts, club shows, label showcases, demos, panels, lectures, and interactive visuals & art installations, culminating in a fully immersive, 2 day main event at Pacific Coliseum.
• When: Friday, March 30 and Saturday, March 31, 2018
• Where: Pacific Coliseum – 2901 E Hastings Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Our Lady Peace & Matthew Good

• What: Two Canadian rock legends team up for a show at Abbotsford Centre. Matthew Good’s studio albums have combined for nearly one million albums sold in Canada alone, and he has been nominated for 21 Juno Awards. Our Lady Peace has sold over 5 million albums worldwide, have won four JUNO Awards, and ten Much Music Video Awards.
• When: Saturday, March 31, 2018
• Time: 7 pm
• Where: Abbotsford Centre – 33800 King Rd., Abbotsford
• Tickets: Online, $46-$86

Bassjackers 

• What: Dutch mega duo Bassjackers are performing a free show on Easter Long Weekend.
• When: Saturday, March 31, 2018
• Time: 10 pm
• Where: Harbour Event Centre – 750 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, Free

Shinedown

• What: The powerful Jacksonville group are slated to perform at the Abbotsford Centre on April 6. And they’ll be joined by special guests 10 years, In This Moment, and One Bad Son, in what’s set to be a concert to remember.
• Date: Friday, April 6, 2018
• Time: 7 pm
• Where: Abbotsford Centre – 33800 King Road, Abbotsford
• Tickets: via Ticketmaster from $29.50

Camila Cabello

• What: Cabello is heading out on her first solo tour and it all kicks off in Vancouver at the Orpheum. She is set to  perform fan favourites including “Havana” and her new hit single “Never Be The Same.”
• When: Monday, April 9, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Orpheum Theatre, 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: via Live Nation. $35 to $65.

Rod Stewart

• What: Rod has received some of the music industry’s highest awards including two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Grammy Living Legend award. The “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy” singer is one of the best-selling artists in history, and he’ll be belting out hits from his long and successful career this spring in arenas across the country.
• When: Tuesday, April 10, 2018
• Time: Doors at 7:30 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: via Live Nation

Jaden Smith

• What: Jaden Smith’s Vancity visit is part of his Vision Tour, supporting his 2017 album Syre. Also known for being the progeny of Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith, Smith has appeared in many films, including Men in Black II and The Karate Kid.
• When: Tuesday, April 10, 2018
• Time: Doors at 8 pm/ Show at 9 pm​
• Where: The Imperial – 319 Main Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: via Ticketweb, $20

Post Malone

• What: Mixing genres and original beats, Post Malone is known for his intoxicating and invigorating double-platinum certified full-length debut album Stoney. From being the #1 album on iTunes, and top 10 on the Billboard Top 200, his album accumulated over 4 billion streams globally. Not bad for a 22-year-old whose lead single “White Iverson” became an anthem upon its release in 2016.
• When: Friday, April 27, 2018
• Time: Doors at 7 pm / Show at 8 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: via Live Nation

Khalid

• What: The Grammy nominee is on his third headlining tour, The Roxy Tour. Aside from getting to hear Khalid’s chart-topping hits Young, Dumb and Broke and Location, there’s also a noble cause to the concert, as the singer will be donating one dollar off every ticket sale to local animal shelters.
• When: Wednesday, May 2, 2018
• Time: Doors 7 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Kendrick Lamar

• What: Kendrick Lamar on tour with Top Dawg Entertainment’s “TDE: THE CHAMPIONSHIP TOUR” complete with the label’s all-star roster including SZA, ScHoolboy Q, Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, SiR, Lance Skiiiwalker and more to be announced.
• When: Friday, May 4, 2018
• Time: Doors 6:30 pm,  Show 7:30 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: via Ticketmaster

The Eagles

• What: One of the most influential and commercially successful American rock bands of all time. The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, have scored six #1 albums, won six Grammy awards, and and have topped the singles charts five times. The group was also inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998 in their first year of eligibility and received the Kennedy Center Honors in 2016.
• When: Thursday, May 10, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

P!NK

• What: She’s known for her incredible and entertaining live show, and this spring, international pop icon P!NK is unleashing all her anthems at Rogers Arena in Vancouver.
• When: Saturday, May 12, 2018
• Time: Doors open at 6:30 pm, showtime is 8 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: At Live Nation, $60.10-$260.10

Paul Simon

• What: Legendary singer/songwriter Paul Simon will perform live in Vancouver this spring, as he hits the road for the final time as part of his Homeward Bound – The Farewell Tour. The tour will encompass shows across North America, the UK, and Europe, with Simon and his band bringing to the stage a stunning, career-spanning repertoire of timeless hits and classic songs which have permeated and influenced popular culture for generations.
• When: Wednesday, May 16, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena – 899 Griffiths Way,Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $59 to $189

Slayer

• What: Slayer’s latest (and final) tour comes after a highly storied, almost 40-year career, which included 12 studio albums, multiple live recordings, compilations, live video and two box sets, almost 3,000 concerts around the world, five Grammy nominations and two Grammy awards, an appearance on The Tonight Show, and their own exhibit in the Smithsonian museum.
• When: Wednesday, May 16, 2018
• Time: 5 pm
• Where: PNE Forum – 2901 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $77-$196.50

Rufus Wainwright

• What: Juno award-winning American-Canadian singer and composer Rufus Wainwright is coming to Vancouver for a show this May. Wainwright has recorded seven albums over the course of his career, as well as writing a classical opera and setting Shakespearean sonnets to music. He is perhaps most famous for recording a cover of Leonard Cohen’s song Hallelujah! for the soundtrack of the movie Shrek in 2001.
• When: Sunday, May 20, 2018
• Time: Doors 7 pm, show 8 pm
• Where: UBC Chan Centre for the Performing Arts – 6265 Crescent Rd, Vancouver
• Tickets: On UBC, $49.50-$69.50

Bon Iver

• What: Indie-folk band Bon Iver will be bringing their stylish sound to Vancouver as part of their latest international tour. The band, which has been playing together since way back in 2006, released the album 22, A Million in September of 2016, and have received critical acclaim.
• When: Saturday, May 26, 2018
• Time: Doors at 5:30 pm, Show at 7 pm
• Where: Festival Lawn at Deer Lake Park – 6450 Deer Lake Ave, Burnab
• Tickets: Available online, $49.50

BREAKOUT Festival 2018

• What: Migos and Tory Lanez are headlining Vancouver’s first ever outdoor hip-hop and R&B music festival. BREAKOUT Festival promises a stacked lineup that includes international artists alongside Vancouver’s rising talent.
• When: Saturday, June 9 and Sunday, June 10, 2018
• Time: 2 pm, with a 10 pm curfew
• Where: PNE Amphitheatre – East, 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, 2-Day and VIP passes starting at $99