Free things to do with your kids in Vancouver this summer

If it feels like the kids have been out of school for too long and the activity to-do list is running short, there is still plenty to do with the kiddies before it’s time to say goodbye to summer.

Every parent loves the word ‘FREE,’ so here are five free things to do with the kids before September comes.

Evo Summer Cinema Series

Every Tuesday evening this summer, hunker down with a blanket and snacks at Stanley Park’s Ceperley Meadows to watch a classic family-friendly flick under the stars. There are two screenings left this summer; the original Jurassic Park on August 18 and Disney’s Tomorrowland on August 25. Movies start at dusk.

Where: Ceperley Meadows (Second Beach), Stanley Park
When: Tuesdays at dusk

Go for a hike

Head over to North Vancouver for some beautiful and kid-friendly hikes at Capilano River Regional Park or Lynn Canyon Park. If you choose Capilano, take a peek inside the fish hatchery to see the newly arriving salmon. Trails can be found in both parks easy enough for the little ones.

Where: Capilano River Regional Park – Capilano Road, North Vancouver; Lynn Canyon Park – Lynn Valley, North Vancouver
When: Anytime before dusk

Shipyards Night Market

The free-to-enter North Vancouver night market at Shipbuilder’s Square has everything to cap off a sensational Friday evening. Head down for the main meal or for after-dinner treats, listen (and maybe dance) to live music and catch the sunset. You may also find some artisanal goods to take home.

Where: Shipbuilders’ Square – 138 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
When: May 1 to September 25; Fridays, 5 to 10 p.m.

Free Yoga at Kits Beach

The family that does yoga together, stays together – that’s the saying, right? Anyhow, try it out with the kids under the Kits Beach sea breeze every Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening from 7 to 8 p.m.

Where: Kits Beach, between the swimming pool and tennis courts – Cornwall Ave. and Yew St., Vancouver
When: Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday night until August 31, 2015; 7 to 8 p.m.

Visit a nearby lake

Looking for some warmer water to take a dip? Some of the lakes in or near Metro Vancouver are beautiful for swimming and relaxing. Alouette Lake at Golden Ears Park, Buntzen Lake, Murin Lake and Cultus Lake are a few family favourites just a short drive away. Pack a picnic, floaties and some sand toys to truly make a day out of it.

Where: Various locations
When: Anytime before dusk