This Gastown street will become a car-free playground every Sunday this summer

You’re going to want to make Sundays your new excuse to head to Gastown, because Water St is going car-free this summer.

Every Sunday from July 5 through Sept. 6, Water St will transform into a pedestrian-friendly hub for Gastown Summer Set. Expect live DJs, outdoor coffee parties, flower markets, art battles, patio dining, pop-up activations, games, and plenty of surprises.

Stretching from Richards St to Columbia St, the weekly series turns Gastown into an open-air playground where every visit offers something different.

As an added bonus, parking is free for up to three hours with proof of purchase at EasyPark at 151 W Cordova St, and visitors can also enjoy free bike valet on-site at 200 Abbott St.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store

Streetside Sessions Coffee Party

Gastown BIA

Streetside Sessions, hosted in collaboration with Public Disco, is all about experiencing Gastown’s historic streets in a new way. Visitors will be able to savour locally roasted coffee and enjoy curated sets from Vancouver-based artists on July 5, Aug. 9, and Sept. 6.

Hit the open-air dancefloor where you can throw some moves to jazz, funk, soul, Latin, house, disco, and more.

Each event will bring together small businesses, artists, and the wider community in an accessible space that fosters meaningful connections.

Plus, there are more than a dozen coffee shops in Gastown, many of which are offering exclusive coffee party menu items, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Gastown in Bloom

Gastown BIA

The vibrant flower market that is Gastown in Bloom will once again be returning, bringing a pop colour to the cobblestone streets on July 12, July 26, and Aug. 23.

Shop local florists, pick up some plants for your home and garden, and browse producers from across the region. It’s also an opportunity to connect with nature in an urban setting!

Open Air Atelier

Gastown BIA

The Open Air Atelier is a live art competition featuring emerging artists stationed throughout the neighbourhood, each creating original works in real-time. Expect live painting, street performances, and more, on July 19, Aug. 2, and Aug. 30.

Stop and watch for a while, admire the creativity, and then you’ll have a chance to vote for your favourite.

Gastown Unscripted

Gastown BIA

Gastown Unscripted is all about relaxing and just enjoying the vibes of the neighbourhood. This event takes place on Aug. 16, and there will be low set programming.

Take a stroll through the streets; dine in one of the many restaurants like Pourhouse Restaurant or The Greek; enjoy a drink on the patios at Local or Water St Cafe; and enjoy the informal activations unfolding organically throughout the day.

Gastown’s weekly takeover runs all summer long, and you can find more information on the Gastown BIA website.

So, grab your friends and head out to rediscover one of Vancouver’s most historic and iconic neighbourhoods, on Sunday at a time.

Gastown Summer Set

When: Every Sunday from July 5  to Sept. 6
Where: Along Water St, from Richards to Columbia
Time: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Free!