8 International Women's Day events to celebrate in Vancouver this week
Saturday, March 8 is International Women’s Day – a celebration of women’s achievements while raising awareness against bias.
Vancouver will be taking action for equality with events, panels, and festivals growing support and continuing to push for further progress.
In an effort to raise awareness, inspire action, and motivate change, here are eight Metro Vancouver events where you can celebrate International Women’s Day.
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Gender Equity in Media Festival
GEM Fest Vancouver
What: Gender Equity in Media Society Vancouver presents its 20th annual festival from March 5 to 9 at VIFF Centre. It’s your chance to catch rising film stars and support women and gender-diverse filmmakers onscreen.
There are 32 films from nine countries in this year’s programming, including world premieres, features, shorts and more. GEM Fest will also include receptions and panels for fans to check out.
When: March 5 to 9, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: VIFF Centre — 1181 Seymour St., Vancouver
Cost: Various prices including free events. Purchase tickets online
International Women’s Day Open House at YWCA Health + Fitness Centre
What: YWCA Health + Fitness Centre is celebrating International Women’s Day by opening its doors to the community for complimentary workouts. Take a dip in the pool, work out in the weight rooms, or discover the many offerings in the fitness studios.
Group fitness classes must be booked in advance with Member Services by calling 604-895-5777. Guests must also be 15 or older and present a valid photo ID during the visit. You can also become a YWCA Health + Fitness Centre member on this day and save $50 with no joiner fee.
When: March 8, 2025
Time: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: YWCA Health + Fitness Centre — 535 Hornby Street, Vancouver
Cost: Free
Femme, Femme, Femme: International Women’s Day Edition
What: The Improv Centre celebrates International Women’s Day with a showcase of fabulous, funny femmes. Laugh along with your favourite performers and special guests, and bring your best suggestions to inspire the comedians throughout the evening.
When: March 6, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Improv Centre – 1502 Duranleau St., Vancouver
Cost: Various, purchase Online
International Women’s Day: Mom Camp x Saje Natural Wellness Robson
What: Mom Camp and Saje Natural Wellness are teaming up to host a morning of connection and empowerment. The lineup of panelists includes Catherine Roscoe Barr, best-selling author and neuroscience-based wellness coach; Eliza Trendiak, founder of Lavoh; Amanda Sayfy, Dress for Success Vancouver Executive Director; and Gillian Behnke, Mom Camp founder. Proceeds will be donated to Dress for Success Vancouver.
When: March 8, 2025
Time: 9 to 10 a.m.
Where: Saje Natural Wellness — 1091 Robson St., Vancouver
Tickets: $20 plus fees, purchase online
Vancouver International Women’s Day March
International Women’s Day March Vancouver
What: The International Women’s Day March is being held on Saturday, March 8, in Downtown Vancouver and is organized by a local, grassroots coalition with support from SFU’s Women’s Centre and the Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies department.
The event will begin at 1 pm at šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square at the Vancouver Art Gallery. Everyone is welcome to participate in the Vancouver International Women’s Day March, including an Indigenous welcome ceremony, speeches from local community leaders and activists, and a musician performance.
When: March 8, 2025
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Where: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square – 850 W Georgia St., Vancouver
Cost: Free
Workout For Women’s Day
What: From March 3 until Sunday, March 9, you can sign up for a ton of incredible fitness classes at Workout For Women’s Day by donating. It’s a chance to sample classes from some of the city’s best trainers and studios. From aerial yoga to pop queen cardio, there are classes for everyone available both online and in-studio.
When: March 3 to 9, 2025
Time: Check the schedule for class times
Where: Various locations in Vancouver
Tickets: Classes by donation
Sister Jazz Quintent celebrates International Women’s Day
What: Celebrate International Women’s Day with a performance from five talented artists from the Sister Jazz Orchestra. The event will feature two sets of creative arrangements of jazz standards and original tunes at Frankie’s Jazz Club.
When: March 6, 2025
Time: 8 to 10:30 p.m.
Where: Frankie’s Jazz Club — 755 Beatty St., Vancouver
Reservations: Online
Queens of Comedy
Jane Stanton/Chill X Studios
What: An all-female cast of comedians is coming to the Inlet Theatre on March 6, and you won’t want to miss the all-star lineup. in celebration of International Women’s Day. Featuring Jane Stanton, Cassidy Furman, Niki Mohdar, and Britney Lyseng.
When: March 6, 2025
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Inlet Theatre — 100 Newport Dr., Port Moody
Tickets: Starting at $33.50 plus fees, purchase online
Mommy & Me workshop: International Women’s Day celebration
What: Gordon Neighbourhood House hosts a Mommy & Me Art Workshop to mark International Women’s Day. All parents identifying as mothers with their young children are welcome to the hands-on event. Participants will make a meaningful keepsafe craft together while reflecting on the strength and spirit of women everywhere. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.
When: March 7, 2025
Time: 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House – 1019 Broughton St., Vancouver
Cost: Free; register online