20 fantastic things to do in Vancouver this week: Aug. 25 to Sept. 1

Aug 24 2025, 8:00 pm

Let’s get the fun going with our checklist of 20 great things to do in Metro Vancouver from Aug. 25 to Sept. 1!

Make plans for TAIWANfest, Artizia Warehouse Sale, and more. And yes, the long weekend is around the corner.

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TAIWANfest Vancouver

things to do vancouver

TAIWANfest

What: The popular annual TAIWANfest will take place from Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 at several locations in Downtown Vancouver, including šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énk Square, Granville Street, the Annex, Wilms Salon, and more.

Attendees will enjoy a huge lineup of free events, including live music and performances, family-friendly activities, art markets, and public talks.

When: Saturday, Aug. 30 to Monday, Sept. 1, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations, including šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énk Square, Granville Street, and The Annex at Orpheum

PNE Fair 2025

What: The PNE Fair in Vancouver is back for a big 2025, and you’ll want to prepare your summer schedule accordingly.

A highlight of the fair every year is the huge summer night concerts. Music lovers won’t want to miss the exciting mix of music legends and rising stars coming to The Chevrolet Stage inside the Pacific Coliseum.

It wouldn’t be the PNE without some exciting entertainment. Save room in your fair schedule to see the SuperDogs’ new western-inspired show “Wild Wild Wolf” in the Agrodome, the ultimate aerial I-FLIP Show, The Flying Fools High Dive Show, and The Big Backyard free play zone. And don’t forget all of your favourite fair food!

When: Now until Monday, Sept. 1, 2025 (closed on Aug. 18 and 25)
Time: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: 2901 E. Hastings St., Vancouver
Cost: Various prices, purchase online

Whistler Summer Concert Series 2025

What: Summertime was made for outdoor concerts, and Whistler is offering a stunning backdrop for both artists and music lovers this year.

The Whistler Summer Concert Series returns to Whistler Olympic Plaza this August, with free live music, outdoor movie screenings, and more.

When: Various dates in August 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m. (live DJ sets) and 7:30 p.m. (headlining sets)
Where: Whistler Olympic Plaza – 4365 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
Cost: Free

Kathmandu World’s Biggest Hike

things to do vancouver

Kathmandu

What: Kathmandu, a popular New Zealand-based outdoor brand, is celebrating its entrance into the Canadian marketplace by hosting the free Kathmandu World’s Biggest Hike on Saturday, Aug. 30.

Not only is the event attempting to set a new Guinness World Record for the “most people hiking simultaneously,” it’s also helping to raise funds for several local non-profit organizations.

Kathmandu World’s Biggest Hike will see up to 2,000 participants gather at Cypress Mountain to trek up the 4 km path to the top of Sky Quad. The all-ages and free event continues at the base of the mountain with live music, informative vendor sessions, and a variety of food and beverages available for purchase. 

When: Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025
Time: Check-in and day-of registration open at 9:30 a.m., land acknowledgement at 10:30 a.m., hike at 11 a.m.
Where: Cypress Mountain – 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd., West Vancouver
Cost: Free

Smut Slam Vancouver

What: Smut Slam, the adult-only storytelling open mic, was created by award-winning playwright, performer, sex activist and educator Cameryn Moore. Consenting Slammers sign up at the event to tell a five-minute dirty story, based on real life.

The audience can also ask a question or share a confession in the F-BUCKET, which will be anonymously read out on stage.. The open and inclusive event is hosted by DD Brassiere.

When: Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025
Time: 9 pm
Where: Chill Pill Comedy – 2270 Manitoba St., Vancouver
Tickets: $20.60 including fees, purchase online

Aritzia Warehouse Sale

What: Aritzia’s popular Warehouse Sale is happening from Tuesday, Aug. 26 to Monday, Sept. 1. They say that new styles will be arriving every day of the sale and that patrons can expect 50 to 90 per cent off on everything. Some of the offerings include jackets, coats, dresses, blouses, denim, pants, skirts and accessories.

When: Tuesday, Aug. 26 to Monday, Sept. 1, 2025
Time: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Aug. 26 to Aug 30; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1
Where: 
Vancouver Convention Centre West — 1055 Canada Pl., Vancouver
Cost: Free

Twilight Tuesdays at Science World

What: While school may be out for the summer, there are still ample learning opportunities to be had, thanks to the return of Twilight Tuesdays at Science World.

Patrons can enjoy extended hours every Tuesday until 8 p.m. under the dome. Plus, you’ll receive discounted admission if you arrive after 5 p.m. That means more time to explore the exhibits while saving your wallet.

It’s also a great opportunity to check out the new feature exhibition, Artemis Space Adventure with LEGO Bricks, where you can take on space challenges while building and exploring outer space.

When: Every Tuesday until Aug. 26, 2025
Time: Open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Twilight Tuesdays discounted admission after 5 p.m.
Where: Science World – 1455 Quebec St., Vancouver
Tickets: Regular admission before 5 pm. Discounted admission after 5 pm of $17.95 for general admission and $13.95 for ages 3 to 12, plus tax. Children ages 2 and under get in free and don’t require a ticket. More info online.

Vancouver Rise

things to do vancouver

Vancouver Rise

What: It’s the inaugural season of Vancouver Rise FC and history is being made at Swangard Stadium. Come cheer on the hometown professional women’s soccer team and feel the energy rise with every goal, save, and tackle. 

You can get your tickets starting at $19 plus service charge and fees.

When: Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025
Time: 7 p.m. kickoff
Where: Swangard Stadium – 6100 Boundary Rd., Burnaby
Cost: Starting at $19 plus service charge and fees; purchase online

Britannia Mine Museum

What: The Britannia Mine Museum highlights an important part of the region’s history.

The actual mine operated between 1904 and 1974, and it used to be the largest copper mine in the British Empire. At one point in time, there were 60,000 people living and working in and around the mine.

There’s a lot more to learn about this fascinating piece of history in their 50th Anniversary special exhibit, A Museum’s Journey. Check out interactive displays, immersive activities, and more.

When: Exhibit on until Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025
Where: 150 Copper Drive, Britannia Beach
Cost: Various prices, purchase online

Free Outdoor Yoga Classes with Mat Collective

What: Mat Collective is hosting free yoga classes at Hadden Park at Kits Beach every week throughout the summer.

Every instructor brings their own style to their outdoor class, starting with a grounding warm-up before moving on to flows and holds, working your way up to a peak pose, and concluding with a meditative finish.

When: Every Tuesday until Aug. 26, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Where: Hadden Park – 1905 Ogden Ave., Vancouver
Cost: 
Free, register online to reserve your spot.

Surrey’s Heritage Rail

What: Take a trip back through time by riding Surrey’s Heritage Interurban rail car.

Heritage Rail Adventure trips take place on Saturdays and feature a tour of the Cloverdale railway station, a trip on the B.C. Electric Intraurban Railcar, and more. Sullivan Excursions happen on Sundays and feature a 55-minute sightseeing ride to Sullivan Park and back.

When: Every Saturday and Sunday until Sept. 28, 2025
Time: First train at 10 a.m., last train at 3 p.m.
Where: Cloverdale Station – Hwy 10 & 176A Street, Surrey
Cost: $12-$25, free for children 2 and under. Purchase online

Jokers Canada’s Kitsilano Comedy Classic- End Of Summer Bash

things to do vancouver

Jokers Comedy

What: Jokers Canada is a travelling comedy club that showcases professional and hilarious stand-ups all over Vancouver. Laugh your way through the end of summer with a lineup that includes Julie Kim (Just For Laughs Montreal), Sharon Mahoney (Comedy Store LA), Myles Anderson (CBC), Ty Boissonnault (Kam Comedy Fest), Graham Clark (CBC Debaters) and Faris Hytiaa (Just For Laughs Montreal).

When: Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: Hollywood Theatre – 3123 West Broadway, Vancouver
Cost: Various prices, purchase online

South Granville Summer

What: Get ready for fun in the sun as South Granville Summer Social Club turns a beloved Vancouver neighbourhood into the hottest social club of the season.

Taking inspiration from Italian summers and aperitivo culture, South Granville will transform into an open-air social hub stocked with events for you to check out — and most are completely free to attend.

When: Various dates until August 2025
Time: Various times
Where: South Granville, from Granville Bridge to W. 16th Avenue
Tickets: All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise specified.

The Magic of Sunflowers and The Magic of Fall

What: Taves Farms invites guests to the Magic of Sunflowers to explore the season’s stunning blooms and take pictures in the various photo spots until Sunday, Sept. 7.

Then head back from Saturday, Sept. 13, until Friday, Oct. 31, for the Magic of Fall, with a giant pumpkin patch, three corn mazes and over 30 acres of fall activities.

When: Now until Sunday, Sept. 7 (Magic of Sunflowers), Saturday, Sept. 13 to Friday, Oct. 31 (Magic of Fall). Closed Mondays and Tuesdays until Friday, Sept. 26, and on Tuesdays until the end of the season, except for Tuesday, Sept. 30, which will be open
Time: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Now until Friday, Sept. 26), 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m
Where: 333 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford, B.C.
Tickets: Various prices, purchase online

Gastown Sunday Set

What: Inspired by global pedestrian-first movements, the new Gastown Sunday Set car-free series will transform the cobblestone streets of Gastown into a gathering spot with exciting activations.

Check out live DJ sets, an outdoor flower market, an open-air art crawl, and plenty of expanded patios every Sunday until the end of August.

When: Every Sunday until Aug. 31, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Water Street in Gastown
Cost: Free admission

Teddy Swims

things to do vancouver

Teddy Swims

What: Fast-rising music star Teddy Swims is coming to Vancouver next summer on his world tour, and local fans are ready to “Lose Control.”

The four-time MTV Video Music Award nominee is bringing the I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy tour to Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Centre on Saturday, Aug. 30.

When: Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre — 6066 Thunderbird Boulevard, Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices. Purchase online

Funbox Bounce Park

What: Funbox has returned to Metro Vancouver, setting up the bounce park at Coquitlam Centre for a thrilling and bouncy summer season until Sept. 1.

Funbox is stating that there will be over 25,000 sq. ft. of “bright, bouncy bliss,” with giant slides, obstacle courses, a Ninja Wall, Gumball Gallop, and a maze of play zones for all ages.

When: Now until Monday, Sept. 1, 2025
Time: Various time slots
Where: Coquitlam Centre – 1150 The High Street, Coquitlam
Cost: Various prices, purchase online

Vancouver Aquarium presents Survival of the Slowest

What: Vancouver Aquarium’s new exhibit, Survival of the Slowest, celebrates all things slow in the animal kingdom by giving you a sneak peek behind some of nature’s most inventive creatures. From now until Monday, Sept. 1, this limited-time exhibit lets you step into a world where being slow, small, and even weak can be a powerful survival strategy.

Throughout the exhibit, you can dive into interactive displays to uncover how these naturally slow critters, like the two-toed sloth, have adapted to survive in the wild. Relax into daily Slow & Tell animal presentations so you can chill with the coolest sluggish creatures like the four-toed hedgehog and the armoured armadillo.

When: Now until Monday, Sept. 1, 2025
Where: Vancouver Aquarium — 845 Avison Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Tickets are on sale now starting at $41.95

Evo Summer Cinema Series at Stanley Park

things to do vancouver

Fresh Air Cinema (Outdoor Movies BC/Facebook)

What: Hundreds of people will gather every Tuesday until Aug. 26 for Canada’s largest outdoor movie series. You can watch a curated lineup of Hollywood hits and family favourites on the giant 40-foot inflatable movie screen.

When: Every Tuesday until Aug. 26, 2025
Time: Screenings begin a little after sunset
Where: Ceperley Meadows beside the Second Beach pool – 8501 Stanley Park Dr., Vancouver
Cost: Free

Car-Free Day Burnaby

What: Car-Free Day Burnaby is happening on Sunday, Aug. 31, on Edmonds, between Kingsway and Mary Avenue.

The massive events are presented by TransLink, Interac Corp., local municipalities, and BIAs to promote the growth of car-free culture and spaces. Attendees will discover local musicians and artists, family activities, vendors, food trucks, and more in the pedestrian paradise.

When: Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025
Time: noon to 5 p.m.
Where: Edmonds, between Kingsway and Mary Avenue
Cost: Free

Cultus Lake Waterpark

What: Cultus Lake opened in 1984 and is locally owned and operated. Adventurous sliders will want to slap on the waterproof sunscreen and enjoy the Valley of Fear, Bazooka Bowls, or the Freefall tower. Families and young ones can also experience Tots’ Castle, Pirates Cove, and Western Canada’s biggest waterslide, the Colossal Canyon family raft ride.

After you’ve built up an appetite, grab some food from the in-park vendors, including the pineapple Dole Whip soft serve, poutine plunge, and cheeseburgers. Then relax at one of the 150+ shaded and sheltered picnic areas.

When: Now until Monday, Sept. 1, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: Cultus Lake Waterpark – 4150 Columbia Valley Hwy., Cultus Lake
Cost: Various, purchase online