Over 40 fun and fantastic things to do around Vancouver this fall

Sep 22 2026, 6:23 pm

Fall is upon us, and the new season is filled with wonderful events and happenings to check out around Metro Vancouver.

We’re here to help you make the most of autumn with these 43 events happening around the city, including the Vancouver International Film Festival, Canyon Frights, and more!

Be sure to check out our Listed section for more fantastic things happening around town.

To stay up to date on everything happening in Metro Vancouver, B.C., and beyond, sign up for our newsletters.

Things to do this fall

Vancouver International Film Festival 2026

viff

VIFF

What: This year’s highly anticipated Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) is happening from Oct. 1 to 11, and there is a major global film competition that fans can enjoy at the festivities

One of the largest film festivals in North America, VIFF 2026 will showcase approximately 160 features from around the world.

Movie-goers can also experience Vanguard, the festival’s only competitive international feature section, showcasing eight narrative and hybrid films by rising filmmakers from around the globe.

When: Thursday, Oct. 1 to Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations
Tickets: Single tickets range from $17 to $22 for regular screenings, with ticket packs and festival passes also available. Purchase online

Oktoberfest at Parallel 49

What: Every day until Sunday, Oct. 4, Parallel 49 Brewing will be celebrating Oktoberfest in their massive tent and biergarten. Come enjoy live music from Thursday to Sunday.

There will also be a great selection of Oktoberfest-style beers, traditional German food features and specials, and more.

When: Thursday, Sept. 17 to Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026
Time: Parallel 49 is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday, and 11 a.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday
Where: Parallel 49 – 1950 Triumph St., Vancouver
Admission: Free, seating available first-come, first-served

The BOG at Riverside Cranberry Farm

What: Just an hour’s drive from Vancouver, the Riverside Cranberry Farm is opening for the new season. Don stylish hip waders and waddle down the ladder straight into a flooded field. Surrounded by floating red berries, you’ll feel like a kid again, gently wading through the water.

Be sure to take the Harvest Farm Tour before you take the plunge. This self-guided tour of the field’s perimeter lets you watch the harvest in real time.

When: Various dates from Sept. 30 to Oct. 12, 2026
Time: Various time slots.
Where: The BOG at Riverside Cranberry Farm – 26885 88th Ave., Langley City
Cost: Various prices; purchase online

Vancouver Christmas Market 2026

things to do Vancouver

Vancouver Christmas Market

What: The Vancouver Christmas Market is transforming Jack Poole Plaza into a huge German-style holiday event from Monday, Nov. 16, to Thursday, Dec. 24.

A popular holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike, the market features dozens of food and drink vendors, as well as plenty of artisans and makers at over 90 wooden huts.

When: Monday, Nov. 16, to Thursday, Dec. 24, 2026
Time: Various time slots
Where: Jack Poole Plaza – 1055 Canada Pl., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices; purchase online

The Wedding Party

What: The Wedding Party, an immersive experience presented by Secret City Adventures, has taken over Glowbal Restaurant in Downtown Vancouver.

The unique event will see guests taking in a live performance, deciphering clues and solving puzzles, and enjoying a delicious dinner at the wedding reception of Norah and Jack.

When: Various dates until December 2026
Time: 6 p.m.
Where: Glowbal – 590 West Georgia St., Vancouver
Cost: Various prices, including individual tickets, tables of four, and VIP. More info is available online.

Vancouver Career Fair and Training Expo Canada

What: Career Fair and Training Expo Canada is taking place at Pan Pacific Vancouver on Wednesday, Dec. 9.

The upcoming Vancouver job fairs bring together a mix of employers from a variety of industries, as well as onsite training exhibitors who can teach applicants about different credentials that may help them land their dream jobs.

When: Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Pan Pacific Vancouver – 999 Canada Pl., #300
Cost: Free; register online

Vancouver Cheese and Meat Festival

Cheese and Meat

Vancouver Cheese and Meat Festival

What: The Cheese and Meat Festival is all about indulging in small plates, so be ready to discover dozens of vendors showcasing their finest products through elevated bites.

Walk the Festival at your own pace and discover over 150 curated pairings with your all-inclusive ticket. It’s a great opportunity to taste, learn, and connect with the best in artisan food and drink all in one place.

When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026
Time: Various tasting sessions
Where: The Pipe Shop – 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices, with a VIP option also available. Purchase online

Noel Surrey

What: Noel Surrey returns for another year with massive displays, stunning LED forests, photo opportunities, holiday characters, a Bright Nights light walk, artisan vendors, and more.

When: Nov. 27 to Dec. 29, 2026 (closed Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, 24, and 25)
Time: 3 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Cloverdale Fairgrounds — 17905 62nd Ave, #17607, Surrey
Admission: Various prices, free for children six and under. Purchase online

Shipyards Christmas Market

What: It’s never too early to think about Christmas, especially when a festive event is gearing up for its Metro Vancouver return this fall.

The Shipyards Christmas Market is back in North Vancouver, starting on Friday, Nov. 27 and running through to Christmas Eve. Check out dozens of artisan stalls, food vendors, and live performers, as well as visits with Santa and more.

When: Nov. 27 to Dec. 24, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Sunday to Thursday until Dec. 21), 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Friday to Sunday until Dec. 21), 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Dec. 21, 22 and 23), 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Dec. 24)
Where: The Shipyards — 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free

Vancouver Etsy Co – Fall Pop-Up

What: Find unique items and support local artists and makers at the 8th Annual Fall Pop-Up by Vancouver Etsy Co at Robson Square Ice Rink. This market is carefully curated with all items designed and/or made in Canada.

There will also be workshops throughout the weekend, including the Art of Watercolor, a Creamy Glue Accessory, and Create Your Own Buddy Charm.

When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Robson Square Rink – 800 Robson St., Vancouver
Tickets: Free; RSVP online for a chance to win Market Cash to spend at the event (draw every 100 tickets sold). Register for workshops online for an additional cost

Steve Hofstetter

comedian

Steve Hofstetter

What: Steve Hofstetter is host of Finding Babe Ruth on FS1 and a stand-up comic with over 1.3 million followers on YouTube. The Laughs executive producer is coming to Vancouver on Wednesday, Sept. 23, for a show at the Rio Theatre.

When: Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: Rio Theatre — 1660 East Broadway, Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices; purchase online

Harvest Days at VanDusen Botanical Garden

What: Harvest Days at VanDusen Botanical Garden features a Learning Garden and maze, family-friendly activities, games and crafts, and food trucks. Take in live music, meet local experts, and do even more during the annual event.

When: Sept. 26 and 27, Oct. 3, 4, 10, 11, and 12 (Thanksgiving), and Oct. 17 and 18, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: VanDusen Botanical Garden — 5251 Oak St., Vancouver
Admission: Various prices; purchase online

The Magic of Fall

What: Taves Farms invites guests to the Magic of Fall, featuring the new attraction Autumn’s Lane, a giant pumpkin patch, apple orchards, and over 30 acres of fall activities.

When: Now until Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: 333 Gladwin Rd., Abbotsford
Tickets: Various prices; purchase online

Happy Halloween

Maan Farms Halloween Fright Festival

things to do Vancouver

Maan Farms

What: Maan Farms’ Halloween Fright Festival is back for another year in Abbotsford.

The farm’s signature scare zones are set for maximum immersion, with several of the scariest corn maze haunted attractions in Canada and a brand-new fourth haunt.

Bring your appetite as Mama Maan’s Country Kitchen will serve butter chicken and chickpea curry bowls, samosas, seasonal pizzas, kettle corn, and desserts like Apple Pie Samosas.

When: Oct. 2 to 31, 2026
Where: Maan Farms — 790 McKenzie Rd., Abbotsford
Tickets: Various prices for general admission and VIP; purchase online

Canyon Frights

What: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park will be decorated with pumpkins and spooky displays for its annual Halloween event, Canyon Frights. There are plenty of photo ops, family-friendly activities, live performances and more to check out.

When: Oct. 9 to Nov. 1, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (open until 9 p.m. from Oct. 23 to 25 and Oct. 30 to Nov. 1)
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – 3735 Capilano Rd., North Vancouver
Tickets: Various; purchase online

Cirque Costume Ball

What: Vancouver’s longest-running licensed Halloween bash takes over Science World on Saturday, Oct. 31. Over 1,500 ghoulish party-goers will enjoy live cirque performances, spooky decor, and the city’s top DJs and performers.

Prepare for a full night of frights with three music rooms across two floors featuring 10 of the city’s top DJs and live performers. Cirque performance artists, including silk aerialists, contortionists, LED dancers, stilt walkers, jugglers, and more, will leave your jaw on the floor.

When: Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026
Time: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: Science World — 1455 Quebec St., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices; purchase online

Truth and Reconciliation Day

Semiahmoo First Nation’s 6th Annual Walk for Truth & Reconciliation

Truth and Reconciliation Events

Semiahmoo First Nation’s Annual Walk for Truth & Reconciliation

What: Semiahmoo First Nation welcomes the community to its Walk for Truth & Reconciliation at Semiahmoo Park.

Highlights include live performances, family-friendly activities, a complimentary lunch, several exhibitions, and an Indigenous artisan market. Orange shirts will also be sold before the walk.

When: Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Semihamoo Park. The walk begins in the parking lot adjacent to Grand Chief Bernard Robert Charles Plaza at 15393 Marine Dr., White Rock.
Cost: Free

Truth & Reconciliation Day at MONOVA: Museum of North Vancouver

What: The Museum and Archives of North Vancouver invites guests of all ages to reflect on Indigenous histories and cultures on the North Shore and across Canada, led by MONOVA’s Indigenous cultural programmers, Jordan Dawson and Tsawaysia Spukwus. There will be hands-on crafts and activities to help inspire dialogue for families.

Admission to MONOVA will also be pay-what-you-can on Truth and Reconciliation Day.

When: Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: MONOVA — 115 West Esplanade, North Vancouver
Admission: Pay what you can, register online

Discover incredible murals by Indigenous artists around Vancouver

Indigenous Murals

The winds and the waters will always call us home by Ocean Hyland | Turtle Island by Caleb Ellison-Dysart

What: There are many Indigenous artworks to be found all over Vancouver, and each one has an important story to tell.

Some of the most thought-provoking pieces that can be seen throughout the traditional unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations are the dozens of Indigenous murals. Many of which were created for the Vancouver Mural Festival (VMF).

Where: Various mural locations across Vancouver. See the list online

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Noons Creek Hatchery

What: Noons Creek Hatchery in Port Moody invites the community to learn about Truth and Reconciliation on Wednesday, Sept. 30. This year’s guest speaker is Ed Hall from Kwikwetlem First Nations.

PoMoArts will host an art activity for the public titled “Relational Folds” and will lead an Origami Orange Shirt art activity as well.

When: Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Noons Creek Hatchery – 336 Ioco Rd., Port Moody
Cost: Free

Cheer on the home teams

Vancouver Whitecaps

Vancouver Whitecaps FC

What: Vancouver Whitecaps continue their MLS season this fall with several exciting home games at BC Place. Cheer on the ‘Caps as they face LAFC on Oct. 10, San Diego FC on Oct. 28, and Seattle Sounders on Nov. 1.

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Blvd., Vancouver
Cost: Various; purchase online

BC Lions

What: BC Lions’ CFL season roars on at BC Place this fall with games against the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Sept. 25, Ottawa Redblacks on Oct. 9, and Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Oct. 23.

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Blvd., Vancouver
Cost: Various; purchase online

Vancouver Giants

What: The Vancouver Giants start the new season this fall at the Langley Events Centre with games against the Prince George Cougars on Sept. 27, Seattle Thunderbirds on Oct. 10, and Moose Jaw Warriors on Nov. 7.

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Langley Events Centre – 7888 200th St., Langley
Cost: Various; purchase online

Vancouver Canucks

jt miller canucks playoffs

Bob Frid/USA TODAY Sports

What: The Canucks are back this fall with games, including ones against the Edmonton Oilers on Oct. 1, Toronto Maple Leafs on Nov. 3, and Dallas Stars on Dec. 5.

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Cost: Various; purchase online

Vancouver FC

What: Vancouver FC continue their Canadian Premier League season at Willoughby Community Park in the fall. The home games at the Langley Events Centre include Forge FC on Sept. 26 and HFX Wanderers on Oct. 16.

When: Various dates
Time:
Various times
Where: Willoughby Community Park at the Langley Events Centre – 7782 200th St., Langley Township
Tickets: Various prices, purchase online

Vancouver Warriors vs. Georgia Swarm

Vancouver Warriors Players

Vancouver Warriors

What: The Vancouver Warriors begin the National Lacrosse League season at Rogers Arena this fall with a game against the Georgia Swarm on Friday, Dec. 18.

When: Friday, Dec. 18, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Cost: Various; purchase online

Abbotsford Canucks

What: Abbotsford Canucks fire up their AHL campaign this fall, with home games including visitors Coachella Valley Firebirds on Oct. 17 and 18, Colorado Eagles on Nov. 10 and 11, and Bakersfield Condors on Dec. 11 and 12.

When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Abbotsford Centre – 33800 King Rd., Abbotsford
Cost: Various; purchase online

Bon appetit

Metro Vancouver Croissant Crawl 2026

Metro Vancouver Croissant Crawl

Punk Rock Pastries

What: The Metro Vancouver Croissant Crawl is returning for its fifth year, featuring 37 vendors offering limited-edition croissants.

Taking place from Sept. 25 to Oct. 4, croissant lovers can visit participating bakeries and cafes across Metro Vancouver to get their hands on these exclusive baked goods. Returning this year are drink pairings at select vendors for those looking to level up their croissant experience.

When: Sept. 25 to Oct. 4, 2026
Where: Participating bakeries and cafes across Metro Vancouver

Harvest Haus

What: Vancouver’s take on the traditional German beer festival comes in the form of Harvest Haus, a fun-filled weekend combining modern cuisine with traditional and “authentic European harvest traditions.”

You can expect to dine on freshly made pretzels accompanied by grainy mustard and sauerkraut, as well as sausage and other treats available for purchase in the marketplatz.

Over 25 European and craft beers, wines, and spirits will be available to discover. Traditional oompah bands and live DJs will complete the party atmosphere each day.

When: Oct. 2 and 3, 2026
Time: 6 to 11:30 p.m.
Where: PNE Forum — 2901 Hastings St. E., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices, purchase online

Whistler Cornucopia

What: Whistler Cornucopia is Whistler’s signature fall festival of food and drink, held every November. It’s known as the ultimate celebration of taste, bringing together chefs, winemakers, distillers, brewers, and food lovers for 11 days of culinary adventure.

Enjoy silent discos, comedy nights, and lots of delicious eats this fall.

When: Nov. 5 to 15, 2026
Time Various times
Where: Various venues and restaurants in Whistler
Cost: Various prices. More info online

Vinícola Portugal Wine Festival

What: Discover a curated selection of 70 wines at the Vinícola Portugal Wine Festival, along with a pop-up wine shop by Sutton Place Wine Merchants and a snack bar hosted by Arc Iberico Imports.

When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026
Time: 2 to 6 p.m.
Where: Heritage Hall – 3102 Main St., Vancouver
Tickets: $65 plus fees, purchase online

UBC Botanical Garden Apple Festival

UBC Apple Festival

UBC Botanical Garden/Facebook

What: UBC Apple Festival returns on Oct. 17 and 18 for its 35th year. Celebrate one of B.C.’s favourite fruits with rare and unusual apple varieties, family activities and a lively fall atmosphere at UBC Botanical Garden.

Learn about apple diversity, taste varieties you may not find at the grocery store and support a beloved community tradition. Organized by Friends of UBC Botanical Garden, the festival raises funds for education, research, and conservation at UBC Botanical Garden.

When: Oct. 17 and 18, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: UBC Botanical Garden — 6804 SW Marine Dr., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices. Children seven years and under can enter for free with a paying adult, though they must still register for a ticket. Purchase online

The Perfect Bite

What: Time to pick up your magnifying glass, detectives! An official Netflix murder mystery dinner has come to Vancouver, and you’re invited to take a bite out of crime.

Secret City Adventures is collaborating with Netflix on the event, which will see guests watching a murder case unfold while deciphering clues. Of course, they will also enjoy a delicious dinner that is simply to die for.

When: Select dates until Dec. 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: Glowbal — 590 West Georgia St., Vancouver
Cost: Various prices, including individual tickets, tables of 4, and VIP. More info online

Sunday Service at St. Augustine’s on Commercial Drive

What: St. Augustine’s is launching “Sunday Service,” the ultimate Commercial Drive Sunday destination — just steps from the Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain station.

Every Sunday during the day, enjoy a live DJ spinning all afternoon, exclusive featured pricing on a menu tailored for both “saints and sinners,” starring Vancouver’s only authentic New Haven-style pizza, and game-day broadcasts across 11 brand-new TVs and a big-screen projector.

Whether you’re looking for an amazing daytime hospitality vibe, great food and drink specials, or to catch the game over a beer, Sunday Service at St. Augustine’s has you covered.

When: Every Sunday starting Sept. 27, 2026
Time: All day and afternoon
Where: St. Augustine’s – 2360 Commercial Dr., Vancouver (one block from Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain Station)
Admission: Free; food and drink specials priced individually

Enjoy the arts

Luzia by Cirque du Soleil

cirque vancouver

Cirque du Soleil: Luzia

What: Cirque du Soleil is returning to Vancouver for a milestone big top show, and fans won’t want to miss the extravaganza.

The internationally acclaimed acrobatic circus brings Luzia back to the city for its 10th anniversary from Wednesday, Nov. 4 to Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2026.

Described as a waking dream of Mexico, Luzia will take over Concord Pacific Place with an exploration of “a sumptuous world suspended between dreams and reality.”

When: Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026 to Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2026
Time: Performance times will vary based on the date
Where: Concord Pacific Place — 88 Pacific Blvd., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices; purchase online

20th annual Vancouver Story Slam Storytelling Championship Finals

What: The annual Vancouver Story Slam Storytelling Championship is the grand finale of the 2026 Vancouver Story Slam season. Ten storytellers bring their best stories to the longest-running storytelling event of its kind in Canada.

The winner, selected by an anonymous audience ballot, will receive a share of nearly $3,000 in cash prizes as well as the title of the year’s Vancouver Story Slam Champion. Stories are not pre-screened and are as unique and entertaining as the people telling them.

When: Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: Vogue Theatre – 918 Granville St., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices; purchase online

Broadway Across Canada – & Juliet

What: Created by the Emmy-winning writer from Schitt’s Creek, this hilarious musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told.

This play asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Juliet’s new story bursts to life through a playlist of pop anthems as iconic as her name, including “Since U Been Gone‚” “Baby One More Time,” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!”

When: Sept. 29 to Oct. 4, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre — 630 Hamilton St., Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Deadly Dinner Party at The Improv Centre

Vancouver theatre

The Improv Centre

What: The Improv Centre presents a classic whodunnit with a heaping dose of hilarity for the fall spooky season.

Follow along the adventure as five VIPs are summoned to a mysterious dinner, only for murder to be served as the first course. Now a detective must discover the clues and solve the crime before it’s too late in a seasonal show where no two performances will be the same.

When: Every Friday and Saturday from Sept. 25 to Oct. 30, plus a special opening night performance on Thursday, Sept. 24.
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: The Improv Centre – 1502 Duranleau St., Vancouver
Cost: Various; purchase Online

Heist

What: Arts Club presents Heist, a thrilling theatrical caper filled with fast-paced dialogue and high-tech action at the Stanley BFL Canada Stage. Follow along as the conman, the hacker, the cat burglar, the muscle, and the mastermind attempt to steal a priceless ruby in the perfect crime.

When: Now until Oct. 18, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Stanley BFL Canada Stage – 2750 Granville St., Vancouver
Cost: Various prices starting at $39; purchase online

Eat fresh with farmers markets

Mount Pleasant Farmers Market

farmers market

The BC Farmers Market Trail

What: Find fresh groceries, locally sourced produce, as well as artisanal food offerings at the Mount Pleasant Farmers Market, held weekly at Dude Chilling Park in Mount Pleasant

When: Every Sunday until Nov. 1, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Dude Chilling Park — 2300 Guelph St., Vancouver

False Creek Farmers Market

What: See, taste, and indulge at this bustling weekday market. This market, which takes place at Olympic Village Square on the Milton Wong Plaza, showcases over 25 farms and producers, food and coffee trucks.

When: Every Thursday until Oct. 29, 2026
Time: 3 to 7 p.m.
Where: Olympic Village Square on the Milton Wong Plaza

Kitsilano Farmers Market

What: Kitsilano Farmers Market takes place on Sundays and offers a good selection of fresh local produce and gourmet treats to stock up on for the week. There are also a number of artisan vendors and food trucks to check out at the market.

When: Every Sunday until Nov. 1, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Larch Street and West 10th Avenue, Vancouver

West End Market

What: The West End’s charming, community-minded farmers’ market is open on Saturdays. Grab a coffee, peek at the adjacent community garden, and stock up on a vast array of locally grown foods.

When: Every Saturday until Oct. 31, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Comox Street (between Bute and Thurlow), Vancouver

Downtown Farmers Market

What: Located centrally at West Georgia and Hornby Street in the heart of Downtown Vancouver, this market features over 30 farms and producers, food and coffee trucks.

Do all your shopping conveniently, as Downtown Farmers Market is directly adjacent to a busy bike path and is close to many transit lines, with SkyTrain and Canada Line stops nearby.

When: Every Wednesday until Dec. 23, 2026
Time: 2 to 6 p.m.
Where: West Georgia Street at Hornby Street

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