More than 20 FREE and cheap things to do in Vancouver this July
Have lots of fun without spending lots of money! Check out these 29 fun things around Vancouver in July that won’t break the bank.
From Symphony at Sunset to Fridays on Front, and more. What will you get up to?
For more great events happening around town, be sure to check out our Listed section.
One-time-only events and activities
Symphony at Sunset
City of Vancouver/Submitted
What: Who doesn’t love a free summer concert? One of Vancouver’s most beloved summertime traditions, Symphony at Sunset, is back at a new temporary location this July for its seventh year.
The annual event brings together the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and hundreds of beach-goers for a magical evening of live orchestral music. This year’s will be held in David Lam Park.
When: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 8 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: David Lam Park
Cost: Free
North Vancouver’s Shipyards Night Market
What: North Vancouver’s Shipyards Night Market (SYNM) is celebrating its 13th anniversary in Lower Lonsdale in 2026. The popular free event takes place every Friday and features a beer garden, live music, market vendors and food trucks.
When: Every Friday until Sept. 11, 2026
Time: 3 to 10 p.m.
Where: The Shipyards — 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free
The Vegan Market
What: The Vegan Night Market, hosted by Peaces, is a plant-based food-fuelled party where guests can enjoy a drink and food while they shop from local businesses. There will be a bunch of plant-based products to discover while you listen to live music.
When: July 23 and Aug. 30, 2026 (Locarno Beach), July 9, Aug. 6 and Sept. 10, 2026 (Trout Lake Beach)
Time: 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Locarno Beach and Trout Lake Beach
Admission: Free
Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra Concert
What: Experience classical instruments playing modern Girlypop hits. Doors open at 6 p.m. for a warm-up DJ set, the main concert starts at 7 p.m., and the entire event ends at 8 p.m. Admission is free.
When: Friday, July 17, 2026
Time: 6 to 8 p.m
Where: South Granville Plaza East – Granville Street and W. 14th Avenue, Vancouver
Admission: Free
Fridays on Front
Fridays on Front
What: Fridays on Front, the popular free block party series, is firing back up in July and August on Front Street Mews in Downtown New West.
One of the region’s best street parties, Fridays on Front highlights artisan vendors, musical performances, and, of course, a lot of great food. And it’s a quick walk from both the New Westminster and Columbia Skytrain Stations.
When: July 10, 17, 24, and Aug. 7, 14, 21, 2026
Time: 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Front Street Mews in Downtown New Westminster
Admission: Free
Summer Movie Nights on the Square
What: Every Thursday evening from July 16 to Aug. 13, Downtown Van will inflate a large 33-foot screen in šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square at the north plaza of the Vancouver Art Gallery for the family-friendly Summer Movie Nights.
This summertime tradition will see a massive crowd of moviegoers watch their favourite flicks under the stars. Activities start at 5 p.m., so there will be plenty of fun before the screening starts.
When: Every week from Thursday, July 16 to Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026
Time: Activations start at 5 p.m.; movies start at dusk
Where: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square – 850 W. Georgia St., Vancouver
Cost: Free
Burnaby Central Railway
What: Burnaby Central Railway is welcoming passengers to climb aboard its 3 km track near Confederation Park every weekend until this fall. Your ride will take you across tunnels, bridges and viaducts. And while you’re there, stop by the ever-growing Garden Railway.
British Columbia Society of Model Engineers (BCSME) built and operates the mini railway, with three different types of locomotives pulling the rideable trains.
When: Weekends and stat holidays through Thanksgiving weekend
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 120 N. Willingdon Ave., Burnaby
Cost: $4.50 for a single ride, for all passengers three years old and up. $40 for a 10-ride pass
Vancouver Chinatown Festival
What: The 23rd Vancouver Chinatown Festival will be held on Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26. It will feature a variety of activities and live entertainment highlighting the historical neighbourhood.
This year’s celebration features an artisan market, a Kids Zone, international food trucks, and more.
When: Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26, 2026
Time: Noon to 6 p.m.
Where: Columbia Street and Keefer Street, Vancouver
Cost: Free
Carnaval del Sol 2026
Carnaval del Sol
What: Carnaval del Sol 2026 returns to Vancouver’s Jonathan Rogers Park from July 10 to 12 as the Pacific Northwest’s largest Latin American festival.
Carnaval del Sol 2026 brings together more than 350 artists for three days of live music, dance, food, fútbol and cultural celebration. Highlights include a Latin American parade, diverse food offerings, family activities, and themed plazas for art, wellness and community experiences.
When: July 10 to 12, 2026
Time: 5:30 to 11 p.m. (Friday), 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday)
Where: Jonathan Rogers Park 110 W. 7th Ave., Vancouver
Cost: One Day General Admission starts at $15 — Available here. Entrance is FREE for children under 12, and seniors 65+. Opening Night Concert tickets are also available separately for $60 in advance, or $75 at the door.
Deckchair Cinema at The Polygon Gallery
What: The Polygon Gallery’s Deckchair Cinema returns to Lower Lonsdale’s waterfront deck.
Hosted in partnership with presenting sponsor Rogers Communications and supporting sponsor Mubi, the open-air film series will feature music and entertainment, food and drinks, and more.
Admission to the fifth annual series of outdoor movies is by donation, courtesy of BMO Financial Group, and includes entrance to access Polygon Gallery’s summer exhibition Greg Girard (opening July 9), Simranpreeet Anand: Living with the Eternal, and James Harry: Eye of the Ancestor.
When: Every Thursday until Aug. 27, 2026
Time: Music and concession open at 7 p.m., screenings begin at sundown
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Crt., North Vancouver
Cost: By donation
Junction Public Market
What: Vancouver’s open-air container market is back, and you won’t want to miss the fun. Now in its third year, the free-to-enter downtown market and hub has over 30 new vendors this year, in addition to live entertainment and community events throughout the summer.
When: Now until Sept. 7, 2026
Time: Open Tuesday through Sunday at varying times
Where: 200 Granville St.
Cost: Free admission
Burnaby Village Museum – Summer Season
What: Burnaby Village Museum is open for a new summer season, and longtime visitors and new guests will discover a variety of new exhibits, entertainment, and activities to enjoy.
The beloved open-air historical attraction transports people back in time and lets them experience life in a 1920s village, complete with heritage and recreated buildings and staff dressed in the period’s fashion.
When: Tuesday to Sunday, plus statutory holidays until Sept. 7, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Burnaby Village Museum – 6501 Deer Lake Ave., Burnaby
Admission: Free, carousel rides $2.71
Khatsahlano Street Party
Khatsahlano
What: One of the city’s largest free music and arts festivals, Khatsahlano, will take place on Saturday, July 11, between Burrard Street and Macdonald Street.
The massive street party is presented by the Kitsilano West 4th Avenue Business Improvement Association, with a huge lineup of over 50 musical acts curated by Zulu Records.
When: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: West 4th Avenue from Burrard Street to MacDonald Street
Cost: Free
Orpheum Tours by Vancouver Civic Theatres
What: Vancouver Civic Theatres is hosting guided tours of the historic Orpheum theatre. The event is presented in partnership with the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame and will be sure to delight music fans, architecture enthusiasts, and history buffs.
When: July 11 and Aug. 15, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Where: The Orpheum – 601 Smithe St., Vancouver
Cost: $10 plus fees, register online
Evo Summer Cinema Series at Stanley Park
Fresh Air Cinema
What: Outdoor movies in Stanley Park are back this summer, and you can even help pick one of the films to watch under the stars.
Fresh Air Cinema and Evo Car Share have unveiled the lineup for the 2026 edition of the Evo Summer Cinema Series, returning to the Grand Lawn at Ceperley Meadows near Second Beach.
Thousands of people will gather every Tuesday from July 14 to Sept. 1 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 from July 14 to Sept. 1, 2026
Time: Screenings begin at sunset
Where: Ceperley Meadows beside the Second Beach pool — 8501 Stanley Park Dr., Vancouver
Cost: Free
Symphony in the Park with the VSO
What: The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s (VSO) Symphony in the Park is returning to Festival Lawn at Deer Lake Park on Saturday, July 18.
The performance is a fantastic opportunity to hear some of the city’s most talented musicians. This year’s program includes music from Star Wars, Hook, E.T., and more.
When: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Time: 2 to 7 p.m. (VSO School of Music’s family-friendly Playzone), 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. (concert begins)
Where: Deer Lake Park — 6450 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free, seating is first-come, first-served
FIFA World Cup
FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver – Amphitheatre Concert Series and Park Stage free concert series
No. 11 FIFA Fan Festival Express bus route. (TransLink)
What: Soccer fans from around the world are coming to Vancouver this summer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and so are some of music’s biggest artists.
FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver has revealed the amphitheatre concert series lineup at the PNE, with the ticketed events being part of a massive transformation of the PNE into a “FIFA World Cup hub” with “family-focused entertainment to immersive fan activities for all ages.”
Organizers have also revealed more than 60 free performances at the Park Stage this summer, joining the music lineup for the 28 days of live entertainment at Hastings Park.
When: Various dates until July 19, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Freedom Mobile Arch at the PNE — 2901 E. Hastings St., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices, purchase online
Parallel 49 Viewing Party
What: Parallel 49 is transforming its 250-seat patio and event space into an outdoor viewing area for all of the games this July. Invite your friends to join you in checking out the giant 14-foot high-def TV during the no-cover-charge event, complete with access to the full beer list, 40 taps, delicious food, and cocktail menu.
There will be a live DJ on all Fridays and Saturdays from when the last game ends until late to keep the good times and the party going. Get there early to get your spot at a table or on the bleachers.
When: Now until July 19, 2026
Time: Open daily from 11 a.m. until late. Also open early for all of the 9 a.m. games.
Where: Parallel 49 Brewing Company – 1950 Triumph St., Vancouver
Cost: Free admission
Game Day Happenings at Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown
Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown
What: The Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown’s Game Day Happenings highlight an elevated experience during the FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring special food and beverage offerings, themed cocktails, exclusive dining features like the Chef’s Burger & Brew for $22, and a fan zone in the lobby.
Enjoy a lively atmosphere with curated menus, extended happy hour, and convenient access to match-day excitement, along with a Match Day Package that includes champagne, breakfast for two, and added touches designed to elevate the game-day experience, with options to reserve in advance for the best experience.
When: Now available until end of FIFA World Cup 2026
Where: Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown – 1128 West Hastings St., Vancouver
Cost: Happy Hour pricing varies. Chef’s Burger & Brew – $22. Match Day Package – room rate based on date & room type chosen. More info online
Canada House by Coca-Cola
What: Canada House by Coca-Cola at the Shark Club is your place for World Cup 2026 action.
Every match will be shown wall-to-wall on big screens with sound, creating a stadium-like viewing experience where fans can gather, celebrate, and support Canada and all countries during the competition, with prizes and giveaways available throughout the entire tournament.
When: Daily until July 17, 2026
Time: Covering all games morning to night (schedule varies based on game times)
Where: Shark Club — 180 W. Georgia St, Vancouver
Cost: Free admission, reservations online
Soccer in the Square 2026 Watch Party at Wesbrook Village, UBC
What: UBC Properties Trust brings the excitement of the global soccer stage to Wesbrook Village with Soccer in the Square, a free, all-ages outdoor viewing experience.
Until July 19, catch live matches on the big screen at Norman MacKenzie Square, where fans can gather under a shaded tent with picnic seating to cheer on their favourite teams.
Expect a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with picnic tables, leashed pups welcome, and easy access to takeout from nearby eateries. With space for up to 150 guests, plus movies, music, and entertainment between matches, it’s a festive community hangout all tournament long.
When: Various dates until July 19, 2026
Time: Various times when games are on
Where: Norman MacKenzie Square, Wesbrook Village, UBC
Cost: Free
Recurring events and activities
Bill Reid Gallery — Free Admission Day
Bill Reid Gallery
What: The Bill Reid Gallery is named after the renowned Haida artist and is the only public gallery dedicated to the contemporary Indigenous Art of the Northwest Coast. The gallery is home to the Simon Fraser University Bill Reid Collection and also hosts a variety of special exhibitions, workshops, panel discussions, and more.
Guests can visit the Bill Reid Gallery for free from 2 to 5 p.m. on the first Friday of each month.
When: The first Friday of every month
Time: 2 to 5 p.m.
Where: 639 Hornby St., Vancouver
Cost: By donation
Vancouver Public Library Movie Screenings
What: Vancouver Public Library hosts a variety of movie screenings for the public at its branches throughout the month, and the best part is that they are free to check out. Expect to see the latest Hollywood blockbusters, timeless classics, and more.
When: Various dates
Time: Various times
Where: Various VPL Branches
Cost: Free
Family Saturdays at Chinatown Storytelling Centre
What: Learn about Chinatown’s heritage and culture through hands-on activities during Family Saturdays at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre. The event happens on the third Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes guided tours, prizes, special offers from neighbouring restaurants, and free admission for youth 17 years and under.
When: The third Saturday of each month
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Centre is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Where: 168 East Pender St., Vancouver
Cost: Free for youth 17 and under; guests under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Admission $10 to $12, purchase online
Vancouver Art Gallery – Free First Friday Nights
Vancouver Art Gallery/Facebook
What: The Vancouver Art Gallery was founded in 1931 and is renowned as one of North America’s leading visual arts institutions. The largest public art museum in Western Canada currently has a variety of exhibitions on display, and you can check them out for free during the Free First Friday Nights events.
When: The first Friday of every month
Time: 4 to 8 p.m.
Where: 750 Hornby St., Vancouver
Cost: Free
Community Jam at The Improv Centre
What: The Improv Centre welcomes performers of all levels to get up onstage with professionally trained improvisers at its free monthly community jam. The 18+ event features theatre exercises, improv games, and more during the fun, interactive jam.
When: The last Saturday of every month
Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Where: The Improv Centre — 1502 Duranleau St., Vancouver
Cost: Free
Farmers markets in Metro Vancouver
Trout Lake Farmers Market
What: This farmers market began back in 1995 and became the cornerstone of the Vancouver Farmers Market collective of markets. One of the most popular markets, Trout Lake has food trucks on-site and a variety of vendors selling fresh local produce, locally made goods, and all things food.
When: Every Saturday until Oct. 31, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Lakewood Drive and East 13th Ave., Vancouver
Mount Pleasant 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