38 FREE things to do in Vancouver this March

Stick to your budget this March! Here is our checklist of 38 FREE events happening in Vancouver this month, including Blossom at Metropolis, Illuminate Yaletown, and more.

For more things happening around town check out our events section.

Get outside

International Women’s Day at Mt. Seymour

What: Mt. Seymour is celebrating International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8 by inviting ladies to bring a plus one for free.

When: March 8, 2019
Time: 10 am to 10 pm
Where: Mt Seymour – 1700 Mount Seymour Road, North Vancouver
More Info: Online

Nature Work Parties

What: Get your hands dirty removing invasive plants with friends and family and join others in caring for Surrey’s unique urban forest. Everyone is welcome to participate – no experience is required. Tools, training, and light refreshments are provided. These events are drop-in, rain or shine (events may be cancelled in high winds or extreme weather conditions). Stay comfortable by wearing appropriate clothing for winter activities.

When: March 9, 2019
Time: 10 am to 12 pm
Where: Hazelnut Meadows Community Park – 14069 68 Ave, Surrey
Price: Free

Spring Break at the Nature House

What: Get out and enjoy nature this spring break. The nature house at Burnaby Lake will be open with activities and crafts to help you and your kids get outside and experience spring. All ages.

When: March 18 to March 22, 2019
Time: 10 am to 3 pm
Where: Burnaby Lake Regional Park – Meet at Burnaby Lake Nature House – 4519 Piper Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free

Enchanted Forest

What: Experience the forest through the eyes of a gnome on a 1-hour nature quest.  Sneak a peek at the new nature discovery area.  Bring food to roast on the campfire.  Costumes welcome. All ages

When: March 21, 2019
Time: 10:30 am to 1:30 pm
Where: Aldergrove Regional Park – Meet at Blacktail Picnic Shelter from main park entrance on 8th Ave, Langley
Admission: Free

Explore the city

Adad Hannah – The Decameron Retold

What: Adad Hannah’s, The Decameron Retold, is a newly commissioned artwork by the Richmond Art Gallery based on the 14th-century literary work, The Decameron, by Giovanni Boccaccio. The medieval collection of novellas is comprised of 100 tales told over 10 days by 10 young women and men sequestered in a villa outside of Florence to escape the Black Plague.

When: Now to April 20, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Richmond Cultural Centre – 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond
Admission: Free

Pacific Immigrant Resource Society: Non-Tech Social Hackathon

What: Pacific Immigrant Resource Society (PIRS), a non-profit organization, is hosting a social non-tech Hackathon to solve the problem of childcare for immigrant women and newcomer families. Namely, how to create a social enterprise model that provides childcare services to non-profit, employs immigrant women; and is profitable or financially sustainable. If you are start-up entrepreneurs, programming stars, business people, accounting personnel, university students and creative people, join us for this one-day event.

When: Saturday, March 2, 2019
Time: 9 am to 4:30 pm
Where: Harbour Centre — 555 West Hastings Street
Tickets: Online, Free

Film Screening: Two Japanese American Documentaries

What: A free screening of two inspiring documentaries about the Japanese American incarceration, its reverberations, and lessons for today: For The Sake Of The Children and And Then They Came For Us.

When: March 2, 2019
Time: First film at 1 pm, second film at 2:10 pm
Where: Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre – 6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby
Tickets: Online, Free

Come Try Ringette

What: The Surrey White Rock Ringette Association is hosting this free event that is open to all children, ages four and up, who want to try Ringette. The qualified instructor will introduce participants to this fun, on ice sport. Pre-registration is required. Skate and Helmets will be available. No skating experience is required.

When: March 2, 2019
Time: 9:45 to 11:15 am
Where: Surrey Sport and Leisure Complex Arena, 16555 Fraser Highway, Surrey
Register: Online, Free

Driverless Vehicle Demonstration Vancouver 2019

What: Between February 23 and March 3, the driverless shuttles will travel along a one-km-long route on West 1st Avenue between the northwest corner of the intersection of Manitoba Street and West 1st Avenue and the Canada Line’s Olympic Village Station parking lot. All rides are free to demonstrate the viability of such autonomous transportation technologies for the City of Surrey and City of Vancouver’s joint partnership for Infrastructure Canada Smart Cities Challenge bid of creating Canada’s first two collision-free multimodal corridors with driverless vehicles.

When: Now to March 3, 2019
Where: Western terminus: Canada Line Olympic Village Station parking lot. Eastern terminus: Northwest corner of the intersection of Manitoba Street and West 1st Avenue
Cost: Free! Book online to avoid lines

Coffee with a Cop

What: Join your local RCMP members for a cup of java. There is no agenda or speeches. It is an opportunity for those in the community to meet and chat with officers in a casual 1-on-1 environment to ask questions about various issues in the community or other interests you may have regarding the RCMP. All ages are welcome.

When: March 4, 2019 
Time:6:30 to 8:30 pm
Where: Thompson Community Centre – 5151 Granville Ave, Richmond
Admission: Free

Blossom at Metropolis

What: Metropolis at Metrotown’s Grand Court will become the site of Blossom at Metropolis, a one-of-a-kind art installation that includes more than 250,000 cherry blossoms. Mall-goers are encouraged to pass by and get an early glimpse of some gorgeous white and pink petals, all created by interactive arts company Hfour.

In addition to more than a quarter-million cherry blossoms, the exhibit will feature dozens of mirror spheres (the largest being four metres in size) that’ll create the illusion of infinite blooms. A series of floral art and Japanese culture workshops will also be held every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, while the exhibit is in place. And of course, what installation would be complete without a selfie zone?

When: Tuesday, March 5 to Saturday, March 31, 2019
Time: Open daily during regular mall hours
Where: Metropolis at Metrotown – 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby
Admission: Free of charge

Over the Rainbow: LGBTQ2+ Seniors in the Lower Mainland

What: Are you a senior in LGBT2Q+ communities, or an ally? Do you work with seniors in the lower mainland? You’re invited to join the City of Surrey on the launch of the new Lesbian, Gay, Trans, Two-Spirit, Queer/Questioning (LGBT2Q+) Response Network (CRN) for Seniors.

At this launch, there will be keynote speakers and discussions around reducing vulnerability in seniors due to isolation, abuse, neglect and self-neglect.

When: March 7, 2019
Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Where: Surrey City Hall – 13450 104 Ave, Surrey
Register: Online, Free

Collage Night in the Gallery

What: Get together with friends and make art. Cut and paste while you chat, listen to music, and share a drink at Richmond Art Gallery’s Collage Night social for adults. This free event is for artists and art lovers to gather in the Art Gallery space for a social art night. Work on solo or collaborative collage works while listening to Guest Artist DJ Beaubien spin some tunes. All collage materials provided. Open to creatives of all skill levels. Cash only bar. For ages 19+.

When: March 7, 2019
Time: 7 to 10 pm
Where: Richmond Art Gallery – 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond
Tickets: Online, Free

Parkside Comedy Nights

What: Vancouver comedians Ryan Williams & Alistair Ogden host a night of comedy in the Parkside Tasting Room with a rotating cast of comedians monthly.

When: March 7 and April 4, 2019
Time: 8 pm
Where: Parkside Brewery – 2731 Murray Street, Port Moody
Admission: Free

Illuminate Yaletown

What: Yaletown is set to be lit up with a variety of light installations for Illuminate Yaletown, which has drawn crowds of more than 40,000 in past years. With light-based art exhibitions utilizing advanced video and lighting technology, the night will feature a reunion of the best light artists and technology gurus from previous Illuminate events in 2009, 2011, and 2012.

Visitors can look forward to seeing outdoor projections, animations, and interactive forms, in the “best of the best,” showcasing some of Canada’s most renowned light-tech artists. Together with a selection of fan favourites from previous years on display, you’ll also see brand-new, never before seen installations.

When: Friday, March 8, 2019
Time: 6:06 pm, sunset
Where: Hamilton Street between Drake and Davie, and Yaletown Canada Line Station
Admission: Free

Eileen Cook: You Owe Me A Murder book launch

What: Chapters Metrotown hosts bestselling author Eileen Cook as she celebrates the release of her latest YA thriller, You Owe Me A Murder.

When: March 8, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Chapters Metrotown Metropolis – Metrotown – 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby
Admission: Free

Heritage Social

What: As a treasured local heritage farmstead, Historic Stewart Farm offers unique volunteer options for all ages both indoor and out. Tour the site, chat with current volunteers and see if there is a fit for you. No pressure to sign up.

When: March 9 and March 14, 2019
Time: 12 to 3:30 pm (Saturday), 6 to 8:30 pm (Thursday)
Where: Historic Stewart Farm – 13723 Crescent Rd, Surrey
Admission: Free

KidSport’s Massive Used Equipment Sale

What: A huge variety of high-quality used sporting goods at incredible prices. Everything from bikes and hockey gear to fitness equipment and wetsuits and everything in between. All proceeds go to subsidize registration fees for kids from lower income families. Save money and help the community at the same time. No tax, cash and credit cards accepted.

When: March 9, 2018
Time: 10 am to 1 pm
Where: Riverside Secondary School – 2215 Reeve St, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free

Vancouver’s biggest dog meet-up

What: Vancouver’s biggest dog meet-up is returning to Trout Lake Park for another year. The event takes place on Sunday, March 10, and is hosted by Dogs of Vancity, so you can also expect plenty of cute photos for the scrapbook (or the Instagram). Those who don’t have pets are also more than welcome to pay a visit and meet some new friends.

When: Sunday, March 10, 2019
Time: 12 to 3 pm
Where: Trout Lake Park – 2100 E 13th Avenue, Vancouver
Admission: Free

Piper Spit Bird Count

What:  Whether you’re just getting to know the birds in your backyard or are on the lookout for rarities, grab your binoculars and join a park interpreter to watch the seasonal changes in the birds at Burnaby Lake. Ages 15+ are welecome.

When: March 12, 2019
Time: 9 am to 11 am
Where: Burnaby Lake Regional Park – Meet at Burnaby Lake Nature Hosue – 4519 Piper Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free

Community Movie Night – Mulan

What: A free screening at City Centre Community Centre. Light refreshments will be available.

When: March 14, 2019
Time: 6:30 pm
Where: City Centre Community Centre – 5900 Minoru Blvd, Richmond
Admission: Free

Opening Reception for Lynne Cohen: These Walls

What: The evening will feature opening remarks, followed by a reception. Mingle over refreshments and learn more about the artist, Lynne Cohen.

When: March 14, 2019. Exhibition runs from March 15 to April 21, 2019
Time: 7 to 9 pm
Where: Burnaby Art Gallery – 6344 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free

Celtic Fest

What: You don’t need to be a Finnegan or a MacDonald to take part in this lively event. Be entertained by captivating Celtic music and dancing and get creative with Celtic crafts at the Museum of Surrey.

When: March 16, 2019
Time: 1 to 4 pm
Where: Museum of Surrey – 17710 56a Ave, Surrey
Admission: Free

Spring Break at the Carousel

What: Enjoy the antics of a children’s entertainer, craft activities, heritage games and unlimited carousel rides. All activities take place in the Carousel Pavilion. No access to Museum site. Children and adults must attend together.

When: March 18 to March 29, 2019
Time: 11 am to 4:30 pm
Where: Burnaby Village Museum & Carousel – 6501 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free. Carousel Rides $2.65 each

Heritage Writers’ Group

What: Start capturing your life story for family and posterity. No preparation required; just bring a pen and paper, or your laptop.

When: March 18, April 15, May 27, June 17, 2019
Time: 10:30 am to 12 pm
Where: PoCo Heritage Museum and Archives – 150-2248 McAllister Ave., Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free

Spring Break at the Nature House

What:  Get out and enjoy nature this spring break. The nature house at Burnaby Lake will be open with activities and crafts to help you and your kids get outside and experience spring. This is an all ages event.

When: March 18 to March 22, 2019
Time: 10 am to 3 pm
Where: Burnaby Lake Regional Park – Meet at Burnaby Lake Nature House – 4519 Piper Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free

Spring Break Drop-In: Farm Life

What: Not sure what to do for Spring Break? Bring the kids back in time. Drop in for activities at Heritage Stewart Farm during both weeks of the break Tuesday to Thursday from 12 to 3 pm. Show the kids how people lived in Surrey in the year 1900. Themes will include spring cleaning, activities in the kitchen and old school fun. Pack snacks and boots and remember to charge up your phone to take lots of pictures.

When: March 19 to 21, March 26 to 28, 2019
Time: 12 to 3 pm
Where: Historic Stewart Farm – 13723 Crescent Rd, Surrey
Admission: Free

Enchanted Forest

What: Experience the forest through the eyes of a gnome on a 1-hour nature quest.  Sneak a peek at the new nature discovery area. Bring food to roast on the campfire. Costumes welcome. All ages

When: March 21, 2019
Time: 10:30 am to 1:30 pm
Where: Aldergrove Regional Park – Meet at Blacktail Picnic Shelter from main park entrance on 8th Ave, Langley
Admission: Free

Competitive Paint Off at Surrey Art Gallery

What: Join Surrey Art Gallery Association for an action-filled evening where twelve professional artists will face off in four 25-minute rounds using oil sticks. As a member of the audience, you’ll watch and vote for your favourite artist after each round. Winners from the first three rounds will compete in the final, fourth round, and the audience will decide on the “People’s Art Champion” at the end of the evening.

When: March 23, 2019
Time: 6 to 9 pm
Where: Surrey Art Gallery – 13750 88 Avenue, Surrey
Admission: Free

Vancity Richmond Clothing Fix it

What: Bring your clothes that need to be repaired and a team of expert fixers will show you how you can repair the clothes yourself. Sewing machines, threads, needles and all sewing supplies will be provided on site. No experience necessary and all are welcome.

When: March 23, April 27, May 5, 2019
Time: 11 am to 2 pm
Where: Vancity Blundell Centre community branch – 6020 Blundell Rd Unit 130, Richmond,
Register: Online, Free

Used Kidstuff Sale

What: Find bargains on children’s toys, books, decor items and more! Free admission for buyers.

When: March 30, 2019
Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Where: Willingdon Community Centre – 1491 Carleton Avenue, Burnaby,
Admission: Free

Forest Walk and Campfire

What: Enjoy an evening forest walk to a campfire. We provide the stories and roasting forks, you provide your own marshmallows and songs. Hike departs at 6 pm sharp. All ages.

When: March 30, 2019
Time: 6 to 8 pm
Where: Tynehead Regional Park – meet at 96th Ave entrance by Tynehead Hatchery, Surrey
Admission: Free

Mother Nature’s Recycling

What: Check out displays and presentations at these themed open houses. Tour indoor and outdoor learning spaces including the Bell-Irving Hatchery, ‘Roof to Creek’ stormwater management system and wetlands.  If it wasn’t for snails, slugs, worms and their allies, there’d be a whole lot more poop in the park.  Learn about recycling, Mother Nature style.

When: March 31, 2019
Time: 1 to 4 pm
Where: Kanaka Creek Regional Park – Kanaka Creek Watershed Stewardship Centre. Meet at 11450 256th Street, Maple Ridge.
Admission: Free

Eat fresh with farmers’ markets

Riley Park and Nat Bailey Stadium Farmers’ Market

What: Each week you can look forward to finding locally grown vegetables and fruit, meat and seafood from local ranchers and fishermen, artisan cheese and bread, herbs and seasonal nursery items, baked goods, prepared foods and artisanal crafts.

When: Every Saturday to April 27, 2019
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Riley Park Plaza – 50E. 30th Ave., Vancouver, Nat Bailey Stadium – 4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver
Admission: Free

Hastings Park Farmers’ Market

What: Find a great selection of local produce, fish, meat, dairy, artisan prepared foods, baked goods, local crafts, craft alcohol producers, and food trucks. There is free parking for market shoppers at Gate 2 off of Renfrew St.

When: Every Sunday to April 28
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Hastings Park Centre grounds – 2901 East Hastings Street
Admission: Free

Port Moody Winter Farmers’ Market

What: Established in 2008, the Port Moody Winter Farmers’ Market began as a bi-weekly market in the lobby and courtyard of the Port Moody Rec Centre. Now a weekly market, shoppers can stop by every Sunday for local BC produce, artisan crafts, and delicious baked goods.

When: Every Sunday to April 28, 2019
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Port Moody Recreation Complex – 300 Ioco Rd, Port Moody
Admission: Free

Cannery Farmers’ Market

What: The Cannery Farmers’ Market is Steveston’s indoor winter market, held at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site. This unique market features local food and artisan merchants, inside a historic cannery setting. Admission to the museum is free on market days, with guided heritage tours by donation.

When: Various dates from now to Sunday, April 28, 2019 
Time: 10 am to 3 pm
Where: Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site – 12138 Fourth Avenue, Richmond
Admission: Free

See also

• For one night only, Illuminate Yaletown is returning to Vancouver
• South Asian Fashion Week returns to Vancouver this March
• Channel Parisian vibes in Vancouver at this French Moderns exhibition