10 outdoor events to check out in Vancouver this April

The great outdoors is calling! Here are our picks of 10 outdoor events to enjoy in Vancouver and beyond in April, including Slush Cup, Shoreline Cleanup, and more.

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

See also

• RuPaul's Drag Race "Werq The World" tour is coming to Vancouver
• Dates announced for FREE outdoor movies in Stanley Park this summer
• Slide the City North Vancouver returns for 2 days this July

Birding for Beginners

What: Learn bird-watching basics and strategies for identifying birds. Enjoy an outdoor walk to get to know the birds at the park. Ages 13+. Registration is required.

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 9 am to 11 am
Where: Colony Farm Regional Park, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free, register online

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+ only, please.

When: Tuesday, April 9, 2019
Time: 9 am to 11 pm
Where: Burnaby Lake Regional Park – Meet at Burnaby Lake Nature House, 4519 Piper Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free

Nature Explorer Mini-Hike

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 5 to 7 are welcome.

When: Saturday, April 13, 2019
Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
Where: Belcarra Regional Park
Admission: $4.50 per child. Registration required.  Barcode 7633

Grouse Mountain Slush Cup 2019

What: Competitors, attired in their most ridiculous costume, attempt to cross a pool of slush on their skis or board. For onlookers in the “splash zone,” bring your positive vibes and lively support to encourage the best performances from all participants. Participants will be able to hit the pond as many times as they want, and prizes will be given to the best costume, best trick, best crash, crowd favourite and more. Don’t forget, creativity is key for our panel of judges.

When: Saturday, April 13, 2019
Time: Registration 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Slush Cup from 1 pm to 4 pm.
Where:  Grouse Mountain Resort – 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Register: Online, $10

George Wainborn Park Shoreline Cleanup

What: Take part in the shoreline cleanup, meet new friends, or do something fun that gives back to the city. Volunteers will be cleaning up the area between Granville Bridge and the Ferry Dock. Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather.

When: Saturday, April 13, 2019
Time: 9 to 11 am
Where: Meet in front of George Wainborn Park sign at the corner of Richards and Beach Crescent (stone entrance with pillars on each side)
Register: Online

Birds in Focus Photography Workshop

What: A hands-on Photography skills workshop. Bring your camera and manual. Event is for ages 15+. Presented by Boundary Bay Park Association.

When: Sunday, April 14, 2019
Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Where: Boundary Bay Regional Park
Admission: $20 per person, registration required. Barcode 7648

Wednesday Wanderings: Nature’s Architects

What: Beavers can create a diverse habitat that benefits all kinds of animals. Discover more about how these busy critters build homes and communities. For ages 19+ only, please.

When: Wednesday, April 17, 2019
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 pm
Where: Iona Beach Regional Park
Admission: $3 per session, registration is required

Critter Capers: The Case of the Missing Blossoms

What: Hoskins the hummingbird’s favourite blossom patch has mysteriously vanished.  Can you discover what happened to it and keep Hoskins humming along? Allow one hour to crack the case at this Easter Monday mystery.

When: Monday, April 22, 2019
Time: 12 to 3 pm
Where: Burnaby Lake Regional Park – Meet at Burnaby Lake Nature House, 4519 Piper Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free

Furry Tails Foot Race

What: A fundraiser to help Langley’s stray, lost and unwanted dogs and cats. Put your best foot forward as you challenge yourself and other “heroes for animals” on the beautiful trails at Derby Reach.

When: Sunday, April 28, 2019
Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Where: Derby Reach Regional Park – Langley
Register: Online

Goodbye Chums!

What: Release salmon fry into the creek where they will start their journey to the sea.  Tour the hatchery. Take part in fun activities and games to find out how to help salmon. Presented with Kanaka Education & Environmental Partnership Society.

When: Sunday, April 28, 2019
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Kanaka Creek Regional Park – meet at 11450 256th Street, Maple Ridge
Admission: Free