10 outdoor events to check out in Vancouver this May

The sun is shining and we’re ready to get outside this May! Here are 10 outdoor events to enjoy in Vancouver and beyond, including Community Paddling Day, Pig Yoga, and more.

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

See also

• Seven epic May the Fourth events happening in Vancouver
• Kick off your Pride celebrations at Parq with RuPaul’s Drag Race stars
• North America's largest life-size moving dinosaur exhibit is coming to Vancouver

Wednesday Wanderings: Bog Wonders

What: ​Learn more about the unique plant species that thrive in the acid-rich and nutrient-poor bog habitat that would kill most other plants. Discover secrets of this ecologically sensitive wetland. Ages 19+. Registration is required.

When: Wednesday, May 1, 2019
Time: 10 am to 12 pm
Where: Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Vancouver
Admission: $3, register online

Walking, Weaving and Wayfinding: the False Creek Fibreshed

What: Walking from the south shore of the lost estuary of False Creek to the north shore, explore the stories of the land and the plants from then and now that people use for fibre and dye. Walk led by Rebecca Graham, a community engaged artist who uses ancestral skills.

When: Sunday, May 5, 2019
Time: 1 to 2:30 pm
Where: Means of Production Garden – 809 East 6th Ave, Vancouver
Tickets: Online, Free

Community Paddling Day

What: A free dragon boat lesson on the water. The 45-minute sessions start at 12:30, 1:30, and 2:30 pm. Dragon Boat BC supplies the instructors, equipment, and boat, attendees supply the enthusiasm. Registration highly encouraged as drop-in spots are not guaranteed.

When: Sunday, May 5, Saturday, July 6, and Saturday, August 10, 2019
Time: 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 pm
Where: 1 Athletes Way (Creekside Community Centre), Vancouver
Register: Online, Free

Nature Tot: Bug Out with Invertebrates

What: Become a nature explorer with your child and experience the wonder of nature together. Ages 3 t0 5 (must be accompanied by an adult). Registration required.

When: Tuesday, May 7, 2019
Time: 10:30 am to 11 am
Where: Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Vancouver
Register: Online, $4.50 per child, per session. Barcode 7635

2019 Vancouver Run for Women

What: The 2019 SHOPPERS LOVE. YOU. Run for Women is in support of Mental Health Programs at B.C. Women’s Hospital & Health Centre Foundation. Participants also receive a race shirt, finisher’s bracelet and finisher’s swag bag on event day.

When: Saturday, May 11, 2019
Time: 8 am to 11 am
Where: Wesbrook Village – 3378 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver
Register: Online

Fit First Footwear x lululemon: 5k Burna-Beer Run to Dageraad Brewing

What: Join Fit First Footwear and lululemon on Sunday, May 12 for a 5 km run through Burnaby, culminating with a social at Dageraad Brewery. 100% of proceeds from the $10 ticket goes toward FitFirst Footwear’s Downtown Eastside fundraiser.

When: Sunday, May 12, 2019
Time: 10:30 am to 2 pm
Where: Fit First Footwear – 3713 Kensington Avenue, Burnaby
Register: Online, $10 per person

BlueShore Financial Mother’s Day Run

What: The BlueShore Financial Mother’s Day Run, presented by The Westin Bayshore consists of a 3k, 5k and 10k Run and Walk in Stanley Park and Coal Harbour. All participants will receive a souvenir technical running shirt and a gift bag filled with goodies. Moms will also be greeted at the finish line with a commemorative scarf. The event includes a Finish Line Festival, kid’s activities, champagne giveaways and options for a decadent Mother’s Day Brunch at The Westin Bayshore. Everyone is welcome to run.

When: Sunday, May 12, 2019
Time: 9 am
Where: Stanley Park and Coal Harbour
Register: Online

Celebrate Bird Week: Early Morning Bird Tour at UBC Botanical Garden

What: An introductory bird tour at UBC Botanical Garden. Search for exciting birds and listen for their melodious calls. This event is great for beginner birders and will focus on identifying common birds of UBC Botanical Garden and the Vancouver Area.

When: Wednesday, May 15, 2019
Time: 8 to 9:30 am
Where: UBC Botanical Garden – 6804 SW Marine Drive, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Wilderness at Your Doorstep

What: Nature and history are woven into the landscape of Lynn Headwaters Regional Park. Enhance your knowledge of plants, animals and geology and take away some practical tips on being safe in the backcountry. All ages.

When: Sunday, May 19, 2019
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Meet at BC Mills House, north end of Lynn Valley Rd.
Admission: Free

Little OinkBank Pig Yoga

What: Come enjoy the zen of pigs while breathing the fresh air and relaxing in the tranquil scenery at Little OinkBank Pig Sanctuary. Enjoy the peacefulness during a one hour guided yoga session with Yogi Mike McLean.

When: Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: 10 am to 12 pm
Where: Little OinkBank Pig Sanctuary – 1770 – 252 Street Aldergrove
Register: Online, $30