10 amazing Vancouver theatre and arts events happening in June

Summer is just around the corner! As the days get progressively longer, Vancouverites are excited to take in the best arts and theatre that the city has to offer.

From Bard on the Beach to Dancing on the Edge, here are 10 great Vancouver arts events to check out in June.

And for more fun things happening around town, be sure to visit our Listed section.

In the Shadow of the Pavilions: Expo 86 and Contemporary Art

What: The exhibition revisits the cultural legacy of Expo ’86, the landmark World’s Fair that transformed Vancouver’s urban and economic identity and introduced tens of millions of people to visions of technological progress and international exchange.

It explores Expo ’86 through the work of contemporary artists using photography, video, installation, and archival materials.

When: Now until Sunday, June 7, 2026
Time: Museum hours
Where: Surrey Art Gallery – 13750 88th Ave., Surrey
Admission: Free

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Eastside Atelier – Escape Into Art

What: Eastside Atelier hosts its fifth annual studio-wide fine art show, with over 30 artists showcasing their multi-disciplined works in an evening of art, conversation and fun. Meet the creators, discover your new favourite pieces, and maybe even bring some new art home with you.

When: June 5 and 6, 2026
Time: 5 to 10 p.m. (Friday), noon to 5 p.m. (Saturday)
Where: 1310 William St., Vancouver
Cost: Free

Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me, But Banjos Saved My Life

What: Veteran performer and former CEO Keith Alessi shares his true story of leaving the corporate world behind to follow his dreams of playing the banjo. When faced with a battle with cancer, the certified public accountant discovers that the key to saving his life may be his music.

The performances are a fundraiser for the Western Gold Theatre’s Creative Accessibility Program and the West End Seniors Network’s delivery of essential services.

When: June 11 to 14, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m., plus a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday and Sunday
Where: Surrey Arts Centre – 13750 88th Ave., Surrey
Tickets: $40, purchase online

Bard on the Beach

What: Bard on the Beach is one of Canada’s largest not-for-profit, professional Shakespeare festivals. Presented in a magnificent setting on the waterfront in Vancouver’s Vanier Park, the festival offers Shakespeare’s plays, related dramas, and several special events from June through September each year.

When: June 9 to Sept. 19, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Vanier Park – 1695 Whyte Ave., Vancouver
Cost: Various, purchase online

Theatresports: Totally Ref’d Up

What: Vancouver’s longest-running improv comedy show is getting into the sporting spirit with Theatresports: Totally Ref’d Up.

Two teams of hilarious improvisers create sketches and scenes inspired by the audience’s suggestions at the Improv Centre. There will even be a referee on hand to issue red cards and to ensure a fair comedy showdown.

Cheer on your favourite comedians to victory, and you may even be selected to be one of the judges for the night.

When: Every Friday and Saturday from June 12 until July 18, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Improv Centre – 1502 Duranleau St., Vancouver
Cost: Various, purchase Online

Smut Slam

What: Smut Slam, the adult-only storytelling open mic, was created by award-winning playwright, performer, sex activist and educator Cameryn Moore. Consenting Slammers sign up at the event to tell a five-minute dirty story, based on real life.

The audience can also ask a question or share a confession in the F-BUCKET, which will be anonymously read out on stage. The open and inclusive event is hosted by DD Brassiere.

When: Friday, June 19 (Vancouver) and Tuesday, June 23 (Langley)
Time: 8 to 10 p.m.
Where: Farm Country Brewing Inc. – 20555 56th Ave. #5, Langley; Chill Pill Comedy – 2270 Manitoba St., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices, purchase online

Dancing on the Edge Festival

What: The 37th annual Dancing on the Edge Festival features over 30 live stage performances by top artists. This year’s festival features stunning world premieres, artist talks, works-in-progress, and more from dance companies across Canada and throughout B.C.

When: June 4 to 13, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Various venues
Tickets: Free and ticketed events, purchase online

Queer Arts Festival

What: Queer Arts Festival is an annual artist-run transdisciplinary celebration in Vancouver. This year’s event is themed On the Edge and includes a community art show, drag, a queer clothing swap, live concerts, and more throughout the month of June.

When: June 5 to 30, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Various venues
Admission: Free and ticketed events. Purchase online

Vancouver Jazz Festival

What: The Vancouver International Jazz Festival‘s extensive lineup for its 41st anniversary event runs from June 19 to July 5. There will be more than 175 performances and events, including dozens of free shows with diverse programming on stages throughout the city.

When: June 19 to July 5, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Various venues across Vancouver
Tickets: Free and ticketed events

Doors Open Richmond 2026

What: If frequenting more museums or discovering a new exhibit has been on your radar for a while, Doors Open Richmond is the perfect opportunity to explore vibrant local art and history scenes.

Now in its 19th year, the event makes dozens of partner sites completely free to visit for one weekend only.

This year, over 40 cultural organizations, public facilities, and historical landmarks will open their doors, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

When: Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Participating locations in Richmond
Cost: Free admission