27 things to do in Vancouver this weekend: May 24 to 26

The last weekend of May is upon us! Get it going with these 27 Vancouver events happening on Friday, May 24, Saturday, May 25, and Sunday, May 26. Women Rock, Shuck It Forward V, and more!

And for more things happening around town be sure to check out our events section.

See also

• Vancouver Whitecaps celebrate pride at BC Place this weekend
• The Fair at the PNE 2019 summer concert series lineup announced
• Rappel down one of Vancouver's tallest skyscrapers for a good cause

Friday, May 24

Shane Koyczan

What: Award winning spoken word poet and author Shane Koyczan performs in support of his new book, The Basement In My Attic. Featuring special guests The Tiny Tricycle Poets.

When: Friday, May 24, 2019
Time: Doors 7 pm
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

The Thrilla at The Villa

What: A stacked night of boxing at Grand Villa Casino. The main event will feature Jose de Jesus “El Changuito” Macias, who has 36 professional boxing fights under his belt with a winning record facing some of the best boxers in the world and was fellow sparring partner to the great Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.

When: Friday, May 24, 2019
Time: 7:30 to 11 pm
Where: The Grand Villa Casino 4331 Dominion St, Burnaby
Tickets: Online

The Ultimate Queen Celebration

What: Hand-picked by original Queen band members for the Queen Extravaganza tribute tour, Marc Martel is known for his uncanny resemblance to Freddie Mercury. Martel spent years recording and touring as the vocalist and primary songwriter for award-winning Canadian rock band, Downhere, before being selected as the face and voice of The Queen Extravaganza. Since then, he has released his own full-length solo album, Impersonator.

When: Friday, May 24, 2019
Time: 8 pm
Where: Hard Rock Casino Vancouver – 2080 United Boulevard, Coquitlam
Tickets: Online

The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra presents ‘Women Rock’

What: Some of Broadway’s brightest young female stars will be performing with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO) on Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25. It’s part of their latest concert series titled Women Rock, a VSO pops concert being held at the Orpheum Theatre. Shayna Steele, Cassidy Catanzaro, and Katrina Rose will be teaming up with the VSO and covering the songs of the most game-changing female artists in popular music.

Attendees can expect stunning vocals and covers for songs from Holly Knight, Carole King, Irene Cara, Aretha Franklin, Minnie Riperton, Heart, and Pat Benatar, to name a few, all arranged by Grammy Award winner and conductor Jeff Tyzik.

When: Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: Show starts at 8 pm
Where: The Orpheum Theatre — 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Available online starting at $16.25

Top Drop Vancouver 2019 Main Event

What: Enjoy the annual grand tasting of this multi-event wine fest featuring dozens of international, terroir-focused wineries, craft breweries, and cideries.

When: May 24, 2019
Time: 7 to 9:30 pm
Where: Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre – 181 Roundhouse Mews, Vancouver
Price: $75; buy online

Lady Parts at rEvolver Festival

What: Combining written sketches, personal stories, video interviews, and special guests, Lady Parts is an unabashed homage to the struggles of our gender, a platform to have fun with feminism, a cabaret of the oppressed, and a shit-hot good time. Presented by After Party Theatre, part of rEvolver Festival 2019.

When: Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: The Cultch – 1895 Venables Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Arts Umbrella Dance Company’s Season Finale: BE MOVED

What: Arts Umbrella Dance Company’s Season Finale: BE MOVED is the culmination of months of exploration and rehearsal of bold and innovative works created for AUDC dancers by leading International and Canadian choreographers. BE MOVED 2019 will include pieces by Crystal Pite, Emily Molnar, Johan Inger, Lesley Telford, James Kudelka, Mats Ek, and Amos Ben-Tal.

When: Now to Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: 7:30 pm (2:30 pm matinee on Saturday)
Where: Vancouver Playhouse – 600 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Saturday, May 25

Carrie Underwood

What: Seven-time Grammy winner and Pollstar’s three-time top female country touring artist, Carrie Underwood brings The Cry Pretty Tour 360 to Vancouver. Featuring special guests Maddie & Tae and Runaway June.

When: Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Envision Craft Fair

What: The Envision Craft Fair is an opportunity for people from around Vancouver to come together to showcase and sell their work: art, crafts, food, jewelry bath products, and more. The goal is to raise awareness about health, hygiene, and the situation amongst homelessness youth, while helping people around Vancouver have a chance to show off their work. Proceeds from this event will be donated to Covenant House BC.  

When: Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: 12:30 to 4 pm
Where: St. John’s School – Gunn Gym – 2215 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver
Admission: By donation to Covenant House

Glades Garden Openings

What: This special woodland garden is home to many species of rare and unusual rhododendrons, azaleas, and fine heritage trees. Follow the meandering paths, pause by the ponds and discover for yourself, the story of The Glades.

When: May 25, May 29, June 1, June 15, July 3, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: The Glades – 561 172 St, Surrey
Admission: Entrance by donation (excluding Mother’s Day – ticketed event)

Day Out with Thomas

What: Day Out With Thomas provides an opportunity for kids to take a ride with their favourite tank engine, meet the railway controller, Sir Topham Hatt, have fun in the Imagination Station, enjoy face painting, musical entertainment and much more. Tickets are sold for specific train times, with departures from 9:30 am to 4 pm.

When: May 25 to May 26, 2019
Time: 9 am to 4:30 pm
Where: West Coast Railway Heritage Park 39645 Government Road Squamish
Tickets: Online

Dog Days of Summer at Hastings Racecourse

What: The Dog Days of Summer series is returning to Hastings Racecourse. On May 25 and 26, the cutest purebred British, English, and French bulldogs you’ve ever seen will be running the track between each horse race as they compete for a $500 prize and honour of being the “Top Dog of Hastings.” Next up on the weekend of June 22 and 23 are the heartwarming Corgi Races. Last year, we saw the inaugural corgi races bring adorable (and hysterical) moments to the North Renfrew race track, with four-legged athletes competing for the “Top Corgi” prize. On the weekend of July 13 and 14, you can take in all of the action at the iconic Wiener Dog Races at Hastings Racecourse. Enjoy a pack of incredibly excited Dachshunds racing.

When: May 25 and 26, June 22 and 23, and July 13 and 14
Time: Various times
Where: Hastings Racecourse – 188 North Renfrew Street, Vancouver
Price: FREE admission

Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir: The Return of Soul Gospel

What: Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir presents the final concert of their 15th anniversary season, The Return of Soul Gospel. Good Noise will be joined by Canada’s Queen of Soul, Dawn Pemberton, and JUNO-nominee Warren Dean Flandez in a vibrant, energetic concert featuring music by Stevie Wonder, Al Green, and more.

When: Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: 3 pm and 8 pm
Where: Christ Church Cathedral – 690 Burrard St., Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Surrey International Children’s Festival

What: Every year, Surrey International Children’s Festival showcases seven new featured performances by artists from across Canada and around the world on the Festival’s four performance theatres inside the Surrey Arts Centre and in Bear Creek Park. Come and celebrate local professional and emerging artists on the Community Spirit Stage and explore the lively mix of activities throughout the site.

When: Now to Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Bear Creek Park and Surrey Arts Centre – 13750 88 Avenue, Surrey
Tickets: Online

Cloverdale Market Days

What: One of the largest open-air markets in the Fraser Valley showcasing unique items from local BC Artisans and treasures from downtown Cloverdale merchants. With Cloverdale Market Days featuring more than 120 vendors as well as live entertainment and food trucks, you’ve got a destination outing for the whole family.

When: May 25, June 22, July 27, Aug 24, September 21, 2019
Time: 10 am to 3 pm
Where: 176 Street between 56A and 58 Avenue, Surrey
Admission: Free

Port Coquitlam’s Public Works Community Open House

What: Get an insider’s look at Port Coquitlam’s Public Works services – from water to waste, roads to parks – at a free Community Open House. Plus enjoy free children’s activities, a hot dog barbecue by donation, giveaways, and more.

When: Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Public Works Yard – 1737 Broadway St., Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free

Tri-Cities Collective Hello Spring Market

What: The Tri-Cities Collective presents the Hello Spring Market! Market highlights include swag bags for the first 40 shoppers, over 60 handmade and local vendors, Wings Outdoor Grill and Vancouver Fashion Truck onsite, Build a Biz Kids.com Mini Maker Market, and more. Partial proceeds will be donated to CAARE Rescue.

When: Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: 11 am to 4 pm
Where: Kyle Centre – 127 Kyle St, Port Moody
Tickets: Online

Vancouver Whitecaps FC Pride Match vs FC Dallas

What: Rainbows will fill BC Place, as the Whitecaps wear special Pride crested jerseys. The corner flags and nets will also be multi-coloured for the match. Fans are encouraged to take part also, as each seat will come with a coloured sign to form a rainbow around the stadium.

The ‘Caps are hosting pre-game festivities on Terry Fox Plaza prior to the 4 pm kickoff, hosted by Conni Smudge beginning at 2:30 pm. The event include a drag show and lip sync performance, as well as a drag race on the pitch at halftime. Members of Sher Vancouver — a non-profit society for LGBTQ South Asians and their friends, families, and allies — will be in attendance.

When: Saturday, May 25, 2019
Time: 4 pm
Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver
Tickets: Online, $30.50

Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival 2019 – Cloverdale

What: The Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival is back for its sixth year featuring delicious grub-on-wheels, drinks, and more. This year brings drool-worthy events from the Fraser Valley Food Truck Association, each featuring 28 trucks to enjoy.

When: May 25, 2019
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Where: Cloverdale Exhibition Grounds
Admission: Free

4th Annual Root Beer Festival

What: Sticky’s fourth Annual Root Beer Festival is going down on May 25 at the Sticky’s Candy store in Langley from 11 am to 3 pm, and it sounds like it’s going to be pretty sweet. The fourth annual fest of all things root beer will feature over 50 premium varieties of this carbonated beverage, along with fudge, candy, ice cream, and root beer floats.

When: May 25, 2019
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Douglas Park – 20550 Douglas Cresent, Langley
Price: $25; buy online

Sunday, May 26

NAV: Bad Habits Tour

What: Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, NAV is signed to The Weeknd’s XO and Republic Records. In September of 2015, NAV released one of his earliest songs “Take Me Simple” to his SoundCloud account, which has now been listened to over ten million times.

With a number of JUNO nominations under his belt including Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2018, and Fan Choice and Rap Recording of the Year in 2019, NAV has also collaborated with prominent artists including Travis Scott, Meek Mill, and The Weeknd. In March 2019, NAV released his second debut studio album Bad Habits.

When: May 26, 2019
Time: Doors 7 pm, show 8 pm
Where: PNE Forum — 2901 East Hastings Street
Price: Prices start at $45 — Tickets available via Ticketleader

Ramp For Ryan: A Comedy Fundraiser

What: The Vancouver Comedy Community comes together to help comedian Ryan Lachance raise funds to supply him with a compact portable ramp that he can use to access stages while on the road. Featuring Simon King, Charlie Demers, Alannah Brittney, Megan Milton, and more.

When: Sunday, May 26, 2019
Time: 7 to 9:30 pm
Where: Yuk Yuk’s Vancouver – 2837 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online, $20

Shuck it Forward V

What: Bikers For Autism is revving up efforts to raise awareness and funds for individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by announcing Shuck It Forward V. This event takes place at Chewies Oyster Bar in Coal Harbour and features chowder and caesar competitions, live music, raffles, a silent auction and an oyster-shucking competition pitting 24 of North America’s best shuckers against each other.

When: May 26, 2019
Time: 12 pm
Where: Chewies Oyster Bar in Coal Harbour – 1055 West Hastings, Vancouver
Price: $25–$100; buy online

Poirier Street Market

What: Launched in 1996, the Poirier Street Farmers’ Market is the longest running suburban farmers market in the Lower Mainland.  The Poirier Street Market hosts a diversity of vendors and products from May through October. Each week a wide variety of vendors gather to showcase their products – made, baked, grown, or raised in BC.

When: Every Sunday to Fall 2019
Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Where: Dogwood Pavilion Parking Lot – 624 Poirier Street, Coquitlam
Admission: Free

Richmond Carvers Society Wood Carving Show

What: Western Canada’s largest carving show, featuring wildlife competitions, including birds, fish, First Nations carving styles, wood turning, auctions, and raffles. Learn all there is to know about carving and see art created before your eyes as carvers showcase their skills. The Greater Vancouver Woodturners Guild will also feature a woodturning section with multiple categories. Food Bank donations are appreciated.

When: Saturday, May 25 to Sunday, May 26, 2019
Time: 12 to 5 pm (Saturday), 10 to 4 pm (Sunday)
Where: Hugh McRoberts Senior Secondary School – 8980 Williams Road, Richmond
Admission: $2 for adults, students and children are free.

The 2019 Royal Canadian Family Circus

What: The internationally-renowned event is kicking off its 2019 Canadian tour with shows across the Lower Mainland.  Expect explosive circus acts like the Flying Cortes Trapeze, the Wheel of Destiny, chair balancing, and aerialists, to name a few.

When: May 24 to 26 in Tsawwassen, May 31 to June 9 (Surrey)
Time: Showtimes vary based on date and location
Where: Tsawwassen Mills (May 24 to 26) – 5000 Canoe Pass Way, Tsawwassen; Guildford Town Centre (May 31 to Jun 9) – 10355 152 Street, Surrey
Tickets: Available online starting at $25 for general admission

Jurassic Quest Vancouver

What: North America’s largest and most realistic Dinosaur event. The exhibit takes guests through the Cretaceous period, the Jurassic Period and the Triassic period, giving them a chance to experience what it was like to be among living, breathing dinosaurs. From the very small to the gigantic, Jurassic Quest is the only dinosaur event that has true to life-size dinosaurs – over 80 of them in total.

When: May 24 to May 26, 2019
Time: 3 pm to 8 pm on Friday; 9 am to 8 pm on Saturday and Sunday; 10 am to 7 pm on Monday
Where: Vancouver Convention Centre – 1055 Canada Place
Tickets: Available online, prices vary with time and dates selected

FUBAR Roller Jam

What: Friends United Beyond All Race magically transforms Robson Square’s skating rink into a classic roller disco, with family rollerskating, old-school soul, funk and R&B music, and a fun, retro vibe. The event will also feature special performances, face painting, prize draws, 50/50 draws, celebrity DJ’s, Table Tutor advanced DJ students and more. Advanced skaters will also be on site for individual help and instruction. Admission by donation (minimum $10). Proceeds go to Make-A-Wish BC & Yukon.

When: Sunday, May 26, 2019
Time: 3 to 7 pm
Where: Robson Square – 800 Robson Street, Vancouver
Admission: By donation, minimum $10

2019 European Festival Event

What: The all-day celebration brings communities together, among which are 15 participating cultural societies and an even more multicultural public attendees. The 21st edition of the European Festival will take place at the Vancouver Alpen Club, with concerts, delicious pastries, an on-site restaurant, live performances, marketplace, and more.

When: Sunday, May 26, 2019
Where: Vancouver Alpen Club – 4875 Victoria Drive, Vancouver
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Tickets: Online, $5, children 12 and under are free

Colour Fest 2019

What: Celebrate the South Asian spring festival of Holi with music, dance and a community Colour war. This is a family friendly event. Tickets are for colour zone access and include Colour packets. Free entry for kids under 12 years (must be accompanied by an adult).

When: Sunday, May 26, 2019
Time: 1 to 4 pm,
Where: Town Centre Park – 1299 Pinetree Way Coquitlam
Tickets: Online, $10