Shipyards Night Market; Destination Vancouver/Vision Event Photography Inc.
Night Market season has launched in Vancouver, running now until the beginning of the fall. Farmer’s markets have also ramped up, as a wider array of seasonal local produce starts to become available. You can expect a lively atmosphere, great food, and lots of artisan goods to browse and purchase.
Here are some of the markets to visit this spring and summer:
Photo: Richmond Night Market
The theme for this year’s Richmond Night Market is “Summer Sweet Dragon,” with festive lights and decorations in honour of the Year of the Dragon. Running for over twenty years, the Richmond Night Market is an unforgettable and incredibly delicious experience for the whole family. From now until October 14, 2024 (Fridays-Sundays and Stat Holidays), you can experience the vibe of an Asian night market. Get there before opening to snag a spot in the line, and make sure to bring your appetite since there are over 600 items from over 110 vendors to choose from, representing a variety of cultural cuisines. Insta-worthy and tasty eats include Soft Shell Crab Wild Flying Cup Noodles from Aloha Boys (F23), Birria Grilled Cheese at Poncho Tacos (F9), and Xinjiang lamb buns from the always popular Chef James (F7). Other selections to look out for include chicken karaage, rolled gelato, sushi hot dogs, and watermelon slushies.
In addition, there are over 100 retail booths selling items like jewelry, press on nails, artisan crafts, socks, and souvenirs. Kids will enjoy the bouncy castles as well as the games section with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Finally, live performances from singers, dancers, and martial arts experts will be on stage.
While parking is free, the Richmond Night Market’s proximity to the Bridgeport Station of the Canada Line makes transit a great option. General admission is $8.50, with children under 7 and seniors over 60 free. A Zoom Pass (5 admissions for $40 and an express entrance) is a good deal. See here for more details as well as opening hours.
Shipyards Night Market; Destination Vancouver/Vision Event Photography Inc.
With gorgeous waterfront views, including of Vancouver and the North Shore mountains, the Shipyards Night Market is truly magical. Taking place in the Shipyards District (Lower Lonsdale) in North Vancouver, the Market runs every Friday from 3pm to 10pm until September 13, 2024. Look forward to a rotating selection of multicultural food trucks, including Super Thai, Mom’s Grilled Cheese, and Dos Amigos. When you get thirsty, head to the beer garden to socialize with others who are out to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
You’ll also find a variety of artisan vendors, such as Priority Candles and Perfectly Nuts, selling crafts, accessories, as well as specialty food products. In between noshing and shopping, make sure to head to the stage area where you can catch live entertainment. Upcoming artists include the Scott Riddell Band May 17 (8-10pm), Bitterly Divine May 24 (7-10pm), and Pieter Jordaan (May 31 5-6pm). Take a stroll along the piers to end off your evening. Entry is free. If you’re coming from downtown, take a scenic trip on the Seabus and then walk to the Market from the terminal.
Photo: The Vegan Night Market
The nation’s only vegan night market is happening every other Thursday (6pm-10pm) at Locarno Beach starting June 6 and ending August 29. Everyone is welcome at The Vegan Night Market—the event promotes well-being, conscious consumption, and community. You can expect over 45 companies, including craft artisans (e.g., cosmetics), thrift vendors, and food trucks. Live music contributes to the positive feel of the gathering. Admission is free, although they collect donations of canned goods, clothing, and pet food. Proceeds are given to local charities.
West End Vancouver Farmers Market. Photo: Destination Vancouver/Vision Event Photography Inc.
Vancouver Farmers Markets are open year-round but they really get going in the spring and summer when local produce is at its peak. The markets feature a range of different vendors, including farms with fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and seafood vendors, specialty food and drink makers, as well as artisans selling items like pottery and body care products. All the vendors are amazing, with some stand-outs being Merci Boulangerie, Tamaly Shop, and Mamma Musey’s Pierogi. The community spirit is charming, with vendors always open to chatting about their products and a musician often playing. Food trucks are in attendance as well if you want to enjoy a bite.
There are numerous markets, each located in a different neighbourhood, giving them distinctive personalities. Currently, Riley Park (10am to 2pm until October 26), Trout Lake (9am to 2pm until October 26), and the West End (9am to 2pm until October 26) are open Saturdays, while Kitsilano (10am to 2pm until October 27) and Mount Pleasant (10am to 2pm) until October 27 are open Sundays. Downtown (Wednesdays 2pm to 6pm) and False Creek (Thursdays from 3pm to 7pm) will be launching June 5 and 6 respectively.