It’s almost time for the long weekend and Vancouver has so many free events over the next few days.
From outdoor watch parties for the Stanley Cup Playoffs to festivals and parades, these events are a great way to enjoy your days off without having to worry about how much it’ll cost you.
Several free events will also be held on May 20 for Victoria Day, which is a stat holiday in B.C.
Here are 14 free things to do in Vancouver this long weekend, from May 17 to 20.
Vancouver Canucks viewing parties
Cost: Free
When: May 18, 2024, time TBD
Address: Oak Meadows Park, 899 W 37th Ave, Vancouver
Why You Should Go: Following the Vancouver Canucks’ win 3-2 against the Edmonton Oilers in Game 5 on Thursday night, the City of Vancouver is preparing to host more free public viewing parties for the next game.
Head to Oak Meadows Park on May 18 to watch the team play against the Edmonton Oilers on May 18. A viewing area will be set up in the park at Oak Street and West 37th Avenue and the watch party will take place rain or shine. A time for the NHL playoff game has not been announced just yet so check the City of Vancouver before then.
There have been free viewing parties at The Shipyards in North Vancouver and community centres around Metro Vancouver as well. Game 7 is scheduled for May 20 if the tournament gets to that.
Vanyoo Market
Cost: Free
When: May 19 – May 20, 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: The Pipe Shop, 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Why You Should Go: Head to The Pipe Shop at the Shipyards this weekend to wander around the Vanyoo Market which will have art, fashion, crafts, and more.
Hello Kitty Cafe opening
Cost: Free
When: May 17 at 12 p.m.
Address: 1274 Robson St, Vancouver,
Why You Should Go: Vancouver is officially home to Canada’s first Hello Kitty themed-cafe. The cafe will have everything from Hello Kitty baked goods, to ice cream and beverages. You can also browse through themed merchandise as well like tote bags and T-shirts.
The cafe is hosting a grand opening on May 17. The first 50 guests to the event will receive a Helly Kitty themed goodie bag.
Shipyards Night Market
Cost: Free
When: Open on Fridays until September 13, 2024, from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Address: 19 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver
Why You Should Go: This free event is a great way to spend your Friday night. You can enjoy live entertainment, a variety of food trucks and the beer garden. The market also has vendors selling handcrafted items.
Vancouver Comic Arts Festival
Cost: Free
When: May 18 and 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: Roundhouse Community Centre, 181 Roundhouse Mews
Why You Should Go: Comics lovers should head to the Roundhouse Community Centre in Yaletown for this festival that celebrates comics-related events.
You’ll get to hear panel discussions, readings and presentations and then you can wander around the exhibition area to meet authors and artists.
Enjoy live music at UBC
Cost: Free
When: May 17 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and May 18 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Address: Norman Mackenzie Square, 3378 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver
Why You Should Go: Enjoy live music at Norman Mackenzie Square this weekend.
UBC is hosting its third week of Summer Sounds at UBC which has musicians performing for the public.
Yoga for Beginners
Cost: Free
When: May 18 from 10:50 a.m. to 12:20 p.m.
Address: Surrey City Centre Library, 10350 University Drive, Surrey
Why You Should Go: Unwind this weekend with a free yoga class. You can head to the Surrey City Centre Library on Saturday for a class hosted by the Isha Foundation.
Cloverdale Rodeo Parade
Cost: Free
When: May 18 from 10 a.m.
Address: Starts at the corner of 177B Street and Highway 10 in Surrey and ends at 177B Street
Why You Should Go: Visitors can go watch the Cloverdale Rodeo parade on Saturday. Expect to see a variety of floats, marching bands, dance groups, horses, clowns, and classic hot rods.
Fort Langley May Day Parade
Cost: Free
When: May 20, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Address: Glover Road, Fort Langley
Why You Should Go: Celebrate the 102nd annual May Day in Fort Langley. The May Day Parade will be followed by a Family Fun Festival in the park.
You’re encouraged to bring your lawn chairs, blankets and umbrellas to watch the parade. Afterwards head to the festival to hear local musical talent and check out all the vendors.
Music bingo night at The Bistro
Cost: Free
When: May 19 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Address: 20280 97 Ave, Langley
Why You Should Go: Play a round of music bingo at the Bistro in Langley for a chance to win prize. There is a different theme every week, which is announced on the Bistro’s social media page the day of the event.
Board Game Night + Potluck
Cost: Free
When: May 18 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Address: Arrieta Art Studio, Columbia Street, New Westminster
Why You Should Go: Head to Arrieta Art Studio this Sunday for a board game and potluck event. You’re encouraged to being your favourite board games and a dish to share for the potluck.
The event description says it’s a great opportunity to meet new people, enjoy delicious food and have a fun night playing games.
Lululemon Park Royal Run
Cost: Free
When: May 20 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Address: Lululemon, 940 Main Street #Unit B-1, West Vancouver
Why You Should Go: Join Lululemon Park Royal for their weekly outdoor run.
Each week the trainers choose a different route, with various hills and sprints included. Runners of all abilities are welcome to join.
Free lawn bowling and croquet lessons
Cost: Free
When: May 18 at 1 p.m. and May 19 at 1:30 p.m.
Address: West Point Grey Lawn Bowling Club, 4376 West 6th Avenue, Vancouver
Why You Should Go: Have you always wanted to try lawn bowling or croquet? Now is your chance to do just that with free lessons at the West Point Grey Lawn Bowling Club.
Visit the Burnaby Village Museum
Cost: Free
When: May 20 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Address: 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby
Why You Should Go: Open seasonally, the Burnaby Village Museum is the primary historical resource for the City of Burnaby, according to its website.
The museum will be open on Victoria Day and there will be a bunch of fun events throughout the day.
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