Vancouver & Surroundings

Off Work

Things to do, reachable by transit

For distance filtering

Happening Today

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 9:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - Granville Island

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

Granville Island · 1661 Duranleau St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 9:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza) · 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 6:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - Pendulum Gallery

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

Pendulum Gallery · 885 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 9:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - 800 Robson Plaza

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

800 Robson Plaza · 800 Robson St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 9:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - Bentall Centre

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

Bentall Centre · 595 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sat, Feb 28 · 9:00 PM
Free

Robson Square Ice Rink

Enjoy a classic Vancouver winter tradition by skating under the iconic dome at Robson Square. The rink offers free admission to skaters of all ages, with affordable skate rentals available if needed. Located in the heart of downtown, it is an easy stop for a casual activity between transit connections. The rink features festive lighting and a cozy outdoor atmosphere in a covered plaza. It remains open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. through the end of February.

Robson Square · 800 Robson St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 10:00 AM – Mon, Mar 2 · 9:00 PM
Free

Lunar New Year at the Met

Celebrate the Year of the Horse at one of BC’s largest shopping centers with a series of free, family-friendly activities. The schedule includes impressive lion and dragon dance performances, calligraphy demonstrations, and interactive LEGO play. Visitors can also participate in lantern riddle contests and enjoy various cultural showcases throughout the mall. The event is perfectly located right at the Metrotown SkyTrain station for easy access. Celebrations continue daily through the beginning of March.

Metropolis at Metrotown · 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 12:00 PM – Wed, Mar 25 · 8:00 PM
Free

Skate Plaza at The Shipyards

Experience the magic of outdoor skating at this large, covered rink located on the North Vancouver waterfront. The 12,000-square-foot ice surface is free to use if you bring your own skates, and it is protected from rain by a retractable roof. Skate rentals are available on-site for a modest fee, making it easy to drop in and play. After skating, you can explore the shops and restaurants of The Shipyards district. The rink is located just a two-minute walk from the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal.

The Shipyards Commons · 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC, Canada

Upcoming Events

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 9:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - Granville Island

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

Granville Island · 1661 Duranleau St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 9:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza) · 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 6:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - Pendulum Gallery

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

Pendulum Gallery · 885 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 9:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - 800 Robson Plaza

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

800 Robson Plaza · 800 Robson St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sun, Mar 8 · 9:00 PM
Free

The Lantern City - Bentall Centre

Explore larger-than-life lanterns designed by international and local artists in this open-air gallery. This year’s theme, 'Brave the Wind,' celebrates the Year of the Horse with vibrant colors and storytelling. It’s a perfect destination for an evening stroll or a unique photography session in the city. Admission is entirely free, and the installations are located at key transit-friendly plazas. This citywide project bridges cultural traditions with contemporary Pacific Northwest perspectives.

Bentall Centre · 595 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 9:00 AM – Sat, Feb 28 · 9:00 PM
Free

Robson Square Ice Rink

Enjoy a classic Vancouver winter tradition by skating under the iconic dome at Robson Square. The rink offers free admission to skaters of all ages, with affordable skate rentals available if needed. Located in the heart of downtown, it is an easy stop for a casual activity between transit connections. The rink features festive lighting and a cozy outdoor atmosphere in a covered plaza. It remains open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. through the end of February.

Robson Square · 800 Robson St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 10:00 AM – Mon, Mar 2 · 9:00 PM
Free

Lunar New Year at the Met

Celebrate the Year of the Horse at one of BC’s largest shopping centers with a series of free, family-friendly activities. The schedule includes impressive lion and dragon dance performances, calligraphy demonstrations, and interactive LEGO play. Visitors can also participate in lantern riddle contests and enjoy various cultural showcases throughout the mall. The event is perfectly located right at the Metrotown SkyTrain station for easy access. Celebrations continue daily through the beginning of March.

Metropolis at Metrotown · 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC, Canada

Mon, Feb 23 · 12:00 PM – Wed, Mar 25 · 8:00 PM
Free

Skate Plaza at The Shipyards

Experience the magic of outdoor skating at this large, covered rink located on the North Vancouver waterfront. The 12,000-square-foot ice surface is free to use if you bring your own skates, and it is protected from rain by a retractable roof. Skate rentals are available on-site for a modest fee, making it easy to drop in and play. After skating, you can explore the shops and restaurants of The Shipyards district. The rink is located just a two-minute walk from the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal.

The Shipyards Commons · 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC, Canada

Tue, Feb 24 · 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Free

Black History Month Celebration

Join the Vancouver Public Library for a meaningful film screening and community social in honor of Black History Month. The event features the documentary 'Jireh Gospel: Hearts in Chorus,' which celebrates the life of leader Nalda Callender. It is held at the Montalbano Family Theatre within the Central Library downtown. This is a free, drop-in event that invites the public to learn and connect through storytelling. The screening begins at 5 p.m. on February 24.

VPL Central Library · 350 West Georgia St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sat, Feb 28 · 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
$5

Super Weekend at Fraser River Discovery Centre

Learn about the geography of the Fraser Canyon and how it influences the weather in the Lower Mainland. Families are invited to participate in immersive programs and activities throughout the weekend. Located in New Westminster, the Fraser River Discovery Centre is an ideal spot for educational discovery. The event is budget-friendly and just a short walk from the SkyTrain station. Programs run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the last weekend of the month.

Fraser River Discovery Centre · 788 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC, Canada

Sat, Feb 28 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Free

Riley Park Winter Farmers Market

Browse a selection of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food truck eats at this popular winter market. With over 85 vendors, it is a great place to stock up on essentials or discover unique BC-made products. The market is located right next to Riley Park and is a short walk from the King Edward SkyTrain station. It is a casual, dog-friendly environment that is perfect for a Saturday morning stroll. Entry is free for everyone.

Riley Park · 50 E. 30th Ave., Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sat, Feb 28 · 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Free

Community Jam at The Improv Centre

Get on stage or just enjoy the show at this free monthly community jam hosted by The Improv Centre. Performers of all levels are welcome to participate in improv games and theater exercises alongside professional improvisers. It is an interactive, high-energy environment located in the scenic Granville Island district. The event is restricted to those aged 18 and over and offers a fun way to try something new. The jam takes place from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on the last Saturday of the month.

The Improv Centre · 1502 Duranleau St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sun, Mar 1 · 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
$5

Super Weekend at Fraser River Discovery Centre

Learn about the geography of the Fraser Canyon and how it influences the weather in the Lower Mainland. Families are invited to participate in immersive programs and activities throughout the weekend. Located in New Westminster, the Fraser River Discovery Centre is an ideal spot for educational discovery. The event is budget-friendly and just a short walk from the SkyTrain station. Programs run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the last weekend of the month.

Fraser River Discovery Centre · 788 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC, Canada

Sun, Mar 1 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Free

Kitsilano Winter Farmers Market

Explore a variety of local farms and food producers at this weekly Sunday market in the Kitsilano neighborhood. Shoppers can find everything from seasonal vegetables and organic meats to gourmet prepared foods and handmade crafts. The market is conveniently located near the 99 B-Line transit route, making it accessible from across the city. It is a great community gathering spot for fresh food and casual discovery. Admission is free, and the market runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kitsilano Community Centre · West 10th Ave and Trafalgar St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Tue, Mar 3 · 9:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Free

Underneath the Harlem Moon

Experience a smoky soul-era Harlem cabaret at this monthly recurring showcase produced by Krystle Dos Santos. The evening features a diverse lineup of spoken word artists and vocal guests backed by the Harlem Moon band. Held in the intimate basement setting of Guilt & Co, the show offers a sophisticated yet accessible nightlife experience. Admission is 'pay what you can,' making it an affordable highlight for music lovers in Gastown. The show begins at 9 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month.

Guilt & Co. · 1 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Fri, Mar 6 · 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Free

Bill Reid Gallery - Free Admission Day

Discover the contemporary Indigenous art of the Northwest Coast during the gallery’s free admission hours. Named after the legendary Haida artist Bill Reid, the gallery hosts a stunning collection and rotating special exhibitions. The free time slot occurs on the first Friday of every month from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Located on Hornby Street, it is just a short walk from Burrard and Granville SkyTrain stations. This is a quiet and inspiring space to learn about local Indigenous culture.

Bill Reid Gallery · 639 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Fri, Mar 6 · 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Free

Vancouver Art Gallery – Free First Friday Nights

Visit Western Canada’s largest public art museum for free during their monthly First Friday evening event. Guests can explore all current exhibitions, ranging from historical masterworks to contemporary Indigenous art. The museum is located in the heart of downtown, making it a very accessible cultural stop after work or school. It’s a great way to experience high-quality art in a relaxed, low-stakes environment. Free admission is available from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Vancouver Art Gallery · 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sat, Mar 7 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Free

Riley Park Winter Farmers Market

Browse a selection of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food truck eats at this popular winter market. With over 85 vendors, it is a great place to stock up on essentials or discover unique BC-made products. The market is located right next to Riley Park and is a short walk from the King Edward SkyTrain station. It is a casual, dog-friendly environment that is perfect for a Saturday morning stroll. Entry is free for everyone.

Riley Park · 50 E. 30th Ave., Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sat, Mar 7 · 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
$10

Orpheum Tours by Vancouver Civic Theatres

Step inside one of Vancouver's most beautiful historic venues for a guided architectural and historical tour. Presented in partnership with the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame, this tour is perfect for music lovers and history buffs alike. Explore the ornate details and legendary stories of the Orpheum Theatre with a professional guide. The tour is priced at only $10 plus fees, making it a high-value cultural experience. It is located in the heart of downtown, steps away from major transit lines.

The Orpheum · 601 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sat, Mar 7 · 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
$10

Orpheum Tours by Vancouver Civic Theatres

Step inside one of Vancouver's most beautiful historic venues for a guided architectural and historical tour. Presented in partnership with the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame, this tour is perfect for music lovers and history buffs alike. Explore the ornate details and legendary stories of the Orpheum Theatre with a professional guide. The tour is priced at only $10 plus fees, making it a high-value cultural experience. It is located in the heart of downtown, steps away from major transit lines.

The Orpheum · 601 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sun, Mar 8 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Free

Kitsilano Winter Farmers Market

Explore a variety of local farms and food producers at this weekly Sunday market in the Kitsilano neighborhood. Shoppers can find everything from seasonal vegetables and organic meats to gourmet prepared foods and handmade crafts. The market is conveniently located near the 99 B-Line transit route, making it accessible from across the city. It is a great community gathering spot for fresh food and casual discovery. Admission is free, and the market runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kitsilano Community Centre · West 10th Ave and Trafalgar St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sat, Mar 14 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Free

Riley Park Winter Farmers Market

Browse a selection of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food truck eats at this popular winter market. With over 85 vendors, it is a great place to stock up on essentials or discover unique BC-made products. The market is located right next to Riley Park and is a short walk from the King Edward SkyTrain station. It is a casual, dog-friendly environment that is perfect for a Saturday morning stroll. Entry is free for everyone.

Riley Park · 50 E. 30th Ave., Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sun, Mar 15 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Free

Kitsilano Winter Farmers Market

Explore a variety of local farms and food producers at this weekly Sunday market in the Kitsilano neighborhood. Shoppers can find everything from seasonal vegetables and organic meats to gourmet prepared foods and handmade crafts. The market is conveniently located near the 99 B-Line transit route, making it accessible from across the city. It is a great community gathering spot for fresh food and casual discovery. Admission is free, and the market runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kitsilano Community Centre · West 10th Ave and Trafalgar St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sat, Mar 21 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Free

Riley Park Winter Farmers Market

Browse a selection of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food truck eats at this popular winter market. With over 85 vendors, it is a great place to stock up on essentials or discover unique BC-made products. The market is located right next to Riley Park and is a short walk from the King Edward SkyTrain station. It is a casual, dog-friendly environment that is perfect for a Saturday morning stroll. Entry is free for everyone.

Riley Park · 50 E. 30th Ave., Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sat, Mar 21 · 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Free

Family Saturdays at Chinatown Storytelling Centre

Learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of Vancouver’s Chinatown through engaging hands-on activities. Family Saturdays feature guided tours, prizes, and free admission for youth aged 17 and under. It is a fantastic way to connect with the local community and explore the stories of early Chinese immigrants. The center is located near the Stadium-Chinatown SkyTrain station for easy transit access. This recurring event happens on the third Saturday of each month.

Chinatown Storytelling Centre · 168 East Pender St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sun, Mar 22 · 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Free

Kitsilano Winter Farmers Market

Explore a variety of local farms and food producers at this weekly Sunday market in the Kitsilano neighborhood. Shoppers can find everything from seasonal vegetables and organic meats to gourmet prepared foods and handmade crafts. The market is conveniently located near the 99 B-Line transit route, making it accessible from across the city. It is a great community gathering spot for fresh food and casual discovery. Admission is free, and the market runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kitsilano Community Centre · West 10th Ave and Trafalgar St, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Sun, Mar 22 · 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
$5

UBC Food Truck Fest

Treat yourself to a variety of delicious local eats at this community food truck market on the UBC campus. The event features a diverse lineup of gourmet trucks alongside a local artisan market for shopping. It is a free-admission event (though food costs apply) that brings a lively festival atmosphere to the university grounds. Easily accessible by the many bus routes that serve the UBC Bus Loop. It is a great destination for a casual Sunday outing with friends or family.

UBC Campus · 6133 University Blvd, Vancouver, BC, Canada