Festivals
Because celebrating together is better
From culinary to culture, performing arts to family-friendly fun, you’ll find an event that shines the spotlight on what you love.
1-Million Visitors
See the Celebration of Lights
This international fireworks competition lights up the skies above English Bay and is just one of Vancouver’s signature events, drawing locals and tourists alike.
Music and Culture
Vancouver boasts a vibrant music and cultural scene that is as diverse as its population. From the historic Commodore Ballroom to intimate venues like the Fox Cabaret, the city hosts beloved music festivals, including the International Jazz Festival, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, and Vancouver Symphony Orchestra events.
The city has a talented community of local musicians and endless emerging and established acts, performing at intimate clubs and large venues peppered throughout Vancouver.
The cultural scene is just as vibrant with major and indie art galleries and museums, including the Vancouver Art Gallery, which features Canadian and international contemporary art, and the Museum of Anthropology, which showcases Indigenous cultures.
The city also hosts many highly anticipated cultural festivals, including the Vancouver International Film Festival, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, and the Chinese New Year Parade.
Discover public art installations and murals, many of which will make you stop in your tracks to take in and appreciate.
Food and Drink
Vancouver is a city of exceptional food, and its festivals allow you to feast it all in. Immerse yourself in its global flavours, exceptional wines, and farm-to-table freshness at one of the many festivals that run throughout the year.
Join in celebrating food with events like the Vancouver International Wine Festival, The Vegan Markets, Greek Day on Broadway, BC Dumpling Festival, Brewery and The Beast, and the Vancouver Dine Out Festival.
These festivals are a testament to Vancouver's passionate chefs and richly diverse culinary landscape, offering a range of experiences from rustic comfort food to elegant Michelin-starred dining. It's an adventure that will open your mind and palate to new flavours.
Vancouver offers top-tier festival eating experiences where you can expect to walk away well-fed and happy.
Dine Out Vancouver
Discover Vancouver's largest celebration of its incredible culinary scene at the Dine Out event. More than 400 restaurants in Vancouver participate in the wildly popular event, one of Canada's largest food and drink festivals.
Celebration of Lights
Summer night skies light up in the city over three summer nights for the Honda Celebration of Light. Adding to the excitement, countries from around the globe compete as part of the spectacular fireworks displays.
The PNE Fair
The PNE is a Vancouver tradition, offering a vibrant mix of rides, exhibits, and performances. The fair runs over 15 days in the summer and features an energizing blend of thrilling rides, unique eats, and live music.
Vancouver Pride
Vancouver bursts with pride as the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities and allies unite for Pride Week in the summer. The beloved celebration includes a festive parade, drag performances, beach parties, and more in celebration of living authentically.
BMO Marathon
The BMO Vancouver Marathon, a top global destination race, features a marathon, half marathon, 8 km, and kids run, all offering stunning ocean, forest, and mountain views. Discover why Canada's largest marathon regularly reaches capacity.
Cherry Blossom Festival
Vancouver's Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the city's gorgeous pink and white blooms. The annual event features guided walking tours, art exhibitions, and community picnics.
Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival
The Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival is an exciting celebration of dragon boat racing and Asian culture. Along with thrilling dragon boat races, the event showcases elaborately decorated boats.
Vancouver International Jazz
Every June, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival celebrates music at venues throughout the city, from intimate clubs to large concert halls and boasts performances from international and local artists.
PuSh International Performing Arts Festival
Cutting-edge and experimental performance art takes centre stage with the PuSh International Performing Arts Festival. Held each January, the festival offers innovative works in theatre, dance, multimedia, and more.
Vancouver Folk Music Festival
Traditional and contemporary music is celebrated each July at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival in Jericho Beach Park. The Folk Fest is a welcoming gathering with an eclectic lineup of local and international folk artists.
Vancouver International Film Festival
The Vancouver International Film Festival, known as VIFF, highlights emerging and established filmmakers, allowing audiences to experience varied and innovative cinema.
Vancouver International Wine Festival
The Vancouver International Wine Festival is a must-attend event for wine lovers who want to hear the latest on new wines, delicious pairings, and insights from industry professionals.
More unique Vancouver festivals
From Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival to the Capture Photography Festival to Fan Expo Vancouver and many others, Vancouver is a city of interesting people and ideas with many festivals celebrating them