Mid-July arrives with an incredible mix of music and sensory experiences, headlined by a spectacular, free waterfront performance of film scores and classical favorites by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
You can also spend your weekend chasing a lively caffeine high with a high-stakes barista battle, an island-inspired daytime social, or an exclusive artisanal bakery pop-up.
1. Vancouver Ice Cream Festival
The Vancouver Ice Cream Festival is Metro Vancouver’s largest self-guided celebration of ice cream and frozen desserts.
Visitors can explore 40+ participating ice cream shops, gelato bars, bakeries, and cafés across Vancouver, Burnaby, and Richmond, each offering limited-edition festival creations.
Guests can collect stamps in a festival passport by trying featured items, with the chance to win prizes through the festival’s sweepstakes program.
Date: June 19 to August 3, 2026
Address: Vancouver, BC
2. Matcha Latte Art Throwdown
The Matcha Latte Art Throwdown brings together 24 of Vancouver’s top baristas for a fast-paced competition showcasing creativity and latte art skills.
Spectators can enjoy an iced matcha oat latte, participate in a blind matcha tasting challenge, and enter door prize draws while cheering on the competitors.
Open to both experienced and aspiring baristas, the tournament features multiple competition brackets and cash prizes for the top performers.
Date: July 11, 2026
Address: 1120 E Georgia St Courtyard, Vancouver, BC V6A 0K2
Cost: $10
3. Symphony at Sunset
Symphony at Sunset is a free outdoor concert at David Lam Park featuring the full Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
Audiences can enjoy an evening of classical favourites and iconic film music, including selections from Harry Potter and Star Wars, in a scenic waterfront setting.
Food trucks will also be available, making it a perfect summer evening for music lovers and families alike.
Date: July 11, 2026
Address: 1300 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2Y1
Cost: FREE
4. Salty Bear Bakery Pop-Up
Salty Bear Bakery and Peace and Culture Coffee are teaming up for a special pop-up this weekend.
Guests can enjoy the perfect pairing of Salty Bear Bakery’s signature salt bread and chewy butter mochi, available exclusively at Peace and Culture Coffee.
This limited-time collaboration is a must-visit for bakery lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike.
Date: July 11 and 12, 2026
Address: 1120 E Georgia St Courtyard, Vancouver, BC V6A 0K2
Cost: FREE
5. Coffee & Cacao Party
The Coffee & Cacao Party blends music, movement, and wellness in a vibrant daytime social experience.
Guests can enjoy unlimited coffee and pastries, a ceremonial cacao shot, an Afro House DJ set, glow-in-the-dark ecstatic dancing, and a welcoming community atmosphere inspired by Bali.
Designed for connection and mindful celebration, this alcohol-free event offers a unique way to socialize, recharge, and enjoy great music.
Date: July 12, 2026
Address: B1 – 798 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M1
Cost: $43
6. Summer Made Market
The Summer Market features 40+ local vendors offering handmade goods, delicious treats, home décor, fashion, art, and other unique finds.
With free admission and a pet-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great opportunity to shop local and support small businesses.
The first 30 guests in line at 11:00 AM will receive a $10 shopping voucher to use with participating vendors.
Date: July 12, 2026
Address: 3102 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3G7
Cost: FREE
7. Magical Idol Cafe
The Magical Idol Cafe is an interactive concept café experience featuring themed food and drinks, fun games, and live J-pop idol performances by MagiaNote.
Guests can choose from two scheduled sessions and enjoy exclusive member-themed activities, with VIP ticket options offering special perks such as photo opportunities, exclusive merchandise, and premium seating.
This one-of-a-kind event brings the excitement of Japanese idol café culture.
Date: July 12, 2026
Address: 6888 Royal Oak Ave #101, Burnaby, BC V5J 4J2
Cost: From $10
8. Brentwood Farmers’ Market
The Brentwood Farmers’ Market returns this summer with fresh local produce, baked goods, handmade products, and a variety of offerings from BC farmers and small businesses.
Open every Sunday, visitors can shop for seasonal ingredients, grab a coffee, or simply enjoy a relaxed stroll through the market while taking part in one of Burnaby’s favourite summer traditions.
Date: June 7 to August 30, 2026
Address: 4567 Lougheed Hwy, Burnaby, BC V5C 3Z6
Cost: FREE
9. Shipyards Night Market
The Shipyards Night Market is a free weekly summer event featuring live music, food trucks, a makers marketplace, and a waterfront beer garden.
Visitors can enjoy performances from local musicians, explore curated artisan and vintage vendors, and grab eats from rotating food trucks each week.
With golden hour views by the water and a lively community atmosphere, it’s a popular Friday night hangout in the city.
Date: May 15 to September 11, 2026
Address: 19 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B9
Cost: FREE
10. Richmond Night Market
The Richmond Night Market is bringing a global celebration to summer with international food, shopping, and live entertainment.
Visitors can explore landmark-inspired attractions, sample 500 plus flavours from around the world, and discover unique retail finds.
With new attractions and nonstop energy, it’s a vibrant night out packed with culture, connection, and foodie adventures.
Date: April 24 to September 20, 2026
Address: 8351 River Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 1Y4
That’s it for this weekend!
See more upcoming events happening in Metro Vancouver by visiting our events calendar.