Metro Vancouver steps into the BC Day long weekend with a massive celebration of arts, culture, and fandom, kicking off with fireworks over English Bay and the return of the region’s largest anime convention.
You can also celebrate 50 years of Japanese Canadian heritage at the historic Powell Street Festival, wander vibrant seaside night markets, or take in live waterfront performances at the Harmony Arts Festival.
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. Anime Revolution
Anime Revolution is Vancouver’s largest anime convention, bringing together fans of anime, Japanese culture, and cosplay for a weekend of entertainment and community.
Attendees can enjoy cosplay contests, live concerts, guest signings, panels, and a variety of interactive activities celebrating all things Japan.
With something for fans of every age and interest, it’s a must-visit event for anime enthusiasts.
Date: July 31, 2026
Address: 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3
Cost: From $60
3. Summer Lights in English Bay
Summer Lights in English Bay is a free, one-night fireworks celebration offering open public viewing areas, food trucks, and opportunities to enjoy local restaurants and businesses in the West End.
Presented by the City of Vancouver and produced by BrandLive, the event brings residents and visitors together for a spectacular evening by the waterfront.
It’s a welcoming summer celebration for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy.
Date: July 31, 2026
Address: 1700 Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6E 1V3
Cost: FREE
4. Summer Night Market
The Summer Night Market brings together over 40 local small businesses for an evening of shopping, connection, and community.
Guests can browse unique products and treats while enjoying a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
With free admission and everyone welcome, it’s a great way to spend a summer evening supporting local makers and businesses.
Date: July 31, 2026
Address: 105 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC V7L
Cost: FREE
5. Powell Street Festival
The Powell Street Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary with over 70 programs showcasing Japanese Canadian arts, culture, and community.
Guests can enjoy taiko, sumo, martial arts, delicious food, craft vendors, community booths, and more throughout the festival weekend.
As Canada’s longest-running Japanese Canadian arts and culture festival, it’s a meaningful celebration of 50 years of stories, traditions, and community.
Date: Augst 1 and 2, 2026
Address: 400 Powell St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1G6
Cost: FREE
6. Harmony Arts Festival
The Harmony Arts Festival brings together visual arts, live music, children’s workshops, food, and entertainment for a vibrant summer celebration.
Guests can enjoy world-class musical performances, inspiring artwork, culinary experiences, and the beautiful waterfront setting.
With something for everyone, the festival offers a fun and engaging experience for families, art lovers, music fans, and visitors of all ages.
Date: July 31 to August 9, 2026
Address: 1564 Argyle Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7V 1A1
Cost: FREE
7. 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
8. 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
9. 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.