Vancouver kicks off the summer season in North Vancouver with the return of beloved waterfront night markets and the city’s largest celebration of classic British cars.
From cultural festivals in Coquitlam to anime drawing sessions in Burnaby, this mid-May weekend offers a diverse range of community-focused events for every interest.
1. 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
2. Summer Night Market
Summer Night Market Series is lighting up The Pipe Shop with evenings of shopping, food, and community vibes.
Expect 50+ local small businesses, plenty of eats, and fun activations to explore.
It’s a free-entry event perfect for wandering, discovering new finds, and enjoying a lively summer night with friends.
Date: May 15, 22, and 29, 2026
Address: 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0E1
Cost: FREE
3. Vancouver ABFM
The Vancouver ABFM returns to the Garden on May 16, showcasing Vancouver’s largest celebration of British-built classic and modern vehicles.
Visitors can explore an impressive display of cars, enjoy bites from food vendors, or book a high tea experience.
It’s a vibrant event for car enthusiasts and anyone looking for a unique day out.
Date: May 16, 2026
Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1
Cost: $29.55
4. Spring Festival Fair
The Spring Festival Fair is a lively cultural celebration hosted by Tri-City Chinese Community Society.
Visitors can enjoy food fusion, music and dance performances, jewellery crafts, live portraits, garden flowers, and nonstop entertainment throughout the event.
Expect a festive atmosphere filled with cultural showcases, dragon dances, and family-friendly activities.
Date: May 16, 2026
Address: 1299 Pinetree Wy, Coquitlam, BC V3B 7S4
Cost: FREE
5. Mimi’s Bread Window Pop-Up
Mimi’s Bread Window Pop-Up brings together great food and drinks in one inviting stop.
Guests can enjoy espresso, tea lattes, and hot chocolate from Slothee Coffee, sandwiches by Eat Sundays, and wine selections from Vin Van.
It’s a casual pop-up perfect for coffee lovers, foodies, and anyone looking for a cozy community gathering.
Date: May 16, 2026
Address: 417 Industrial Ave, Vancouver, BC V6A 2P3
6. The Lola Market
The The Lola Market is a free, family-friendly celebration highlighting the women behind the brands.
Guests can shop from 60 women entrepreneurs and explore a full lineup of experiences, including live performances, talks, demonstrations, kids’ workshops, art activities, wellness features, and intimate conversations.
It’s a vibrant community event focused on creativity, connection, and empowerment.
Date: May 16 and 17, 2026
Address: 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2
Cost: FREE
7. Anime Drawing Night
A cozy anime drawing session at Ki Cafe invites guests to learn how to design their own anime character in a relaxed, beginner-friendly setting.
Guided by an easy-to-follow base, the session is perfect for both first-timers and experienced doodlers.
Admission includes all drawing materials plus one drink from the café menu.
Date: May 17, 2026
Address: 6888 Royal Oak Ave Unit #105, Burnaby, BC V5J 4J2
Cost: $35
8. 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
9. Coquitlam Farmers Market
Celebrate over 30 years of community connection at the Coquitlam Farmers Market, held every Sunday from May through October.
Explore a vibrant selection of vendors offering farm-fresh produce, baked goods, prepared food and drinks, as well as locally made crafts and jewellery.
With live music, hot food, and the award-winning Power of Produce Kids Program, this market offers a welcoming experience for visitors of all ages.
Date: May 3 to October 25, 2026
Address: 1655 Winslow Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3J6B1
That’s it for this weekend!
See more upcoming events happening in Metro Vancouver by visiting our events calendar.