Welcome to the start of a new month, folks! And to kick things off on the right foot, we’ve rounded up some of the best free and cheap things to do in Vancouver this November. After all, Christmas shopping can add up quickly, so we might as well save a few buckaroos here and there when we can!
Here are the best free and cheap things to do in Vancouver this November.
See some pretty lights during Lumiere
Lumiere is back for its 6th season and has expanded to Granville Island and the Bentall Centre in addition to the Jim Deva Plaza and English Bay. It’s the perfect way to walk off dinner in downtown Vancouver this November, in our opinion.
When: November 12th to November 30th
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: Free!
Or wander around VanDusen Garden
Lumiere isn’t the only option this month! VanDusen Garden is bringing back its famed Festival of Lights later this month, and it’s sure to delight those looking to get into the holiday spirit. Even better- you’re not going to have to drop $100 to go on a date there.
When: Starts November 26th
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: $17.50 for GA
Immerse yourself at the Eastside Culture Crawl
This iconic art festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this month! Naturally, the participants are pulling out all the stops, offering virtual events, gallery tours, workshops, and more. It’s as simple as this- if you like art, you’ll like the Eastside Culture Crawl.
When: Events throughout November
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: Free!
Get your art fix at the Polygon Gallery
Wait until later this November to enjoy two exhibitions at this admission by donation gallery on the North Shore. One focuses on Vancouver’s punk subculture (cool), but the one we’re really looking forward to is the solo exhibition from world-renowned artist Steven Shearer.
When: Open throughout November
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: By donation
Enjoy the festive spirit at the Vancouver Christmas Market
For a more family-friendly open, this beloved open-air market is returning after a hiatus last year! While this is a mix of shopping, entertainment, and food, it’s the food portion we’re truly focused on here. A little mulled wine while we pick up Christmas ornaments? Perfect.
When: Opens November 13th
Where: Jack Poole Plaza
Tickets: $7.99+
Take a trip to Tinseltown
Can’t wait to dive into the eggnog? You’ll be happy to know that a Christmas-themed pop-up bar lands in Vancouver this month. The folks at Hidden Events are hosting a downright devoted bar, which will be packed to the gills with Christmas cheer (and drinks).
When: Slated to open November 19th
Where: TBD
Tickets: $17
Find a gift at the Winter Pop-Up Shop
The Nikkei National Museum in Burnaby is hosting a series of pop-up shops throughout November, showcasing local artisans. Plus, the museum itself is offering free admission, so it’s well worth the trip. A little bit of culture, and a little bit of shopping- it’s a win-win!
When: Weekends throughout November
Where: 6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby
Cost: Free to attend
Treat yourself to a new book
For us, there are few things that offer the same return on investment as a great book. And wouldn’t you know it- Vancouver is filled with amazing local bookstores. They’re free to visit, you’re supporting local business, and you’ll likely find a new favourite for under $10.
Where: Click the link above for more info
Witness the majesty of some eagles
Wouldn’t you know it? A town just outside of Vancouver is the preferred spot for thousands of eagles to come hang out. Harrison Mills has a variety of (free) walks that all but guarantee you’ll see some bald eagles during your visit. It’s ironic that Vancouver is a better place to see bald eagles than, you know, the United States, but we’ll take it.
Where: Click the link above for more info
Or simply enjoy the great outdoors
Vancouver is maybe the best place in Canada to spend the fall. Sure, it might be rainy, but a solid number of local hikes for all skill levels stay available much longer than other parts of the country, if not year-round. Don’t believe us? Check out our roundup of some of our favourites.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Alright Vancouver, that’s what we have in mind for the best free and cheap things to do in the city this November! We hope your fun level continues to rise as the temperature falls!
