It’s the last weekend of November, Vancouver! So, whatever was on your bucket list this month, now’s to time to get it done. Still looking for some things to put on there? Well friends, that’s where we come in.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Vancouver this weekend.

Rio Grind Film Festival

Maybe feel like waiting a bit to get in the holiday spirit? One option this weekend is checking out the Rio Theatre’s very own Grind Film Festival, which focuses on horror movies and short films from around the country. Plus, a fair number of the showings have directors Q+A afterwards.

When: Showtimes throughout the weekend
Where: 1660 East Broadway
Cost: Varies

The Zolas

Coming out of right here in Vancouver, The Zolas have become a must-know name in the indie rock genre. Support a local artist, listen to great music, and have a fun night out! It’s a triple threat, don’t you agree?

When: Friday, November 26th
Where: 918 Granville Street
Cost: $27.50

Emerging From Architecture

Whether it’s a heritage home redone in bubblegum pink, or a brand new home in East Van, this exhibition offers insight into the process and designs of some of BC’s, and by extension Canada’s, most exciting architecture firms. We do write weekly articles on cool homes for sale around BC, after all. So naturally, we think it’s a good idea.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 2-258 East 1st Ave
Cost: Free to access

CandyTown

Speaking of free options, we can add to this list with another one! CandyTown will be taking over Yaletown this weekend for one day only, offering holiday activities, a market, and even a self-guided cocktail tour for the of-age revellers.

When: Saturday, November 27th
Where: Mainland, Hamilton, and parts of Davie Street
Cost: Free to attend!

VanDusen Festival of Lights

With well over a million lights and a wide variety of installations, the Festival of Lights at VanDusen is a must-see option in the city. After all, it combines an incredible setting with some mind-boggling technology, and that’s a winning combination.

When: Starts Friday, November 26th
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Tickets: $17.50

Canyon Lights

That’s right folks, this iconic event is back for the holiday season! There’s no denying that Canyon Lights is a bucket-list activity for tourists and residents alike. Whether you’re experiencing it for the first time or looping back around to capture the magic, it’s an easy pick this weekend.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 3735 Capilano Road
Tickets: $54.95

Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain

For those looking for something a little more active during the holidays, we’ve got the Peak of Christmas. The upper area at Grouse Mountain transforms into a veritable winter wonderland, complete with a mountaintop skating pond, illuminated light walks, and even reindeer!

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Cost: $61 for GA (or $109 for a family of 4)

Bright Nights Christmas Train

After taking a hiatus last year, the Bright Nights Christmas Train returns to Stanley Park this weekend! Having only started in 2019, the experience immediately became a must for anyone looking for some family-friendly festivities. And now, it’s back for the season!

When: Starts Friday, November 26th
Where: Stanley Park
Cost: $13+ for GA

Dine Strathcona

This local food festival has returned for another instalment! Not only is this is a great way to enjoy some of the best spots in the city, but $5 from each specialty meal/offering will go towards the HAVE Culinary Training Society, which helps disadvantaged members of the community learn about, and find a job in, the tourism and hospitality industry.

When: Now until November 30th
Where: Spots all over Strathcona

Grab a Christmas tree

We know, we know, we’re being real early birds about this. But, the sooner you go to pick up a Christmas tree (or get one delivered) the better selection you’ll have. Not that we don’t love the Charlie Brown Christmas vibe, but this year we’re thinking it’d be fun to go all out.

Where: Click the link above for more info

Those are our ideas for this weekend, Vancouver! Hopefully one of them piques your interest!