Alright folks, the day is finally here- we’re standing at the start of October, and the true beginning of fall. Sure, we may have had a few warm-up weeks, but this is when the real shift occurs, at least in our eyes. Luckily, the changing seasons have no effect on all the fun options around the city!

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

BC Lions

You’ve got not one but two options for live sports this weekend! First up are the BC Lions, who face off against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers this Friday. Winnipeg’s currently first in the western division, so we’re thinking the Lions can use all the support they can get!

When: Friday, October 1st
Where: 777 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $21.75+

Vancouver Whitecaps

Meanwhile, the Whitecaps have a game of their own on Saturday. They’ll be up against San Jose, who are practically neck and neck with them in the standings. With both teams fighting for playoff spots, this is also a big game to check out!

When: Saturday, October 2nd
Where: 777 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $45+

Check out a new art exhibit at the Bill Reid Gallery

A new installation at The Bill Reid Gallery recently opened up! Using photographs, textiles, clothing, and more, the exhibit by First Nation’s artist Sho Sho Eqsuiro is bound to be interesting. With the express purpose to spark conversations and reflection on genocide and injustice, we know it will be a powerful exhibit.

When: Open throughout the week
Where: 639 Hornby Street
Cost: $13

Or check out Boarder X

The Museum of Vancouver is getting something new this weekend too! Boarder X, presented alongside the Winnipeg Art Gallery, draws connections between the use of public space for alternative sports and the history of exclusionary policies and treaties towards Indigenous people. One is without a doubt worse than the other, but it’s an interesting way to highlight the issues.

When: Opens Saturday, October 2nd
Where: 1100 Chestnut Street
Cost: Varies

Catch a flick during VIFF

Local cinephiles rejoice! VIFF is back this year and there are some bonkers good movies coming to town. We highly recommend you check out Belfast, Memoria, and Saloum, to name just a few. Events and showings are happening both in-person and online, so you have no excuse to not be watching movies!

When: Starts Friday, October 1st
Where: All over the city

Taste of Yaletown

First the first time, Taste of Yaletown has decided to go on for an entire month! This celebration of all things food and drink is a great way to try a new spot in the neighbourhood. And while we’re sure each one is worth a visit, we can’t help but circle back to Provence Marinaside.

When: Starts Friday, October 1st
Where: Click the link above for participating restaurants

Parallel 49 Biergarten

Craving a little bit of Oktoberfest fun? Fear not, because Parallel 49 has got you covered. This beloved local brewery has transformed its massive patio into a biergarten, with live music and a new food menu to match. Heads up though, you’re running out of time to check it out.

When: On until Sunday, October 3rd
Where: 1950 Triumph Street

Laity Pumpkin Patch South

It might not be Halloweentown, but it’s a good alternative! This Maple Ridge experience has created its own ‘Pumpkin Town’ complete with a Sheriff’s Office, a saloon and a general store. Get yourself a photo opp that will blow standing in a field out of the water.

When: Open throughout October
Where: 12725 Laity Street, Maple Ridge
Cost: $8-$10

See some fall colours

If you’re more about pumpkin spice than pumpkin monsters, take a break this month and enjoy Vancouver in the fall, which we think is a seriously underrated time of year here. Don’t believe us? Well, just check out our guide to the best places to see fall colours, and then let us know.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

Or go on a romantic date

Got a special someone in mind this fall? Do something special with them! We’ve rounded up some of our absolute favourite options for romantic dates this fall in Vancouver, from garden visits to live events to indoor activities. Whatever the weather, we’ve got you covered.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

That’s our roundup for things to do this weekend, Vancouver! Have fun out there and stay safe.