Vancouver, we hope that you’re ready for the start of September! We sure are, especially because it looks like we’ve got a few final sunny days to enjoy before fall rolls around. So, we think you need to make the most of the opportunity, while keeping in mind some options when the rain says hello. Lucky for you, we’ve got tons of ideas for both!
Here are the best things to do around Vancouver this September.
Live Events
Monstercat Compound 2021
Ready to dance it out once more? This Vancouver-based music label is right there with you. Monstercat is bringing back its beloved ‘Compound’ 1-day festival this summer, and it’s free to attend! Hosted in the heart of Railtown, the day has art installations, food trucks, and of course, some amazing sets to look forward to.
When: September 18th
Where: 380 Railway Street
Cost: Free with RSVP
FVDED Presents
There are a few major concerts and music fests to look forward to this month, if you’re comfortable with that sort of thing. After cancelling FVDED In the Park, Blueprint has offered this concert series instead, featuring names like DEADMAU5, REZZ and Alison Wonderland.
When: September 10th and September 11th
Where: 2901 East Hastings Street
Cost: $65+
Shipyards Live
New for this year, Shipyards Live is an ongoing concert and market series taking place at the Lonsdale Quay. Do some shopping, try a food truck, and hit the beer garden as you enjoy the sounds of some fantastic local artists. And, best of all, it’s free to attend!
When: On until September 18th
Where: Lonsdale Quay Area
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
It’s not all high-energy concerts and outdoor parties this month. For a more refined experience, you can enjoy the sounds of the symphony live and in person this month. Want the best of both worlds? Check out the live concert that will accompany screenings of Back to the Future.
When: Concerts throughout September
Where: 601 Smithe Street
Cost: Varies
Outdoor Options
Chilliwack Corn Maze
The Chilliwack Corn Maze has returned to the Fraser Valley, and as always there’s a new design to explore! This year, look forward to a very cute forest setting, alongside the word ‘WANDER’. Is this a classic option for the fall? Absolutely, and we love every second of it.
When: Open throughout September
Where: 41905 Yale Road W, Chilliwack
Cost: $14.50+ for GA
Ride a new Mountain Coaster
Cypress Mountain got a whole lot cooler this summer, thanks to a new mountain coaster! The Eagle Coaster zips you down the mountainside at 40 km/h. Add in a vertical drop of about 279m (900 feet), and this coaster becomes fun for all ages.
When: Open until September 26th
Where: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver
Cost: $29 for GA (includes lift ticket)
Hit the beach
We cannot write about things to do in the summer (even when it’s ending) in Vancouver and not bring up the beach. Whether you want the buzz of Kits beach on a sunny day or a hidden gem for a Tuesday morning coffee, we’ve got you covered. Of course, our advice is to visit them all!
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Explore Vancouver’s incredible Gardens
In contrast to our beaches, Vancouver’s incredible urban gardens never seem to be as popular. We don’t care, though, since it makes them that much more serene to visit on a late summer day. Toss a little picnic in there or grab a snack at some of the bigger options to complete your experience.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Get back on the Sea to Sky Gondola
This incredible attraction along the Sea to Sky Highway offers stunning views, mountaintop trails to explore, and food and drink options so that you can kick back and take it all in. As far as day trips go, this is top-notch.
When: Open throughout September
Where: 36800 BC-99, Squamish
Tickets: $55.95 for GA, $14.29 for Ride-Down Only
Go chasing waterfalls
Ready for a late summer day trip? We think you can’t go wrong with a trek to some nearby waterfalls. Whether you’re ducking into the North Shore for a quick walk or driving to see some truly spectacular ones, our roundup is sure to have you feeling refreshed after your visit.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Arts and Culture
Vancouver TAIWANfest
After taking a break last year, TAIWANfest is back this year! And, they’ve brought back the ongoing ‘Dialogue with Asia’ series, picking South Korea as the country. Head downtown and check out a wide range of options, including artist talks, culinary experiences, and live performances.
When: September 2nd to September 12th
Where: Online and in-person events
Cost: Varies per event
Light Up Chinatown!
This weekend-only event is the exact reason you’ve been looking for to return to Chinatown. Featuring art installations and live performances, it’s sure to spice up a stroll along Pender Street. But, more importantly, the self-guided food tours show the best of the area.
When: September 11th and September 12th
Where: Throughout Chinatown
Cost: Free to attend
Watch a movie outdoors
Vancouver Civic Theatres has brought back the Sunset Cinema series! You have 4 chances this month to catch a free screening of classic family-friendly movies like Spider-Man: Far from Home and Pitch Perfect. Just don’t forget something to sit on!
When: Click the link above for dates
Where: 630 Hamilton Street Courtyard
Or watch a movie inside
There’s no better way to spend a rainy day than at the movies! We like supporting local businesses, so we recommend that you check out the showtimes at The Cinematheque, the Rio Theatre, and VanCity Theatre. The added bonus? These often show older movies, which are perfect if you’re not in the mood for a summer blockbuster.
When: Showtimes throughout September
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: Varies
Voxel Bridge
Turns out, this new artwork from the Vancouver Biennale is the largest of its kind in the world! Some 19,000 square feet of space has been transformed under the Cambie Street bridge, and it blends real-world graphics with some impressive AR technology.
When: Open throughout September
Where: Cambie Street Bridge Underpass
Cost: Free to access
Vancouver Art Gallery- Multiple Exhibitions
There are a few exhibitions currently on at the Vancouver Art Gallery, including a solo one from the contemporary artist Jan Wade and a little something on Emily Carr. And, the offsite exhibit (which is free) also has something on right now!
When: Open throughout September
Where: 750 Hornby Street
Cost: Varies
Bill Reid Gallery- Doctrine of Discovery
A couple of new exhibitions arrive in Vancouver this month. First up? Doctrine of Discovery, which is a solo exhibition from First Nations artist Sho Sho Eqsuiro. Using textiles, photographs and actual clothing pieces, the exhibition is meant to spark conversations about the legacies of genocide, and injustices that continue in the present.
When: Opens September 22nd
Where: 639 Hornby Street
Cost: $13
Polygon Gallery- Lind Prize 2021
Meanwhile, the Polygon Gallery is bringing back the finalists for this year’s Lind Prize. What’s it recognize? Well, hopefully, the best BC emerging artist working in film, photography or video. Maybe see if you can snag a couple of prints while you’re there- we’re sure your walls will thank you!
When: Opens September 29th
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: By donation
Imagine Van Gogh
This immersive exhibit has been extended once more! If you haven’t checked it out already, then maybe a rainy day this month might be the perfect opportunity to see over 200 of the famous painter’s artworks on a larger than life scale.
When: Open throughout September
Where: 1055 Canada Place
Tickets: $39.99+
Sports and Activities
BC Lions
That’s right folks, not one but two major sports teams have returned to BC Place. First up are the Lions, which have won a couple of games and lost a couple of games, meaning that they’ll need to bring their A-game this month to stay in the running.
When: Games throughout September
Where: 777 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $21.75+
Vancouver Whitecaps
Meanwhile, the Vancouver Whitecaps shook things up last week by letting go of their head coach. It’s paid off already, with the team getting a commanding win over Real Salt Lake this past weekend. Could it be a turnaround for the ages? We sure hope so!
When: Games throughout September
Where: 777 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $45+
Hike up Grouse Mountain
Of course, we couldn’t forget the Grouse Grind as a summer option. Not so easy that you’ll cruise through it, but not so hard that you’ll be wondering if heading there was a good idea in the first place. Plus, the need to purchase a download ticket assures some rest and relaxation once your climb is complete.
When: Open throughout August
Where: Grouse Mountain
Cost: $20 (for the download ticket)
Work on your short game
Mini-golf is a good option for just about anyone. Like bowling, the skill ceiling is weirdly high, but it’s so straightforward that a total novice will still have fun out there. Whether you’re looking for a date night option or a weekend that’s fun for the whole family, we’ve got you covered.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Food and Drink
Try a new restaurant
If it seems like there’s a new spot to try in Vancouver every week, that’s because there more or less is! We’ve rounded up some of the most buzzworthy openings in the city over the past month, and now all you have to do is pick which one to visit first!
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Have a boozy brunch
Speaking of nice meals out, we’re running out of time to enjoy boozy patio brunches on a hot day. We can’t end our summer without one, so we created a guide of some of our top picks in the city. Whether your team caesar or mimosa, we’ve got you covered.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Check out Anthony Bourdain’s favourite restaurants
Anthony Bourdain was not exactly known for mincing words. So, when he pointed out his favourite restaurants in Vancouver all those years ago, you know that he meant it. But, even better- all of his picks have survived, and you can see for yourself whether they still deserve the praise.
Where: Click the link above for more info
Neighbourhood Patio
If we’ve got nice days then we need to make the most of them, and this is a great option. This new patio experience downtown will have a rotating selection of food trucks, live concerts, and drinks courtesy of Granville Island Brewing and Dachi. Swing by after work, or head down with a couple of friends.
When: September 10th to September 18th
Where: 595 Burrard Street
Swing by your local Farmers Market
If we ever miss recommending a trip to Vancouver’s farmers markets, then reach out and tell us to give our heads a shake. After all, Vancouver and the Fraser Valley is a goldmine for delicious, locally-produced fruits and veggies. And, there’s no better time to take advantage than in the summer!
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Misc.
Vancouver Aquarium
That’s right folks- one of the city’s most beloved attractions is back open! What’s more, they’ve added a new exhibit, which focuses on the Aquarium’s Marine Mammal Rescue Program. Who doesn’t want to see an otter recovering from ill health? That’s like what dreams are made of.
When: Open throughout September
Where: 845 Avison Way
Cost: $42 for GA
Car Free Month Vancouver
Car Free Day has become Car Free Month! Throughout September, you can participate in both single-day and ongoing options to enjoy this city, with an emphasis on (of course) exploring it without a car! Hit a drag show, check out a market, or even go on a bike concert tour!
When: Ongoing throughout September
Where: Locations throughout the city
PNE Fair 2021
This is the last week to check out not one but two Vancouver summer classics. First up is the PNE Fair, with is back with a barebones lineup but still has everything you need for a lovely day out. Grab some classic carnival food, watch the SuperDogs, and cap off the night with a fire show!
When: Ends September 6th
Where: 2901 E Hastings St
Cost: $15 for adults, $12 for children and seniors
Richmond Night Market
Yup, the Richmond Night Market has also returned for the summer. This massive outdoor market has got tons of amazing food trucks and stalls to try out, alongside some other vendors in case you feel like some impromptu shopping. Of course, the reason to go is the food.
When: Ends September 6th
Where: 8351 River Road, Richmond
Cost: $5 ($25 to skip the line)
Editor’s Note: Following the publication of this list, we discovered that Westward Music Fest has been postponed until 2022. Sorry for any confusion this may cause!
Alright Vancouver, that’s our roundup of things to do this September! Keep this list in your back pocket over the next few weeks, and you’ll always have something to look forward to! That’s our plan, at least.
