Victoria Day always has a tendency to sneak up on us – and this year is no exception. Thankfully, there are still plenty of things to do in Vancouver that involve all the good stuff. Sunshine. Patio brews. Beaching. Exploring.
Monday, May 23rd is the national holiday, which celebrates the birth of Queen Victoria. If you’ve got the day off – it’s time to get outdoors and celebrate the Queen the best way we know how. With spontaneous beach plans, a May Day parade, and tasty local treats.
Without further ado, here are 10 great things to do in and around Vancouver on Victoria Day.
Fort Langley May Day Parade
Head to Fort Langley for the 100th anniversary of their annual May Day parade this Monday! A huge parade spanning Mavis Avenue down to 88th Avenue will kick off the festivities, followed by a ton of free events at the park, food, and live entertainment.
When: Monday, May 23rd
Where: 88th Avenue and Clover, Lions Hall, Langley
Jurassic Quest in Abbotsford
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That’s right, the largest dino event is heading to Abbotsford this weekend. If you didn’t get the chance to check it out in Vancouver this week, now is your chance! Fully immerse yourself in the world of the Apatosaurus, Spinosaurus, T-Rex and an incredible 50-foot-long Megalodon, and yes – the world of baby dinos too.
When: Friday, May 20th to Monday, May 23rd
Where: 1190 Cornell Street, Abbotsford
Afternoon Tea at the Farm
While the historic Stewart’s Farm in Surrey normally hosts a Royal Victorian Party every Saturday before Victoria Day, this year, they’re keeping it low-key with Afternoon Tea at the Farm from Friday, May 20th to May 27th. The historic site is not too far from Crescent Beach in South Surrey if you feel like extending your visit!
When: Friday, May 20th to Friday, May 27th
Where: 13723 Crescent Road, Surrey
Cost: $13.40
Victoria Day at Burnaby Village Museum
Between 11 am and 4:30 pm on Monday, the Burnaby Village Museum will be hosting a huge day of fun to honour the Queen. Design a memory book, enjoy live music & ventriloquist performances, take part in a scavenger hunt, and more.
When: Friday, May 20th to Friday, May 27th
Where: 13723 Crescent Road, Surrey
Cost: $13.40
Cirque du Soleil – Alegria
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There are two Cirque shows on Monday – one a 1 pm and one at 5 pm, so it’s not too late to snag a ticket to the world’s favourite theatrical circus performance! Alegria happens to be one of their most popular shows, too.
When: Showtimes throughout May
Where: Concord Pacific Place
Cost: $65 for GA
Have a beach day
While there is certainly no shortage of gorgeous viewpoints around the city, we can’t deny that some of the best are at Vancouver’s beaches. Whether you picnic at Jericho, bike around Stanley Park and settle at Third Beach, or dive into the deep end at Kits Beach – there’s truly a beach spot for everyone.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Vancouver Aquarium
While there’s no official event going on for Victoria Day, it’s never a bad idea to spend a couple of hours at Canada’s largest aquarium.
When: Open throughout May
Where: 845 Avison Way
Cost: $42 for GA
Go for a hike
We can’t think of a better way to take advantage of the long weekend and the great weather we’ve been blessed with. Rally your squad together for a group hike and catch some much-needed rays! No rain gear necessary.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
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Check out some patios
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OpenTable recently released its list of the best spots for outdoor dining in Canada, and 9 Vancouver restaurants made the cut! If you’re looking for yet another reason to hit up a sunny patio this Monday, then look no further than this tasty list. Brunch & mimosas, anyone?
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Whistler’s Skybridge
As of May 13th, Whistler’s famous Skybridge has been open for the summer season. Why not take advantage and enjoy some beautiful views this Victoria Day? We’re sure the Queen would approve of some light day-tripping!
Where: 4545 Blackcomb Way, or any of our other day-trip picks.
Well, that’s all for now, Vancouver! Enjoy your long weekend and let us know what you end up doing for Victoria Day!
