The summer season is right around the corner, and we know it can be tricky to plan fun excursions around the city that won’t put a massive dent in your wallet. Luckily, there is still plenty of budget-friendly fun to be had, and even some amazing free events going on this month!
Let’s get into it. Here’s our roundup of free and cheap things to do in Vancouver this June.
Shipyards Live
The free outdoor music fest and beer garden has several dates in June, so why not take advantage and come by one Friday? Each week, Shipbuilders Square comes alive with the hustle and bustle of guests looking to enjoy live music and local brews at The Patio presented by Stanley Park Brewing.
When: Various dates in June
Where: 125 Victory Ship Way, Vancouver
Cost: Free!
7th Annual South Granville Artwalk
View this post on Instagram
Between 10 am and 5 pm on Thursday, June 16th is the 7th Annual South Granville Artwalk, which is completely free to the public! Wander up and down South Granville and partake in artist talks and 10 different exhibitions – and check out some cool local galleries while you’re at it. The event will also have refreshments.
When: Thursday, June 16th
Where: 125 Victory Ship Way, Vancouver
Cost: Free!
Check out a Farmers Market
If you haven’t had the chance to swing by Trout Lake or Kits for a weekend farmer’s market yet, we highly recommend doing so. Fresh, local produce + gorgeous views is the perfect recipe for an afternoon picnic.
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Enjoy a beverage at the park
View this post on Instagram
Starting Wednesday, June 1st, Vancouver’s latest expansion of the ‘Alcohol in Parks Pilot’ program is in effect. So, if you want to save a couple of bucks on brews, consider taking your own to the designated drinking areas at Queen Elizabeth Park or the beach. Just be sure to leave your area litter-free!
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Vancouver Dragon Boat Festival 2022
The largest dragon boat fest in North America is back this month, and it will be accompanied by free liver performances from local talent like The Zolas and Eagle Song Dancers! Best of all? You won’t go broke eating your way through the festival.
When: Friday, June 24th to Sunday, June 26, 2022
Where: Concord Pacific Place, Creekside Park, and False Creek, Vancouver
Cost: Free
Go swimming
Doesn’t cost a thing to dive into the ocean or a BC lake for a little swim! If you’re more of a pool person, though, rates aren’t too bad at all. Make a splash regardless of the medium!
Where: Various
Related Posts:
30 of the very best things to do in Vancouver this June
Summer’s bread & butter: Here are 10 amazing picnic spots to check out in Vancouver
Ghosts of the Machine – The Polygon Gallery
View this post on Instagram
The always amazing Polygon Gallery presents Ghosts of the Machine starting on Friday, June 3rd. The new exhibition by Elliott Ramsey looks at the relationships between humans, tech, and ecology – so bring your thinking caps and an open mind. Because it’s about to get blown.
The show also features a new garden project commissioned by T’uy’t’tanat Cease Wyss (Skwxwú7mesh), in addition to several immersive installations, digital avatars, videos, and more.
When: Friday, June 3rd to August 14th
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: By donation
Vancouver Greek Film Festival (June 16–19)
The Hellenic Canadian Congress of BC and The Cinematheque present the first-ever Vancouver Greek Film Festival (VGFF) from Thursday, June 16 to Sunday, June 19th. Expect a ton of contemporary and classic Greek films, including the theatrical premiere of ‘Greek to Me,’ a comedic autobiographical documentary directed by festival co-founder Harry Killas.
When: Thursday, June 16 to Sunday, June 19th
Where: 1131 Howe Street
Cost: $14
Vancouver Whitecaps
View this post on Instagram
The Whitecaps continue the season this month with two exciting home games that are sure to draw huge crowds to BC Place. The good news? Tickets are currently priced as low as $30 per person!
When: Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 26th
Where: 777 Pacific Boulevard, BC Place
Cost: Various
Vegan Night Market
View this post on Instagram
Canada’s first all-vegan night market is coming to Vancouver this month and will take place over six consecutive Thursdays! Even better–admission is by $2 minimum donation. For all the delicious eats and drinks you can get (and not to mention the live music and dancefloor…), this seems like a pretty amazing steal. Don’t miss out!
When: Starting Thursday, June 30th
Where: 1489 East Hastings Street, The Waldorf
Cost: $2 minimum donation
