If you’re looking to ring in the new year on a budget, we hear you. The holiday season can be a time of splurging, and while the mulled wine and NYE fun is worth every penny, it’s good to use the month of January to get back on track. So we thought we’d share some fun indoor and outdoor activities, events, and things to do around Vancouver happening this January, all for free or considerably cheap.
Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival
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While deets are still a bit scarce on their website, the beloved Vancouver Hot Chocolate fest is returning to the city this month, and we’re sure participating spots are bringing their A-game when it comes to crafting the best cups of cocoa around.
Where: January 13th to February 14th
Street Food City 2024
If you love food truck eats, you’ve likely already heard about Street Food City, Vancouver’s original street food festival. The festival kicks off the delicious Dine Out Vancouver program. This year, they’re celebrating the festival’s 12th year with an amazing lineup of food trucks, serving everything from Indian food to grilled cheese.
When: January 21st to January 29th
Where: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énk Square
Robson Square Ice Rink
For just $5 per skate rental, you can skate to your heart’s content at Robson’s Square. Stop by on a spontaneous trip downtown, or plan a special pre-dinner visit on your next date night.
When: Open until February 28th
Where: 800 Robson Street
Cost: $5 for skate rentals
Shipyards Skate Plaza
By the same token, there’s no denying that the Shipyards Skate Plaza is one of the most festive places to hit the ice – even after the holiday season!
When: Open throughout January
Where: 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free, rental costs vary
Snowshoeing at Cypress Mountain
Ok, emphasis on the ‘around’ Vancouver part here. But, if you’re ready to take a day trip this month, know that Cypress Mountain has got a serious amount of snowshoe trails for you to explore. Our advice? Check in with your more outdoorsy friends and family to secure a pair, and eliminate half the cost of a trip out!
When: Open throughout January
Where: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver
Cost: $18 for GA
The Vancouver Art Gallery
You don’t need to know Monet from Cézanne to enjoy a day at the Vancouver Art Gallery. With new exhibits popping up all the time, it’s a fun, educational and culturally enriching place to check out. And of course, who doesn’t love ‘hmm-ing’ and ‘hah-ing’ at some crazy paintings, especially on Free Nights at the Gallery?
Where: 750 Hornby Street
Cost: $6.50 – $24, free on the first Friday of every month
See an improv show
From Date Night improv to monthly standup sessions, House Team showcases, and more – there’s always something exciting going on at The Improv Centre on Granville Island. And why not start off the year with a couple of laughs and libations with your loved ones?
Where: 1515 Anderson Street
Go for a Swim
That’s right, it doesn’t need to be summer to dive into a pool or get some laps in. Vancouver’s indoor swimming pools are open all month long, and it won’t hurt your wallet to go for a swim. Note that the Lord Byng Pool will reopen on January 3rd.
When: Open throughout January
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: $6.66 for GA
Vancouver Giants
The Vancouver Giants are facing off against the Hitmen, Rockets, and Royals at the Arena Bowl at the Langley Events Centre this month. With plenty of home games to choose from (and $20 tickets), why not go and support our team & make some great memories in the process?
When: Multiple dates in January
Where: 7888 200 Street Langley
Cost: $20
Check out the Bloedel Conservatory
For another city-owned option, we can’t forget the Bloedel Conservatory. We’ve long been proponents of this oasis in Queen Elizabeth Park, but it’s definitely during the colder months that we think it’s a must-see.
When: Open throughout January
Where: 4600 Cambie Street
Cost: $7.05
Go on a classic winter stroll
A wintertime stroll in the new year is the perfect way to get some fresh air, reflect on the month and spend time with friends and family. So be it in snow, rain, or shine (or a combination of the three), here are some scenic walks to go on.
Where: See our picks above
And that’s a wrap on some of the best free & cheap things to do around the city this month. Cheers!
