Categories: Things To Do

14 of the best free and cheap things to do in Vancouver this June

As summer gets even closer, the desire to be out and about is ever-present. From beach days to happy hours, to summer concerts and food festivals – there’s so much to do, it can get overwhelming at times – especially for your wallet! Fortunately, there is plenty to do this coming month while on a budget, so we’ll get right to it: Here are the best free and cheap things to do around Vancouver this June.

Japan Market Summer Festival

If you’re looking for a fun summer market and festival to check out in Vancouver, look no further than the Japan Market Summer Festival.

Created back in 2018, the Japan Market pops up every season, hosting an array of Japanese (and non-Japanese) food, art, and fashion vendors and live performers. Now, the market is the largest of its kind in Vancouver, with over 70 vendors to check out.

When: Saturday, June 10th and Sunday, June 11th
Where: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ (Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza)
Cost: $4 for early bird tickets

35th annual Vancouver Dragon Boat Festival

The largest dragon boat fest in North America is back this month with new cultural programming and expanded food trucks and vendors. The highly-anticipated races in False Creek will be accompanied by free concerts from local names like Sabai and Dear Rouge. Oh, and it’s free to attend!

When: June 24th and 25th
Where: Concord Pacific Place, Creekside Park, and False Creek, Vancouver
Admission: Free

Shipyards Night Market

The beloved Shipyards Night Market is back and better than ever, just in time for its 10th anniversary. And you won’t have to spend a dime on admission!

Visitors can once again enjoy their iconic beer garden and outdoor market, and peruse the many mouthwatering food trucks in attendance. As well, the market is bringing back live music and DJs – so consider your Friday night plans made.

When: Every Friday from May 12th to September 15th
Where: The Shipyards, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission

Richmond Night Market

Speaking of night markets, it’s always worth a visit to the Richmond Night Market if you’re feeling snacky and want to expand your culinary palate. And no, good eats don’t have to be expensive!

When: Any weekend in May
Where: 8351 River Road, Richmond

Work on your short game

Now we come to mini-golf – a fun, quintessential summertime activity 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

Free nights at Vancouver Art Gallery

Thanks to a new partnership with BMO, the Vancouver Art Gallery is set to launch free admission to the public on the first Friday of every month, from 4 pm to 8 pm. The first free Friday night will be on May 5th – so mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy some after-work art!

When: Friday, May 5th
Where: 750 Hornby Street

Play Disc Golf at Queen Elizabeth Park

If the sun’s out, why not rally your friends together and head to Vancouver’s scenic Queen Elizabeth Park for an afternoon of free disc golf? The course is located near the pitch and putt golf course.

Where: 4600 Cambie Street, Queen Elizabeth Park
Cost: Free

Work out at one of these parks

With a rainy April behind us, we’re hoping for some serious sunshine this May, which would be an opportune time for outdoor workouts! Thankfully, there are plenty of parks in Vancouver with exercise equipment you can use.

Where: See our picks above

Check out a Farmer’s Market

You may have noticed that a bunch of farmers’ markets have started popping up this spring, why not stop by a couple? The Sunday market at the Kitsilano Community Centre just started on May 1st, and the Mount Pleasant market will open on May 22nd. Load up on some fresh produce and get to know the vendors!

If Saturday markets are more your thing, the markets at Trout Lake and Riley Park are both already up and running.

Where: Locations around Vancouver

Go on a dog-friendly hike

With so many beautiful spring hikes in BC to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down your top choices. Luckily, there are plenty near Vancouver that offer unparalleled views, for both you and your dog to enjoy!

Where: See our picks above

Vancouver Canadians

It’s officially baseball season, and the Vancouver Canadians have returned to Nat Bailey Stadium. This month, they’re up against the Eugene Emeralds, the Hillsboro Hops, and the Spokane Indians.

When: Games throughout June
Where: 4601 Ontario Street
Cost: $10+

Grab some bikes & ride

Since we’ve been on the receiving end of some beautiful weather so far this season, we thought we’d remind folks that Mobi now has e-bikes available for usage. The 24-Hour Pass gives you access to e-bikes for 25¢/min for the first 30 minutes and 35¢/min thereafter.

Enjoy some spring views

While cherry blossom season has come to a close, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some scenic spots with other springtime flowers to appreciate. What’s more, you’re pretty much guaranteed a stunning view at these classic city lookout spots. And thankfully, taking in the views doesn’t cost a thing.

Where: See our picks above

And that’s a wrap on some great budget-friendly things to do around the city this month. Cheers!