A new month is right around the corner, so we thought we’d go ahead and share some of the best free and cheap things to do around Vancouver this May. Time to get outside and enjoy the cherry blossoms while they’re here, check out some new night markets and art exhibits, and more – all without hurting your wallet!
Shipyards Night Market
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The beloved Shipyards Night Market is officially making a comeback this spring after a three-year hiatus, 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
Festival of Israeli Culture
This month, Vancouver is getting a huge one-day festival & market celebrating Israeli culture, food, music, and art – and there will be plenty of events to check out. Music and dance performances, a “sassy sesame” cooking workshop, an intuitive painting workshop, a wine tasting, and more await.
Best of all? The fun-filled day is completely free to attend!
When: Sunday, May 14th
Where: 950 West 41st Avenue
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
Vancouver’s ‘PattyPass’
Created by The Real Beef Buddies, the $15 PattyPass gets you 50% off a burger at both casual at upscale spots in Vancouver between May 1st and August 31st. New this year? An optional 2023 Supper Club membership, which allows members to meet new people and enjoy burger-focused events via the RSVPlist.
Where: See participating locations above
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
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 Everett AquaSox and the Eugene Emeralds.
When: Games throughout May
Where: 4601 Ontario Street
Cost: $10+
Enjoy some spring views
In addition to the cherry blossom map, 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
Check out some free galleries & museums
High admission fees can be a barrier for many looking to access the local art and history scenes in Vancouver, so here are some more spots around the city that offer a unique look into new artistic perspectives free of charge!
Where: See our picks above
Rent some e-bikes
While it’s definitely not prime biking weather, the sun has definitely made an on-and-off appearance this past month, so why not plan ahead for the sunnier days this week? The 24-Hour Pass by Mobi gives you access to e-bikes for 25¢/min for the first 30 minutes and 35¢/min thereafter.
Check out the Bloedel Conservatory
Want to skip the blossom options? You can do it at this classic attraction that combines a tropical garden with hundreds of colourful birds.
When: Open throughout April
Where: 4600 Cambie Street
Cost: $7.05
And that’s a wrap on some of the best free and cheap things to do around Vancouver this month. Cheers!
