The summer season is finally here, and so are a ton of food fests, concerts, and outdoor activities. Luckily, there are plenty of budget-friendly options (including free things to do!) that won’t put a massive dent in your wallet. So, let’s get into it!
Here’s our roundup of free and cheap things to do in Vancouver this July.
Symphony at Sunset
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In addition to Symphony in the Park this summer, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra will be performing at Sunset Beach on Saturday, July 2nd – offering Vancouverites another free sunny concert by the water. Enjoy a picnic accompanied by string instruments & what is sure to be a stunning sunset.
When: Saturday, July 2nd
Where: 1204 Beach Avenue, Sunset Beach
Cost: Free!
Boozy picnic at the park
Speaking of picnics, Vancouver’s latest expansion of the ‘Alcohol in Parks Pilot’ program is sure to make for some fun, bubbly picnics this season. Take your party outdoors 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 Bubble Tea Festival
You guessed it! Canada’s largest bubble tea festival is returning to Burnaby this year, featuring 10 fan fave bubble tea brands to sample and vote on.
When: Friday, July 22nd and Saturday, July 23rd
Where: 3883 Imperial Street, Burnaby Swangard Stadium
Cost: $10+
Shipyards Live
The free outdoor music fest and beer garden has several dates in July – including the largest Canada Day celebration in North Vancouver. Drop by Shipbuilder’s Square for great music, great eats & brews, and all-around great vibes.
When: Various dates in June
Where: 125 Victory Ship Way, Vancouver
Cost: Free!
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Festival Afloat 2022
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This month, a mobile concert series called Festival Afloat is setting sail to spots around BC. Slated to perform this year is Juno-nominee Desirée Dawson, who guests can paddle out to listen to – or enjoy from the beach.
When: Thursday, July 7th, with additional dates across BC
Where: Jericho Beach
Cost: Tickets are by-donation
Check out your local Farmers Market
A farmer’s market is always a good idea if you’re looking for something more low-key but still delicious to do over the weekend. And now that the sun is most definitely out, there’s really no excuse not to go.
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Go on a hike & a dip
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We know things are heating up when it comes to hiking, so why not visit one of these gorgeous viewpoints with water access? Get your sweat on and then take a dip to cool off, as a reward. It doesn’t cost a thing to get out & enjoy nature!
Where: Various
Free outdoor yoga
Attention, yogis and yoga enthusiasts! Lululemon is offering free outdoor yoga sessions to folks at locations all around BC, including Vancouver, North Van, Whistler, Victoria, and Kamloops. BYO-mat and settle in for a great session.
When: Now until August 31st
Where: All around BC
Cost: Free with registration! Click the link above for more info
Visit some waterfalls
From Nairn Falls and Brandywine Falls in Whistler to Myra Falls on the Island – BC is home to some stunning waterfalls that definitely warrant multiple visits if you’re looking to book some fun day trips.
Where: Various
Happy hour eats & drinks
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We know food and drinks out can really add up – especially in Vancouver – so we wanted to give you some budget-friendly options that will still have you and all your friends raving about your experience.
Where: See our picks above
Well, that’s our list, folks! We hope you check out some of these free and cheap things to do around Vancouver.
