Going out in Vancouver can be an expensive feat, no doubt. Thankfully, there are some less-expensive and even free things to do around the city that won’t put a dent in your wallet this month!
Here’s our roundup of cheap and free excursions to go on in Vancouver this May.
Check out a Farmers 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
Community Day at Burnaby Village Museum
Good news, history buffs! Burnaby Village Museum is nearly open for the summer season, and it’s time to nerd out on local history. This year marks the museum’s 50th anniversary, and they’re celebrating by hosting a Community Day this Victoria Day. Snack on kettle corn and watch historical metalworking reenactments, costume design exhibits, and even go on a scavenger hunt if you’re down for an adventure.
When: Monday, May 23rd
Where: 6501 Deer Lake Avenue
Cost: Free
Vancouver Art Gallery
On Tuesday, May 3rd, admission to Vancouver’s main art gallery is by donation between 5 and 9 pm. If you want to avoid selling out the dough for a Van Gogh exhibit, now’s your chance!
When: Tuesday, May 3rd
Where: 750 Hornby Street
Cost: Free
West of Main Art Walk
By the same token, you could go for a guided art walk at the Roundhouse Community Centre between May 18th and 19th, and preview a ton of unique art exhibits. Some of the artists are offering live demos so that you can learn
Use their interactive online map of exhibits to map out your weekend plans!
When: Varies
Where: 181 Roundhouse Mews
Chill at Yaletown’s newest park
Did you hear? Vancouver just got its first new park in 10 years, and it looks amazing. Complete with seating nooks, public art displays, and coffee from Kafka’s, you’ll definitely want to check this spot out asap!
Where: Between Smithe and Richards Street
CityFest at the Shipyards
CityFest has been dubbed the largest youth week event in the Lower Mainland, and this year’s event will take place this Saturday, May 7th. Come by for skateboarding, BBQ, live music, and more!
When: Saturday, May 7th
Where: Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free
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
Richmond Night Market
Yes, the Richmond Night Market is back in full swing, and no, good eats don’t have to be expensive!
When: Any weekend in May
Where: 8351 River Road, Richmond
Polygon Gallery
The Polygon is not your typical art gallery experience. Come by to take part in a variety of adventurous programming at inspires even the harshest critic.
When: Open throughout May
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: Admission by donation
May the Fourth be with you at the Space Centre
You may want to brush up on your droid trivia for this one, folks. The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is hosting an annual ‘May the Fourth’ event that’s actually taking place on the fifth this year.
Although it’s not completely free, it should be a fun family event! Attend dressed as your fave Rebel or Empire character, and get ready for a bunch of themed activities, along with Vancouver’s only Planetarium Star Theatre experience.
When: Thursday, May 5th
Where: 1100 Chestnut Street, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Cost: $20
Happy May, Vancouver!
