Photo via @vanfolkfest/Instagram
Maybe it feels like the FIFA World Cup has dwarfed every other major event in the city, but there are tons of non-“footy” related festivities to check out in Vancouver this summer. So get ready to dance in the streets, vibe at a music festival, and eat your way through some of Vancouver’s coolest neighbourhoods.
Here are all the summer festivals coming to Metro Vancouver soon.
Vancouver’s largest free arts and music festival is Khatsahlano, which transforms West 4th Avenue into a day party like no other. Live music across multiple stages, food and drink vendors galore, and beer gardens with dance floors. What more could you possibly need for the perfect summer street party?
When: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: Noon to 9 p.m.
Where: West 4th Avenue between MacDonald and Burrard streets
Cost: Free admission
The 49th annual Vancouver Folk Music Fest is back this July with three days of vibey music, food truck eats, and beachside dancing.
When: Friday, July 17 to Sunday, July 19, 2026
Time: TBA
Where: Jericho Beach Park
Cost: $150 to $225 for early bird weekend passes
While this year’s Shambhala Music Fest in Salmo might already be sold out, it’s not too late to apply to work or volunteer at this iconic electronic music festival, which will land you complimentary GA tickets.
When: Friday, July 24 to Monday, July 27, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: 7790 Highway 3, Salmo
Cost: Free GA for staff and volunteer positions, otherwise sold out for 2026
Now in its 24th year, the annual BMO Vancouver Chinatown Festival is making a grand comeback this July. The celebrated family-friendly tradition takes over Vancouver’s historic Chinatown with delicious food vendors, multicultural performances, and tons of activations on Keefer and Columbia Streets.
This year, the free event spans two days and will feature an expanded Children’s Theatre as well as introduce a handful of new live performances.
When: Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26, 2026
Time: TBA
Where: Keefer and Columbia Streets in Chinatown
Cost: Free admission
Now in its 50th year, Vancouver’s Powell Street Festival is considered one of the largest and longest-running community arts festivals in Canada, celebrating the rich diversity, culture, and history of Japanese Canadians. It’s a free two-day event held in the heart of the city’s historic Japanese Canadian neighbourhood, with indoor and outdoor venues around the Powell Street area.
When: Aug. 1 and 2, 2026
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: 400 Powell St.
Cost: Free admission
Taking place at the scenic Deer Lake Park, the Burnaby Blues + Roots Festival is an iconic day-long music festival that’s completely free to enjoy. Gear up for a full day of soul-stirring music, community, and dancing. The City confirms that the long-time tradition includes some of the region’s most popular food trucks, a beer garden, and more.
When: Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026
Time: 3:30 to 10 p.m.
Where: 6450 Deer Lake Ave., Burnaby
Cost: Free admission
Recent posts:
No gas, no problem: All the provincial parks you can visit from Vancouver without a car this summer
A new one-of-a-kind cruise will set sail from Vancouver to Bowen Island this summer
If you're looking for a budget-friendly summer activity, Cineplex Canada is continuing its $3.99 family…
Find pieces you won't be able to get anywhere else!
Sunsets always seem to make a good view even better, and Alberta has no shortage…
Dark Sky Guides runs stargazing tours in Waterton Lakes National Park, showcasing a version of…
Come for the mini golf, stay for the patio vibes!
We've got a packed month ahead of us.