10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (August 16-18)

Come rain or shine, there’s plenty to do in Vancouver this weekend to lift your spirits and make the most of what’s left of the summer season. From live music to Surrey’s annual ‘Battle of the Brews,’ to the PNE Fair, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (August 16-18).

Enchanted Evenings Concert Series – Celebrating Korean Heritage 

This Friday, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden invites garden visitors to celebrate Korean Month by merging traditional and contemporary musical performances. In addition to live music from 5 pm to midnight, there will be traditional games, a sweet Korean pancake demo, a food wall, and curated cocktails.

When: Friday, August 16th
Where: Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Cost: $14.11

Waxahatchee 

We’re starting off with a concert to kickstart your weekend of fun. Waxahatchee is an American indie band named after the creek in Alabama where singer-songwriter Katie Crutchfield grew up.

When: Friday, August 16th
Where: Orpheum Theatre
Cost: $67.70

PNE Fair 

The PNE Fair is officially back this weekend, and there’s a ton of exciting food, performing artists, and activities to check out. This includes the return of local faves like SuperDogs and the pyro-musical finale. The end-of-summer tradition will also feature Dueling Pianos, drag shows, exhibits, Music in the Park – and that’s just for starters!

When: Saturday, August 17th to September 2nd
Where: 2901 East Hastings Street
Cost: $20 for GA in advance, $25 the day of

Richmond Garlic Festival 

From 10 am to 3 pm on Saturday, August 17th, the Richmond Garlic Festival is back with a variety of delicious garlicky eats, a massive farmer’s market, and plenty of family fun in between. So if you’re a garlic lover, this is a must-visit.

When: Saturday, August 17th
Where: 2771 Westminster Highway, Richmond
Cost: Admission by donation

Karan Aujla: It Was All A Dream World Tour 

Punjabi singer, rapper, and songwriter Karan Aujla will take the stage at Rogers Arena on Saturday, August 17th, and it’s not too late to snag tickets!

When: Saturday, August 17th
Where: Rogers Arena
Cost: $130.65

Downtown Port Coquitlam Car Show 

The Downtown Port Coquitlam Car Show is back this weekend with hundreds of vehicles being showcased. On Saturday, there will be a Car Cruise and BBQ with over 400 participating collectible vehicles.

On Sunday, visitors will get to check out more than 500 vehicles on display, from custom builds to classic cars!

When: Saturday, August 17th and Sunday, August 18th
Where: Downtown Port Coquitlam
Cost: Free admission

Mt. Joy 

Indie rock band Mt. Joy is coming to Vancouver this month, slated to perform at UBC’s Doug Mitchell Stadium.

When: Saturday, August 17th
Where: UBC Doug Mitchell Stadium
Cost: $66.25

Battle of the Brews

The 6th annual Battle of the Brews is coming to Surrey City Hall Plaza this weekend, because who doesn’t want another opportunity to sample local beers and food truck vendors before summer’s end?

Attendees will have the chance to vote for their fave brews and decide which brewers will walk away as this year’s champion.

When: Saturday, August 17th
Where: 104 Avenue, Surrey Civic Plaza
Cost: $55-$85

Lee’s Donuts Block Party 

From noon to 6 pm on Sunday, August 18th, Lee’s is celebrating its 45th anniversary with a special block party, complete with live DJs, food trucks, a beer garden, and of course, delicious donuts to go with it.

When: Sunday, August 18th
Where: 1425 Anderson Street
Cost: Free admission

Shipyards Night Market

The beloved Shipyards Night Market is on every Friday until September 13th, so get ready to enjoy the iconic beer garden and outdoor market, and peruse many mouthwatering food trucks.

When: Friday, August 16th and every Friday this August
Where: The Shipyards, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission

And that’s a wrap on the weekend, Vancouver! Come rain or shine – it’s time to enjoy it!