Canada Day is almost here, which means the last-minute long weekend planning can officially commence. The good news is that there are plenty of celebrations taking place across Metro Vancouver, as well as other events and day trip ideas to spice up your itinerary.
So after checking what’s open and closed on Canada Day, the fun officially starts. From fireworks to concerts, to an annual salmon bake in Richmond, here are 10 amazing things to do over the long weekend in and around Vancouver.
Steveston Salmon Festival
Want to mix things up from your typical Canada Day celebration? Why not check out the Steveston Salmon Festival this year? The celebrated annual tradition is back with its staple Salmon Bake experience, Japanese Cultural Show, family-friendly ‘Sammy’s Fun Zone,’ and its Canada Day Parade – which is back for the first time since 2019.
When: Saturday, July 1st
Where: Steveston, BC
Cost: Free admission, $20 for Salmon Bake
Bard on the Beach
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Bard’s 2018 blockbuster As You Like It is back onstage with plenty of Beatles hits to go around, and there are still tickets left for their Saturday and Sunday performances – both the daytime and evening shows!
When: 2 pm on Saturday, July 1st, 2 pm and 7:30 pm on Sunday, July 2nd
Where: 1695 Whyte Avenue
Cost: Varies by production
Sponsored: Attend the largest Canada Day party in the City of Surrey
The City of Surrey is bringing back the largest Canada Day event in BC and it’s going to be epic. You can experience a free, full-day event filled with family-friendly entertainment, amusement rides, exhibitor booths, an Indigenous Village, food trucks and of course a fireworks finale. And with some killer performances by award-winning JUNO artists and DJs with some sweet beats, this celebration is going to be grand.
When: Saturday, July 1st from 10 am to 10:30 pm
Where: 17728 64th Avenue, Surrey
Cost: Free
Canada Day at the Buck & Ear
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From 3 to 7 pm on Canada Day, you can check out a festive celebration at the Buck & Ear – located in the heart of Steveston. Admission is completely free, and you can stay for some drink specials and a late-night DJ from 10 pm to close.
When: Saturday, July 1st
Where: 12111 Third Avenue, Richmond
Cost: Free admission
Catch some fireworks
Want to catch some fireworks on Canada Day? There might not be any official ones in Vancouver, but that doesn’t mean that neighbouring cities won’t be lighting up the skies on July 1st. From Burnaby to Steveston, here’s where you can find some fireworks on Canada Day this year.
Where: See firework displays above
Sponsored: COLUMBUS™ Charcuterie Tasting Board
Gear up to elevate all of your indoor and outdoor plans for the Canada Day long weekend with the COLUMBUS™ Charcuterie Tasting Board. All of your beloved curated craft meats are put together with artisanal sides in one convenient, pre-made board. Adding sophistication to your plans couldn’t be any easier.
Where: Find them in a Sobey’s Supermarket in Toronto or in a Safeway Supermarket in Vancouver and Calgary
Cost: MSRP $20.00
JRG After Dark: Hot Summer Nights
Looking for a couple of parties to check out? Joseph Richard Group (JRG) is hosting two back-to-back nights of live music at crowd-fave bars in Langley, Maple Ridge, and Abbotsford. The best part? Performances will be by talented After Dark DJs – so you know the beats will have you on your feet in no time.
When: Friday, June 30th and Saturday, July 1st
Where: Oak & Thorne, The Henry, Livelyhood, The Buck & Ear on June 30th, Townhall Langley, Townhall Maple Ridge and Townhall Abbotsford
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Vancouver International Jazz Festival
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This weekend marks the last couple of days of the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, so don’t miss out on a last-minute performance or two during the festival’s 37th. year. Tons of the long weekend performances are completely free to attend, from DJ Nea Stone Fox at Ocean Artworks to a celebration of the music of Santana at the Shipyards.
When: June 23rd to July 2nd
Where: Venues around Vancouver
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Vancouver Canadians
The Vancouver Canadians are at the Nat Bailey Stadium this long weekend. They’re up against Spokane for some day time fun!
When: June 29th to July 2nd
Where: 4601 Ontario Street
Cost: $10+
Charlie Puth
Speaking of live music, pop singer, songwriter, and producer Charlie Puth is heading our way on Monday, July 3rd. And even if you’re not a hardcore fan, chances are you’ve heard at least a couple of Charlie Puth’s catchy tunes – whether it’s “One Call Away” or “We Don’t Talk Anymore.” So if you’re ready for a good time and want to wrap up the long weekend with something fun, consider checking him out.
When: Monday, July 3rd
Where: 6066 Thunderbird Boulevard
Cost: $130.90
Le Tigre
Known for their energetic, inclusive music, American punk rock band Le Tigre has become a force in the Riot grrrl and queercore movements. The band’s music combines punk, electronic, and dance elements, creating a unique sound that is both catchy and empowering.
When: Monday, July 3rd
Where: 868 Granville Street
Cost: $54.74
Check out a tropical-themed bar or cafe
Vancouver has no shortage of tropical-inspired bars and cafes if you’re looking for a little staycation within the city. Vibrant colours, unique tiki-themed drinks, and impeccable vibes await. Mai Tai Mondays, anyone?
Where: See our picks above
So there you have it, Vancouver! No matter how you choose to celebrate or observe the day, there are plenty of fun things to do over the long weekend.
