Get ready, Vancouver, because we’ve got a mix of fun activities and events to kick off summer. From a two-day Japanese market to the return of Italian Day on the Drive, to Tour de Concord’s annual cycling race and free bike fest – here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (June 9-11).
Japan Market Summer Festival
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Three local businesswomen have teamed up to put on a massive two-day Japanese-inspired fest, complete with art, crafts, and delicious eats.
When: Saturday, June 10th and Sunday, June 11th
Where: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ (Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza)
Cost: $4 for early bird tickets
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Italian Day on the Drive
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One of the city’s most beloved food and culture festivals is making a grand return this weekend. So grab your forks and summer hats and get ready to enjoy the best of Vancouver’s Italian scene, because Italian Day on the Drive is officially back to its full annual programming.
Visitors can lounge on summer patios with fresh gelato and cannolis, sample a wide variety of pizza and pasta, and even try their hand at making a couple of dishes themselves during live cooking demos and competitions.
When: Sunday, June 11th
Where: Commercial Drive
Sponsored: Tour de Concord Criterium Cycling Race & Free Family Bike Festival
The 3rd Annual Tour de Concord Criterium Cycling Race and Free Family Bike Festival is in town this weekend with a new 1km cycling course! Check out this summer kickoff bash for thrilling races, tasty food trucks, a beer garden, and even free bike tune-ups. Plus you’ll have a chance at winning prizes worth over $5,000. A fun day outdoors with the fam, anyone?
When: Saturday, June 10th, 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Concord Pacific Place – 88 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: Register for free here
SUNWAVE // WAVE II AT Shaughnessy Street Park
Now we come to one of Sunwave’s open-air EDM parties. The group is celebrating a decade of dance in Vancouver with several open-air parties – including this one at Shaughnessy Street Park in South Vancouver.
When: Saturday, June 10th
Where: 9250 Shaughnessy Street
Cost: $23
Go on a waterfall hike
It goes without saying that BC is home to some of the most scenic hikes in the country – but there happen to be some particularly striking waterfalls you can check out on many of them!
Where: Click the link above for more info
Richmond Night Market
No weekend roundup in Vancouver is complete without the Richmond Night Market. Home to literally hundreds of vendors, it’s become a must for food and drink lovers to visit at least once during the summer months.
When: Open throughout June
Where: 8351 River Road, Richmond
See what’s on at The Cultch
Meanwhile, The Cultch also has a great lineup for the season. Their options are more for the classic play experience, but of course, expect some contemporary premises and tour-de-force performances from them.
When: Showtimes throughout June
Where: Online and in-person options
Cost: Varies per show
Do the Grouse Grind
As long as you pack water and sunblock, it’s the perfect time to hit the Grouse Grind to get some extra steps in. Not so easy that you’ll cruise through it, but not so hard that you’ll be wondering if heading there was a good idea in the first place. Plus, the need to purchase a download ticket assures some rest and relaxation once your climb is complete.
When: Open throughout summer
Where: Grouse Mountain
Cost: $20 (for the download ticket)
Shipyards Live
North Van’s free outdoor music fest and beer garden has several dates in June, so why not take advantage and come by one Friday? Each week, Shipbuilders Square comes alive with the hustle and bustle of guests looking to enjoy live music and local brews at their beer garden.
As well, the market is bringing back live music and DJs – so consider your Friday night plans made!
When: Every Friday from May 12th to September 15th
Where: The Shipyards, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission
So there you have it, Vancouver. Cheers to a great weekend!
