Categories: Things To Do

11 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (October 18-20)

This weekend is bringing a variety of celebrations and live events to Vancouver, and we’re here to share the highlights with you. From the 21st annual Diwali Fest to a ‘haunted’ Halloween market, to celebrating Latin American Heritage Month, here are 11 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (18-20).

Diwali Fest

Diwali is a South Asian arts and culture festival that’s now in its 21st year in Metro Vancouver, with nature-themed activities and celebrations throughout the month of October.

This weekend, the festivities kick off at Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park with a free Friday evening of art, live music, and dance.

On Sunday, October 20th, there will be a Diwali Storytime at Surrey City Hall and a full Diwali ‘Festival of Lights’ with live music, dance, a market, and food trucks.

When: Friday, October 18th to Sunday, October 27th
Where: Locations across Metro Vancouver
Cost: Free admission

Latin American Heritage Month Festival

It’s Latin American Heritage Month in BC, and that means Latincouver has over 50 exciting performances, art exhibitions, workshops, and in-person events honouring the diverse cultures in Latin America.

This weekend’s celebrations include a Cuban Salsa class and a workshop creating traditional headpieces from Panama.

When: Now until November 3rd
Where: Locations on Granville Island and across Vancouver
Cost: Free and ticketed events

The Scarlett: Pop-up speakeasy

Tuesday to Saturday evenings from 5 pm starting October 18th, Fairmont Vancouver is hosting a spooky pop-up speakeasy inspired by the hotel’s legendary Lady in Red. Here, guests can enjoy signature cocktails, light bites, ‘ghostly glamour’, and captivating stories of the hotel’s colourful history.

When: Friday, October 18th and Tuesday to Saturday evenings until November 23rd
Where: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Cost: Free admission

Halloween Market 

This weekend, a ‘haunted’ haven of local vendors is popping up at The Pipe Shop, with a $50 Market Cash reward waiting for the winners of this year’s official costume competition. So dig out your scariest digs and get ready to shop local!

When: Saturday, October 19th
Where: The Pipe Shop, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission

Sponsored pick: UBC Apple Festival 

This weekend is the 33rd annual UBC Apple Fest – a two-day fod fair celebrating all things apple, with over 50 different varieties to taste! Organized by the Friends of the Garden, the fundraiser supports the Botanical Garden’s vital education and conservation efforts.

The festival will take place from 11 am to 4 pm on October 19th and 20th , and will include mouth-watering food demos, live entertainment, and more!

When: Saturday, October 19th and Sunday, October 20th
Where: 6804 South West Marine Drive
Cost: $11 to $12 per person

Shipyards Food Tour 

From 2 to 5 pm on Friday, October 18th, there will be a three-hour walking food tour to embark on in North Vancouver that foodies won’t want to miss. The famed Lonsdale Quay Market and surrounding Shipyards District will make for the perfect backdrop as you sample a variety of tasty bites, from a Lebanese Mezze platter to fried chicken and ice cream.

When: Friday, October 18th
Where: 123 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: $97.28

Wale – Every Blue Moon Tour 

American rapper Wale first blew up for his 2006 hit single “Dig Dug,” which led to the incredible music career he has today. Vancouver fans can catch him onstage this Friday, October 18th!

When: Friday, October 18th
Where: Commodore Ballroom
Cost: $28.75

Harvest Days at VanDusen 

It’s autumn season once again at VanDusen, and the beautiful gardens are celebrating with their annual Harvest Days festival, complete with access to the botanical gardens, maze area, and festive photo-op areas. This weekend is your last chance to soak it all in!

When: Weekends from Saturday, September 28th to October 20th, plus October 14th
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: $12 per adult

Sponsored pick: ZWILLING J.A. Henckels Vancouver Warehouse Sale

ZWILLING Warehouse Sale is back in Vancouver! Shoppers can get up to 80% off on an extensive selection of premium kitchenware products, including top-notch kitchen knives and innovative small appliances. Browse brands including ZWILLING, Staub, Miyabi, Demeyere, Henckels, and Tweezerman!

The sale will take place at the following times this weekend:

  • October 17th to 19th: 10 am to 7 pm
  • October 20th: 10 am to 6 pm

When: Thursday, October 17th to Sunday, October 20th
Where: Hall C East Building, 999 Canada Place
Cost: Free admission

Pumpkins After Dark

The award-winning Pumpkins After Dark experience in Burnaby has transformed Central Park and Swangard Stadium into a spooky family-friendly event with 10,000 glowing, hand-carved pumpkins to illuminate the night.

When: Thursday, October 3rd to Tuesday, October 29th
Where: 6100 Boundary Road, Burnaby
Cost: $21.62 to $27.81 for adults, $17.49 to $23.68 for youth

NIKI 

Since the release of her debut album in 2020, Indonesian singer-songwriter NIKI has been a rising star we’ve had our eye on. And she’ll be performing in Vancouver this Saturday, October 19th.

When: Saturday, October 19th
Where: Rogers Arena
Cost: $52.30

And that’s a wrap on the weekend, Vancouver!

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