As the weather continues to cool and the leaves start to change colour, it’s time to get excited for all things cozy and fall. Fortunately, there are a handful of events happening this weekend to get the ball rolling, whether it’s a harvest festival or at the tail end of one of BC’s stunning sunflower festivals. So with that in mind, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (September 15-17).
Taste of Abby
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Over the course of 10 days, visitors of the second annual ‘Taste of Abby’ festival can gather and sample the best of the harvest season. Delicious farm-to-table experiences, seasonal bites, spirits, cider, and beer releases, and exciting fall-themed activities all await. Plus, the entire festival kicks off with a special night market to ring in the new, bountiful season!
When: September 15th to 24th
Where: 2552 McCallum Road, Abbotsford
Cost: $35 for the night market
Sponsored: Bootleggers x Pixel Open Air Gala at Science World
Don’t miss the first-ever live drone show at Bootleggers x Pixel Open Air Gala this Friday. The innovative collaboration with Pixel Sky Animations and Chali Rosso Art Gallery is happening at Science World featuring Pixel Sky’s fleet of drones, art exhibits including iconic pieces by Andy Warhol, two stages of music featuring guest headliner DJ Ray Kash, Bootleggers Cocktail Station, a VR booth, and a whole lot more.
Please note that the show won’t be properly visible outside of the event’s enclosed perimeter. In addition, the east basin of False Creek will be closed to all vessel traffic, anchored, personal, craft, etc. for safety as it’s under the drone’s flight path. Snag your tix now before they’re gone!
When: Friday, September 15th starting at 5 p.m.
Where: 1455 Quebec Street
Cost: $38+
Car Free Day Vancouver
Love street festivals and perusing food vendors? Vancouver will soon be getting its second Car Free Day, this time on Main Street. Here, visitors can expect to enjoy a ton of local eats, live entertainment, and cultural programming.
Note that each festival will take place from noon until 7 p.m.
When: Saturday, September 16th
Where: Main Street
UBC Farm Fall Fair
From 10 am to 2 pm, visitors of the UBC Farm can take part in the fifth annual Fall Fair, which has plenty of farm-grown fruits and veggies and u-pick pumpkins to go around. As well, guests can enjoy live music, over 40 local vendors, a pie-eating contest and tasting, and fun activities for the kids.
When: Saturday, September 16th
Where: 3461 Ross Drive, UBC
Cost: Free admission
Sponsored: Whole Foods Market Fall Flavours
Whole Foods Market is celebrating fall flavours this Saturday, September 16, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at The Village at Park Royal. Indulge in mouthwatering samples of fall-inspired treats paired with refreshing cold brew. Take advantage of the opportunity to grab exclusive Whole Foods Market merchandise, but hurry, quantities are limited and available only while supplies last.
When: Saturday, September 16th from 10 am to 6 pm
Where: The Village at Park Royal near the intersection of Marine Dr and Park Royal South
Cost: Free
Harrison Sunflower Festival
This weekend marks the last few days of the inaugural Harrison Sunflower Festival at Onos Farms and Festivals in Agassiz. Visitors can peruse the 45 varieties of sunflowers and summer blooms starting Friday, August 25th and will extend to September 17th.
In addition to three kilometres of winding pathways and 20 acres of scenic backdrops, visitors can experience the new U-Pick field and curate their own bouquets from five different varieties of sunflowers.
When: Friday, August 25th to September 17th
Where: Agassiz, BC
Cost: $15 to $20
Shipyards Live
The last Shipyards Live event of the year is happening this weekend, so get ready to do some shopping, try a food truck, and hit the beer garden as you enjoy the sounds of some fantastic local artists.
When: July 30th to September 18th
Where: Lonsdale Quay Area
Sponsored: Sleep Country’s Warehouse Blowout Sale
Sleep Country’s Warehouse Blowout Sale is THIS WEEKEND ONLY! Check out mattresses starting at just $99, and bedding essentials starting at $19. The first 25 people to purchase a mattress (minimum $499.99) and get a free gift valued up to $79. There are very limited quantities, so don’t miss out on this amazing deal!
When: Saturday, September 16th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 17th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 7920 Airport Road, Brampton
Vancouver Canadians
A hot dog, a brewski, and some baseball? If that doesn’t sound like a great way to spend an afternoon, then we don’t know what does. Plus, the prices really can’t be beaten for pro sports around the city. This month, they’ll be facing off against the Hillsboro Hops, and a second team TBD.
When: Games until September 17th
Where: 4601 Ontario Street, The Nat
Cost: $20+
Play some pickleball
Interested in learning a new, beginner-friendly sport this month? Enter pickleball, the more casual cousin of ping pong and tennis. Luckily, Vancouver has several permanent outdoor courts as well as pop-up courts throughout the city to take advantage of.
Where: See locations above
And that’s a wrap on the weekend, Vancouver! Cheers.
