Soak up the sun and savour every minute of Vancouver family fun this month. There are family-friendly events in August sure to appeal to every member of the family – from theatre to live music to airshows and more. This is the month to get out there and enjoy those long summer nights. And while everyone appreciates a chance to escape the city, here are several reasons why staying in town is equally amazing.
Events and Activities for Vancouver Family Fun in August
Vancouver Pride Festival
When: Friday July 28 – Sunday August 6, 2023
Where: Various locations throughout Vancouver
Website: www.vancouverpride.ca
Vancouver Pride Festival is a multi-day celebration of Vancouver’s 2SLGBTQAI+ community. This year’s theme is Reconnect, and there are dozens of events scheduled, culminating with the Pride Parade on Sunday August 6, which attracts more than 100,000 people! The parade route has also changed for 2023 and it will now end at the new festival site at Concord Community Park.
Theatre Under the Stars
When: Alternating nights until August 26
Where: Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park
Website: www.tuts.ca
Few things feel more like summer in Vancouver than checking out a performance at Theatre Under the Stars in Stanley Park. The non-profit society has become a Vancouver tradition, delivering highly entertaining musical theatre shows that feature amateur performers for generations. This year’s shows are The Prom and Matilda the Musical (FYI – the latter may be more kid-friendly). And if you’re worried about getting caught in the rain, consider purchasing Exchange Insurance when buying tickets in advance.
Sounds of Summer
When: Every Wednesday in August
Where: Various locations
Website: www.surrey.ca/parks-recreation/surrey-parks/park-programs/sounds-of-summer
Sounds of Summer is an annual music series that features free performances at various parks and outdoor spaces in Surrey. There’s something for everyone with music genres that range from jazz to R&B to classic rock. Performances run from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Check out the website for the concert schedule.
Sunset Cinemas at The Shipyards
When: Every Wednesday from August 2-23, 2023
Where: The Shipyards in North Vancouver
Website: https://theshipyardsdistrict.ca/
There are many reasons to check out The Shipyards in North Vancouver in the summertime – one reason is a chance to catch a free outdoor movie. Sunset Cinema starts at approximately 9 p.m. every Wednesday evening in August. Bring your own chairs and snacks, they’ll supply the movie – this summer’s picks are Jumanji, Mamma Mia 2, Encanto, and E.T.
White Rock Sea Festival and Semiahmoo Days
When: Friday August 4 – Sunday August 6, 2023
Where: White Rock’s Waterfront
Website: www.whiterockcity.ca/366/White-Rock-Sea-Festival
Sea Fest has been a popular event in the White Rock and Semiahmoo community for more than 70 years. The slightly-outside-of-Vancouver family fun starts Friday night with an outdoor movie at Semiahmoo Park and then continues all weekend long with live music, family-friendly activities, fireworks, and more – all set in the idyllic setting of White Rock’s beaches.
Harmony Arts Festival
When: Friday August 4 – Sunday August 13, 2023
Where: West Vancouver
Website: www.harmonyarts.ca
Set along the waterfront in West Vancouver, the annual Harmony Arts Festival is an excellent way to spend the day – or evening – with family and friends. From music to visual arts to free activities for kids (check out the Artsy Kids Outdoor Studio), there’s no shortage of festival fun. And be sure to visit the Park Royal Beachside Patio which features several food vendors.
Tsawwassen Sun Festival
When: Saturday August 5 – Monday August 7, 2023
Where: Tsawwassen
Website: www.sunfestival.ca
Head out to sunny Tsawwassen for the aptly named Tsawwassen Sun Festival! This three-day festival is a favourite among locals and features special events (check out the classic car show), games, friendly competitions (pie eating contest!), and more. While most events take place at Winskill Park, the highlight for many attendees is the Rotary Parade which takes place this year on Monday August 7.
Abbotsford International Airshow
When: Friday August 11 – Sunday August 13, 2023
Where: Abbotsford International Airport
Website: https://abbotsfordairshow.com/
Check out the Abbotsford International Airshow and prepare to be amazed! The event goes from one jaw-dropping moment to the next – from world-class aerial performances to military aircraft displays and, of course, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. The Friday night Twilight Show features pyrotechnics, drone show, and hot air balloon glow. There’s also a S.T.E.M. activity zone, complete with flight simulators, and food trucks.
Chilliwack Fair
When: Friday August 11 – Sunday August 13, 2023
Where: Chilliwack Heritage Park
Website: https://chilliwackfair.com/
This year marks the 151 st anniversary of the Chilliwack Fair. This family-friendly event celebrates the local Chilliwack community with activities and attractions aplenty – face painting, pony rides, live music, animal displays, a ninja parkour course, rodeo events, and more. The fair’s selection of tasty treats and food is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
PNE (Pacific National Exhibition)
When: Saturday August 19 – Monday September 4, 2023
Where: PNE fairgrounds on Hastings Street
Website: www.pne.ca
Summertime in Vancouver means a day at the PNE! There is no limit to the Vancouver family fun that will be had with attractions and entertainment like The SuperDogs, Knights of Valour jousting, Dueling Pianos, agricultural displays, cooking demonstrations, musical performances, and more. Plus, there is the epic fair food! To avoid a meltdown, be sure to also buy passes for Playland so that kids (young and old) can enjoy the rides and games. This is one tradition you don’t want to skip!
Summer Farmers’ Markets
When: Varied dates and times
Where: Throughout the region
Website: https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/
Use the search feature on the BC Farmers Market website to search for the local summer markets popping up in your neck of the woods – or perhaps further afield if you want to make a day of it. From fresh veggies to locally crafted artisan goods, BC farm markets are known for their diverse offerings.
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Category: events,attractions
