{"id":512721,"date":"2026-03-04T01:13:14","date_gmt":"2026-03-04T01:13:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/512721\/"},"modified":"2026-03-04T01:13:14","modified_gmt":"2026-03-04T01:13:14","slug":"more-than-20-free-and-cheap-things-to-do-in-vancouver-this-march","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/512721\/","title":{"rendered":"More than 20 free and cheap things to do in Vancouver this March"},"content":{"rendered":"

There are loads of free and inexpensive fun to be had around Vancouver. So let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n

Check out these 22 fun events in Vancouver in March that won\u2019t break the bank, like Celtic Fest, Cherry Blossom Festival, and more.<\/p>\n

And for more great events happening around town, be sure to check out our Listed section<\/a>.<\/p>\n

To stay up to date on everything happening in Vancouver, B.C., and beyond, sign up\u00a0for our newsletters<\/a>.<\/p>\n

One-time-only events and activities
\nCeltic Fest<\/a>
\n\"Vancouver<\/p>\n

Museum of Surrey<\/p>\n

What: The Museum of Surrey hosts Celtic Fest, with\u00a0live performances, cultural displays, and interactive activities. There will also be music, a photobooth, community vendors, and crafts and activities that are fun for the whole family.<\/p>\n

When: March 7, 2026
Time:\u00a01 to 4 p.m.
Where: Museum of Surrey \u2013 17710 56a Ave., Surrey
Admission:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n

Orpheum Tours by Vancouver Civic Theatres<\/a><\/p>\n

What: Vancouver Civic Theatres is hosting guided tours of the historic Orpheum theatre. The event is presented in partnership with the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame and will be sure to delight music fans, architecture enthusiasts, and history buffs.<\/p>\n

When: March 7 and 28, 2026
Time:\u00a011 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Where:\u00a0The Orpheum\u00a0\u2013\u00a0601 Smithe St., Vancouver
Cost: $10 plus fees, register online<\/a><\/p>\n

Polar Plunge for Special Olympics BC<\/a><\/p>\n

What: The Polar Plunge for Special Olympics BC is a fun and refreshing way to raise important funds to assist athletes with intellectual disabilities develop skills and belonging through year-round sport, youth, and health programs.<\/p>\n

By participating in the #Plunge4SOBC, you\u2019ll make a difference for athletes with intellectual disabilities and open hearts and minds to their abilities.<\/p>\n

There are several events and individual Plunges across the province, including the Vancouver Polar Plunge for Special Olympics BC at Kitsilano Beach on Saturday, March 7.<\/p>\n

When: Saturday, March 7, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where:\u00a0Kits Beach
Cost:\u00a0Registration is free! Donations will go to help Special Olympics BC. Register online<\/p>\n

4\u00d74: Four Bands for Four Bucks<\/a>
\n\"Fox<\/p>\n

Fox Cabaret<\/p>\n

What:\u00a0The Fox Cabaret presents a monthly showcase featuring four emerging bands for just $4. There will be drink specials available during the event.<\/p>\n

When: Thursday, March 26, 2026
Time: Doors 7 p.m.
Where:\u00a0Fox Cabaret \u2013 2321 Main St., Vancouver
Admission:\u00a0$4<\/p>\n

Workout for Women\u2019s Day at YWCA Health + Fitness Centre<\/a><\/p>\n

What: YWCA Health + Fitness Centre is celebrating International Women\u2019s Day by offering non-members and members fitness classes that raise funds and awareness for charities that help girls, women, and other marginalized genders. There are a variety of group fitness classes to choose from between March 4 and 8.<\/p>\n

When: March 4 to 8, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: YWCA Health + Fitness Centre \u2014 535 Hornby St., Vancouver
Cost: Free<\/p>\n

Meet the Maker of Canadian Whisky Bearface<\/a><\/p>\n

What: A global spirits innovator, Andres Faustinelli brings experience across beer, bourbon, wine, and mezcal to his role as Master Blender at BEARFACE, shaping the brand\u2019s boldly creative approach to Canadian whisky.<\/p>\n

Known for developing BEARFACE\u2019s signature style from inception, he embraces Canada\u2019s unique whisky\u2011making freedoms to craft expressive, boundary\u2011pushing blends. Faustinelli\u2019s work includes the adventurous Wilderness Series, inspired by rugged landscapes and elemental aging in the extreme Canadian climate.<\/p>\n

His fearless experimentation continues, and Faustinelli will debut an exciting new BEARFACE innovation at this event.<\/p>\n

When: Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Time: 5 to 8 p.m.
Where: BCLIQUOR 39th and Cambie \u2013 5555 Cambie St., Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n

The Vegan Market<\/a>
\n\"Vegan<\/p>\n

Vegan Night Market (Peaces\/Facebook)<\/p>\n

What:\u00a0The Vegan Night Market, hosted by Peaces, is a plant-based food-fuelled party where guests can enjoy a drink and food while they shop from over 45 businesses. There will be a bunch of plant-based products to discover, including soaps and treats, while you listen to live music.<\/p>\n

When:\u00a0March 26 and April 23, 2026
Time: 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: HI Vancouver Jericho Beach \u2013 1515 Discovery St., Vancouver
Tickets:\u00a0Minimum donation of $4 or canned goods, clothing, or pet food<\/p>\n

Vancouver Story Slam<\/a><\/p>\n

What: Vancouver Story Slam features 10 storytellers sharing original short stories in a competition for cash and prizes as well as a spot in the championship show. Performers at The Pleasant on March 12 include Erin Reddekopp, Joy Ong, Steve Miller, and more. The event will also include special guest storyteller Abby Crispo.<\/p>\n

When: Thursday, March 12, 2026
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: The Pleasant \u2013 2434 Main St., Vancouver
Cost: $10 cash at the door<\/p>\n

Around The Kitchen Table: Crafting Connections<\/a><\/p>\n

What: This exhibition explores how making by hand can function as a language of its own. Through contemporary jewellery, clay works, and a participatory installation inspired by dumpling-making, the project reflects on communication across generations, cultural memory, and the quiet power of shared gestures around the kitchen table.<\/p>\n

When: Monday to Friday until April 23, 2026
Time: 10 to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Craft Council of BC \u2013 1386 Cartwright St., Vancouver
Admission: Free<\/p>\n

Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival<\/a>
\n\"Vancouver<\/p>\n

Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival<\/p>\n

What: Get your cameras ready because the colourful Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival (VCBF) is blooming again this spring.<\/p>\n

The festival is one of the city\u2019s most beloved yearly events, with a huge lineup of events to discover from March 27 to April 12. There will be several arts workshops to enjoy, the return of Blossoms After Dark from March 27 to 28 at David Lam Park, the Blossom Block Party on April 4 at Bentall Centre, the Sakura Days Japan Festival from April 11 to 12 at VanDusen Botanical Garden, and more.<\/p>\n

When:\u00a0March 27 to April 12, 2026
Time:\u00a0Various times
Where:\u00a0Various locations around Metro Vancouver<\/p>\n

Vancouver Gem & Mineral Show<\/a><\/p>\n

What:\u00a0The Vancouver Gem & Mineral Show is returning to the PNE Forum with more than 100 gem, mineral, and jewellery vendors from across the country.<\/p>\n

You can wander the forum filled with vendors selling all kinds of crystals, fossils, wearable art, and more. This is the perfect place to ask experts questions and learn more about rocks, minerals, crystals, and gems.<\/p>\n

When:\u00a0March 20 to 22, 2026
Time: 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Friday), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Saturday), 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sunday)
Where:\u00a0PNE Forum,\u00a02901 East Hastings St., Vancouver
Cost: $6-$8, children 12 and under are free. Three-day tickets are also available. Purchase online<\/a><\/p>\n

BC Home + Garden Show<\/a><\/p>\n

What: The BC Home + Garden Show returns to BC Place with everything you need to whip your home and garden into shape. The exhibition will feature home improvement, design, culinary and garden experts to inspire you and your home this spring.<\/p>\n

When: March 12 to 15, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Thursday and Friday), 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Saturday), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sunday)
Where:\u00a0BC Place \u2013 777 Pacific Blvd., Vancouver
Tickets:\u00a0$13-$16, children 12 and under free. Half-price tickets are available after 4 p.m. Purchase online<\/a><\/p>\n

Skate Plaza at The Shipyards<\/a>
\n\"Shipyards<\/p>\n

City of North Vancouver\/Facebook<\/p>\n

What: The City of North Vancouver\u2019s free Shipyards Skate Plaza is welcoming skaters of all ages to glide on the approximately 12,000 sq ft surface daily from 12 to 8 p.m. Fun can be had no matter the weather \u2013 the Shipyards Skate Plaza is covered by a retractable roof.<\/p>\n

When: Now until end of season
Time: Noon to 8 p.m.
Where:\u00a0The Shipyards Commons, North Vancouver
Admission: Free. Skate rentals are available for $7 for adults and $5 for children (quantities are limited)<\/p>\n

Workout For Women\u2019s Day<\/a><\/p>\n

What: From March 4 until International Women\u2019s Day on March 8, you can sign up for a ton of incredible fitness classes by donation at Workout For Women\u2019s Day. It\u2019s a chance to sample classes from some of the city\u2019s best trainers and studios. From barre fusion to intro to pile, there are classes for everyone.<\/p>\n

When: March 4 to 8, 2026
Time:\u00a0Check the schedule<\/a>\u00a0for class times
Where:\u00a0Various locations in Vancouver
Tickets:\u00a0Classes by donation<\/p>\n

Recurring events and activities
\nBill Reid Gallery \u2014 Free Admission Day<\/a>
\n\"Bill<\/p>\n

Bill Reid Gallery<\/p>\n

What:\u00a0The Bill Reid Gallery is named after the renowned Haida artist and is the only public gallery dedicated to the contemporary Indigenous Art of the Northwest Coast. The gallery is home to the Simon Fraser University Bill Reid Collection and also hosts a variety of special exhibitions, workshops, panel discussions, and more.<\/p>\n

Guests can visit the Bill Reid Gallery for free from 2 to 5 p.m. on the first Friday of each month.<\/p>\n

When: The first Friday of every month
Time:\u00a02 to 5 p.m.
Where: 639 Hornby St., Vancouver
Cost: By donation<\/p>\n

Vancouver Public Library Movie Screenings<\/a><\/p>\n

What:\u00a0Vancouver Public Library hosts a variety of movie screenings for the public at its branches throughout the month, and the best part is that they are free to check out. Expect to see the latest Hollywood blockbusters, timeless classics, and more.<\/p>\n

When:\u00a0Various dates
Time:\u00a0Various times
Where:\u00a0Various VPL Branches
Cost: Free<\/p>\n

Family Saturdays at Chinatown Storytelling Centre<\/a><\/p>\n

What: Learn about Chinatown\u2019s heritage and culture through hands-on activities during Family Saturdays at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre. The event happens on the third Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes guided tours, prizes, special offers from neighbouring restaurants, and free admission for youth 17 years and under.<\/p>\n

When: The third Saturday of each month
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Centre is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Where: 168 East Pender St., Vancouver
Cost: Free for youth 17 and under; guests under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Admission $10 to $12, purchase online<\/a><\/p>\n

Vancouver Art Gallery \u2013 Free First Friday Nights<\/a>
\n\"Free<\/p>\n

Vancouver Art Gallery\/Facebook<\/p>\n

What: The Vancouver Art Gallery was founded in 1931 and is renowned as one of North America\u2019s leading visual arts institutions. The largest public art museum in Western Canada currently has a variety of exhibitions on display, and you can check them out for free during the Free First Friday Nights events.<\/p>\n

When:\u00a0The first Friday of every month
Time:\u00a04 to 8 p.m.
Where:\u00a0750 Hornby St., Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n

Community Jam at The Improv Centre<\/a><\/p>\n

What: The Improv Centre welcomes performers of all levels to get up onstage with professionally trained improvisers at its free monthly community jam. The 18+ event features theatre exercises, improv games, and more during the fun, interactive jam.<\/p>\n

When: The last Saturday of every month
Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Where: The Improv Centre \u2014 1502 Duranleau St., Vancouver
Cost: Free<\/p>\n

Farmers markets in Metro Vancouver
\nGranville Island Public Market<\/a><\/p>\n

What:\u00a0You can shop at the Granville Island Public Market year-round. It\u2019s indoors, so it\u2019s a great option on a rainy day. This place is loved by locals and tourists alike. Shop for all your basics and extras here and grab lunch from some of the city\u2019s best eats.<\/p>\n

When:\u00a0Every day
Time:\u00a09 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where:\u00a0Granville Island \u2013 1661 Duranleau St., Vancouver<\/p>\n

Riley Park Winter Farmers Market<\/a><\/p>\n

What:\u00a0Visitors will find over 85 farms and producers and a selection of food and coffee trucks. Shop for fruits and veggies, eggs and dairy, meat, prepared food, craft beverages, craft items, and more.<\/p>\n

When:\u00a0Every Saturday until March 28, 2026
Time:\u00a010 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where:\u00a050 E. 30th Ave. and Ontario Street, Vancouver<\/p>\n

Kitsilano Winter Farmers Market<\/a><\/p>\n

What: Kitsilano Farmers Market takes place on Sundays in the parking lot of the Community Centre and offers a good selection of fresh local produce and gourmet treats to stock up on for the week. There are also a number of artisan vendors and food trucks to check out at the market.<\/p>\n

When:\u00a0Every Sunday until April 26, 2026
Time:\u00a010 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: West 10th Avenue and Trafalgar Street, Vancouver<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"There are loads of free and inexpensive fun to be had around Vancouver. So let\u2019s get started! Check…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":512722,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[194298],"tags":[49,48,55],"class_list":["post-512721","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-vancouver","tag-ca","tag-canada","tag-vancouver"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/512721","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=512721"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/512721\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/512722"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=512721"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=512721"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=512721"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}