One-time-only events and activities City of Vancouver\/Submitted<\/p>\n What: Who doesn\u2019t love a free summer concert? One of Vancouver\u2019s most beloved summertime traditions, Symphony at Sunset, is back at a new temporary location this July for its seventh year.<\/p>\n The annual event brings together the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and hundreds of beach-goers for a magical evening of live orchestral music. This year\u2019s will be held in David Lam Park.<\/p>\n When: Saturday, July 11, 2026 North Vancouver\u2019s Shipyards Night Market<\/a><\/p>\n What: North Vancouver\u2019s Shipyards Night Market (SYNM) is celebrating its 13th anniversary in Lower Lonsdale in 2026. The popular free event takes place every Friday and features a beer garden, live music, market vendors and food trucks.<\/p>\n When: Every Friday until Sept. 11, 2026 The Vegan Market<\/a><\/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 local businesses. There will be a bunch of plant-based products to discover while you listen to live music.<\/p>\n When: July 23 and Aug. 30, 2026 (Locarno Beach), July 9, Aug. 6 and Sept. 10, 2026 (Trout Lake Beach) Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra Concert\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n What: Experience classical instruments playing modern Girlypop hits. Doors open at 6 p.m. for a warm-up DJ set, the main concert starts at 7 p.m., and the entire event ends at 8 p.m. Admission is free.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n When: Friday, July 17, 2026 Fridays on Front<\/a> Fridays on Front<\/p>\n What: Fridays on Front, the popular free block party series, is firing back up in July and August on Front Street Mews in Downtown New West.<\/p>\n One of the region\u2019s best street parties, Fridays on Front highlights artisan vendors, musical performances, and, of course, a lot of great food. And it\u2019s a quick walk from both the New Westminster and Columbia Skytrain Stations.<\/p>\n When: July 10, 17, 24, and Aug. 7, 14, 21, 2026 Summer Movie Nights on the Square<\/a><\/p>\n What: Every Thursday evening from July 16 to Aug. 13, Downtown Van will inflate a large 33-foot screen in \u0161x\u02b7\u019b\u0313\u0259n\u0259q Xwtl\u2019e7\u00e9n\u1e35 Square at the north plaza of the Vancouver Art Gallery for the family-friendly Summer Movie Nights.<\/p>\n This summertime tradition will see a massive crowd of moviegoers watch their favourite flicks under the stars. Activities start at 5 p.m., so there will be plenty of fun before the screening starts.<\/p>\n When: Every week from Thursday, July 16 to Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026 Burnaby Central Railway<\/a><\/p>\n What: Burnaby Central Railway is welcoming passengers to climb aboard its 3 km track near Confederation Park every weekend until this fall. Your ride will take you across tunnels, bridges and viaducts. And while you\u2019re there, stop by the ever-growing Garden Railway.<\/p>\n British Columbia Society of Model Engineers (BCSME) built and operates the mini railway, with three different types of locomotives pulling the rideable trains.<\/p>\n When: Weekends and stat holidays through Thanksgiving weekend Vancouver Chinatown Festival<\/a><\/p>\n What: The 23rd Vancouver Chinatown Festival will be held on Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26. It will feature a variety of activities and live entertainment highlighting the historical neighbourhood.<\/p>\n This year\u2019s celebration features an artisan market, a Kids Zone, international food trucks, and more.<\/p>\n When: Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26, 2026 Carnaval del Sol 2026<\/a> Carnaval del Sol<\/p>\n What: Carnaval del Sol 2026 returns to Vancouver\u2019s Jonathan Rogers Park from July 10 to 12 as the Pacific Northwest\u2019s largest Latin American festival.<\/p>\n Carnaval del Sol 2026 brings together more than 350 artists for three days of live music, dance, food, f\u00fatbol and cultural celebration. Highlights include a Latin American parade, diverse food offerings, family activities, and themed plazas for art, wellness and community experiences.<\/p>\n When: July 10 to 12, 2026 Deckchair Cinema at The Polygon Gallery<\/a><\/p>\n What: The Polygon Gallery\u2019s Deckchair Cinema returns to Lower Lonsdale\u2019s waterfront deck.<\/p>\n Hosted in partnership with presenting sponsor Rogers Communications and supporting sponsor Mubi, the open-air film series will feature music and entertainment, food and drinks, and more.<\/p>\n Admission to the fifth annual series of outdoor movies is by donation, courtesy of BMO Financial Group, and includes entrance to access Polygon Gallery\u2019s summer exhibition\u00a0Greg Girard\u00a0(opening July 9),\u00a0Simranpreeet Anand: Living with the Eternal, and\u00a0James Harry: Eye of the Ancestor.<\/p>\n When:\u00a0Every Thursday until Aug. 27, 2026 Junction Public Market<\/a><\/p>\n What: Vancouver\u2019s open-air container market is back, and you won\u2019t want to miss the fun. Now in its third year, the free-to-enter downtown market and hub has over 30 new vendors this year, in addition to live entertainment and community events throughout the summer.<\/p>\n When:\u00a0Now until Sept. 7, 2026 Burnaby Village Museum \u2013 Summer Season<\/a><\/p>\n What:\u00a0Burnaby Village Museum is open for a new summer season, and longtime visitors and new guests will discover a variety of new exhibits, entertainment, and activities to enjoy.<\/p>\n The beloved open-air historical attraction transports people back in time and lets them experience life in a 1920s village, complete with heritage and recreated buildings and staff dressed in the period\u2019s fashion.<\/p>\n When: Tuesday to Sunday, plus statutory holidays until Sept. 7, 2026 Khatsahlano Street Party<\/a> Khatsahlano<\/p>\n What: One of the city\u2019s largest free music and arts festivals, Khatsahlano, will take place on Saturday, July 11, between Burrard Street and Macdonald Street.<\/p>\n The massive street party is presented by the Kitsilano West 4th Avenue Business Improvement Association, with a\u00a0huge lineup of over 50 musical acts curated by Zulu Records.<\/p>\n When:\u00a0Saturday, July 11, 2026 Orpheum Tours by Vancouver Civic Theatres<\/a><\/p>\n What:\u00a0Vancouver 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: July 11 and Aug. 15, 2026 Evo Summer Cinema Series at Stanley Park<\/a> Fresh Air Cinema<\/p>\n What:\u00a0Outdoor movies in Stanley Park are back this summer, and you can even help pick one of the films to watch under the stars.<\/p>\n Fresh Air Cinema\u00a0and\u00a0Evo Car Share\u00a0have unveiled the lineup for the 2026 edition of the Evo Summer Cinema Series, returning to the Grand Lawn at Ceperley Meadows near Second Beach.<\/p>\n Thousands of people will gather\u00a0every Tuesday from July 14 to Sept. 1\u00a0for Canada\u2019s largest outdoor movie series. You can watch a curated lineup of Hollywood hits and family favourites on the giant 40-foot inflatable movie screen.<\/p>\n When:\u00a0Every Tuesday from July 14 to Sept. 1, 2026 Symphony in the Park with the VSO<\/a><\/p>\n What: The\u00a0Vancouver Symphony Orchestra\u2019s (VSO) Symphony in the Park is returning to Festival Lawn at Deer Lake Park on Saturday, July 18.<\/p>\n The performance is a fantastic opportunity to hear some of the city\u2019s most talented musicians. This year\u2019s program includes music from\u00a0Star Wars,\u00a0Hook,\u00a0E.T., and more.<\/p>\n When: Saturday, July 18, 2026 FIFA World Cup No. 11 FIFA Fan Festival Express bus route. (TransLink)<\/p>\n What: Soccer fans from around the world are coming to Vancouver this summer for the\u00a02026 FIFA World Cup<\/a>, and so are some of music\u2019s biggest artists.<\/p>\n FIFA Fan Festival Vancouver has revealed the amphitheatre concert series lineup at the PNE, with the ticketed events being part of a massive transformation of the PNE into a \u201cFIFA World Cup hub<\/a>\u201d\u00a0with \u201cfamily-focused entertainment to immersive fan activities for all ages.\u201d<\/p>\n Organizers have also revealed more than 60 free performances at the Park Stage this summer, joining the music lineup for the 28 days of live entertainment at Hastings Park.<\/p>\n When: Various dates until July 19, 2026 Parallel 49 Viewing Party<\/a><\/p>\n What: Parallel 49 is transforming its 250-seat patio and event space into an outdoor viewing area for all of the games this July. Invite your friends to join you in checking out the giant 14-foot high-def TV during the no-cover-charge event, complete with access to the full beer list, 40 taps, delicious food, and cocktail menu.<\/p>\n There will be a live DJ on all Fridays and Saturdays from when the last game ends until late to keep the good times and the party going. Get there early to get your spot at a table or on the bleachers.<\/p>\n When: Now until July 19, 2026 Game Day Happenings at Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown<\/a> Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown<\/p>\n What:\u00a0The Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown\u2019s Game Day Happenings highlight an elevated experience during the FIFA World Cup 2026, featuring special food and beverage offerings, themed cocktails, exclusive dining features like the Chef\u2019s Burger & Brew for $22, and a fan zone in the lobby.<\/p>\n Enjoy a lively atmosphere with curated menus, extended happy hour, and convenient access to match-day excitement, along with a Match Day Package that includes champagne, breakfast for two, and added touches designed to elevate the game-day experience, with options to reserve in advance for the best experience.<\/p>\n When: Now available until end of FIFA World Cup 2026 Canada House by Coca-Cola<\/a><\/p>\n What: Canada House by Coca-Cola at the Shark Club is your place for World Cup 2026 action.<\/p>\n Every match will be shown wall-to-wall on big screens with sound, creating a stadium-like viewing experience where fans can gather, celebrate, and support Canada and all countries during the competition, with prizes and giveaways available throughout the entire tournament.<\/p>\n When: Daily until July 17, 2026 Soccer in the Square 2026 Watch Party at Wesbrook Village, UBC<\/a><\/p>\n What: UBC Properties Trust brings the excitement of the global soccer stage to Wesbrook Village with Soccer in the Square, a free, all-ages outdoor viewing experience.<\/p>\n Until July 19, catch live matches on the big screen at Norman MacKenzie Square, where fans can gather under a shaded tent with picnic seating to cheer on their favourite teams.<\/p>\n Expect a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with picnic tables, leashed pups welcome, and easy access to takeout from nearby eateries. With space for up to 150 guests, plus movies, music, and entertainment between matches, it\u2019s a festive community hangout all tournament long.<\/p>\n When: Various dates until July 19, 2026 Recurring events and activities 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 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 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 Vancouver Art Gallery \u2013 Free First Friday Nights<\/a> 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 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 Farmers markets in Metro Vancouver What: This farmers market began back in 1995 and became the cornerstone of the Vancouver Farmers Market collective of markets. One of the most popular markets, Trout Lake has food trucks on-site and a variety of vendors selling fresh local produce, locally made goods, and all things food.<\/p>\n When: Every Saturday until Oct. 31, 2026
\nSymphony at Sunset<\/a>
\n![\"sunset](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/sunset-beach-concert-1024x529.jpg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a08 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: David Lam Park
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n
Time: 3 to 10 p.m.
Where:\u00a0The Shipyards \u2014 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n
Time: 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Locarno Beach and Trout Lake Beach
Admission: Free<\/p>\n
Time: 6 to 8 p.m
Where: South Granville Plaza East \u2013 Granville Street and W. 14th Avenue, Vancouver
Admission: Free\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n![\"Fridays](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Fridays-on-Front-1024x671.jpg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a05 to 9 p.m.
Where:\u00a0Front Street Mews in Downtown New Westminster
Admission:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a0Activations start at 5 p.m.; movies start at dusk
Where: \u0161x\u02b7\u019b\u0313\u0259n\u0259q Xwtl\u2019e7\u00e9n\u1e35 Square \u2013 850 W. Georgia St., Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 120 N. Willingdon Ave., Burnaby
Cost: $4.50 for a single ride, for all passengers three years old and up. $40 for a 10-ride pass<\/p>\n
Time: Noon to 6 p.m.
Where:\u00a0Columbia Street and Keefer Street, Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n
\n![\"Vancouver](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/53877388916_e974c08da5_o-1-1-1024x684.jpg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Time: 5:30 to 11 p.m. (Friday), 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday)
Where: Jonathan Rogers Park 110 W. 7th Ave., Vancouver
Cost: One Day General Admission starts at $15 \u2014 Available here<\/a>. Entrance is FREE for children under 12, and seniors 65+. Opening Night Concert tickets are also available separately for $60 in advance, or $75 at the door.<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a0Music and concession open at 7 p.m., screenings begin at sundown
Where:\u00a0101 Carrie Cates Crt., North Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0By donation<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a0Open Tuesday through Sunday at varying times
Where:\u00a0200 Granville St.\u00a0
Cost:\u00a0Free admission<\/p>\n
Time: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where:\u00a0Burnaby Village Museum \u2013\u00a06501 Deer Lake Ave., Burnaby
Admission:\u00a0Free, carousel rides $2.71<\/p>\n
\n![\"Khatsahlano\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Khatsahlano-2-1024x683.jpg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a011 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where:\u00a0West 4th Avenue from Burrard Street to MacDonald Street
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a011 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Where:\u00a0The Orpheum\u00a0\u2013\u00a0601 Smithe St., Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0$10 plus fees, register\u00a0online<\/a><\/p>\n
\n![\"Stanley](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/1783183452_753_Stanley-Park-outdoor-movies-1024x683.jpg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a0Screenings begin at sunset
Where:\u00a0Ceperley Meadows beside the Second Beach pool \u2014 8501 Stanley Park Dr., Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n
Time: 2 to 7 p.m. (VSO School of Music\u2019s family-friendly Playzone), 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. (concert begins)
Where:\u00a0Deer Lake Park \u2014 6450 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Admission:\u00a0Free, seating is first-come, first-served<\/p>\n
\nFIFA Fan Festival Vancouver \u2013 Amphitheatre Concert Series<\/a> and Park Stage free concert series<\/a>
\n![\"11](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/11-fifa-fan-festival-translink-bus-route-f-1024x683.jpg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Time: Various times
Where: Freedom Mobile Arch at the PNE \u2014 2901 E. Hastings St., Vancouver
Tickets: Various prices, purchase online<\/a><\/p>\n
Time: Open daily from 11 a.m. until late. Also open early for all of the 9 a.m. games.
Where: Parallel 49 Brewing Company \u2013 1950 Triumph St., Vancouver
Cost: Free admission<\/p>\n
\n![\"FIFA](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/FIFA-World-Cup.jpeg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Where: Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown \u2013 1128 West Hastings St., Vancouver
Cost: Happy Hour pricing varies. Chef\u2019s Burger & Brew \u2013 $22. Match Day Package \u2013 room rate based on date & room type chosen. More info online<\/a><\/p>\n
Time: Covering all games morning to night (schedule varies based on game times)
Where: Shark Club \u2014 180 W. Georgia St, Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0Free admission, reservations online<\/a><\/p>\n
Time: Various times when games are on
Where: Norman MacKenzie Square, Wesbrook Village, UBC
Cost: Free<\/p>\n
\nBill Reid Gallery \u2014 Free Admission Day<\/a>
\n![\"Bill](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Bill-Reid-Gallery-1024x1024.jpg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a02 to 5 p.m.
Where: 639 Hornby St., Vancouver
Cost: By donation<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a0Various times
Where:\u00a0Various VPL Branches
Cost: Free<\/p>\n
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
\n![\"Free](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Vancouver-Art-Gallery-3-1024x524.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n
Time:\u00a04 to 8 p.m.
Where:\u00a0750 Hornby St., Vancouver
Cost:\u00a0Free<\/p>\n
Time: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Where: The Improv Centre \u2014 1502 Duranleau St., Vancouver
Cost: Free<\/p>\n
\nTrout Lake Farmers Market<\/a><\/p>\n
Time: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Lakewood Drive and East 13th Ave., Vancouver<\/p>\n
![\"farmers](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/farmers-market-1-1024x683.jpg\"\/ "\\"\\"")
<\/p>\n