Vancouver Free Events

Free Things to Do in Vancouver This Weekend (July 11–13, 2025)

Looking for budget-friendly fun? Metro Vancouver is buzzing with free events this weekend, July 11–13, 2025. From cultural festivals to pet parades and car-free celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without spending a dime.

At Tourifique, we’re all about connecting you with vibrant, community-driven experiences that showcase the heart of Vancouver. Here’s our curated list of 11 free events to make your weekend unforgettable.

1. Vancouver Greek Summerfest

A summer favorite for food lovers and culture seekers! Enjoy Greek dancing, live music, and authentic eats at this long-running community festival.
Where: 4541 Boundary Rd
When: Thursday to Sunday, July 10–13 • 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: Free admission

2. Historic Places Days: Summer Storytelling Social

Celebrate Vancouver’s historic architecture with presentations from local experts, including a talk by architectural photographer Martin Knowles.
Where: Heritage Hall, 3102 Main St
When: Friday, July 11 • 6–8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free (RSVP recommended)

3. Emily Carr MFA Art Exhibitions

Two public gallery openings feature work by emerging international artists from Emily Carr's MFA program.
Where: Emily Carr University, 520 E 1st Ave
When: July 7–18 • Opening night July 10 from 6–9 p.m.
Cost: Free

4. Vancouver Chinatown Festival

One of the city’s signature summer festivals! Expect lion dances, artisan markets, live performances, kids’ theatre, and a vibrant cultural zone.
Where: Keefer and Columbia Streets, Chinatown
When: Saturday & Sunday, July 12–13 • 12–6 p.m.
Cost: Free

5. PawsFest 2025

A dog-lover’s paradise at Sunset Beach! With over 400,000 sq. ft. of pet-friendly fun, expect puppy yoga, fashion shows, agility demos, and more.
Where: Sunset Beach Park, 1204 Beach Ave
When: Saturday, July 12 • 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Cost: Free

6. Day of the Dog Après-Ski Social

Let your pup play in literal snow at this unique dog-friendly pop-up! Featuring races, snow cones, bone broth shots, and pool party zones.
Where: River District – 8683 Kerr St
When: Saturday, July 12 • 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Cost: Free

7. Family Art Party: “Imagining Our Stories”

Hands-on activities like wire sculpture, collage, and wearable art. Plus, live storytelling and dance by Spakwus Slolem of the Squamish Nation.
Where: Surrey Art Gallery – 13750 88 Ave
When: Saturday, July 12 • 12–4 p.m.
Cost: Free

8. Tour de Concord

A family-friendly bike festival featuring races, live music, food trucks, demos, and even kids’ bike races.
Where: Concord Pacific Place – 88 Pacific Blvd
When: Sunday, July 13 • 9:55 a.m.–3 p.m.
Cost: Free (Pre-registration encouraged)

9. Car-Free Sundays in Gastown: Open Air Atelier

Enjoy Water Street as it transforms into a pedestrian-first zone filled with public art, live music, open-air shopping, and community programming.
Where: Water Street (Richards to Columbia)
When: Sunday, July 13 • 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Cost: Free

10. Kitsilano Showboat Performances

Catch local performances nightly at Kits Beach, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1935. Shows include music, dance, and community talent.
Where: Kitsilano Showboat – 2300 Cornwall Ave
When: Wednesday to Sunday evenings through Aug 17 • 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free

11. Junction Public Market

Enjoy waterfront views and explore local vendors, food pop-ups, and rotating live entertainment in a vibrant Granville Square shipping container market.
Where: 200 Granville St (near Waterfront Station)
When: Open Tuesday–Sunday • 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Cost: Free

Pro Tips for a Great Weekend (Tourifique POV):

At Tourifique, we connect travelers with meaningful, community-driven experiences. These free events highlight Vancouver’s diverse culture and vibrant community spirit. To make the most of your weekend:
• Bring sunscreen & water: It’s going to be sunny!
• Pack your camera: Many events are photo-worthy.
• Plan ahead: Popular events like PawsFest and Chinatown Fest get busy.
• Use transit: Parking may be limited in festival zones.

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