Best Festivals in Vancouver
Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, Vancouver hosts a diverse array of
festivals that mirror its varied landscape. From lively summer events
featuring international fireworks to intimate winter gatherings highlighting
local music and food, Vancouver's festivals animate the city year-round.
Experience the creative pulse of film and performing arts festivals, or
savor the city's culinary scene at food and drink-themed gatherings.
Vancouver's festival calendar promises something exciting for everyone,
blending cultural richness with natural beauty. Here are the top picks of
Vancouver.
1. PNE Playland Fair
Held every summer, the Fair at the PNE is the largest and most attended
annual festival in British Columbia. Since 1910, the
PNE Playland Fair
has entertained everyone with shows, exhibits, rides, concerts, and cultural
activities. The PNE has hosted many famous events, including live shows by
the Beatles and the historic Miracle Mile. The festival is non-profit that
creates most fun experiences and invests in the community.
2. Vancouver International Wine Festival
In 1979 the first festival featured vintner Robert Mondavi and drew about
1,000 attendees to a two-day. The festival was at Hycroft, a mansion in
Vancouver’s Shaughnessy neighborhood. The
Vancouver International Wine Festival
began as a fundraising event by John E. Levine (a board member of the
Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company). This festival itself is an opportunity
to enjoy a wide variety of wines, delicious food pairings, and a lively,
educational atmosphere (apart from having fun). It's a must-visit for wine
lovers and industry professionals alike.
3. TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival
In 2024, the festival showcased a series of concerts and events over the
last few weeks in June. There were a couple hundred concerts at various
venues across the city for 10 days. The
TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival
is one of Canada's largest music festivals hosted by
Coastal Jazz
. It draws hundreds of inspiring artists and up to half a million jazz
lovers. It’s one of the best festivals that brings musicians and jazz fans
from worldwide to Vancouver. It's also a great opportunity for local
businesses to showcase their products and services (+bonus). Also, the
festival generates millions in tourism spending. This makes it a major
economic boost for Vancouver.
4. Vancouver Folk Music Festival
This Vancouver festival was founded in 1978. It is a three-day festival
(mostly) making Vancouver vibe on various music genres. The
Vancouver
Folk Music Festival
(VFMF) is held at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver every year. The festival
has a lineup of talented artists from around the globe every year. In 2024
over 40 performances by different artists will take the hot stage. And that
too from more than 13 countries (how amazing is that!). Also, this festival
is family-friendly because it has a special kids' area full of fun
activities. This makes the festival a super fun choice for families to have
a fun night together.
