Vancouver’s festivals, events and celebrations cover every corner and interest, from Pride to public art, fireworks and family fun, to culinary and cultural exhibitions, the city comes alive as the summer solstice kicks off another epic summer season.

JULY

VSO at Sunset Beach – July 7
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra is returning to the exquisite Sunset Beach for the second annual free outdoor concert. This year, VSO is working with the Vancouver Park Board to ensure an exceptional experience for everyone who attends the concert this summer.

Gastown Grand Prix – July 10
One of North America’s most historic and prestigious road cycling events comes to Vancouver as the best male and female road cyclists in North America join together from around the world to compete in the heart of historic Gastown. Watch some of the best riders in the world race on cobblestones down Vancouver’s historic Water Street.

Celebration of Light – July 27, July 31 + August 3
Experience the “spark of togetherness” at the Celebration of Light. This extravagant firework display is showcased over three nights and is best viewed from Second Beach, First Beach, or Vanier Park. In addition to the fireworks show, enjoy live music performances and sample local fare from the selection of restaurants and food trucks set up for the occasion. The fireworks begin at 10PM on event nights, but plan to arrive early as seating is first come, first served, with a great line-up of pre-show activities for the whole family.

AUGUST

Mural Festival – August 1 – 10
The city’s largest annual free public art celebration makes its return in various neighbourhoods of Vancouver, stretching from downtown to Mount Pleasant. View the permanent large-scale public murals at your own pace, or choose a guided tour that showcases the colourful transformation of the neighbourhoods and get a chance to hear behind-the-scenes stories.

Pride Festival – July 29 – August 5
Vancouver’s diversity and progressive attitude is displayed vibrantly during the annual Vancouver Pride Festival. A variety of events and celebrations take place over the course of the weekend that promote a positive stance, inclusion and the freedom to love who you want. The annual Pride Parade paints the town rainbow and brings excitement to the streets of central downtown, and continues on through the West End.

Lululemon SeaWheeze + Sunset Festival – August 17
Get your SeaWheeze on, whether running the Half Marathon, or just taking in the excitement of the city with the preWheeze shopping at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Enjoy the SeaWheeze Sunset Festival at Stanley Park with delicious food and drinks, artisan markets, yoga with Global Yoga Ambassadors, live music and a mega dance party.

SEPTEMBER

RBC GranFondo Whistler – September 7
Imagine for one day, the best cycling roads are closed to traffic. Gran Fondo, meaning “big ride” in Italian, is a mass participation cycling event that has been enjoyed for decades through Europe and now spreading across the world. Gran Fondo Whistler takes you on a journey via bike from Vancouver to Whistler along the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Whether a participant or a cheering spectator, the celebration concludes with an awards ceremony and free concert in Whistler at Celebration Plaza.