Events and Activities for Vancouver Family Fun in August

Vancouver Pride Festival

When: Until Sunday August 3
Where: Various locations throughout Vancouver
Website: www.vancouverpride.ca

Vancouver Pride Festival is a multi-day celebration of Vancouver’s 2SLGBTQAI+ community. Canada Pride 2024 will feature your favourite Vancouver Pride events like VanPrideFest and the Vancouver Pride Parade, along with a brand new Queer Rights Summit and some other exciting additions to the usual programming.

Theatre Under the Stars

When: Alternating nights until August 16
Where: Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park
Website: www.tuts.ca

Few things feel more like summer in Vancouver than checking out a performance at Theatre Under the Stars in Stanley Park. The non-profit society has become a Vancouver tradition, delivering highly entertaining musical theatre shows that feature amateur performers for generations. This year’s shows are Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Legally Blonde. And if you’re worried about getting caught in the rain, consider purchasing Exchange Insurance when buying tickets in advance.

Sounds of Summer

When: Every Wednesday in August
Where: Various locations
Website: www.surrey.ca/parks-recreation/surrey-parks/park-programs/sounds-of-summer
Sounds of Summer is an annual music series that features free performances at various parks and outdoor spaces in Surrey. There’s something for everyone with music genres that range from jazz to R&B to classic rock. Performances run from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Check out the website for the concert schedule.

White Rock Sea Festival and Semiahmoo Days

When: Saturday August 2 – Sunday August 3
Where: White Rock’s Waterfront
Website: www.whiterockcity.ca/366/White-Rock-Sea-Festival

Sea Fest has been a popular event in the White Rock and Semiahmoo community for more than 70 years. The slightly-outside-of-Vancouver family fun starts Friday night with an outdoor movie at Semiahmoo Park and then continues all weekend long with live music, family-friendly activities, fireworks, and more – all set in the idyllic setting of White Rock’s beaches.

Harmony Arts Festival

When: Friday August 1 – Sunday August 10
Where: West Vancouver
Website: www.harmonyarts.ca

Set along the waterfront in West Vancouver, the annual Harmony Arts Festival is an excellent way to spend the day – or evening – with family and friends. From music to visual arts to free activities for kids (check out the Artsy Kids Outdoor Studio), there’s no shortage of festival fun. And be sure to visit the Park Royal Beachside Patio which features several food vendors.

Tsawwassen Sun Festival

When: Saturday August 2 – Monday August 4
Where: Tsawwassen
Website: www.sunfestival.ca

Head out to sunny Tsawwassen for the aptly named Tsawwassen Sun Festival! This three-day festival is a favourite among locals and features special events (check out the classic car show), games, friendly competitions (pie eating contest!), and more. While most events take place at Winskill Park, the highlight for many attendees is the Rotary Parade which takes place this year on Monday August 4.

Abbotsford International Airshow

When: Friday August 8 – Sunday August 10
Where: Abbotsford International Airport
Website: https://abbotsfordairshow.com/

Check out the Abbotsford International Airshow and prepare to be amazed! The event goes from one jaw-dropping moment to the next – from world-class aerial performances to military aircraft displays and, of course, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. The Friday night Twilight Show features pyrotechnics, drone show, and hot air balloon glow. There’s also a S.T.E.M. activity zone, complete with flight simulators, and food trucks.

Chilliwack Fair

When: Friday August 8 – Sunday August 10
Where: Chilliwack Heritage Park
Website: https://chilliwackfair.com/

This year theme of the Chilliwack Fair is Barn to Be Wild. This family-friendly event celebrates the local Chilliwack community with activities and attractions aplenty – face painting, pony rides, live music, animal displays, a ninja parkour course, rodeo events, and more. The fair’s selection of tasty treats and food is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

PNE (Pacific National Exhibition)

When: Saturday August 16 – Monday September 1
Where: PNE fairgrounds on Hastings Street
Website: www.pne.ca

Summertime in Vancouver means a day at the PNE! There is no limit to the Vancouver family fun that will be had with attractions and entertainment like The SuperDogs, Knights of Valour jousting, Dueling Pianos, agricultural displays, cooking demonstrations, musical performances, and more. Plus, there is the epic fair food! To avoid a meltdown, be sure to also buy passes for Playland so that kids (young and old) can enjoy the rides and games. This is one tradition you don’t want to skip!

Summer Farmers’ Markets

When: Varied dates and times
Where: Throughout the region
Website: https://bcfarmersmarkettrail.com/

Use the search feature on the BC Farmers Market website to search for the local summer markets popping up in your neck of the woods – or perhaps further afield if you want to make a day of it. From fresh veggies to locally crafted artisan goods, BC farm markets are known for their diverse offerings.

The post What’s On for Family Fun in Vancouver in August appeared first on SavvyMom.

Best Family-Friendly Vancouver Beaches

Ambleside Park

Dreaming of sandy beaches but wanting to keep the car ride to a minimum? Check out Ambleside Park in West Vancouver. It’s the ultimate beach day family destination with long stretches of beach, a nearby playground, skatepark, tennis, and basketball courts, and even a par 3 golf course. Plus, Ambleside has free parking! Grab a bite to eat at The Boatshed Restaurant or venture further along to Earls and several other eateries – and post-meal, access the Centennial Seawalk and continue walking along the path towards Dundarave Park.

Bonus: Ambleside has a designated swim area that is monitored by lifeguards in the summer.

Centennial Beach

Centennial Beach is located within Boundary Bay Regional Park in Tsawwassen. You can’t beat its expansive sandy beach that makes for a beachcombing paradise when the tide is out. There’s also a large playground, picnic tables, bathrooms and a concession stand nearby. And, if you’re looking to take a break from the beach, check out the Dyke Trail – perfect for walking or biking, the trail is also a fave spot for bird-watching (and ideal for a game of I Spy!). As with many popular beaches, parking is limited during summer months.

Crescent Beach

Crescent Beach in South Surrey is a great spot for families to enjoy an idyllic day at the beach. With sandy beaches for endless beachcombing, walking trails, spectacular views from the pier, and grassy areas perfect for a picnic, Crescent Beach promises to deliver a relaxing day at the beach – well, as relaxing as it gets when spending the day at the beach with your family! Be sure to check out the nearby shops and cafes in the nearby beachfront community – and don’t be surprised if you catch yourself dreaming of becoming a local (also, be respectful of parking in residential areas). Crescent Beach has two designated swim areas with lifeguards on site from 11 a.m. to 8 :30 p.m. in the summer.

Kitsilano Beach

What would a list of the best Vancouver beaches be without Kitsilano Beach? Kits has it all – sandy beach, fully accessible playground, lawn areas, and Vancouver’s only saltwater swimming pool (it’s also heated). There’s also a concession stand and the Boathouse restaurant nearby, an idyllic spot for taking in the stunning views of downtown Vancouver and the North Shore. Of course, Kits Beach is also steps away from tons of neighbourhood cafes and shops. Kits Beach promises to make for an entertaining day at the beach – there’s no shortage of people-watching – but it’s also one of the most popular. If you’re looking for a quieter spot to unwind with the family, Kits Beach may not be the best fit.

Second Beach, Stanley Park

A bonafide summer hot spot is Second Beach in Stanley Park. Not only is it relatively central, it’s also packed with activities – in addition to the beach, there’s also two playgrounds and a heated outdoor swimming pool. The pool is great for little ones with a sloped entry and separated lanes for lap swimmers (Note that it’s recommended to purchase tickets for the pool in advance). Washrooms and concessions are also located nearby. And if you really want to make a day of it, explore the magical forests of Stanley Park, bike around the Sewall, or plan a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium – sure to guarantee the coveted Parent-of-the-Year Award. Head there early to beat the crowds and keep in mind that paid parking is in effect.

Honourable Mention: Stanley Park also boasts Third Beach, which is another awesome option and is often less busy.

Spanish Banks Beach

Another central spot for beachgoers is Spanish Banks Beach in Vancouver, composed of three distinct areas: east, west, and extension. Spanish Banks features multiple concession stands, volleyball courts, bathrooms, off-leash zones for dogs, picnic tables, and more. With so much space, it’s a popular spot for families (yet is often less crowded than other Vancouver beaches). Spend the day exploring the low tide flats and then enjoy a picnic on the nearby grassy fields. FYI, the concession and washrooms at Spanish Banks West are currently closed and are expected to reopen by summer 2024 – plan to allow for a 7-minute walk to head to the facilities at Spanish Banks East.

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Fun Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Vancouver

Bloedel Conservatory

Escape the rain and head to the tropics at Bloedel Conservatory in Queen Elizabeth Park. With its temperature-controlled environment, the Conservatory is home to more than 100 exotic birds and 500 exotic plants and flowers. Take a self-guided tour while learning about tropical ecosystems and biodiversity. Be sure to grab a children’s scavenger hunt from the front desk!

EXIT

When your kids have outgrown indoor playgrounds, escape rooms are the way to go! EXIT offers a range of room options in varying levels of difficulty. Each location features its own themes – at Vancouver West Broadway, you’ll find Avalanche, Horcrux: Haunted Mansion, Arcade Frenzy, and CSI: The Chopping Block. Depending on age and comfort level, look for the degree of difficulty listed in each theme description. An adult must accompany children between the ages of 6-12. Multiple Lower Mainland locations.

Kidtropolis

Explore a world of imaginative play at Kidtropolis in Richmond. The 18,000 square foot facility is home to a pretend city designed just for kids. From a fire station to an animal hospital to a pizzeria and more, there’s no shortage of places for kids to discover. Kidtropolis also features a café, the perfect spot to enjoy a snack after a busy day out on the town (and after washing hands, of course!). While not required, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

Science World

Science World is an obvious choice for a rainy-day activity but it almost seems disrespectful to not include – it is a beloved spot for many Vancouverites and a memorable part of our childhoods (and now, our children’s lives, too). Kids of all ages can enjoy interactive, hands-on exhibits and galleries that encourage exploration through STEAM.

The Hive

Check out the Hive Bouldering Gym if you’re looking for an activity that promises to burn some energy on a rainy day in Vancouver. And if your kids are totally new to climbing – bouldering is one of the easiest ways to start climbing (let’s be honest, they are likely expert climbers around furniture/playgrounds/anything they shouldn’t climb). NOTE: the Hive has age-specific parent-to-child supervisory ratios so be sure to visit the website to plan ahead. Multiple Lower Mainland locations.

Vancouver Aquarium

You can’t go wrong with a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium – rain or shine. Check out thousands of ocean species and aquatic life through a mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits and experiences. Current features include BBC Earth’s Shark: A 4D Experience and the interactive exhibit, Nature’s Ninjas: Defenses of the Animal Kingdom. Of course, no visit is complete without a stop at what is arguably the World’s Greatest Gift Shop – start saving now!

Vancouver Public Library

Check out one of the Vancouver Public Library’s 21 locations throughout the city and fill your proverbial bucket with books, movies, and more. The library offers free programs and activities – including crafts, games, creative workshops, and of course, storytime – so be sure to visit the website to find out what’s happening before you go.

Watermania

Kids will be in pool paradise at Watermania in Richmond. The facility features a 57-metre pool, 1- and 3-metre springboards as well as a 5-metre tower, two waterslides, two large whirlpools, and a wave pool with interactive water play features (including a slide for the littlest littles). Universal and accessible change rooms are available and the facility is fully wheelchair accessible.

West Coast Mini Putt

Why not make rainy weather an excuse to par-tee? At West Coast Mini Putt in Richmond, parents and kids, alike will have a blast playing the 18-hole mini putt golf course, featuring nine glow-in-the-dark holes. Be sure to book reservations at the family-owned establishment, especially on weekends.

Lastly, there’s much to be said about suiting up in your raingear and heading outdoors for some family fun. We live in Vancouver, after all! Take the kids for a hike on one of our many scenic trails as you explore parks, forests, and more. For example, Capilano Regional River Park in North Vancouver has several connected trails that can lead you in and around the Cleveland Dam and the Capilano Salmon Hatchery. The clothes will dry, the complaints will become a distant memory, and you’ll be left with happy thoughts about a day well spent together.

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Best Bets for Mother’s Day in Vancouver

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

The perfect gift for any nature-loving mom is a day spent outdoors, enjoying the natural beauty of our city. Plan a hike around Rice Lake on the edge of Lynn Headwaters Regional Park in North Vancouver (don’t forget snacks!) or stroll through the stunning flower fields at Lakeland Flowers. Most outdoor activities are low cost (or free!) and unlike with restaurants and hotels, reservations aren’t required. So, lace up those hiking (or rain) boots, breathe in that fresh air and celebrate mom in our West Coast wonderland.

Toast Mom with Tea

Mother’s Day in Vancouver and high tea go together like peanut butter and jelly – a tried-and-true combination that is always a good idea. Several restaurants are offering special menus to commemorate mom’s big day, including the Secret Garden Tea Company and the Neverland Tea Salon. The Vancouver restaurants will both offer their own Mother’s Day High Tea menus, but be sure to make reservations in advance as these spots book up quickly! And, if an at-home tea party is more your style, the Neverland Tea Salon’s high tea is also available for take out.

Have Brunch with the Best

Going out for brunch for Mother’s Day in Vancouver is an easy decision – choosing the right place for the occasion can make it a challenge. There are dozens of restaurants that are offering specialty meals and deals to celebrate mom. Here is a sampling:

• Coast Restaurant: Mother’s Day seafood brunch featuring towers of fresh seafood with a complimentary glass of Prosecco
• Temper Chocolate and Pastry: Pre-order pastries to cater your own brunch at home
• The Teahouse in Stanley Park: Regular brunch menu with two special brunch features: lobster benedict and Florentine latke
• Trattoria Burnaby: Mother’s Day brunch buffet with a complimentary glass of Prosecco ($59/ person)
• Truffles Fine Foods at VanDusen Botanical Garden: Mother’s Day brunch buffet with a complimentary mimosa
• Fable Kitchen: Mother’s Day brunch with coffee / tea and a mimosa or Caesar.
• Botanist: A super fancypants Mother’s Day brunch at the Fairmont Pacific Rim

Relax and Recharge

No one deserves a relaxing day at the spa more than mom. Treat her to an afternoon at a local spa where she can recharge and feel refreshed. How about the Mummy & Me special at le Petit Spa . Spa Utopia is another go-to spot with locations in North Vancouver, Vancouver, and Langley.

Check out a Show

Experiential gifts continue to be top-of-mind when wanting to gift mom something that is both meaningful and memorable. Purchasing tickets to a play or comedy show – or other type of performance – is sure to make for an unforgettable experience together. Feel like taking in a night of local theatre? Take mom to one the Arts Club Theatre Company’s upcoming productions.

Explore the City

Take mom on an adventure in the city where you can be tourists for the day. Create a list of some of the amazing places across the Lower Mainland that you’ve yet to experience together and start checking them off! From the Bloedel Conservatory in Queen Elizabeth Park (look out for hundreds of exotic birds, plants and flowers) to the historic Fort Langley (lots of cute restaurants nearby) to the Vancouver Art Gallery (always an exhibit worth checking out), make memories while developing an even greater appreciation for the city we call home.

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Check out this roundup of some of Vancouver’s best escape rooms for families…

Kid-Friendly Escape Rooms in Vancouver & the Lower Mainland

Evolve Virtual Reality

Looking to take your escape room experience up a notch? Evolve Virtual Reality is a virtual reality (VR) arcade with 11 VR escape rooms. This super immersive experience is designed to provide an accessible and family-friendly VR experience – with the added thrill of an escape room. Themes range from Chernobyl to Christmas to Jungle Quest, and more. Up to 6 players can take part, and while there is no age requirement, Evolve Virtual Reality advises that children under the age of 5 can have difficulty understanding VR.

EXIT

Touted as the ‘Ultimate Room Escape Experience’, EXIT offers a range of innovative escape rooms in varying levels of difficulty. Each location features its own themes – at Vancouver West Broadway, you’ll find Avalanche, Horcrux: Haunted Mansion, Arcade Frenzy, and CSI: The Chopping Block. Depending on age and comfort level, look for the degree of difficulty listed in each theme description. An adult must accompany children between the ages of 6-12. Multiple locations across the Lower Mainland.

Find and Seek

Find and Seek promises to deliver a memorable adventure! The immersive puzzle adventure escape room experience is located in downtown Vancouver, and features two escape room themes: The Mystery at the Majestic Theatre and The Curse of Madame Zita’s Curiosities. Children between the ages of 8-15 should be accompanied by an adult.

I-EXIT

I-EXIT takes a European-style approach to escape games, with a unique design and high- quality props. There are four themes with 10 rooms in total: Pirates on the Rocks, Doomed to Win in Vegas, Party at the Studio, and The Matrix. I-EXIT is designed to be non-scary with varying levels of difficulty, and an emphasis on fun and creativity. Players are given 60 minutes to escape – longer than most places. All players 16 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Located in downtown Vancouver.

Time Escape Vancouver

At Time Escape, you’ll find several fun-filled real life escape games to mentally and logically immerse yourselves. Themes include Sacred Treasure (the highest success rate), The Prophecy (popular with kids), The Sorcerer’s Quest, and 2055 / Bonus game. Adult supervision with young children is recommended. Head to Richmond to check out the Lower Mainland’s only location.

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