Five underrated Vancouver festivals that are definitely worth your time!
As summer returns to Vancouver, so do the festivals. You’ve probably heard about the big ones like Bard on the Beach and Richmond Night Market – but there is a hotbed of small, fringe festivals that are worth checking out. Here are five underrated festivals around Vancouver that should be on your radar.
Rodeo & Country Fair
Where: Cloverdale
When: May 19 – 22
This world famous rodeo and country fair will celebrate its 129th anniversary this year! Watch cowboys compete for a grand cash prize with the whole family. You’ll see everything from bareback riding to rodeo clown acts! The accompanying country fair is also great for families. With events like a BBQ fest, country music performances, lumberjack shows as well as rides, there’s fun to be had for everyone. Visit cloverdalerodeo.com for tickets and performance schedules.
Ships to Shore Festival
Where: Stevenson Village, Richmond
When: May 5 – 7
The Kaiwo Maru, one of the world’s tallest ships, will drop anchor at Garry Point Park. This Japanese ship was built in 1889 and has over 29,000 square feet of sails! The Ships to Shore Festival is a chance to come out and visit this ‘King of the Sea’. There will be entertainers, food carts galore, and even a chance to climb aboard the ship for free. Visit shipstoshore.ca for more details.
YVR Food Festival
Where: Olympic Village, Downtown
When: June 29 – July 3
This annual food festival is a food lover’s paradise. There are a variety of events to check out here. There’s the ‘Street Food Showdown’, where over 80 food carts and restaurants come together to partake in the city’s biggest food event ever. Another interesting event is ‘Food For Thought’, a speaker series where people share their personal stories on food. Also, be sure to check out ‘The Big Brunch’, the largest outdoor brunch in Vancouver. For the complete list of events and ticket purchase, visit yvrfoodfest.com.
European Festival 2017
Where: Swangard Stadium, Burnaby
When: May 27 – 28
This exciting festival showcases European culture from over 20 countries, including Spain, France, Germany, Russia, Britain and more. The festival begins at 11 a.m. and includes live music, a beer garden, vendors with different ethnic foods, handicrafts, and souvenirs. There’s also an Arts Plaza, where artists demonstrate their craft as they work magic with glass, wood and more. You can purchase a weekend pass for both days either at the gate or online at europeanfestival.ca.
Shipyard Night Market
Where: Shipbuilder’s Square, North Vancouver
When: May 5 – September 29
Every Friday night from 5-10 p.m., the area around Lonsdale Quay transforms into a bustling, upscale night market in the summer. Here you’ll find artisanal treats, local art, handcrafted chocolates and accessories, as well as a selection of organic produce, to name a few. Not to mention, stunning views of the city. With over 35 food carts, a beer garden and live music, this cozy night market is a lovely way to kickstart a weekend!
