Happy short week, Vancouver! It’s the start of a new month, and September marks the transition between the seasons. So we’ve got a mix of things to do for those who want to make summer last a little bit longer, and those who are keen are diving into cozy season. From the Vancouver Fringe Fest to a Labubu Rave, here are 10 of the best things to do in Vancouver this week (Sept. 2-5).
Looking to get your feet wet ahead of VIFF this year? There’s a short film exhibition coming to The Cinematheque this Tuesday that you won’t want to miss. From music videos to short documentaries to animations, this two-hour exhibition has it all.
When: Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Where: 1131 Howe St.
Cost: $17.40
This independent local arts festival has been a staple in the city since 1985, fostering a community of emerging performing artists that tours across North America. This year’s festival features 87 live theatre, comedy, drag, and music performances.
Looking for a spot to unwind at or connect with a friend between shows? Head to the Fringe Bar, where you’ll find refreshments and nightly food trucks on a covered patio, as well as some of your fave local performers.
When: Thursday, Sept. 4 to Sept. 14, 2025
Time: Varies per show
Where: Locations across Vancouver
Cost: Varies per show
The Improv Centre on Granville Island is putting on a new experimental show called Spontaneous Combustion that blends seasoned pros with rising stars for the ideal night of comedy and connection. Get ready to experience a chain of improv scenes where anything can happen.
Tickets are priced at $10, $15, and $20, and you can choose how much you want to pay.
When: Until Sept. 23, 2025
Time: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: 1502 Durunleau St.
Cost: $10 to $20 per person
Cheer on the Vancouver Canadians as they face off against the Everett AquaSox. With a game nearly every day this week, you’ve got plenty of chances to enjoy this classic summertime tradition at the Nat.
When: Games from Tuesday, Sept. 2 to Friday, Sept. 5, 2025
Time: Times vary
Where: 4601 Ontario St.
Cost: $25+
Broadway Across Canada has officially brought The Lion King production to Vancouver, and you don’t want to miss out on the incredible artistry, from the costumes to the unforgettable music. The Tony Award-winning musical features some of Broadway’s most recognizable songs and choreography, and now is your chance to see it all come to life onstage in Vancouver.
When: Until Sept. 14, 2025
Time: Various showtimes
Where: 630 Hamilton St.
Cost: $61+
A Bright Mark Left is a project by three local visual artists: Shannon Pawliw, Charlene Vickers, and Jean Paul Langlois. All three artists work in large-scale media and have come together to create a collection of vibrant paintings on display at THIS Gallery on East Broadway.
When: Until Sept. 7, 2025
Time: 1 to 6 p.m.
Where: 108 East Broadway (alley)
Cost: Free admission
The 2025 Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival is in full swing, and you can check out one of four iconic productions: Much Ado About Nothing, The Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] [again], and The Dark Lady.
When: Until Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: 1695 Whyte Ave.
Cost: $35 to $88 per person
Greta Bar is transforming this Friday for a mischievous night of chaos. Yes, we’re talking about the Labubu Rave! Guests can expect the arcade bar to be decked out in Labubus, with the chance for attendees to win their own. There will be special guest DJs to keep you and your tiny pal going all night long.
When: Saturday, Sept. 5, 2025
Time: 9 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Where: 50 W. Cordova St.
Cost: Free admission before 9:30 p.m.
The Shipyards Night Market is on until Sept. 12, so it’s not too late to kick back on a Friday for some classic summer fun at the Shipyards. Hit up some patios or breweries after work, enjoy some live music, and snag some food truck eats at Shipbuilders Square.
When: Every Friday until Sept. 12, 2025
Time: 3 to 10 p.m.
Where: The Shipyards, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission
Welp, it’s finally happened: 2010s-themed parties are now considered “throwback” nights, and while nothing has made us feel older, it is an excuse to dig into the back of your closet and dance along to LMFAO shamelessly.
When: Friday, Aug. 1, 2025
Time: 10:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 2321 Main St.
Cost: $16.40
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