The last long weekend of the summer is upon us, marking a bittersweet end to the season. That means it’s time to hit up the PNE Fair, enjoy a beachside sunset or two, and check out a number of end-of-summer traditions across the city. Here are 11 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (Aug. 29-Sept. 1).
Vancouver’s ultimate end-of-summer tradition, the PNE Fair, is on until Labour Day, with programming for the whole family to enjoy. There’s a mix of internationally renowned artists taking the stage, innovative new shows, and timeless classics like SuperDogs and Duelling Piano Kings.
The popular Summer Night Concert series is still underway, with the following artists taking over the Chevrolet Stage in the Pacific Coliseum:
- Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 – Tom Cochrane
- Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025 – Meghan Trainor
- Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025 – TBA
- Monday, Sept. 1, 2025 – Rainbow Kitten Surprise
On the Freedom Mobile Stage, the following artists will be performing:
- Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025: The Motown Show
- Friday, Aug. 29 and Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025: TATUS Festival
- Sunday, Aug. 31 and Monday, Sept. 1, 2025: Luisa Marshall as TINA TURNER
When: Until Monday, Sept. 1, 2025
Time: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 2901 East Hastings St.
Cost: $20 to $25 per adult
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+
Celebrate 50 years of VanDusen Botanical Garden with nature-inspired fun, live entertainment, and community connections on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025. Enjoy hands-on activities in three themed zones, live entertainment on the Great Lawn, local food vendors, and guided historical tours that highlight the Garden’s rich history. You can also learn tips from horticultural experts, and take part in a variety of workshops and activities from community partners like the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival and Fleurs de Villes.
Event activities are included with garden admission or membership. Book your ticket online in advance to save!
When: Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 5251 Oak St.
Cost: $15.05 per adult, $10.55 for seniors and youth, and $7.55 for children
Shaughnessy Street Park is transforming for Sunwave’s closing party of the season. EDM lovers can expect iconic riverside vibes and live sets that will have you on your feet all day long.
When: Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025
Time: 4 to 10 p.m.
Where: 9250 Shaughnessy St.
Cost: $13.11
Presented by Jokers Canada, this comedy night is full of pro headliners and some of Canada’s best touring comics, all of whom are performing their stand-up at Hollywood Theatre this weekend.
When: Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025
Time: 8 p.m.
Where: 3123 West Broadway
Cost: $37.80
The end of the week marks the start of Canada’s largest Brazilian cultural celebration! With live music on both days, authentic street food, and even a mini Carnaval celebration, this festival is jam-packed with the flavours, sounds, and great vibes of Vancouver’s Brazilian community, and all are invited to experience it.
When: Friday, Aug. 29 and Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025
Time: 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday, and noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday
Where: 770 Pacific Blvd.
Cost: $75 for Friday, $15 for Saturday, and $85 for two days
Harbour Beach is North Vancouver’s latest pop-up experience, featuring a patio by the Waterfront Gazebo, featuring live DJ sets, lawn games, and tasty bites and sips from local (rotating) vendors.
When: Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025
Time: 3 to 8 p.m.
Where: Block 200 Esplanade West, North Vancouver
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
The beloved Richmond Night Market is in its 25th year, complete with hundreds of international street food booths, local retail vendors, and a first-of-its-kind zipline.
When: Open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Time: 7 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 11 p.m. on Sundays
Where: 8351 River Rd., Richmond
Cost: $7 for GA
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
Gastown Sunday Set is a car-free series that’s transformed the cobblestone streets of Gastown into a pedestrian haven. And this weekend marks the last event of the year!
When: Every Sunday until Aug. 31, 2025
Time: Varies per event
Where: Water Street in Gastown
Cost: Free admission
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