Free Vancouver Events in January Canada Reviews

There are lots of free things to do in Vancouver in January including winter markets, holiday lights, parks to explore and various special events.

At the beginning of January there are Polar Bear Swims and end-of-season Christmas activities. All month long there are Winter Farmers Markets on the weekends. There are other fun, affordable things to do too.

For a list of some of the best things to do in January, including activities that aren’t free, check out the January Events Calendar. For a list of the best FREE (or almost free) special events this month, see below. Another article that might also be of interest is Vancouver on a Budget.

Thursday, January 1st (2026)

New Year’s Day – a statutory holiday when most people don’t have to go to work.
White Rock Polar Plunge – a free event in the water by the pier starting near the giant rock in White Rock.
Other Polar Bear Swims – events that include dips in the ocean at English Bay and North Vancouver’s Deep Cove. There are also swims in Squamish, at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody and Boundary Bay Regional Park in Delta. All are free to watch and either free or inexpensive to swim at.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open with festive lights in the area. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.

Friday, January 2nd (2026)

Bill Reid Gallery – free admission to the First Nations art gallery between 2:00 and 5:00 pm (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
Vancouver Art Gallery – admission from 4:00 to 8:00 pm is by donation (because it’s the first Friday of the month).
Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village – free Christmas things to do and see at Burnaby Village Museum.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open with festive lights in the area. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Saturday, January 3rd (2026)

Japanese New Year Celebrations – a Japanese Oshogatsu event happens at the Nikkei Centre in Burnaby between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. Admission is free.
Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Nat Bailey Stadium.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open with festive lights in the area. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Sunday, January 4th (2026)

Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open with festive lights in the area. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Monday, January 5th (2026)

Tuesday, January 6th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Wednesday, January 7th (2026)

Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.
Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Thursday, January 8th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Friday, January 9th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Saturday, January 10th (2026)

Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Nat Bailey Stadium.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Bright Walk in White Rock – Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Lights by the Lake – Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Sunday, January 11th (2026)

Port Moody Winter Farmers Market – at the Port Moody Recreation Centre at 300 Ioco Road from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Cloverdale Flea Market – a large yard and garage sale-style market that’s both indoors and outdoors at Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds all day until 3:00 pm. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.
Bright Walk in White Rock – last day of Christmas lights and holiday decorations along the waterfront in White Rock.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Lights by the Lake – last day for the Sasquatch-themed holiday illuminations along the waterfront at Harrison Hot Springs.
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Monday, January 12th (2026)

Tuesday, January 13th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Wednesday, January 14th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Thursday, January 15th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Beaty Nocturnal – admission to UBC’s Beaty Biodiversity Museum is by donation this evening between 5:00 and 8:30 pm. (Note: This event may or may not being happening this year. Exact details are to be confirmed.)
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Friday, January 16th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Saturday, January 17th (2026)

Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Nat Bailey Stadium.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Vive les Voyageurs – an event celebrating French-Canadian culture at Fort Langley National Historic Site. Regular admission rates apply, but it’s free for youth ages 17 and under. (Note: This event may or may not being happening this month. Exact details are to be confirmed.)
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Sunday, January 18th (2026)

Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.

Winter Markets

Port Moody Winter Farmers Market – at the Port Moody Recreation Centre at 300 Ioco Road from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Cloverdale Flea Market – a large yard and garage sale-style market that’s both indoors and outdoors at Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds all day until 3:00 pm. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Monday, January 19th (2026)

Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).

Tuesday, January 20th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
- Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
- Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
- Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, interactive exhibit about hockey.
- Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
- Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, and Port Moody Station Museum. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Wednesday, January 21st (2026)

Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
- Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
- Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
- Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, interactive exhibit about hockey.
- Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
- Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, and Port Moody Station Museum. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, January 22nd (2026)

PuSh Festival – in addition to ticketed events that cost money, the performing arts festival features an Opening Party at the Birdhouse today at 44 West 4th Avenue in Vancouver. Admissions is free with advanced registration.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
- Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
- Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
- Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, interactive exhibit about hockey.
- Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
- Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, and Port Moody Station Museum. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, January 23rd (2026)

Dine Out Vancouver Street Food City – food trucks set up in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery. Admission is free, but you have to pay for the food.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Free Events in February

Saturday, January 24th (2026)

Dine Out Vancouver Street Food City – food trucks set up in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery. Admission is free, but you have to pay for the food.
Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Nat Bailey Stadium.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Sunday, January 25th (2026)

Dine Out Vancouver Street Food City – food trucks set up in the plaza outside the Vancouver Art Gallery. Admission is free, but you have to pay for the food.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.

Winter Markets

Port Moody Winter Farmers Market – at the Port Moody Recreation Centre at 300 Ioco Road from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Cloverdale Flea Market – a large yard and garage sale-style market that’s both indoors and outdoors at Surrey’s Cloverdale Fairgrounds all day until 3:00 pm. Admission is $2, but free for kids ages 12 and under.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Monday, January 26th (2026)

Tuesday, January 27th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Cheap Movie Night – at various movie theatres throughout Metro Vancouver (so although not free, it is less expensive than usual).
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
- Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
- Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
- Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, interactive exhibit about hockey.
- Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
- Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, and Port Moody Station Museum. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Wednesday, January 28th (2026)

Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
- Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
- Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
- Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, interactive exhibit about hockey.
- Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
- Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, and Port Moody Station Museum. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Thursday, January 29th (2026)

Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:
- Fort Langley – the national historic site is very affordable, especially for children and youth under the age of 18 who get in for free.
- Engine 374 Pavilion – an indoor train museum with a real locomotive and free admission at the Roundhouse in Yaletown.
- Museum of Surrey – the free museum in Cloverdale currently has a special, interactive exhibit about hockey.
- Harrison Sasquatch Museum – a free attraction with exhibits about local folklore and culture.
- Other places that are either free or with admission by donation on various days of the week include Polygon Gallery, Maple Ridge Museum, Mackin House, and Port Moody Station Museum. (See attraction articles and websites for details about hours and admission.)

Friday, January 30th (2026)

Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.
If poor weather, then check out our list of the Lower Mainland’s Best Places on a Rainy Day (although most aren’t free) or go window Shopping at an indoor mall like Metropolis at Metrotown.

Other Inexpensive Things to Do

Vancouver on a Budget – other places to explore include the following:

Saturday, January 31st (2026)

Riley Park Farmers Market – from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm at Nat Bailey Stadium.
Lights at Lafarge – Christmas illuminations and decorations at night in Coquitlam at Lafarge Lake.
Granville Island – Vancouver’s world-famous shopping district and public market are open. The False Creek Seawall is also nice to walk around this time of year.
Robson Square Ice Skating – free ice skating on the covered rink all day behind the Vancouver Art Gallery.
Skating at the Shipyards – from 12:00 until 8:00 pm on the giant rink at Shipyard Commons in North Vancouver (weather permitting).
Heritage Harbour at the Maritime Museum – you can wander around on the docks in front of the Vancouver Maritime Museum for free. Also, if you want to go inside the museum, use the promo code BESTVANCOUVER when purchasing your tickets online to save 25%.
Lower Mainland Parks – these are great free places to explore, get exercise and enjoy the fresh air if and while the weather is good.