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.
Wednesday, January 1st (2025)
- 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.
- Salmon, Cedar and Water Ceremony – a walk and ceremony honoring the salmon, trees, river and local ecosystem at the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve in Chilliwack starting at 11:00 am. It’s led by members of the Sqwá and The’wa:li First Nations. (TBC)
- Bright Nights – Christmas lights and decorations at Stanley Park. Admission is by donation benefiting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
Thursday, January 2nd (2025)
- 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.
- Bright Nights – Christmas lights and decorations at Stanley Park. Admission is by donation benefiting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.
- 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 3rd (2025)
- 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.
- Bright Nights – Christmas lights and decorations at Stanley Park. Admission is by donation benefiting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.
- 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.
- 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.
Saturday, January 4th (2025)
- 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).
- Bright Nights – Christmas lights and decorations at Stanley Park. Admission is by donation benefiting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.
- 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.
Sunday, January 5th (2025)
- 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%.
Monday, January 6th (2025)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
Tuesday, January 7th (2025)
- 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%.
Wednesday, January 8th (2025)
- 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.
- 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%.
Thursday, January 9th (2025)
- 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.
Friday, January 10th (2025)
- 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.
Saturday, January 11th (2025)
- 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%.
Sunday, January 12th (2025)
- 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.
Monday, January 13th (2025)
- 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.
- 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 14th (2025)
- 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%.
Wednesday, January 15th (2025)
- 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.
Thursday, January 16th (2025)
- 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. (TBC)
- 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.
Friday, January 17th (2025)
- Chilliwack Home, Leisure & Outdoor Living Expo – a consumer trade show at Chilliwack Heritage Park.
- 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.
- 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%.
Saturday, January 18th (2025)
Sunday, January 19th (2025)
- Chilliwack Home, Leisure & Outdoor Living Expo – a consumer trade show at Chilliwack Heritage Park.
- Discovery Day – a free family-friendly event hosted by the Association for Mineral Exploration at Canada Place. (It has activities recommended for kids between the ages of 4 and 12.)
- 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).
- 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. (TBC)
- 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.
Monday, January 20th (2025)
- 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 21st (2025)
- 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%.
Wednesday, January 22nd (2025)
- 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.
Thursday, January 23rd (2025)
- PuSh Festival – in addition to ticketed events that cost money, the performing arts festival features a free Opening Party at the Fox Cabaret today.
- 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.
Friday, January 24th (2025)
- 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. There might also be live entertainment.
- 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.
Saturday, January 25th (2025)
- 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. There might also be live entertainment.
- 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.
Sunday, January 26th (2025)
- 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. There might also be live entertainment.
- 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.
Monday, January 27th (2025)
- 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).
- 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.
Tuesday, January 28th (2025)
- 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.
Wednesday, January 29th (2025)
- PuSh Festival – in addition to ticketed events that cost money, the performing arts festival features a Vietnamese Rap Concert for Babies at The Roundhouse today with Chaû Kim-Sanh and Chittakone Baccam.
- 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.
Thursday, January 30th (2025)
- 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.
Friday, January 31st (2025)
- 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.
Other Information
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 more ideas on things to do, check out Vancouver’s Best Places for Winter Activities.
Another article you might find interesting is Vancouver on a Budget.
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