Cherry blossom season is almost upon us (with some trees already blooming!), and we all know that means the forthcoming of spring. We hope you’re just as excited to welcome in the start of the season with a few completely free outdoor and indoor dates that you can either take your partner to, or to even enjoy with friends and family.
We’ve rounded up a few block parties, outdoor and indoor events that are all free of cost to add to your list of spring dates!
Blossoms After Dark
For three nights only, stroll through David Lam Park and be captivated by the mesmerizing beauty of illuminated cherry blossom trees. Expect an evening full of performers, food trucks, and spectacular photo ops to enjoy.
When: Friday, March 28 to Sunday, March 30
Where: 1300 Pacific Blvd
Blossom Block Party
What better way to kick off April than with the first-ever Blossom Block Party? This free, all ages celebration at Bentall’s Centre’s open-air Dunsmuir Patio features feel good dance DJs, a pop-up bar, dance performances, snacks and social spaces.
When: Saturday, April 5, 2025
Where: 1055 Dunsmuir St.
Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party
This April, kick off Asian Heritage Month the best way with the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party. Visitors can expect delicious street food, vibrant live performances, craft vendors, and basketball tournaments that will take over the heart of South Vancouver.
When: Saturday, April 26
Where: Sunset on Fraser in South Vancouver
New West Craft Market
The New West Craft Market will be your new favourite tradition on Saturdays this April and May, bringing together a mix of local makers and artisans in the community to the River Market in Downtown New Westminster.
When: Saturday, April 5, April 19, May 3, May 17
Where: 810 Quayside Dr., New Westminster
Italian Day on the Drive
Vancouver’s most anticipated cultural street festival is making its comeback this June, transforming all 14 blocks of Commercial Drive into a lively celebration with fresh gelato and cannolis, patio sips, and plenty of pizza and pasta to go around! It’s the one event from this list that you definitely won’t wanna miss.
When: Sunday, June 8
Where: Commercial Drive
Check out a free museum
There are plenty of free museums and galleries to check out around the city to tap into your creativity, making it the perfect activity for all the springtime rainy days. From the Belkin to Gallery George to the James Black Gallery (by donation admission), all these spots and more featuring talented local and international artists are worth paying a visit to.
Where: Locations above
Check out a farmers market
Warmer weather means the return of spring and summer farmers’ market dates. Starting April 6, Trout Lake and Riley Park’s markets return, with other locations opening back up in May (Kitsilano, West End, Mount Pleasant) and June (downtown and False Creek). Support local and shop for all your produce, tasty treats, artisanal goods, and more.
Where: Locations above
West Vancouver Community Cultural Fest
The District of West Vancouver will be hosting the West Vancouver Community Cultural Fest, a two-day festival bringing people together through food, music, and culture. We couldn’t think of a more perfect way to celebrate the multicultural diversity of West Vancouver!
When: May 31 to June 1
Where: Ambleside Park
Planning to make a trip out to Tofino soon? Here’s where you can find all the best stays.
