Sometimes a night out or day activity is worth every penny (like a concert or fun festival), but sometimes that penny can be better spent elsewhere. Luckily, in a city like Vancouver where rent keeps increasing (including this month too) and budgets keep decreasing, having fun and being thrifty can still go hand in hand.
Summer is a great (if not the only) time that one can partake in so many activities with zero money required. But if you’re looking for event-specific fun rather than casual activities, here’s a list of several free events happening this month.
Free Public Fashion Show
The free-to-the-public event will turn Robson Square into a runway with local designers and retailers walking the catwalk. There will be a public modelling contest too with luxurious prizes, alongside drag and dancing.
When: August 12 from 5-8 p.m.
Where: Robson Square
Outdoor Movies
Not feeling like paying for popcorn and a movie (even if it’s a panoramic 4D experience)? You can bring your own snacks and blankets to various free movie screenings around the city this summer.
Summer Movie Nights – every Thursday night at Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza until August 18
Evo Summer Cinema – every Tuesday night at Second Beach until August 23
Sunset Cinema – every Wednesday night at Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza until August 31
DOXA Outdoor Screenings – on August 12 and 19 at Vancouver Public Library (Central Library Branch) from 9-10:30 p.m.
Monstercat Compound
This free music festival comes with food trucks, a beer garden, street artists creating art on-scene, the Monstercat Street Piano, an air-brush tattoo station and a gaming zone. No registration or tickets are required but those wanting to attend are encouraged to RSVP.
When: August 20 from 2-9 p.m.
Where: Monstercat HQ – 380 Railway Street (from Railway to Dunlevy streets)
Granville Promenade
Every weekend this street party will be taking over two blocks of Granville Street in the downtown core. Each day will have a different theme.
When: Every Saturday and Sunday of August from 1-7 p.m.
Where: Granville Street from Smithe to Helmcken streets
Vancouver Mural Festival
This year’s festival unveils 50 new murals and celebrates Vancouver’s art community with open art studios, mural tours, block parties, and a grand street party finale. The celebrations last over a week long and are free for everyone to join.
When: August 4-14
Where: The City Centre Artist Lodge will serve as the festival hub but there will be various locations for festival events
Dungeons and Dragons and You
This free event is for fans and newcomers alike. The night will include an introduction to D&D which will teach the basics and let first-timers play a short one shot session. Those familiar with D&D are welcome to join as a player or a Dungeon Master.
When: August 18 from 6-8:30 p.m.
Where: Vancouver Public Library (Central Library Branch)
Brave Boutique
This event is for female-identifying youth aged 12 to 18. The boutique is an annual back-to-school shopping event where attendees can shop for free, book an on-site haircut or hair styling appointment, and receive a free meal. There will be new or gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, hygiene products and cosmetics to look through for a total makeover. Only 75 spots are available and youth can register online for free.
When: August 15
Where: Central Presbyterian Church – 1155 Thurlow St
Vancouver Black Block Party
Celebrate and embrace Black culture at this free block party which will have dancing, eating and friend-making all day long.
When: August 27 from noon to 9 p.m.
Where: Vancouver Art Gallery (North Side) – 750 Hornby St
Pop Queen Cardio Community Workout
This event is making fitness fun and free. Don’t worry about a lack of dance skills, the cardio workouts dance through about 10-12 tracks each week (the same songs each time) and are easy to follow. The summer series has been sashaying all summer long and will end in August.
When: August 17 from 6-7 p.m.
Where: Jim Deva Plaza – 1200 Bute St
Pilates in The Plaza
This outdoor pop-up pilates class is open to all levels of experience and will work on core strength, muscular endurance, and body awareness. The event is free but registration is required and is a bring-you-own mat and water bottle (there will be a limited amount of mats available to borrow).
When: August 4 and 11 from 6-7 p.m.
Where: Jack Poole Plaza – 1055 Canada Place
This article is updated weekly.
