Welcome to yoyomama’s weekend guide! Your go-to list of family friendly fun things to do with kids in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.
It’s a gorgeous fall, and celebrations abound this weekend! With harvest festivals, Vancouver 125 celebrations, and several BC Rivers Day events, you can be celebrating (and bouncing in castles) all weekend long. You can see popular children’s performer Will Stroet, twice, and also catch favourites Bobs & Lolo!
Nature Walk At Hastings Park Sanctuary
Saturday, September 24th, 9 am – 11 am, The Sanctuary at Hastings Park, E. Hastings Street, Vancouver
East Vancouver has a secret, and it’s the Hastings Park Sanctuary, home to over 120 species of birds. Bring your binoculars (but not your dogs) for this free nature walk hosted by the Hastings Park Conservancy. Free parking on site, or go green and take the bus: www.hastingspark.ca
Treasured Bulb Sale
Saturday, September 24th, 11 am – 3 pm, UBC Botanical Garden and Centre for Plant Research, 6804 SW Marine Drive, Vancouver
This year, bulbs are ‘buried treasure’ at the gardens, and they’re celebrating in style. There will be bulbs of all kinds, as well as accessories and tools available in the shop. Come in costume and you will get into the garden for free. You can ‘walk the plank’ by taking the Greenheart Canopy Walkway (at a special price for the day), and there will be face painting and pirate hat crafts for the kids: www.botanicalgarden.ubc.ca
ArtStarts: A Musical Journey With Boris Sichon
Saturday, September 24th, 11 am & 1 pm, ArtStarts, 808 Richards Street, Vancouver
Let music take you around the world this weekend with Boris Sichon and his more than 25 instruments. ArtStarts is a series of free workshops downtown Vancouver: www.artstarts.com
Vancouver Community Policing Day
Saturday, September 24th, 11 am – 2 pm, Promenade Level, Vancouver Library Central Branch, 250 West Georgia Street, Vancouver
Celebrate local heroes this weekend, and find out what you can do to help keep your homes and neighbourhoods safe. There will be safety displays, face painting, child ID, and a special appearance from Constable Chip: www.southvancouvercpc.com
Dunbar Village Harvest Festival
Saturday, September 24th, 11 am – 3 pm, Dunbar Street between 26th and 30th, Vancouver
Bouncy castles, balloon animals, and Sumo wrestling are just some of the activities you’ll find on Dunbar this weekend. On the Shoppers’ Stage you’ll enjoy Bobs & Lolo and ABBA tribute band Abbacadabra. Don’t miss the prize wheel or the duck pond, and look out for the roaming dragon: www.dunbarvillage.ca
Harvest Festival
Saturday, September 24th, 11 am – 4 pm, Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House, 800 East Broadway, Vancouver
This yearly festival celebrates and showcases the Mount Pleasant community. The street will be closed for the party, making room for bands, games, food, and more. Inside, find workshops, a silent auction, and a raffle. New this year is the Interactive Sonic Playground for the kids: www.mpnh.org
7th Annual Vancouver International Hip Hop 4 Peace Festival
Saturday September 24th, 1 pm – 7 pm, Vancouver Art Gallery, 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver
Dance the day away in a gathering of peace designed to stand out against the global backdrop of protests and violent. Featuring international hip-hop musicians, this event is planned with youth and families in mind, and is drug and alcohol free: www.hiphopforpeace.blogspot.com
4th Annual Walk Now For Autism Speaks
Sunday, September 25th, 8:30 am – Noon, Nat Bailey Stadium, 4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver
Bring the family, start a corporate team, or walk on your own, and help raise money to fund research and support programs for Autism and related issues. There will be a bouncy castle, kids play area, entertainment on the stage, and visits from popular mascots. You can even stay after the walk for a BBQ: www.walknowforautismspeaks.ca
6th Annual North Vancouver Cops For Cancer BBQ
Monday, September 26th, 11 am – 2 pm, Civic Plaza, 14th & Lonsdale, North Vancouver
Each year, hundreds of members of law enforcement and emergency services get together to fundraise for childhood cancer. You can enjoy tasty food while donating to the cause. All funds raised are invested in life-saving research and support services: www.cnv.org
25th Annual Garbage Can Art and Auction
Sunday, September 25th, 11 am – 3 pm, Public Market Courtyard, Granville Island, Vancouver
Twenty-five artists will be taking plain metal garbage cans, adding paint and whatever else their creativity dreams up, and creating ‘one of a kind’ art pieces. After judging, these pieces will be auctioned off with funds going to purchase art supplies for BC Children’s Hospital’s art therapy program. And while the creating happens, local Celtic band Blackthorn will provide a musical atmosphere: www.granvilleisland.com
The Word On The Street National Book & Magazine Festival
Sunday, September 25th, 11 am – 4 pm, see site for schedule, Library Square, 350 W. Georgia Street, Vancouver
You’ll want to get to the Kids, Tweens & Teens Tent early this year, as there are only 150 cards available for the annual kids-only scavenger hunt. Your full card can be traded for an awesome prize! While there, check out The Vancouver Sun Raise-a-Reader Corner, and the Family Literacy Tent: www.thewordonthestreet.ca
Portobello West
Sunday, September 25th, 11 am – 5 pm, Creekside Community Recreation Centre, 1 Athletes Way, Vancouver
Looking for independent designers, inventive designs, and the most style you can pack into one room? Don’t miss Portobello West: www.portobellowest.com
This Is Strathcona Vancouver 125 Festival
Sunday, September 25th, 11 am – 6 pm, MacLean Park, 797 Keefer Street, Vancouver
Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood celebrates the city’s 125th birthday with a scavenger hunt, dancing, poetry, and entertainment. Kids will have fun in the Kids zone. Come celebrate this culturally diverse and fascinating area of the city: www.thisisstrathcona.ca
Vancouver BC Rivers Day Celebration
Sunday, September 25th, Noon – 4 pm, River District Centre, 8683 Kerr Street, Vancouver
Celebrate the mighty Fraser River this weekend with fun for the whole family. There will be yoga, origami, a pie baking competition (pre-register to: syoung@parklane.com), arts and craft booths, and live jazz music: www.evolvemultimedia.ca
Blim Monthly Community Market
Sunday, September 25th, Noon – 5 pm, Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, Vancouver
This community market focuses on nurturing and promoting creativity within the community. Not limited to crafts, you’ll find food, fashion, vintage items, records, and much more: www.blim.ca
Stories Along The Trail
Sunday, September 25th, 1 pm – 4 pm, Meet at 4915 W. 16 Avenue, Vancouver
Bring your family for a walk through the trails, and you will find costumed actors who will tell you the stories of the forest. This unique storytelling event is free: www.pacificspiritparksociety.org
Marie-Louise Gay At Kidsbooks
Monday, September 26th, 7 pm, 3083 West Broadway, Vancouver, & Tuesday, September 27th, 4 pm, Semiahmoo Library, 1815 152nd Street, Surrey
Come and see Marie-Louise Gay as she presents her new book: Caramba and Henry. You’ll need to purchase tickets to the event, but you can redeem the ticket against purchase of the book at the event: www.kidsbooks.ca
Park Royal VIP Fall Fashion Show
Tuesday, September 27th, 7 pm doors open, 7:30 pm show, Park Royal South, Upper Level, Corner Taylor Way & Marine Drive, West Vancouver
It’s New York fashion week in West Vancouver, and you can be there. For just $20, you’ll see the hottest trends and get tips from Catherine Franklin, beauty and style editor for Chatelaine. You’ll also get a gift bag stuffed with goodies and deals. Your host for the evening is Michael Eckford of Urban Rush fame. All proceeds from the event go to Hollyburn Family Services: www.shopparkroyal.com
Lauren Baratz-Logsted at Kidsbooks
Tuesday, September 27th, 4 pm, North Van District Library, 1277 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver, & 7 pm, West Point Grey United Church Sanctuary, 4595 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver, & Wednesday, September 28th, 7 pm, Kidsbooks,960-15033 32nd Avenue, South Surrey
Lauren Baratz-Logsted will present the eighth and final book of the Sisters Eight series. You’ll need to purchase tickets to the event, but you can redeem the ticket against purchase of the book during the event: www.kidsbooks.ca
Farther Afield:
Firehall Centre For The Arts Open House
Friday, September 23rd, 10 am – 8 pm, Firehall Centre for the Arts, 11489 84th Avenue, Delta
The Firehall Centre for the Arts is reopening and they’re hosting an open house so families can check out the programs and events they offer. There will be free program demonstrations, with preschool activities from 10am – 1 pm, and child and youth programs from 3 pm – 5 pm: www.corp.delta.bc.ca
The Transition to Parenthood
Friday, September 23rd, Noon – 2 pm, Toys R Us, Willowbrook Mall, 19705 Fraser Highway, Langley
Presented by Prenatal to Parenting, this free workshop is a section of the popular Bringing Baby Home™ Program. Aimed at expecting parents and parents of kids up to age 3, you’ll learn about what to expect after having a baby, why the transition can be difficult, and how to build friendships: www.prenataltoparenting.com
Artists On The River
Friday, September 23rd, 5 pm – 9 pm & Saturday, September 24th, 11 am – 4 pm, Fraser River Discovery Centre, 788 Quayside Drive, New Westminster
Come for a walk on the boardwalk and celebrate the Fraser River. You’ll find art displays, live entertainment, and children’s crafts at this river-inspired art festival: www.fraserriverdiscovery.org
Kidstuff Only Swapmeet
Saturday, September 24th, 9 am – 1 pm, Willingdon Centre, 1491 Carleton Avenue, Burnaby
This kids only swap meet will be filled with everything for kids in the 12 and under set, with some maternity clothes tossed in. Clean out your closets or stop by for a bargain.
Walk Richmond
Saturday, September 24th, 10 am – 11 am, Nature House, Richmond Nature Park, 11851 Westminster Highway, Richmond
Get active and explore the RIchmond Nature Park. Walks include a stretch, warm up, and cool down. Parents with strollers are welcome: www.richmond.ca
National Tree Day Planting Party
Saturday, September 24th, 10 am – 2 pm, Sullivan Park, 62A Avenue east of 152 Street, Surrey
Come out and plant a tree, but don’t stop there! Dance with GoGO Bonkers, plays some mini golf, get your faces painted, and play nature-inspired games: www.surrey.ca
Kensington Prairie Community Centre Grand Opening
Saturday, September 24th, 11 am – 2 pm, Kensington Prairie Community Centre, 16824 – 32 Avenue, South Surrey
Come see the new Kensington Prairie Community Centre and explore the new home of Semiahmoo Family Place. Hang out with Korki the Clown and listen to the music of Nelson. There will also be crafts and activities for all to enjoy: www.semiahmoofamilyplace.com
Community Appreciation Day At The Greater Vancouver Zoo
Saturday, September 24th, 11 am – 3 pm, Greater Vancouver Zoo, 5048 – 264th Street, Aldergrove
The Zoo wants to thank their supporters and showcase local community organizations, with groups present to tell you about their series, kids activities, and as always, face paint! Purchase or renew your membership and get one free bonus month: www.gvzoo.com
Seniors’ And Family Festival
Saturday, September 24th, 11 am – 3 pm, Royal City Centre, 6th Avenue and 6th Street, New Westminster
New Westminster has combined their seniors’ festival with family day, and now everyone can celebrate together. Enjoy the music of Steve Maddock, and let the kids have fun in the Kids zone: www.newwestcity.ca
Apple Day
Saturday, September 24th, Noon – 4 pm, Historic Stewart Farm, 13723 Crescent Road, Surrey
Apples abound, and you can learn about (and taste!) all sorts of varieties at the farm. Bring your questions as there will be master gardeners on hand. If you get inspired, you can purchase your own fruit trees: www.surrey.ca
GETI Fest
Saturday, September 24th, Noon – 9 pm, Memorial Peace Park, 11995 – 224 Street, Maple Ridge
Celebrate community under the big tests (think this is big tents?) this weekend. You’ll find artisan displays, a parade, dancing, and a BBQ: www.goldenearstransitioninitiative.ning.com
Multifaith Lunches For The Homeless At Guru Nanak Gurdwara
Saturday, September 24th, 5 pm -7 pm, Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara, 7050 – 120th Street, Surrey
Your children can learn the importance of helping others by making paper bag lunches for the homeless. You’ll connect with your community, hear a Sikh story about the importance of community service, and if you like, you can stay for dinner at the Gurdwara.
18th Annual Ridge Meadows Rivers Day
Sunday, September 25th, 11 am – 3 pm, Rivers Heritage Centre, 24959 Alouette Road, Maple Ridge
It’s Rivers Day and there’s a party going on at Allco Park. You’ll find a BBQ, music, a bouncy castle, fishing pond, and lots of children’s activities. Adults will like the interactive environmental displays, raffle, and silent auction: www.alouetteriver.org
Kanaka Connections B.C. Rivers Day
Sunday, September 25th, 11 am – 3 pm, Kanaka Creek Regional Park, Access the riverfront south of Lougheed Highway on River Road, Maple Ridge
If you’re in the Kanaka Creek area, you can celebrate Rivers Day with a canoe tour of the creek. There will also be children’s activities and environmental displays. These free activities will take about an hour and a half, leaving you time to check out some of the other BC Rivers Day celebrations: www.keeps.org
Port Moody Festival Of The Arts Art 4 U Day
Sunday, September 25th, 11 am – 3 pm, Port Moody Arts Centre, 2425 St Johns Street, Port Moody
Get your face painted, make a button, try Raku, and enjoy so much more at the Art Centre. While most events are free, some have a small cost, like the always fun Will Stroet, who will perform at 2 pm: www.pomoartsfestival.ca
BC Rivers Day Festival
Sunday, September 25th, 11 am – 4 pm, Williams Park, 68 Avenue & 238 Street, Township of Langley
The Langley Environmental Partners Society and the Township of Langley are celebrating BC Rivers Day big this year! With over 25 interactive displays, including live owls and a life sized salmon board game, you’ll find hours of fun. Enjoy the music of Will Stroet, as well as a jazz ensemble and a jug band: www.evolvemultimedia.ca
Family Sundays
Sunday, September 25th, 1 pm – 4 pm, Richmond Art Gallery, 7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond
On the fourth Sunday of every month you can bring your kids to a free drop-in art program. Run by Richmond high school volunteers, your tots will have lots of time to be creative and explore art: www.richmondartgallery.org
Firehall Centre For The Arts Family Concert Series Featuring Bobs & Lolo
Sunday, September 25th, 2 pm – 4 pm, Firehall Centre for the Arts, 11489 84th Avenue, Delta
Sing and dance with popular children’s entertainers Bobs & Lolo. With songs like ‘The Log Song’, ‘Rainbows’ and ‘Connecting The Dots’, your kids will be learning about taking care of the planet while singing along. This event is expected to sell out, so be sure to register early: www.corp.delta.bc.ca
Family Fun Night!
Wednesday, September 28th, 6 pm – 8 pm, the Lodge at Camp Alexandra, 2916 McBride Avenue, Crescent Beach
Come see what Camp Alexandra has to offer! There will be a family scavenger hunt, snacks and games. Donations gratefully accepted: www.campalex.com
Do you have an event you would like to see in our weekend guide? Then send us your details and we’ll help you get the word out. Looking for a feature listing? Contact Erin, our Director of Sales and Marketing, for more information.
And we wanted to remind you to always call or visit the website for event info before you head out just in case any changes have been made since we posted it. And of course, have fun!