4 Fun Summer Festivals in Vancouver

Nothing says summer quite like a local festival, and now that it's June, there are plenty to check out around Vancouver. Let your kids lead the way to these family-friendly community celebrations.

Cheer them on—the Rio Tinto Alcan Dragon Boat Festival comes to False Creek June 19–21. If you get tired of watching the races, head inside the Creekside Community Centre to the Dragon's Den. Besides table tennis, drumming workshops and crafts, there is a youth performer's stage.

Make room for one more ball in the air, Vancouver Buskerfest happens June 26–28 from noon until 9 pm. Stroll down Granville Street (between Dunsmuir and Nelson) and experience street theatre at its finest, with acts from all over the globe descending on downtown. No tickets required, and leave your white pants at home to keep your seating options open.

Opa! June 28 is Greek Day on Broadway, a day to eat, drink, dance and celebrate life. The Kids Zone runs from 11 am–5 pm, where your mini-Olympians will create olive wreaths, a Greek sea bottom, plant an herb garden, and learn a few Greek words in the process. With an Athenian marketplace, food vendors and live music, this is a festival alive with Greek hospitality and charm.

Tap your toes to the music at the TD International Jazz Festival, June 18–July 1 in various venues around Vancouver. With many performances being free of charge, it's a great way to expose little ones to the rhythm and energy of live music. Check out Tanga on the Granville Stage (by the Vancouver Art Gallery) on June 18 at 7:30 pm for lively world music or Rumba Calzada June 19 at 5 pm for Caribbean musical fusion.