7 Family-Friendly Spring Festivals in Vancouver

With the warmer weather finally here (and everyone wanting to spend more time outdoors), what is there to do in the Lower Mainland this spring? Don’t worry, we've got you covered. Check out these family-friendly festivals on this April through June.

If movies are more your speed, the Reel 2 Reel International Film Festival for Youth will be on from April 8th to 14th. There is an elementary program, high school program, and other activities, plus workshops for kids of various ages. The films showcase up-and-coming talent and taking advantage of the festival’s workshops is a great way to encourage a love of the arts. Find more info at r2rfestival.org.

On April 14th and 15th, the Sakura Days Japan Fair is happening at the Van Dusen Botanical Garden, as part of the month-long Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival. This family-friendly festival will showcase Japanese cultural and performing arts, cuisine and businesses. We’re looking forward to the Lantern Parade and tea ceremony demo. Find more info at japanfairvancouver.com.

On April 21st and 22nd at the River Rock Casino in Richmond, BrickCan, Canada’s largest public LEGO exhibition is back for the second year. LEGO fans will be able to see several original creations and try their hands at building. Attendees under 12 will receive a building kit to take home. Book your tickets early, last year’s show sold out. Find more info at brickcan.com.

A Vancouver spring festival favourite is the Cherry Blossom Festival, happening April 30rd to April 23rd. There are a variety of events happening during the festival, including concerts, a picnic and tree talks and walks. If you want to do your own stroll of the cherry blossoms in bloom, check out the festival’s interactive neighbourhood map. Find more info at www.vcbf.ca.

For little ones that like music and dance, the annual Surrey Festival of Dance is happening from April 3rd to April 28th at the Surrey Arts Centre. It is one of the largest amateur dance competitions held in North America; and features several ballet, jazz, tap, modern, contemporary, international, stage and street dance performances. Find more info at surreyfestival.com.

The 40th annual Vancouver International Children’s Festival on Granville Island is happening May 28th to June 3rd. You and the kiddos can look forward to music, theatre, dance, circus, puppetry and storytelling. We’re excited for the Variety shows, as well as activities like circus skills and bicycle spin art. Find more info at childrensfestival.ca.

The Velopalooza Bike Fun Festival is back for an eighth year. Fun bike rides and events (think rides for food, rides in silly costumes, rides for kids) are planned in Vancouver and surrounding areas. Can’t get enough at the festival? The organization provides a year-round community calendar of bike rides and events. Find more info at velopalooza.ca.