8 free events to enjoy in Vancouver this fall

by Nancy Baye

The air might get chilly, but autumn is no reason to stay inside, especially with so many free (or nearly free) things to do in Vancouver. So, grab a sweater and check out our list of things to do! [Photo credit: iStock/phive2015]

Culture Days happens across Canada, and is now in its eighth year. In Vancouver, visitors will see artists of all kinds at work. Check out unique workshops like collective painting, historical photography and life drawing with dancers. You can also go behind the scenes with Ballet B.C., try out some improv or get on the road to being a media mogul by learning how to create your own TV show.

• When: September 29th to October 1st
• Where: Venues across Vancouver

The 15th annual Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival has events through September, but the big day happens on September 30th. Celebrate the harvest moon with a harvest fair, a twilight lantern walk and more. Visitors light their lantern and walk the trails to live music, followed by a walking meditation. The grand finale boasts youth performers showcasing dance numbers, stilting and fire spinning. Finish the night off on the dance floor, with fireworks in full view.

• When: September 30th at 4 pm
• Where: Slocan Park and Renfrew Park

The city’s summer farmers’ markets run well into October. Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market hosts a Fall Fair the first weekend in October. Wander into the middle of the urban pumpkin patch and choose one of your own. Watch cow-milking demos, create a vegetable sculpture, get your face painted and win some prizes. The West End Farmers’ Market hosts a Harvest Festival October 8th. Their pie competition is open to pros and novices alike – enter by October 5th.

• When: Each farmers’ market's days/times vary, Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market Fall Fair is October 2nd, West End Farmers’ Market Harvest Festival is Saturday October 8th
• Where: Farmers’ markets are in various locations, Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market is in Dude Chilling Park, West End Farmers’ Market is on Comox, between Bute and Thurlow

The Cranberry Festival is an annual Fort Langley tradition. Celebrate the powerhouse berry on Saturday October 7th and learn all about its history and harvesting. In its 22nd year, this popular event has grown to include a range of vendors, entertainment – plus a pancake breakfast.

• When: October 7th
• Where: Fort Langley National Historic Site

Why settle for a plain old Halloween parade when you can have an entire exposition? The Vancouver Halloween Parade and Expo is a whopping festival now in its fourth year. The four-day event brings together local artists, artisans and performers. It promises to be a fun time for zombies and humans alike. Several activities are free, including the Halloween parade.

• When: October 12th to 15th, parade takes place October 15th at 11 am
• Where: Expo is in UBC Robson Square, parade is along Howe and Granville Streets

Get your bhangra on at Diwali Fest, an annual South Asian arts and culture festival. Vancouver’s Diwali Fest shows off a variety of talent. Events run through October, culminating in Diwali Downtown Vancouver on October 14th. This main event offers music, dance, fashion and a Rangoli room (help create a room-sized mosaic).

• When: Events run through October, Diwali Downtown Vancouver happens October 14th
• Where: Diwali Downtown Vancouver takes place at the Roundhouse Community Centre

UBC Botanical Garden’s Apple Festival is back for its 26th year. Celebrate the fair apple and enjoy taste comparisons. Kids under 12 are admitted for free; adults need to hand over a fiver, but it does include admission to (and helps raise funds for) the UBC Botanical Garden. There will be apples and apple trees for sale, a demo of how to make apple cider, activities and more.

• When: October 14th and 15th at 11 am
• Where: UBC Botanical Garden

Light up the night sky at the Garden Light Festival at Surrey’s Bear Creek Park on November 8th and 9th. A great free event for all ages, as the park lights up its trees and trails. Feel free to bring a lantern (or make one there!) to accompany your meander through the colorful lights.

• When: November 8th and 9th
• Where: Bear Creek Park