Things to Do in Vancouver: July 2021

Art Downtown
Through September 30
Take a stroll through the city centre this summer, and you may well come across the Art Downtown open art market. A partnership between the Vancouver Visual Art Foundation and the Downtown Vancouver BIA, it’s held at Jack Poole Plaza (at the Vancouver Convention Centre) on Wednesdays and Fridays, and at šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (Vancouver Art Gallery’s north plaza) on Tuesdays from 11 am to 5 pm. You’ll find artists sketching, painting, and sculpting among exhibitions of finished pieces, and live music.  

Plaza Hangouts
Ongoing
Remember when the Vancouver Park Board teased us with the idea of being able to have a casual beer in the park like civilized people? Well, that still hasn’t quite happened (although they’re saying it’s coming…) But in the meantime, the City of Vancouver has created a number of open-air plazas throughout the city, and some of them even allow you to legally enjoy a tipple while you’re catching up with friends. And crucially, some of these spaces are even undercover, so if a summer rainstorm hits, you’re prepared.

Vancouver Pride
July 3 – August 3
The parade might be decentralized and virtual this year, it’s a very exciting to see that there will be many events at this year’s Vancouver Pride that will actually be in-person! From three different Pride Picnics, through to the Art Walk through downtown, three Pride “Lounges” at outdoor spaces, the Dyke March Sit-in, and so much more, the mix of event styles will make Vancouver Pride accessible to all.

Granville Flea Market
July 10
No dusty old, mothballed antiques here! The Granville Flea Market is known for its outstanding collection of vendors offering cool vintage street wear, collectibles and other retail. And since it’s being held at The American on Main Street, you can grab a drink while you shop, and refuel with something from the in-house DL Burgers counter.