Things to Do in Vancouver – July 2026
Wendy Underwood
July in Vancouver is full of sunshine and fun! This year, we’ll see World Cup watch parties around the city until the final game on July 19. We kick July off with Canada Day, and continue through the month with some of the city’s biggest parties and festivals of the year, including Vancouver Pride. If you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors in a more laidback way, hit the beach with a book or stroll Vancouver’s diverse neighbourhoods. Or pack a picnic and hike out to a cool spot in one of our provincial parks. Below are some of our favourite things to do in Vancouver this July.
Outdoor Movies
Throughout July and August
Like your films al fresco? Throughout the city you’ll find a wealth of options for catching a movie outdoors this summer. In Stanley Park, Summer Cinema offers free general admission with a paid option to upgrade to the VIP section. Located in the meadow right by Second Beach, Tuesday night screenings in July include Bend it Like Beckham (July 14) and Moulin Rouge (July 28). Another option is Deckchair Cinema on the North Shore by the Polygon Gallery. The suggested donation of $10 – $20 includes popcorn and entrance to the gallery. July’s Thursday night line-up includes Prince’s Sign O’ The Times (July 9) and Best in Show (July 16).
Theatre Under the Stars
July 3 – August 22
Sunshine and Stanley Park are synonymous with a Vancouver summer. Make the best of balmy evenings by catching a show at Theatre Under The Stars at Malkin Bowl in the park. The first of this season’s productions is Sister Act: a flashy nightclub singer goes into witness protection at a convent, where she transforms the struggling nuns’ choir and discovers the true meaning of sisterhood. The second is Disney’s The Little Mermaid, the family-friendly story of a curious young mermaid, Ariel, who dreams of a life above the sea.
Carnaval del Sol
July 10 – 12
Carnaval del Sol is the biggest Latin American event in the Pacific Northwest. We can’t think of many better ways to spend a summer afternoon! Taking place at Jonathan Rogers Park in Mount Pleasant, the opening night party is headlined by El Gran Silencio from Monterrey, Mexico. The band is known for its blend of cumbia, rock, ska, and hip hop making it impossible not to dance! The next two days are more family-friendly – two whole areas dedicated to family-friendly performances and activities. General admission gives you access to over 180 live performances, a live soccer tournament, a beer garden, and a food plaza with dishes from 12 Latin countries.
Symphony at Sunset
July 11
An open-air symphony is amazing, but when it’s free, that’s even better! This year, Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s annual Symphony at Sunset takes place at Yaletown’s David Lam Park. No ticket needed; just bring your picnic blanket! The 90-minute concert runs the gamut. Along with traditional favourites from composers like Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, there are pieces from musical scores like Harry Potter and Star Wars. It promises to be a fun night for classical fans and newbies alike.
Ready to book your summer stay in Vancouver? Visit our booking page for access to the best rates.
Photo Credits:
- Feature Image – Deckchair Cinema at the Polygon Gallery: Akeem Nermo via Polygon Gallery website
- Evo Summer Cinema: Destination Vancouver website
- The Little Mermaid at Theatre Under the Stars: Emily Cooper via TUTS Instagram account
- Couple at Carnaval del Sol: Carnaval del Sol website
- Symphony at Sunset: VSO website
