Things to do on the Victoria Day long weekend in Vancouver

by Jennifer Foden

It’s the first long weekend of summer – cue backyard barbecues, weekend farmers’ markets and picnics at the beach. There are plenty of ways to celebrate May 2-4 in Vancouver, so grab your friends and check out these Victoria Day long weekend events – there’s something for everyone. [Photo credit: Donnelly Group]

Gastown Chicken Fight
The Lamplighter Pub is hosting the sixth annual Gastown Chicken Fight on Sunday May 21st, an event that brings together Gastown restaurants and bars to find the master of making finger-lickin’ wings. Defending champs Bao Down will face off against Gringo, Clough Club, Blarney Stone and The Lamplighter. The event starts at 4 pm and will be followed by an after party.

Fort Langley Beer & Food Festival
The Trading Post Brewing Company is hosting the Fort Langley Beer & Food Festival on Saturday from noon to 5 pm at the Fort Langley National Historic Site. Dozens of local breweries and eateries will be serving up craft beer and food to the sound of live entertainment.

Night Markets
There are three popular night markets open this weekend. The Shipyards Night Market by Lonsdale Quay is open Fridays, the Richmond Night Market and the brand new Illumination Night Market (both in Richmond) are open Fridays through Sundays. The Richmond Night Market is also open this Monday, for the holiday. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not check out all three?

Whistler Go Fest
Take a road trip north for four days of outdoor fun at Whistler Go Fest – Whistler’s great outdoors festival. From May 19-21, you can participate in outdoor activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding to sailing, golfing, fishing, tennis and more. Even if outdoor sport isn’t your thing, there are plenty of film screenings, gallery viewings and shows to keep you busy.

Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair
The 71st Cloverdale Rodeo and the 129th country fair is happening this weekend from May 19-22 in Surrey. This four-day event includes everything from bareback riding, barrel racing and bull riding, to a lumberjack show, rib fest and more. There’s also a midway and musical performances.

Historic Stewart Farm
On Saturday May 20th, kiddos aged 3-5 can attend a fancy Victorian Tea Party in the farmhouse at Historic Stewart Farm in Surrey. There are two sessions, one from 11 am to noon and one from 2 pm to 3 pm. Tykes will dress to the nines and make a tea pot craft to take home. There’s also a Royal Victorian Party at the farm on Sunday, complete with dancing and a birthday cake.

Vancouver Comic Arts Festival
For two days, Vancouverites can celebrate comics, illustration and art at the Vancouver Comic Arts Festival at the Roundhouse Community Centre in Yaletown. The festival is free to attend and programming includes signing sessions and a large exhibition area featuring publishers, authors and artists, as well as panels and workshops for kids and adults and more.