Sometimes a night out or day activity is worth every penny (like a concert or fun festival), but sometimes that penny can be better spent elsewhere. Luckily, having fun and being thrifty can still go hand in hand, even in Vancouver.
Those looking to do something fun or new while staying on track with their financial goals can look to these free events happening in April 2023.
Pop-Ups and Markets
- Meowfest Spring Market - April 22, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at 2323 Quebec St
- Spring Plant Market and Pop-Up Shop - April 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 868 Hastings St
- Spring Pop-Up Market - April 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at Heritage Hall - 3102 Main St
- Vancouver Pop-Up Spring Market - April 9, 11 a.m-5 p.m. at Heritage Hall - 3102 Main St
New and Not So New
This meetup is for meeting new people and catching up with familiar faces in the city. There will be snacks and a raffle too.
When: Last Wednesday of each month (April 26), 6:30 p.m.
Where: Donnellan's Irish Pub - 1082 Granville St
The Women's Auto Show
The inaugural event is the first-ever car matchmaking system made for women by women. This event aims to empower women wanting to make a smart and confident car purchase through education, interactive workshops, and vehicle demos.
When: April 13, 6-9 p.m.
Where: Jim Pattison Toyota - 1290 Burrard St
Mt. Pleasant Street Art and Mural Tour
This free tour will take you through Mount Pleasant's alleys and backstreets to explore the neighbourhoods various public art pieces, from figurative and abstract murals to graffiti.
When: April 9, 23, 30; 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Where: 156 W 8th Ave
Cost: Free
Van Queer Climbers MEC Meetup
This monthly meetup is open to everyone interested in climbing or simply looking to meet new people. This event is a chance to try climbing without paying a drop-in fee or buying punch passes.
When: April 20, 6:30-8 p.m.
Where: MEC - 111 E 2nd Ave
MEC Boulder Nights
Those wanting to try bouldering can stop by this laid back event. Attendees can make their own routes, learn from and mentor others, and meet new people in the local rock climbing community.
When: April 13, 6-8 p.m.
Where: MEC - 111 E 2nd Ave
Polymer Clay Trinket Making Group
This weekly meetup group is a free and welcome space to try crafting with polymer clay and to unleash your creativity.
When: April 8, 15, 22, 29; 1-3 p.m.
Where: 1225 Seymour St
Silly Sundays
The phrase "live, love, laugh," rings true. Join a laughter session with other locals to relieve tension and feel more connected through laughing. This unique club is one of many around the world and is open to everyone.
When: April 9, 6-7 p.m.
Where: 1651 Commercial Dr
Monthly Maker Meetup
Those looking for a new hobby or wanting to meet other creatives can stop by MakerLabs' monthly meetup event. This casual get-together includes a tour of the studios and different mediums, from woodworking to ceramics to 3D printing.
When: April 25, 7-8:30 p.m.
Where: MakerLabs - 780 E Cordova St
The Cypher
Discover Vancouver's hip hop community at this free weekly party with talented local rappers and singers.
When: April 11, 18, 25; 7-10 p.m.
Where: 433 W Pender St
This article is updated weekly.