For the grown-ups with a budget to splurge on date nights, here are some events for significant others in Vancouver to enjoy romantic times together this summer.
Have a budget? Fret no more. Vancouver has many free events happening throughout the summer months as well.
Bard on the Beach
"What is love? ’tis not hereafter" — Twelfth Night, Shakespeare
For the play lovers, Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Fest has performances almost every day from June until September. You can have a laugh at Twelfth Night or witness the tragic love story of Hamlet with your partner.
Where: BMO Mainstage - 162 W 1st Ave or Howard Family Stage - 1695 Whyte Ave
When: From now to September 21
Cost: Regular tickets starting at $30
Guys & Dolls
This timeless musical tells the story of evangelist Sergeant Sarah Brown, who is charged with saving “genuine sinners.” She then starts looking at the streets of 1950s Manhattan for its gangsters, gamblers, and showgirls. Maybe you can learn a little bit more about love through this funny play.
Where: Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage - 2750 Granville St
When: From June 18-30, every Tuesday to Sunday
Cost: Starting from $39
BC Lions games
Watching a sports game is more than just watching a sports game, it is about the atmosphere. For something more active, bring your date to watch a BC Lions game for the thrills, excitement, and energy. Some upcoming games are:
Celebrating our colours - BC Lions vs. Edmonton Elks
Where: BC Place
When: Thursday, June 27 at 7 p.m.
Cost: Starting at $22.75
Watermelon Smash - BC Lions vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Where: BC Place
When: Saturday, July 13 at 4 p.m.
Cost: Starting at $29
Playland 19+ Night
Do you know why people always go on dates at amusement parks? Rumour has it that fear can drive people to bond more quickly than in normal circumstances. So, this is your chance to have a drink at PNE and scream your heart out during the thrilling rides.
Where: Pacific National Exhibition - 2901 E Hastings St.
When: Saturday, June 29 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Cost: Fun Pass Advanced Ticket: $33; Thrill Pass Advanced Ticket: $45
Date Night at The Improv Centre
Celebrate dating, relationships, and everything in between in a spicy night full of laughs, lust, and love. Whether it’s a first date, anniversary, or just another Wednesday, head to The Improv Centre for a hilarious twist on your next date night.
Where: The Improv Centre - 1502 Duranleau St
When: Wednesdays, June 19 to August 28
Cost: Regular $28.50 or Senior/Student $23.50
Science World After Dark
Relive your childhood memories by visiting Science World After Dark with your date. This special event is where adults (ages 19+) take over the dome. Explore the exhibits and galleries at your leisure. Enjoy drinks, food, music and more, while reminiscing the times you have spent here as a kid.
Where: Science World - 1455 Quebec St
When: Thursday, June 20 from 6 to 10 p.m.
Cost: $40 + tax
Fleur de Villes
Instead of bringing your date flowers, why don’t you take your date to see a flower show at VanDusen Botanical Garden? With 25 one-of-a-kind art-themed installations, the "Artiste" exhibition shares cultural stories through floral displays. The best part is that the event will also have Italian beverages and bites for sale from the Aperitivo! truck.
Where: VanDusen Botanical Garden - 5251 Oak St
When: June 21 to 30
Cost: $26 for adults; $22 for seniors or youths
Westward Music Festival
Want a fun weekend filled with music and artistic creativity? The Westward Music Festival features a mix of internationally acclaimed artists, alongside with some of the city’s most dynamic local acts this summer. Other than music, there will be visual arts and handcrafts goods at the City Centre Artist Lodge, where artists, artisans, and vendors showcase their unique creations throughout the weekend. Lovebirds can enjoy individual shows or purchase a weekend pass for this event.
Where: Music performances at various locations; main fest zone is at the City Centre Artist Lodge - 2111 Main St
When: Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Weekend pass starts at $109 and individual show passes start at $22.50
Fish+Sips
Watching aquatic animals while holding a wine glass in one hand is a surreal experience. At this Vancouver Aquarium after-dark event, you and your date can enjoy an extraordinary encounter with animals, visit the newly renovated Amazon Gallery, make waves on the ocean dance floor, and visit its limited-time exhibition — Monsters of the Abyss. Food and
Where: Vancouver Aquarium - 845 Avison Way
When: Saturday, June 22, Friday, July 19, and Saturday, August 24 from 7 to 10 p.m.
Cost: $35
Ultimate Canada Day Boat Party Vancouver 2024
This year, you can celebrate Canada Day at a boat party with your date. The party is hosted on a two-floor boat with interior and exterior viewing decks, where you can enjoy the spectacular view of Vancouver waters and dance to live performances — time to show off your fun side to your love interest.
Where: Departure at Dock B - 750 Pacific Blvd
When: Monday, July 1, Boarding at 6:30 p.m. and party ends at 10:30 p.m.
Cost: $45
Carnival Del Sol
Turn up the heat on date night. Carnaval del Sol is perfect for you and your partner to experience the flavours and traditions of Latin America. From tasty food from more than 10 different Latin American countries to various dance and music performances, this event is a great way to spend your day with your romantic friend.
Where: Jonathan Rogers Park - 110 W 7th Ave
When: Saturday and Sunday, July 6-7 from noon to 11 p.m.
Cost: One-day adult tickets starts at $21.49
Vancouver Craft Beer & Music Festival
Calling out to pairs of beer connoisseurs, Vancouver’s popular craft beer festival is back for the summer. Your tickets include over 125 beer samples to taste and live music performances. If your love language is beer and music, this is your kind of event.
Where: PNE Centre Grounds - 2901 E Hastings St
When: Saturday, July 6 — General Admission access runs from 3 to 7 p.m. and VIP Access runs from 2 to 7 p.m.
Cost: General Admission Tier 2 for $78.75 and VIP Tier 2 for $99.75
Glam-O-Rama Disco 19+
Rollerblading dates show up in every rom com. You can have this drama-like experience with your romantic interest at Rolla Skate Club’s adults-only disco night.
Where: Rollerland - North Renfrew Street and Dundas Street
When: Saturday, July 6 from 8 to 11 p.m.
Cost: $22 - $28
Le Diner en Blanc
With a spoonful of mystery and a dash of elegance, Le Diner en Blanc is having its chic picnic en masse at a secret location in Vancouver this summer. The event organizer promises a night full of good food, great conversation, and glamorous memories.
When: Thursday, August 15
Where: Secret location disclosed on the day of the event
Cost: $53
Great Outdoors Comedy Festival
The best way to guarantee a laugh during a date is to bring your sweetheart to a comedy show. The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival packs the weekend full of shows by Tom Segura, Theo Von, and other comedians. Bring a picnic blanket and have a laugh at Stanley Park.
Where: Brockton Point in Stanley Park - 1151 Stanley Park Dr
When: Friday-Sunday, September 13-15
Cost: General Admission tickets start at $89.50
