Vancouver’s food festivals are an absolute treat, and I’ve been to every one of them! From sizzling street eats to gourmet delicacies, these festivals are a foodie’s dream come true. Each one has its own vibe, and I always look forward to going back for more.
Spicy bites, sweet treats, and unique fusion flavors are just the beginning. I’ve spent countless weekends exploring these events, meeting passionate chefs, and savoring unforgettable dishes.
The energy, the aromas, and the sheer variety always make for a great time.Ready to explore the top 10 food festivals in Vancouver? These picks are sure to impress any food lover. Read on!
1. Dine Out Vancouver Festival
Media Credit: /dineoutvanfest/
Dates: January to February
What’s On: Prix-fixe menus at over 300 restaurants
This is one of my favorite ways to kick off the year. Dine Out Vancouver is perfect for exploring the city’s restaurant scene without breaking the bank. Each menu is thoughtfully curated, giving you a taste of the chef’s best work.
I love the seared scallops from Blue Water Cafe, they’re buttery perfection. We also enjoy The Acorn’s vegetarian prix-fixe menu and even my meat-loving friends rave about it. And the Homer Street Cafe’s braised short ribs practically melt in your mouth.
The festival always delivers a vibrant dining experience. I love how it brings the community together over great food. You’ll leave every meal excited to try the next spot on your list.
Pro tip:
Book your reservations early to secure a spot at popular restaurants. Many venues fill up quickly, especially for prime dining times. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy these curated, budget-friendly menus.
2. Vancouver International Wine Festival
Media Credit:/vanwinefest/
Dates: February to March
What’s On: Global wines and pairings
If you love wine, this festival is a dream come true. I’ve had the chance to sample wines from all over the world, paired perfectly with delicious bites. It’s a feast for the senses, and the variety is incredible.
The event is elegant but still approachable, making it fun for both connoisseurs and casual wine drinkers. I’ve learned so much from the knowledgeable sommeliers and winemakers. It’s a festival that feels both indulgent and educational.
I couldn’t get enough of Mission Hill Winery’s Chardonnay with creamy brie, it’s a heavenly combo. We also savored Tinhorn Creek’s reds, which never disappoint, and Painted Rock’s bold Malbec paired perfectly with gourmet sliders.
Pro tip:
Attend the wine seminars to deepen your knowledge and enjoy exclusive tastings. These sessions offer valuable insights from sommeliers and winemakers. It’s a unique opportunity to enhance your appreciation of fine wines.
3. Richmond Night Market
Media Credit: /richmondnightmarket/
Dates: April to October
What’s On: 110+ food stalls, vibrant entertainment
The Richmond Night Market is a feast for the senses. I’ve spent countless summer nights wandering through the endless food stalls, sampling everything from takoyaki to bubble waffles. The energy here is electric, and there’s always something new to try.
It’s not just about the food! There’s live music, games, and even carnival rides. I love bringing friends and making a whole night of it. The diversity of flavors is a true reflection of Vancouver’s vibrant food scene.
We always grab takoyaki from the Takoyaki Stand; the octopus balls are so tender. The Bubble Waffle Cafe’s crispy waffles are a must, and Rotato’s perfectly seasoned spiral potatoes are super addictive.
Pro tip:
Bring cash to speed up transactions and avoid delays. Arrive early to beat the evening crowds and get first dibs on popular food stalls. The lines can be long, but the delicious food is well worth the wait.
4. Greek Summerfest
Media Credit:/greeksummerfest/
Dates: July
What’s On: Authentic Greek dishes and live performances
Greek Summerfest is all about good vibes and even better food. I still dream about their souvlaki and honey-drenched loukoumades. The flavors are rich, and everything tastes homemade.
The live music and traditional dances make it feel like you’ve been transported to Greece. It’s such a warm, welcoming atmosphere, you’ll want to stay all day. I love bringing family here to share the experience.
Maria’s Taverna’s souvlaki is seasoned to perfection, and Panos Greek Grill’s loukoumades are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and drizzled with honey. Pure bliss!
Pro tip:
Make sure to leave room for dessert at this festival. The baklava and loukoumades are crowd favorites and absolutely unforgettable. They’re the perfect way to end your Greek feast.
5. Surrey Fusion Festival
Media Credit:/foodologyca/
Dates: July
What’s On: Multicultural cuisine and music
Surrey Fusion Festival is one of the most vibrant food festivals I’ve ever attended. It’s a celebration of global cuisine, featuring dishes from over 50 different cultures. I couldn’t get enough of the mouthwatering variety, each booth offered something delicious.
Tasty Indian Bistro’s butter chicken poutine is rich and comforting. We also loved Jamaican Mi Juicy’s tender, spicy jerk chicken and Viva Peru’s savory, flaky empanadas. I always leave with a happy heart and a full stomach.
This festival is perfect for families, friends, or even solo adventurers. You’ll discover new flavors and experience different cultures all in one place. It’s a true celebration of community and food.
Pro tip:
Pack a picnic blanket to enjoy your food while relaxing. Grab a spot near the stage to catch live music and cultural performances. It’s the best way to immerse yourself in the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
6. Canada Bubble Tea Festival
Media Credit: /bubbleteafest/
Dates: July
What’s On: Boba culture, unique flavors, and vendors
If you’re a boba lover like me, the Canada Bubble Tea Festival is a dream come true. This event offers creative and unique flavors. We even tried a matcha brown sugar creation that was the perfect balance of earthy and sweet.
The festival also has fun activities, like boba-making workshops and contests. It’s a lively, colorful event that feels like a giant boba party. I loved walking around with my drink and discovering new flavors to try.
I was in bubble tea heaven trying the creative flavors! One vendor offered a unique taro and coconut blend that was smooth and creamy, while another had a refreshing lychee green tea with bursting boba.
Pro tip:
Seek out the limited-edition flavors created specifically for the festival. These one-of-a-kind drinks won’t be available anywhere else. Treat yourself to unique boba experiences you can’t find every day.
7. Feast of Fields
Media Credit: /feastoffields/
Dates: September
What’s On: Farm-to-table cuisine and sustainability focus
Feast of Fields is the ultimate farm-to-table experience. This festival takes place in outdoor locations, where you get to sample fresh, locally sourced dishes. I loved walking through the fields, meeting local farmers, and tasting the freshest ingredients.
This farm-to-table event is unforgettable. I loved the fresh heirloom tomato salad from a local farm stand, and we couldn’t get enough of the artisan bread paired with creamy goat cheese.
The highlight was a decadent dessert made with fresh-picked berries and honey from a nearby apiary.I left feeling inspired and more connected to the local food scene. If you’re passionate about supporting local farms and eating seasonally, you’ll love this festival.
Pro tip:
Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the scenic outdoor venue. Bring a reusable tote bag for collecting artisanal goodies along the way. You’ll want to take home some fresh, locally made products.
8. Vancouver Cheese and Meat Festival
Media Credit: /cheeseandmeatfestival/
Dates: September
What’s On: Charcuterie-focused event with tastings
As a charcuterie enthusiast, the Vancouver Cheese and Meat Festival is pure bliss. This event features an incredible selection of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and perfectly paired accompaniments.
I was blown away by the aged cheddar from a local creamery, paired with house-cured prosciutto that practically melted in my mouth. We also tried a truffle-infused salami that was bursting with flavor, and a creamy brie paired with tangy fig jam was just perfect!
You’ll leave with plenty of inspiration for your next charcuterie board. I spent hours savoring every bite and discovering new favorites.Trust me, you’ll want to recreate the magic at home. It’s a festival that truly celebrates the art of fine food.
Pro tip:
Upgrade to the VIP ticket for exclusive tastings and early entry. You’ll get access to premium samples before the main crowd arrives. It’s a worthwhile splurge for any charcuterie lover.
Media Credit: /carnavaldelsol.ca/
Dates: July
What’s On: Latin-inspired celebration with food, music, and dance
Carnaval del Sol brings the vibrant flavors and energy of Latin America to Vancouver. I couldn’t get enough of the empanadas, tacos, and churros, all bursting with authentic flavors. The live music and dance performances made the experience even more lively.
The festival feels like a giant street party, and the atmosphere is infectious. I loved dancing to the beats of salsa and reggaeton while enjoying mouthwatering bites. It’s a perfect mix of culture, food, and fun.
I couldn’t get enough of the authentic empanadas filled with seasoned beef, while we all devoured crispy churros dusted in cinnamon sugar. The fresh ceviche was light and zesty, a refreshing complement to the lively
Pro tip:
Try the fresh ceviche for a light, refreshing option. Its zesty flavors pair perfectly with a cold drink on a sunny day. This festival classic is a must for fans of Latin cuisine.
10. Halal Ribfest
Media Credit:/halalribfest/
Dates: August
What’s On: Global Halal BBQ traditions
Halal Ribfest is a foodie’s dream come true. The smoky, tender ribs were the star of the show, but I also loved the variety of other dishes—from brisket to grilled kebabs. It’s a celebration of BBQ from around the world, all prepared Halal.
The family-friendly vibe and delicious smells wafting through the air make it an unforgettable experience. I spent hours sampling the different BBQ styles and chatting with the friendly vendors.
It’s the kind of event that brings people together over great food.Whether you follow a Halal diet or just love BBQ, this festival is a must-visit. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for global BBQ traditions.
Pro tip:
Come hungry and sample dishes from as many vendors as possible. Each stall offers a unique take on global Halal BBQ traditions. You’ll leave with a full stomach and a newfound love for smoky flavors.
11. Night Market at the Met
Media Credit: /anywherevancouver/
Dates: September
What’s On: Curated food and artisan experience
The Night Market at the Met is a chic and intimate take on the classic food market. I loved browsing the artisan stalls while snacking on gourmet bites and sipping on craft cocktails. The ambiance feels upscale but still inviting.
This market is all about quality over quantity, and every vendor brings something special to the table. From handmade chocolates to creative tapas, there’s so much to discover. It’s a foodie’s dream with a touch of elegance.
We loved the upscale vibe and snacked on gourmet charcuterie from a local artisan, featuring duck pâté and spiced salami. The handmade truffles were a luxurious treat, and I sipped on a craft cocktail made with locally distilled gin that was incredibly smooth.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to secure a seat at the communal tables. It’s the best way to enjoy the upscale market’s lively ambiance. Share bites and conversations with fellow food lovers for a memorable experience.
12. Gluten-Free Expo Vancouver
Media Credit:/glutenfreeexpo/
Dates: January
What’s On: Gluten-free everything!
If you’re gluten-free (or just curious), this expo is your paradise. I’ve wandered the aisles, sampling everything from gluten-free bread to pizza that tastes as good as the “real” thing. It’s a treasure trove of tasty discoveries!
I was surprised by how delicious the gluten-free pizza was, crispy crust with savory toppings! We also discovered a fantastic almond flour brownie that was rich and fudgy, and a vendor’s gluten-free bread that was soft and perfect for sandwiches.
Each year, I walk away with new snacks, recipes, and inspiration. Whether you’re gluten-free by necessity or choice, this expo is a must-visit for expanding your culinary horizons.
Pro tip:
Bring a reusable tote bag! You’ll want to stock up on samples, snacks, and products you’ll discover here!
13. BC Dumpling Festival
Media Credit:/bcdumplingfest/
Dates: August
What’s On: Dumplings from around the world
Calling all dumpling lovers! The BC Dumpling Festival is hands-down one of the tastiest events of the year. I’ve indulged in dumplings from every corner of the globe, steamed, fried, stuffed with everything from pork to veggie goodness. It’s a true flavor adventure!
I went on a dumpling spree, starting with juicy pork xiao long bao that burst with flavor. We tried crispy pan-fried dumplings filled with shrimp and chives, and the Korean mandu with spicy dipping sauce was an absolute must-try.
Every year, I leave stuffed and satisfied, with a new list of must-try dumpling spots. If you’re ready to embark on a savory journey, this festival is your ticket to dumpling heaven.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to beat the crowds and snag the most popular dumplings before they sell out!
14. EAT! Vancouver
Media Credit:/eatvancouver/
Dates: November
What’s On: A celebration of food and drink
EAT! Vancouver is a foodie’s paradise! I’ve savored everything from gourmet bites crafted by top chefs to inventive cocktails and decadent desserts. It’s like a playground for your taste buds, with every booth offering something delicious and unique.
The festival isn’t just about eating (though that’s a big part of it!); it’s also about learning. I’ve picked up cooking tips from live demos, met incredible chefs, and even joined workshops to hone my skills.
I couldn’t get enough of the tender braised short ribs from a top chef’s booth, paired with creamy polenta. We also sampled inventive cocktails, like a smoky mezcal margarita, and indulged in a rich, silky chocolate mousse that capped off the experience.
Pro tip:
Plan your visit by checking the schedule for live demos and workshops. You’ll get the most out of the experience by learning directly from the pros!
15. Hopscotch Festival
Media Credit: /hopscotchfestival/
Dates: November
What’s On: Whisky, spirits, and craft beer
Hopscotch Festival is the ultimate event for anyone who appreciates a good drink! I’ve explored endless varieties of whisky, scotch, craft beer, and even unique spirits like mezcal. It’s a sip-tasting adventure where every glass tells a story.
The smoky single malt whisky from a Scottish distillery was my favorite, while we also enjoyed a smooth Canadian rye that had subtle caramel notes. The craft beer section was fantastic, and we discovered a local brewery’s hoppy IPA that quickly became a crowd favorite.
Each year, I walk away with a few new favorites and a greater appreciation for the art of distilling and brewing. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just love a well-crafted drink, Hopscotch is a spirited experience you don’t want to miss!
Pro tip:
Take notes during tastings! Keeping track of your favorites will help when you’re ready to stock up or recommend drinks to friends!