Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinIf you’ve ever been to a night market, you’d know that they tend to get incredibly crowded. But the reason we’re all drawn to these markets is because we get to score unique finds and taste delicious local cuisine that we may not find elsewhere.
That said, here’s a list of the must-visit night markets in Vancouver to get you a headstart on your night market adventure.
Head to the North Vancouver’s Shipyards Night Market
Website: https://shipyardsnightmarket.com/
Address: 19 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2, Canada
When: Every Friday, until September 15, 2023
Operating Hours: 3pm to 10 pm
Admission: Free
One of the famous night markets is the Shipyards Night Market down at Lonsdale Quay. You can count on spotting plenty of local sellers (both indoors and outdoors), food trucks, handcrafted brews, live music, and a generally bustling vibe here.
All of this, combined with the scenic view of downtown Vancouver, the salty scent of the ocean, and the sight of Vancouver’s skyline with the sun setting in the distance, is truly breathtaking.
Pro tip:
While it’s best to arrive early, if you happen to arrive after 6 p.m., you can find free parking in the ICBC building parkade, which is close to the Lonsdale Quay Public Market.
Drop by the Richmond Night Market
Website: https://richmondnightmarket.com/
Address: 8351 River Road, Lulu Island, Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada
When: Friday to Sunday, until October 9, 2023
Operating Hours:
- Friday: 7pm to 12am
- Saturday: 6pm to 12am
- Sunday: 7pm to 11pm
Admission:
- Zoom Pass: $35
- Adults (ages 18 to 64) – $8
- Children (under 7) – Free
- Seniors (60+) – Free
Watching the crowd at the Richmond Night Market peruse over 110 food booths and trucks that serve 600 different cuisines—from Indonesian, Turkish, Mexican, and many more.
Booths here are very vibrant, with custom neon lights attached to each one, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. After shopping, head to the entertainment area and enjoy live performances, get on the bounce house, or play carnival games.
Pro tip:
We recommend avoiding waiting in the lengthy entrance queue for the night market; instead, opt for the Zoom Pass priced at $35, which covers admission for a group of up to five people.
Do Some Shopping at the Vancouver Christmas Market
Website: https://www.vancouverchristmasmarket.com/
Address: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6G 3E1
When: November to December 24 (based on last year’s market hours)
Operating Hours:
- November 12 to 25: 4pm to 9:30pm
- November 26 to December 23: 11:30am to 9:30pm
- December 24: 11:30am to 6pm
Admission:
- Adults (ages 18 to 64) – $17.99
- Seniors (65+) – $14.99
- Youth (ages 7 to 17) – $9.99
- Children (ages 6 and under) – Free
The Vancouver Christmas Market’s nicely curated booths sell different kinds of trinkets and ornaments, making it the perfect place to find unique and festive gifts for the Yuletide season.
Sip on mulled wine and snack on a warm pretzel while strolling around the market with live music in the background and gingerbread mascots roaming around. There’s also a free carousel for the kids!
Pro tip:
Make sure to always check the weather in advance, as a rainy day can spoil this experience.
Stop by the Fort Langley Night Market
Website: https://m.facebook.com/events/993829158039312/
Address: Corner of Glover Road and Mary Avenue, Fort Langley
When: Fridays, July 7 to August 25, 2023
Operating Hours: 5pm to 10pm
Admission: Free
The Fort Langley Night Market has the vibe of a backyard house party, featuring more than 70 vendors, food trucks, craft beer, wine, cider, and cocktails.
Everyone’s pretty much sitting under a tent or scattered across the grassy area, enjoying live music, dancing, and other fun activities for all ages like face painting, games, and arts and crafts.
Pro tip:
Remember to bring bug spray since mosquitoes are common in this area, especially at night!
Join Fridays on Front
Website: https://downtownnewwest.ca/Fridays-On-Front
Address: Front Street Mews in Downtown New Westminster
When: Fridays, July 7 to 21 and August 11 to 25, 2023
Operating Hours: 5pm to 9pm
Admission: Free
This block party along Front Street Mews will make you feel like you’re in a musical show, with different musicians playing every day and rotating vendors serving different cuisines.
And if you’re thirsty, they’ve brewed up a storm with a local brewery to ensure there’s a symphony of craft beers waiting for you inside.
Pro tip:
We recommend opting for public transit, strolling, or cycling to the event, as parking in this area is quite limited.
Shop Plant-Based Finds at the Vegan Night Market
Website: https://peaces.ca/
Address: Waldorf Hotel, 1489 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
When: July 13, July 27, August 3, August 17, August 31, 2023
Operating Hours: 6pm to 10pm
Admission: A minimum $4 donation, canned goods, pet food, warm clothing, or clean bedding
Canada’s only fully plant-based night market, the Vegan Night Market, offers a diverse lineup, including vegan food trucks, beverages, clothing, bath and body goods, ceramics, and jewelry.
Throughout June, July, and August, they’re hosting seven markets, with five at the East Vancouver spot and two at TBA locations.
Pro tip:
You can get into the market with a donation, so be sure to bring at least $4 or contribute items like canned goods, clothing, or pet food to cover your entrance fee.
Night markets are a great place to experience the vibrant local culture and indulge in delicious street food in Vancouver. We hope that this list has helped you discover some of the best night markets in the city.
Flea markets are another popular option for those looking to explore local culture and find unique treasures and if you’re looking for ’em, check out our article on the best flea markets in Vancouver.
