Things to Do in Vancouver This June 2025: A Summer Kickoff Guide

June in Vancouver is when the city truly comes alive. Longer days, waterfront festivals, and a fresh energy buzz through every neighborhood. Whether you are a local making the most of your hometown or visiting to soak up that West Coast magic, there is no shortage of things to do this month.

If you're looking to kick off your summer right, here’s a roundup of the best events happening around the city. And of course, we have to start with one that is especially close to our hearts: Celtic Picnic Music Festival.

Celtic Picnic Music Festival | June 7–8, 2025

Location: 80 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, BC

More Info & Tickets: Celtic Picnic 2025 Event Page

Celtic Picnic is all about those easy, feel-good summer moments. Think live Celtic music floating through the air, artisan vendors lining the waterfront, delicious eats, and communities coming together for a weekend of connection and celebration.

Spread across two relaxed days at Vancouver’s Pacific Boulevard, it is the perfect place to enjoy everything we love about summer with a Celtic twist. You can expect:

• Live traditional and contemporary Celtic performances

• Local food trucks and a craft beer garden

• Artisan markets with handmade goods

• Plenty of space to picnic, wander, and soak up the vibe

If you are looking for a festival that feels vibrant, welcoming, and made for making memories, Celtic Picnic deserves a spot on your June calendar.

Vancouver International Jazz Festival | June 20–29

Location: Various locations across Vancouver

 Details: Coastal Jazz Website

One of Vancouver’s most beloved music festivals, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival brings the city to life with hundreds of live performances, both ticketed and free. It is a celebration of world-class jazz, blues, and contemporary music. Perfect for exploring new sounds and new neighborhoods.

Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival | June through September

Location: Vanier Park Details: Bard on the Beach

Set against the stunning backdrop of English Bay and the North Shore mountains, Bard on the Beach brings Shakespeare’s timeless works to life under the open sky. This summer’s productions are perfect for a cozy night out. Pack a blanket, grab a coffee, and enjoy some of the best theatre Vancouver has to offer.

Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival | June 21–23

Location: False Creek Details: Dragon Boat BC

Nothing says summer like colorful dragon boats racing across the water. The Dragon Boat Festival is more than just racing. It is a full weekend of cultural performances, food trucks, local vendors, and family-friendly activities along the waterfront.

Italian Day on Commercial Drive | June 8

Location: Commercial Drive Details: Italian Day Festival

Italian Day turns Commercial Drive into a vibrant celebration of Italian culture, food, and community. Expect live music, cooking demonstrations, artisan markets, and more than a few delicious plates of pasta.

Car Free Day Vancouver | June 15

Location: Main Street, Commercial Drive, and the West End Details: Car Free Day Vancouver

Imagine Vancouver’s busiest streets taken over by live music stages, pop-up markets, community art, and open-air patios. Car Free Day is about celebrating local creativity and community with no cars in sight.

Vancouver International Children's Festival | May 26–June 1

Location: Granville Island Details: Children's Festival

A magical week for little ones and families, the Children’s Festival features performances, workshops, storytelling, and interactive exhibits. It is a wonderful way to spark creativity and imagination as summer begins.

Wrapping It Up: Start Summer Strong

Vancouver knows how to do summer right. From the sounds of Celtic music by the waterfront to colorful dragon boats on the water and community celebrations across the city, June is packed with ways to enjoy the season.

If you are planning your must-do list, Celtic Picnic Music Festival is the perfect way to kick it all off. Bring a blanket, grab your friends, and spend the weekend soaking up the best of Celtic culture and summer vibes.

Tickets are available now if you want to plan ahead and make the most of it. Check out all the details here.

See you at the Picnic!