Visiting Vancouver in July 2024: Events, Festivals & Things to Do

Vancouver in July is the optimal time to visit.

With the rains gone, we locals are officially out of hibernation at festivals & free concerts – Vancouver July is the best time for our true summer coming out party!

Let’s break down the main July events in Vancouver and see what’s on at the city’s top attractions.

What to Do in Vancouver in July

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is one of the best places to be in July in Vancouver, and it’s an automatic on any Vancouver itinerary.

The sun is out, and there’s a breeze off the water – it’s perfect for picnics off Second Beach, watching the boats go by from Prospect Point, or even getting in a round of golf at Stanley Park Pitch & Putt.

July 2024, events in Stanley Park include Theater Under the Stars and the Tuesday Night Outdoor Cinema.

This is also a great spot to take one of Vancouver’s top bike tours.

Wanna soak in all the info? Get on one of the best Stanley Park tours.

Whale Watching

July is prime whale watching season in Vancouver.

You’ll find the best chance at spotting majestic orcas and humpbacks during this time, and all of Vancouver’s top whale watching tours have whale spotting guarantees.

Getting out on the water in July in Vancouver is also the best way to take in Vancouver’s gorgeous coastal rainforest scenery.

Vancouver Beaches

Vancouver beaches are a great place to spend a summer day. In July, the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is perfect for swimming – well, expect a bit of a chill at first, but it’s great for cooling off.

For a full, social day out in the sun with a good food and drink follow-up, head to English Bay Beach in Vancouver’s West End.

If you’re looking for something a bit more wild, head over to Jericho Beach on the west side. The beaches there jut out of coastal rainforest and offer an amazing view of the skyline and mountains.

Looking to shed some clothing? Wreck Beach is our nude beach, and it’s one of the most unique things to do in Vancouver.

Granville Island

Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s most popular tourist destinations, and for good reason.

It’s home to a vibrant public market, a variety of elite Vancouver shopping destinations, some of Vancouver’s best restaurants, and artisan galleries for all sorts of unique gifts.

One of the big July events here is the TD International Jazz Festival, which features many ticketed and free events at the Ocean Art Works Pavilion.

Looking to get off the beaten track? Check out our guide to the best Vancouver Hidden Gems.

Sea to Sky Gondola

The Sea to Sky Gondola is one of the best ways to see the stunning scenery of British Columbia.

Located less than an hour outside Vancouver, this Swiss-style ski gondola ride takes visitors on a breathtaking trip up one of the most scenic mountains in the Lower Mainland.

Once you’re up top, there are hiking and biking trails, rock climbing options, and a restaurant and a cafe. If you’re visiting in July, it also features an outdoor BBQ plaza.

Related: Capilano Suspension Bridge vs. Sea to Sky Gondola: Which is Better?

Hop on Hop off Bus Tour

Visiting Vancouver in July means it’s the best time to grab the Vancouver Hop on Hop off Bus.

You’ll see all the top sights in just 2 hours – discovering Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown, Chinatown, English Bay Beach, The Vancouver Art Gallery, Science World, Robson Street, Yaletown, and more.

Plus, their friendly and knowledgeable guides will tell you all about Vancouver’s history and culture.

Grouse Mountain

If you’re looking for an epic mountain getaway just minutes from downtown Vancouver this is it.

Whether you hike Mother Nature’s Staircase (aka the Grouse Grind, which is only open in Vancouver in summer) to get to the top or ride the Grouse Mountain Skyride, the result is the same – insane panoramic views of Vancouver.

This is actually one of Vancouver’s best ski options in the winter – but in July, you’ll be able to take in lumberjack shows, eat breakfast with grizzly bears (I’m serious), or even go ziplining and paragliding.

Me? I prefer having a beer on the patio at the Grouse Grind Café and taking in the views of the city and the North Shore Mountains.

Big on beer? Check out the best brewery tours in Vancouver.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of the top tourist attractions in Vancouver. Spanning 450 feet across and 230 feet high, the bridge offers stunning views of the Capilano River in North Vancouver.

Built in 1889, the bridge is famous for its gentle sway, which turns the attraction into a bit of an amusement park ride.

Also on-site, you’ll get the Cliff Walk, a 20-inch wide steel platform allowing you to walk almost right off a granite cliff.

If you’re still wondering what to do in Vancouver in July, there’s also the Treetops Adventure – a series of seven suspension bridges that allow you to walk above the forest floor.

Vancouver July Events 2024

Just 1st Canada Day Celebrations

OK, so I went for the easy tourist win with the photo of the Mounties at a Canada Day Parade.

That said when considering things to do in Vancouver in July – Canada’s birthday should be at the top of your list.

The celebrations at Canada Place in downtown Vancouver, right opposite the Vancouver Cruise Terminal, feature food trucks, free concerts, and assorted cultural performances and activities for kids.

The 2024 Canada Day celebrations will be called Canada Together and feature a reconciliation-focused menu heavily involving the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

Vancouver Folk Music Festival

The Vancouver Folk Music Festival features a wide range of musical styles, including folk, world, and roots music.

The event takes place over three days at Jericho Beach Park and typically features more than 100 performers.

In addition to live music, the festival also offers food and craft vendors, workshops, and children’s activities.

2024 festival dates: July 14-16.

Honda Celebration of Light

The Honda Celebration of Light features three nights of fireworks displays, with each night being hosted by a different country.

Over 400,000 people are expected to attend this year’s free event – avoid downtown Vancouver and watch them from Jericho Beach on Vancouver’s West Side to avoid the crowds.

Best of all? It’s free, making it one of the best cheap things to do in Vancouver.

2024 festival dates: July 22 (Australia), July 26 (Mexico), July 29 (Philippines).

Carnaval del Sol

Every July in Vancouver, you’ll find the epic Carnaval del Sol, the annual celebration of Latin American culture. The event features live music, dance performances, food trucks, and more.

Carnaval del Sol is a family-friendly event that is open to everyone – of particular interest are the workshops and activities that range from bachata dancing lessons to salsa-making classes.

This Vancouver July festival is at Jonathan Rogers Park in East Vancouver.

2024 festival dates: July 7-9.

Khatsahlano! Music + Art Festival

If you’re looking to celebrate local music and art in Vancouver, then the Khatsahlano Music & Art Festival is gonna be your jam.

Over the years, this 10-block street festival on 4th Avenue between Burrard and Macdonald has grown to become one of the biggest July events in Vancouver.

At this arts festival, you can expect 50 different musical acts across ten stages, curated art exhibitions, and local merchants.

2024 festival dates: July 8th (11:00 am and 9:00 pm).

Brewery and the Beast Vancouver

If craft beer and sustainable meats being cooked on an open fire sounds like a good night out (I mean, how does it not?), then Brewery and the Beast Vancouver is a great August event for you.

They’ll be grilling, smoking, and roasting all sorts of deliciousness from regional providers. Whether it’s delicate pork tacos or a slab of roasted elk, the plethora of proteins is really something.

Attendees of this July 9th, 2024, event can also enjoy unlimited samples of food and drink, as well as live music and entertainment.

Concerts in July in Vancouver 2024

• The Rolling Stones: July 5th, BC Place
• Ocean Alley: July 6th, Douglas Mitchell Thunderbird Arena
• Gone Country: July 20th, Bill Reid Millenium Amphitheatre

Sporting Events

• BC Lions: BC Place
• Vancouver Whitecaps: BC Place
• Vancouver Canadians: Nat Bailey Stadium

There are still more events TBA. For tickets and more information on these July Vancouver events, visit our friends at TicketNetwork via the banner below:

July Weather in Vancouver

The weather in Vancouver during July is usually pretty good. It’s not too hot compared to other inland cities, and there’s usually little rain.

You can expect average July high temperatures to be around 22 degrees Celsius during the day (71.6 Fahrenheit) and around 14 degrees at night (57 Fahrenheit).

Of course, there can always be a heat wave or a cold snap, but generally speaking, the weather in Vancouver in July is very pleasant.

What to Pack for a Trip to Vancouver in July

Of all the things to do in Vancouver BC in July, dressing appropriately might be at the top of the list!

Pack clothes that are comfortable and easy to layer on a Vancouver July vacation.

Even if you’ll be walking around in a T-shirt and shorts during the day, later on, a light jacket or sweater is a good idea as evenings can be cool.

Don’t forget to pack a pair of comfortable shoes, as Vancouver is not only a hilly city but offers plenty of hikes and forest walks. You’ll also want to pack a bathing suit, as there are plenty of opportunities to cool off in the water.

No matter what the temperature is, however, always remember to pack an umbrella! Vancouver is known for its rainy days, and even if the forecast says sun, you can never be too prepared.

Visiting Vancouver in July FAQ

Is July a good time to visit Vancouver?

July is a good time to visit Vancouver because you’ll find the city’s hottest weather, meaning you’ll be able to enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and going to the beach. It’s also prime festival season with Khatsalano, Carnival del Sol and much more.

What to wear in Vancouver in July?

There can be a lot of variation in temperatures, so be prepared for both hot and cold days. On warm days, light, airy clothing is best, and on cooler days, a light jacket or sweater may be necessary.

What to pack for Vancouver in July?

If you’re planning a trip to Vancouver in July be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat. The sun can be intense, especially when you’re near the water. You should also pack comfortable shoes, a light jacket, and a swimsuit.

How hot is Vancouver in July?

The weather in Vancouver in July is warm and sunny. It’s important to be prepared for the heat, as temperatures can reach 30 degrees Celsius or more. That said, don’t expect this to be very common – around 25 degrees is usually the max, making it a warm summer, not a hot summer.

What time does it get dark in Vancouver in July?

In July, the average daylight lasts for about 15 hours, with sunrise happening around 5:30 AM and sunset happening around 8:30 PM.

Visiting Vancouver in July?

I’ve tried to narrow down what to do in Vancouver Canada in July – but I’m only human!

If you’re looking for a little custom advice on how to visit Vancouver, get in touch with me on the Vancouver Planner Facebook page or write me in the comments below.

Enjoy all the events in Vancouver in July ☀️