September is one of those rare stretches in Metro Vancouver when the weather still feels like summer but the city is already shifting gears. Warm days hang on, the evenings cool off just enough, and the calendar fills up fast—theatre openings, outdoor festivals, big concerts, and the last big blast of the PNE before the rains settle in.
Statutory Holidays & Long Weekends in BC
Labour Day takes place on Monday, September 7, 2026
September 2026 features two statutory holidays in British Columbia:
Labour Day takes place on Monday, September 7, 2026, creating a three-day long weekend from Saturday, September 5 through Monday, September 7.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed mid-week across BC on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Arts & Culture
Vancouver International Fringe Festival
Date: September 10–20, 2026
Venue: Various venues across Granville Island and Vancouver
The Vancouver International Fringe Festival returns for 11 days of uninhibited, uncensored live performance. Featuring over 600 performances from dozens of theatre, dance, comedy, drag, and spoken word acts, it is Metro Vancouver’s ultimate showcase of independent performing arts. Shows are chosen by lottery, creating an eclectic mix where global stars and local newcomers share equal footing on stage. From intimate black box spaces to outdoor pop-up venues, the festival brings Granville Island to life every September.
This festival is for theatre lovers, comedy fans, adventurous artsgoers, and supporters of independent artists. It is Vancouver’s largest theater festival, celebrating raw creativity where every show offers something totally unpredictable.
Price: Single tickets vary by show ($15-25 average) + one-time Fringe Membership
TAIWANfest: Islands in the Wind
Date: September 5–7, 2026
Venue: Downtown Vancouver (Granville Street & Vancouver Public Library Annex)
TAIWANfest takes over Downtown Vancouver for the Labour Day long weekend, celebrating cultural dialogue between Taiwan and the world. The 2026 edition, titled “Islands in the Wind,” features outdoor concerts, visual art displays, culinary experiences, and storytelling sessions. Explore interactive public exhibits along Granville Street or attend thought-provoking panel discussions at the VPL Annex. It is a vibrant, multi-sensory weekend that brings international artists and local communities together.
This event is for families, foodies, and culture enthusiasts looking for engaging long-weekend activities. It is well worth checking out for its free street festival programming packed with authentic music, food, and immersive visual arts right in the heart of downtown.
Price: Free (select lectures or indoor performances may require registration)
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/taiwanfest-islands-in-the-wind/
HEIST
Date: September 17 – October 18, 2026
Venue: Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (Arts Club Theatre Company)
Written by Arun Lakra, HEIST opens the Arts Club Theatre Company’s mainstage season at the historic Stanley Stage. This high-energy theatrical thrill ride combines fast-paced comedy with slick crime caper suspense. When a carefully planned diamond heist goes off-script, a team of mismatched specialists must navigate secret motives, unexpected twists, and high-tech security systems. Packed with clever stagecraft, it keeps audiences guessing until the curtain falls.
This high-energy theatrical thrill ride combines fast-paced comedy with slick crime caper suspense.
This production is for fans of action comedies, suspense novels, and slick stage plays. It offers a rare chance to experience a Hollywood-style heist story crafted specifically for live theatrical performance.
Price: Tickets start at $39
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/heist-theatre/
Onegin: The 10th-Anniversary Concert
Date: September 8–9, 2026
Venue: Olympic Village Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre
A decade after its legendary premiere at the Arts Club, the hit Canadian musical Onegin returns for an exclusive two-night anniversary concert. Created by Amiel Gladstone and Veda Hille, this acclaimed adaptation of Alexander Pushkin’s classic story features the original cast and band. Follow the rakish Evgeni Onegin as his romantic arrival in a quiet country estate triggers passion, heartbreak, and a fateful duel. The sweeping, modern indie-rock score has earned international acclaim and will leave audiences spellbound once again.
This show is for musical theatre fans, modern indie music lovers, and original audience members of the 2016 production. It is a rare reunion featuring the original cast performing one of Vancouver’s most successful homegrown musicals.
Price: Single tickets start at $45
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/onegin-the-10th-anniversary-concert/
Murder on the Orient Express
Date: September 18 – October 11, 2026
Venue: Metro Theatre
Metro Theatre launches its 64th season with Agatha Christie’s legendary mystery, Murder on the Orient Express, adapted for the stage by Ken Ludwig. Set aboard the opulent luxury train stranded in a snowdrift, famed detective Hercule Poirot must solve a murder before the killer strikes again. Featuring a cast of eccentric international suspects, luxurious period costumes, and sharp dialogue, this community theatre production delivers suspense, glamour, and classic whodunit storytelling.
This play is tailored for classic mystery fans, Agatha Christie readers, and local community theatre supporters. It brings a stylish, suspenseful stage production to South Vancouver’s premier historic community venue.
Price: Regular tickets range from $38 to $45
Link: https://metrotheatre.com
Bard on the Beach: Final Performances
Date: September 1–19, 2026
Venue: Sen̓áḵw / Vanier Park
September marks your final chance to catch the 37th season of Bard on the Beach under the iconic tents at Vanier Park. Closing out the summer repertory season are four distinct productions across two stages. Enjoy the modern Vancouver twist of The Merry Wives of Windsor on the mainstage, the dark intensity of Macbeth, or the compelling Studio Stage productions Antigone and Goblin: Oedipus. Grab tickets before the tents come down for the winter!
This experience is ideal for Shakespeare enthusiasts, comedy lovers, and outdoor theatre patrons. It pairs stunning waterfront sunset views with top-tier professional classical theatre.
Price: Tickets start at $30
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/bard-on-the-beach-the-merry-wives-of-windsor-theatre/
Music, Nightlife, Concerts
Foo Fighters: Take Cover Tour 2026
Date: September 20, 2026
Venue: BC Place
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Foo Fighters return to Vancouver for a massive stadium performance at BC Place as part of their 2026 Take Cover Tour. Dave Grohl and company are set to deliver two-plus hours of high-octane rock anthems. Expect a stadium-shaking setlist packed with classic hits like “Everlong,” “The Pretender,” and “Learn to Fly,” alongside fresh tracks and surprise guest openers Queens of the Stone Age.
This stadium show is for rock fans, arena concertgoers, and live music lovers. It stands as one of the largest and most energetic stadium rock shows coming to Western Canada this year.
Price: Tickets start at $85 + fees
Link: https://www.bcplace.com/events-tickets/
VSO Pops: The Music of Billy Joel
Date: September 25–26, 2026
Venue: The Orpheum
The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra opens its Pops season with a grand symphonic celebration of the Piano Man. Conducted by Stuart Chafetz, the orchestra joins forces with acclaimed pianist and vocalist Tony DeSare. Experience rich orchestra arrangements of Billy Joel’s timeless classics, including “Piano Man,” “Only the Good Die Young,” “Vienna,” “New York State of Mind,” and “Movin’ Out.”
This concert is for Billy Joel enthusiasts, orchestral music lovers, and night-out concertgoers. It presents legendary pop-rock anthems reimagined with full symphonic scale inside the historic Orpheum Theatre.
Price: Tickets start at $35
Link: https://vancouvercivictheatres.com/events/vso-pops-the-music-of-billy-joel-sep-25-26-2026/
& Juliet
Date: September 29 – October 4, 2026
Venue: Queen Elizabeth Theatre
What would happen if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? The nine-time Tony Award-nominated Broadway hit & Juliet comes to Vancouver on its North American tour. Created by the writer of Schitt’s Creek, this romantic comedy flips the script on the classic tragedy, soundtracked by pop anthems from songwriter Max Martin, including hits by Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry, and The Weeknd.
This musical is for fans of modern Broadway productions, pop music lovers, and date-night theatregoers. It is a high-energy Broadway spectacle packed with radio hits, stunning choreography, and pop-art visuals.
Price: Tickets range from $55 to $165
Link: https://vancouvercivictheatres.com/events/
Sombr: You Are The Reason Tour
Date: September 29, 2026
Venue: Rogers Arena
Rising indie-pop star Sombr brings the “You Are The Reason Tour” to Rogers Arena. Known for soulful vocal delivery and emotional songwriting, Sombr has quickly transitioned from viral streaming success to packing major North American arenas. The live show features intimate acoustic moments alongside stadium pop production, making for an unforgettable autumn evening.
This event is for indie pop fans, young concertgoers, and live music seekers. It offers the chance to catch one of the year’s break-out touring artists on their main stage arena debut.
Price: Tickets start at $49.50
Link: https://rogersarena.com/event/sombr/
Come Toward the Fire Festival Mainstage Finale
Date: September 20, 2026
Venue: Chan Centre for the Performing Arts
The 5th annual ʔəm̓i ce:p xʷiwəl (Come Toward the Fire) Festival culminates in a mainstage finale concert at the Chan Centre. Hosted by actor and comedian Dallas Goldtooth (Reservation Dogs), the evening highlights Indigenous musical talent. Headlined by two-time JUNO Award-winning Oji-Cree artist Aysanabee, the performance line-up includes Two-Spirit Cree pop singer Siibii, Boslen, Logan Staats, and the Coastal Wolf Pack.
This evening is for fans of contemporary Indigenous music, folk, R&B, and world-class live acoustics. It serves as a meaningful celebration of Indigenous music and Two-Spirit artists at UBC’s premier concert hall.
Price: $29 (Indigenous/Student), $49 (Regular), $79 (Premium)
Link: https://chancentre.com/events/come-toward-the-fire-2026-festival-day/
Movie Premieres
How to Rob a Bank
Date: September 11, 2026
Venue: Select Vancouver Theatres & VOD
This fast-paced heist thriller centers on an improbable team of criminal masterminds attempting a daring multi-million dollar bank robbery in broad daylight. As police close in and internal trust disintegrates, the crew must rely on quick thinking and sharp wits to make their escape. Packed with suspense, rapid-fire humor, and clever plot turns, it’s a gripping cinema experience.
This film is designed for crime cinema enthusiasts, action thriller fans, and movie lovers. It provides a suspenseful heist narrative filled with sharp action sequences and clever twists.
Price: Standard cinema admission (~15–18)
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/how-to-rob-a-bank-movie/
Exit Party (Literary Preview & Film Adaptation Panel)
Date: September 21, 2026
Venue: Vancouver Playhouse
Vancouver Civic Theatres and the Vancouver Writers Fest present bestselling author Emily St. John Mandel (Station Eleven) discussing her novel Exit Party in conversation with journalist Michelle Cyca. The event provides an inside look at the cinematic world of Exit Party, exploring its ongoing feature film and television screen adaptations.
This session is for readers, film adaptation enthusiasts, and aspiring screenwriters. It is a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of Canada’s acclaimed authors about turning bestselling sci-fi literature into screen projects.
Price: Tickets start at $25
Link: https://vancouvercivictheatres.com/events/emily-st-john-mandel-sep-21-2026/
Sports
BC Lions vs. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Date: October 23, 2026
Venue: BC Place
While the Lions battle on the road through mid-September, home CFL action picks back up at BC Place later this autumn as BC takes on their West Division rivals, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Expect high-stakes football, electric stadium energy, pre-game fan plazas, and family-friendly halftime entertainment.
This matchup is for CFL fans, sports families, and stadium event goers. It offers pivotal divisional football competition inside BC Place.
Price: Tickets start at $25
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/bc-lions-vs-winnipeg-blue-bombers-football-game/
Vancouver Canucks Preseason: Canucks vs. Edmonton Oilers
Date: September 24, 2026
Venue: Rogers Arena
NHL hockey returns to Vancouver as the Vancouver Canucks open their 2026 home preseason schedule against rival Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Arena. See veteran stars alongside top prospects pushing for roster spots in fast-paced action before the regular season kicks off.
This game is for hockey fans, Canucks supporters, and sports enthusiasts. It lets you catch live NHL hockey at Rogers Arena at accessible preseason ticket pricing.
Price: Tickets start at $35
Link: https://rogersarena.com/events/
Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. LA Galaxy
Date: September 9, 2026
Venue: BC Place
MLS action heats up as Vancouver Whitecaps FC host LA Galaxy under the dome at BC Place. With playoff positioning on the line, expect intense soccer action and passionate support from the Southsiders supporters’ section.
This match is for soccer fans, sports lovers, and active families looking for premier Major League Soccer competition right in Downtown Vancouver.
Price: Tickets start at $30
Link: https://www.bcplace.com/events-tickets/
Terry Fox Run Vancouver 2026
Date: September 20, 2026
Venue: Stanley Park (Ceperley Meadow) & Community Sites across Metro Vancouver
Join thousands of Vancouverites in continuing Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope. The non-competitive 3k/10k run, walk, roll, and bike event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities to raise funds for cancer research. It remains one of Canada’s iconic community traditions, rooted in hope, determination, and unity.
This event is for families, runners, walkers, and community supporters of all ages. It offers an inspiring community gathering in scenic Stanley Park supporting cancer research.
Price: Free registration (donations encouraged)
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/terry-fox-run-vancouver/
Family & Kids
PNE Fair: Final Days & Summer Night Concerts
Date: September 1–7, 2026
Venue: Pacific National Exhibition (PNE Grounds)
Catch the final week of Vancouver’s favourite summer tradition! The PNE Fair runs through Labour Day Monday with rides, fair foods, agricultural exhibits, and live shows. Highlights include the SuperDogs Fairy Tails 50th-anniversary showcase, Wizard of Oz On Ice, and daily agricultural displays. Nightly Summer Night Concerts at the Freedom Mobile Arch feature acts like Barenaked Ladies (Sept 2) and “Weird Al” Yankovic (Sept 3).
This iconic fair is for kids, teens, parents, and fairgoers of all ages. It represents the classic Vancouver summer finale packed with thrill rides, animal shows, and outdoor pop concerts.
Price: Fair admission starts at $20 (free for kids under 3); concert upgrade passes vary
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/playland-at-the-pne-spring-season-opens-amusement-park/
Come Toward the Fire: Knowledge Sharing & Family Festival
Date: September 18–19, 2026
Venue: Chan Centre & UBC Campus Grounds
The opening days of the ʔəm̓i ce:p xʷiwəl (Come Toward the Fire) festival offer family-focused, free cultural programming across UBC campus. Friday’s Day of Knowledge Sharing features storytelling, film screenings, and cultural workshops. Saturday’s Festival Day offers outdoor musical stages, Indigenous artisan markets, dance performances, hands-on craft stations, and local food trucks suitable for kids and youth.
This gathering is for families, students, youth groups, and community members. It delivers hands-on learning and cultural activities celebrating Indigenous art and storytelling.
Price: Free admission / Pay-what-you-can donation
Link: https://chancentre.com/events/come-toward-the-fire-2026-day-of-knowledge-sharing/
Playland at the PNE: Autumn Weekends
Date: September 12–27, 2026
Venue: Playland Amusement Park
After the main PNE Fair concludes, Playland reopens for weekend family fun throughout September! Enjoy classic rides like the historic 1925 Wooden Roller Coaster, Atmosfear, and the Carousel, alongside carnival games and classic treats like mini donuts.
This amusement park experience is for thrill-seekers, kids, teens, and weekend family outings. It allows visitors to enjoy shorter lines for rides on crisp autumn weekends.
Price: Ride passes start at $33.50 (Junior) to $47.50 (Thrill)
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/playland-at-the-pne-spring-season-opens-amusement-park/
Chiquitzin Kids Fiesta by Carnaval del Sol
Date: September 12, 2026
Venue: Latincouver Cultural Hub / Plaza
Celebrate Latin American heritage with young ones at the Chiquitzin Kids Fiesta. Hosted by Latincouver, this festival features piñatas, traditional dance workshops, bilingual storytelling, face painting, and kid-friendly Latin foods.
This celebration is for toddlers, young children, and families exploring Latin culture. It features interactive dance, music, and craft activities tailored specifically for young kids.
Price: Free / Low-cost workshop registration
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/chiquitzin-kids-fiesta-by-carnaval-del-sol-festival/
in7inyaxa7en (Thunderbird) at VanDusen Garden
Date: September 27, 2026
Venue: VanDusen Botanical Garden
Experience in7inyaxa7en (Thunderbird in Squamish language), a site-specific dance collaboration between Aeriosa Dance Society and the Spakwus Slulem Eagle Song Dancers. Guided by Squamish Sea Going Canoe Family Chiy̓áxw, this performance weaves traditional Squamish songs, drumming, and aerial dance set high among the garden’s trees.
This show is for families, nature lovers, and fans of outdoor dance performance. It combines aerial dance with traditional Indigenous performance surrounded by VanDusen’s botanical gardens.
Price: Included with general Garden Admission ($12.30 Adult, $6.15 Child)
Link: https://vandusengarden.org
Food & Drinks
Richmond Night Market
Date: September 1 – October 12, 2026
Venue: 8351 River Road, Richmond (Near Bridgeport Station)
September offers prime late-season visits to North America’s largest night market. Explore over 600 food stalls serving street-food favorites like grilled squid, tornado potatoes, dim sum, dragon’s breath desserts, and bubble tea. Alongside Asian street eats, browse market stalls featuring accessories, phone gadgets, and lifestyle goods.
This market is for foodies, night owls, families, and street-food lovers. It stands as Metro Vancouver’s premiere outdoor night market experience before season wrap-up in October.
Price: $8.50 General Admission (Free for seniors 60+ and kids under 7)
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/richmond-night-market-market/
Markets & Shopping
Vancouver Makers & Merchants Festival 2026
Date: September 25–27, 2026
Venue: Vancouver Convention Centre (1055 Canada Place)
West Coast Market Events brings together local artisans, independent creators, and boutique brands for a three-day marketplace inside the Vancouver Convention Centre. Browse handcrafted jewelry, home decor, sustainable apparel, artisanal skincare, and gourmet food gifts while supporting local Pacific Northwest small businesses.
This marketplace is for local shoppers, craft lovers, and gift hunters. It gathers unique handmade goods under one roof along the Canada Place waterfront.
Price: $7 General Admission (Kids under 12 Free)
Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vancouver-makers-merchants-festival-2026-tickets-1997569799042
Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market
Date: September 6 & 20, 2026
Venue: Steveston Community Centre Parking Lot, Richmond
Take a drive to historic Steveston Village for this bi-weekly open-air market. Discover local BC farm produce, fresh preserves, baked goods, handmade crafts, and hot food vendors. After browsing the market, enjoy a stroll along the historic waterfront boardwalk and historic Steveston village.
This market is for families, eco-conscious shoppers, and weekend strollers. It delivers fresh autumn produce and handmade artisan products set in scenic Steveston Village.
Price: Free Admission
Link: https://activevancouver.ca/events/steveston-farmers-artisans-market-outdoor-market/
Artists for Conservation Festival Market
Date: September 24–27, 2026
Venue: VanDusen Botanical Garden
The world’s top conservation-themed art exhibit returns to VanDusen Botanical Garden. In addition to gallery displays, the event features a live art market, First Nations carving demonstrations, live music, and birds-of-prey presentations. Meet international wildlife artists and purchase artwork supporting nature conservation programs around the globe.
This festival market is for art collectors, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It displays high-caliber wildlife art surrounded by 55 acres of botanical gardens.
Price: Included with Garden Admission
Link: https://vandusengarden.org
Workshops & Learning
IRSSS + Vancouver Public Library: Truth & Reconciliation Series
Date: September 10, 17, 24 & 29, 2026
Venue: Central Library (Montalbano Family Theatre, Level 8) & Online
In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Indian Residential School Survivors Society (IRSSS) partners with VPL for a series of workshops. Sessions cover topics including Coming Full Circle: History and Impacts of Residential School on September 10 and Understanding Intergenerational Trauma & Healing on September 17.
This learning series is for community members, students, educators, and anyone seeking meaningful engagement with reconciliation. It provides first-hand educational workshops hosted by Indigenous community facilitators.
Price: Free (Pre-registration required on VPL site)
Link: https://www.vpl.ca