Free and cheap family friendly events in Vancouver this weekend November 16 & 17 2019

It’s a mish mash of cultural, natural and holiday events this weekend! Observe the bald eagles on the Harrison river or head to Hyde Park for a free salmon fest. Feeling artsy? Bring the kids to free arts activities at the Eastside Culture Crawl; dance up a storm at Music with Marnie’s Shindiggy Dance Party or get a jump on your Santa visit at Metrotown. There’s also the annual holiday craft fair at Hycroft and St Paul’s Hospital will light up downtown this week.
Family friendly events in Vancouver this weekend
St. Paul’s Lights of Hope Community Event
November 14, downtown Vancouver

Head to St. Paul’s Hospital for 6:00 pm to see the Lights of Hope display switch on as fireworks light up the sky. Over 100,000 light bulbs, spanning a length of more than 10 kilometres will sparkle in the night sky. Feast at the food trucks lining the street, and listen to the soaring voices of choirs singing Christmas carols.
Eastside Culture Crawl – Crawling for Kids *Free*
November 16 & 17 2019 East Vancouver

Talk about local. The East Van Cultural Crawl is a great place to pick up unique hand-made gifts or just take part in an unforgettable community event that showcases hundreds or tiny galleries, artist studios and garages on Vancouver’s East Side. The Crawl will once again host Crawling For Kids with two free afternoons of hands-on creativity for kids of all ages.
Shindiggy Dance Party with Marnie – SOLD OUT!
Saturday November 16 2019 Vancouver

Celebrate 20 years of movin’ and groovin’ with host Marnie at this all ages dance party & fundraiser featuring eclectic tunes from DJ Mario. There will be a tasty vegan feast, wine for purchase, a silent auction for Baby Go Round, face painting and a whole lot more! Advanced tickets are a steal at $9 (or $12 at the door).
>> Shindiggy Dance Party – with Host Music with Marnie
Hyde Creek Salmon Festival *Free*
Sunday November 17 2019 Port Coquitlam

This free fishy fest features demos, dissections, crafts and performances, and even a mouth-watering salmon BBQ too. Spend the day exploring and learning about the salmon and wildlife in Coquitlam’s fish-bearing watershed.
Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival *Free*
November 16 & 17 2019 Mission

The free two-day family event celebrates the return of the eagles to the Harrison River. Eagle viewing, speakers, guided walks and talks, indoor exhibitors hall, historical site, fish hatchery and a guided canopy tour.
>> Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival
Santa at Metropolis at Metrotown
November 15 – December 24, 2019 Burnaby


Get your Santa visit in early! Santa awaits the kids starting this Friday in his Santa Castle in Metropolis at Metrotown’s Grand Court. Photos are by donation (minimum of $4), with all proceeds going to the Burnaby Christmas Bureau.
>> Santa at Metropolis at Metrotown
Christmas at Hycroft
November 14-17, 2019 Vancouver

This long-running annual holiday fair and fundraiser at the beautiful Edwardian mansion features a huge variety of live entertainment, local artisans, unique boutiques, traditional treats and Santa visits too.
Refresh Market
November 15 & 16 2019 Squamish

Refresh Market returns to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park! Shop the selection of clothing, ceramics, jewelry, dry goods, vintage and more from 100 local designers, makers and shops. Plus, take in food trucks, music and good vibes in a carefree community environment.
Harriet Fancott is the Editor and Social Media Manager for Vancouver Mom. She has over 20 years experience in the arts, tech and mom-based blogging arenas. She lives in East Vancouver with her husband and son where they enjoy exploring all that Vancouver has to offer from festivals and events to playgrounds and beaches to sushi and ice cream (although not together).