The 2025 Vancouver International Children’s Festival is here! Running from May 26 to June 1 on Granville Island, this beloved annual event brings together world-class performances created especially for children and families. From theatre and live music to circus, puppetry, and dance, it’s a magical celebration of the arts that sparks curiosity and creativity in kids of all ages. Whether you have toddlers or tweens, there’s something for every family to enjoy — come make memories and inspire a lifelong love of the arts!

Pro-tips to make the most of the Kids Fest

1. Come to a mid-week or evening show

Beat the crowds by coming mid-week or attending an evening show. Better still, deck the kids out in PJs and head to a super cute pyjama show! Going mid-week is much more relaxing, and you might even get on-island parking.

>> Pyjama nights and evening shows

2. Save money with a Family Pack

Save money by purchasing a Family 4-pack for one performance for only $62 +tax and s/c. Bring the whole family or come with a friend and save.

>> Find a show!

3. Extend your play by using your Activity Village wristbands on a different day

Did you know that show tickets include free wristbands to enter the Festival’s Activity Village where you and your child can get creatively playful with hands-on art activities?

Learn circus skills, get your face painted, place a wish on the wishing tree, play games in a mystery maze, create origami, make creature crafts & spin art, and more at the Activity Village!

A full day at the Festival might be too much for a little one. Why not come see a show and return to visit the Activity Village another day. Your wristbands are good for one visit any time during the Festival.

>> Find out more about the Activity Village

4. Know Where to Chill

Need a break from all the excitement? The Festival has you covered with plenty of green spaces to relax and recharge. Perfect for little ones who need a breather or moments of downtime, these quiet spots offer a peaceful escape. Don’t miss the Inner Garden inside the Activity Village — a cozy, calming space designed for rest and reflection in the middle of all the fun.

>> Find out what shows will be happening this year

5. Buy tickets in advance

To avoid disappointment, buy your tickets early as many shows sell out.

>> Get tickets!

6. Take advantage of free parking

Did you know that the Festival offers FREE parking?FREE PARKING is available on Saturday, May 31 and Sunday, June 1 at the Lululemon parkade at 1551 Cypress Street. Enter the parkade entrance on Cypress street turn left (South) off Cornwall. Note: it is a 20-minute kid’s pace walk from the parking lot to Granville Island, so make sure you arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your show to allow enough time to get there. Here’s a walking route to the Festival site

7. Tasty Bites & Sweet Treats

Don’t forget to treat your taste buds while you’re there! Grab mouthwatering donuts, cream puffs, or classic fish and chips at the Granville Island Public Market, or check out the delicious food trucks right on the Festival grounds. It’s the perfect way to fuel up between shows and activities!

This post is sponsored by Vancouver International Children’s Festival 

The Vancouver International Children’s Festival takes place May 26 – June 1 on Granville Island where world-class theatre, music, dance, circus, puppetry and storytelling comes to entertain Vancouver children and families.