Free & cheap family events in January in Metro Vancouver
Raise your hand if you’re feeling a little cash-strapped right now. Well, you aren’t alone! Luckily, there are plenty of creative, fun, and yes, free and cheap things to do in Metro Vancouver this weekend from arts events to light displays. PS: If you haven’t disposed of your Christmas tree yet, the City of Vancouver’s curbside pickup is this weekend.
Family friendly events this weekend in Vancouver
Sonder: Life in Lights in Yaletown *FREE*
Runs until January 11, 2026
“Sonder: Life in Lights,” a free and immersive outdoor light installation. This event will feature glowing window projections on heritage buildings and storefronts, creating a walkable art gallery that tells subtle stories through silhouettes and quiet moments. The experience culminates in Bill Curtis Square with a special falling snow projection.
Outdoor skating *FREE*
Until end of March 2020
Choose from one of these two wonderful free outdoor skating rinks: The classic Robson Square in downtown Vancouver or at the picturesque Shipyards. Pro-tip: Bring your own skates to avoid lineups.
Family Favourite Movies *$3.99* at Cineplex
Starts January 17, 2026 various locations
Looking for an easy, budget-friendly way to get out of the house this January? Cineplex’s Family Favourites are a go-to for many local families and for good reason. Every Saturday, Cineplex screens family-friendly movies for just $3.99 plus tax, making it one of the most affordable outings around.
Family Favourites return on Saturday, January 17, 2026, with film titles to be announced soon. It’s a relaxed, all-ages experience where kids can enjoy a big-screen movie and parents can lean into the classics, popcorn and all.
Perfect for chilly weekends when you want something simple, fun, and wallet-friendly for the whole crew. Keep an eye out for the movie lineup and plan a cozy cinema date with the kids.
>> Family Favourite Movies at Cineplex
Lights at Lafarge *FREE*
Runs until February 16, 2026
Lights at Lafarge in Coquitlam is one of the largest free holiday lights displays in the Lower Mainland and it’s still on. This flat accessible 1.2 km loop has loads of fun exhibits, and it’s easy to get to by transit. If you haven’t been yet, you may be blessed with fewer crowds now that holiday excitement is on the wane.
Harrison Lights on the Lake * FREE*
Ends this weekend January 11, 2026
This is the final weekend to enjoy a magical world of lights highlighting local wildlife and the elusive Sasquatch. Stroll along Harrison’s promenade and look for the Sasquatch fishing for sturgeon, a flock of geese under the canopy of a weeping willow or get in for a group shot with the fun painted selfie stands featuring delightful creatures. The promenade is wheelchair and stroller-friendly. PS: Bring your skates for a spin on the rink by the lake!
>> Harrison Lights on the Lake
Museum of Surrey – Our Connection to Hockey *FREE*
Runs till April 26, 2026
This interactive exhibit brings Surrey’s own athletes and local changemakers into the spotlight, alongside well-known national hockey icons. It explores Canada’s long-standing connection to hockey and why the sport continues to hold such an important place in our culture.
Created by the Museum of Surrey, the exhibit celebrates hockey’s power to bring people together, highlighting its diversity, cultural impact, and role in shaping local communities. Visitors will discover stories from grassroots programs, women’s and para hockey, Punjabi broadcasters, and the moments and milestones that have influenced both local and national hockey culture.
