10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (July 20-24)

It’s hard to believe we’re already in late July, but that doesn’t mean the summer fun is slowing down. On the contrary, outdoor movie season is amping up, some big-name concerts are on their way, and there are tons of reasons to stay out late this upcoming week if you know where to look. Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (July 20-24).

The Polygon has officially brought back its popular outdoor movie nights this summer, and its next movie night is coming up this week on Thursday, July 23. This time, it’s going to be a double feature, with the night kicking off with a screening of Machotaildrop, a film that follows an epic journey of Walter, an amateur skater who dreams of going pro. Next, they’ll be screening the acclaimed short film, Joe Buffalo, which explores the story of an Indigenous skateboard legend and Indian Residential School survivor who must face his inner demons to realize his dream of turning pro.

When: Thursday, July 23, and every Thursday until Aug. 27, 2026
Time: 7 to 11 p.m.
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: Admission by donation

Science World’s second-ever outdoor summer party is making its way back to False Creek for one day only this July, complete with all kinds of engaging science stalls led by local researchers, as well as live music all night long, presented by Sofar Sounds.

When: Thursday, July 23, 2026
Time: 6 to 10 p.m.
Where: 1455 Quebec St.
Cost: $34.99 for early bird tickets

The iconic Shakespeare comedy The Merry Wives of Windsor is kicking off this year’s Bard on the Beach program, set in the community athletic centre of a (fictional) Vancouver suburb that happens to be obsessed with soccer. There are also a handful of other Shakespeare-inspired productions to keep an eye out for if you’re ready to check out what’s onstage next: Macbeth (now until Sept. 18, Goblin:Oedipus (now until Sept. 19), and Antigone (now until Sept. 18).

When: Shows throughout July, August, and September
Time: Showtimes at 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Where: 1695 Whyte St.
Cost: $30 to $103 per person, depending on seating

Country-rock icon Chris Stapleton is bringing his All-American Road Show to Vancouver this week, with an opening act by The Teskey Brothers.

When: Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Time: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: 800 Griffiths Way 
Cost: $310+

Maybe you prefer to catch your outdoor movie at Stanley Park, in which case, Evo Summer Cinema on Tuesdays is the event to mark down. This week, Mean Girls is screening at the Ceperley Park Playground on the massive, 40-foot screen.

When: Tuesday, July 21, and Tuesdays until Sept. 1, 2026
Time: 9 to 11 p.m.
Where: 8701 Stanley Park Dr.
Cost: Free admission

Folk and indie artist Chance Peña is coming to Vancouver for an intimate night of music and storytelling.

When: Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: 868 Granville St. 
Cost: $187.12

This summer, two beloved musicals known for their feel-good music and inspiring storylines take the stage at Vancouver’s Malkin Bowl. Theatre Under the Stars is officially back for its 86th year of live theatre, showcasing Sister Act and Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

When: Friday, July 3 to Aug. 22, 2026
Time: Various showtimes
Where: 610 Pipeline Rd.
Cost: $35 to $69 for GA

The zipline is back, the less-than-$10 happy hour items are back, and tons of exciting new attractions await at this year’s Richmond Night Market.

When: Opens Friday, April 24, 2026, operates Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Time: 7 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 11 p.m. on Sundays
Where: 8351 River Rd., Richmond
Cost: $7 for GA

Fans can dive into how both early adjustments and more recent innovations have changed the way we experience professional soccer. This Science World exhibition also highlights the host nations of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with objects connected to Canada’s recent international football history on display.

When: Friday, May 15, 2026, to Sept. 7, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 1455 Quebec St. 
Cost: $37.50 per adult

Ice cream crawl, anyone? The Vancouver Ice Cream Fest is the perfect way to try a wide range of scoops from as many ice cream shops as your heart desires. It’s Metro Vancouver’s largest self-guided ice cream and frozen dessert festival for a reason.

Where: Participating ice cream shops across Vancouver

And that’s a wrap on the week!

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