Best October Events in Vancouver 2026

Looking for the best October events in Vancouver in 2026? October is packed with major festivals, fall celebrations, Halloween events, pumpkin patches, cultural performances and some of the best fall colours of the year.

Highlights for October 2026 include the Vancouver International Film Festival, Vancouver Writers Fest, UBC Apple Festival, Harvest Days at VanDusen Botanical Garden, Fright Nights at Playland and Canyon Frights at Capilano Suspension Bridge. Thanksgiving weekend also brings the popular Fort Langley Cranberry Festival.

Our guide to the best things to do in Vancouver this October includes events and activities in Vancouver, the North Shore, Burnaby, Richmond, New Westminster, Surrey, Langley, the Fraser Valley and beyond.

Whether you’re looking for a fall festival, family outing, cultural event, harvest celebration or something seriously spooky for Halloween, there is plenty happening throughout October.

If we have left off your favourite event, let us know in the comments below. Looking for the best fall colours? Check out: 12 places to see fall colours in Vancouver and  5 road trips to see the best fall colours in BC, and one bonus adventure

Plan ahead and save money. Look for early bird discount codes for some events – check out our 2026 Guide best pumpkin patches and corn mazes in Metro Vancouver, Haunted Halloween Guide for Metro Vancouver, and the 2026 guide for Vancouver Christmas events, holiday light displays and markets.

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Best October Events in Vancouver

VanDusen Botanical Gardens Harvest Days – September 26–27; October 3–4, 10–12 and 17–18, from 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Celebrate the beautiful fall colours at VanDusen Botanical Gardens with an autumn stroll during Harvest Days. There are great activities and photo opportunities for the entire family. Enjoy live entertainment, a fall-inspired craft section for kids and a scarecrow-themed hedge maze. Tasty treats are available for purchase from vendors.

& Juliet – September 29–October 4, 2026

What if Juliet’s story didn’t end with Romeo? The hit Broadway musical & Juliet reimagines Shakespeare’s famous love story, giving Juliet a second chance at life and love.
The energetic musical features a soundtrack of pop hits by songwriter and producer Max Martin, whose catalogue includes songs made famous by Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry and other major artists.
Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver

Dogfight The Musical – October 2–18, 2026

A new Greater Vancouver musical theatre company makes its debut this October with Dogfight: The Musical at Waterfront Theatre on Granville Island.
Set in 1963 on the eve of the Vietnam War, the musical follows a group of young Marines during one final night before deployment. What begins with a cruel wager changes when Marine Eddie Birdlace meets Rose, an aspiring musician, leading to a story about compassion, forgiveness and human connection.

Based on the 1991 film, Dogfight features a book by Peter Duchan and music and lyrics by award-winning composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the songwriting team behind Dear Evan Hansen, The Greatest Showman and La La Land.
Location: Waterfront Theatre, Granville Island, Vancouver

Vancouver International Film Festival, October 1-11, 2026

The Vancouver International Film Festival celebrates its 45th edition with more than 160 films, 85 shorts, live performances, talks and special events at venues across Vancouver.

VIFF brings together Canadian and international cinema along with its expanded VIFF Live program, which combines film, music and live performance. Festival passes, ticket packs and individual tickets are available, and popular screenings and special events can sell out.

Culture Days September 18–October 4, 2026

Culture Days brings free arts and cultural experiences to communities across British Columbia. Look for performances, exhibitions, workshops and opportunities to meet artists throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

For a complete list of what’s happening during the first month of fall, see our guide to September events in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

Harvest Haus Vancouver Oktoberfest – October 2-3, 2026

Come for an Oktoberfest celebration of the European fall harvest at the 10th annual Harvest Haus.

Activities: Traditional Bavarian-inspired food and entertainment with more than 25 beer vendors featuring seasonal local craft brews and European offerings. Wine and other spirits are available along with traditional favourites such as bratwurst and pretzels. Guests are encouraged to dress for the occasion in lederhosen and dirndls, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Admission: Register for presale access Buy tickets. Location: PNE Forum, Vancouver, 
Age: 19+

Vancouver Opera presents Tosca – October 24–November 1, 2026

Experience Puccini’s dramatic opera Tosca when Vancouver Opera brings the story of love, jealousy and political intrigue to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
Set in Rome, the famous opera follows singer Floria Tosca as she becomes caught between her lover, the painter Cavaradossi, and the ruthless police chief Scarpia.
Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver

ISU Short Track World Tour – October 24–25, 2026

The world’s fastest short track speed skaters return to Vancouver for the ISU Short Track World Tour, the first international short track competition at the Pacific Coliseum since the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Expect two days of high-speed racing, daring passes and intense competition as top skaters from Canada and around the world battle for points toward the Crystal Globe. For anyone who hasn’t experienced short track live, the speed and excitement make this one to watch. Ticket presale.

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors – October 22 to November 15, 2026

Just in time for Halloween, Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors brings a hilarious twist on Bram Stoker’s gothic classic to the Arts Club Theatre Company. This fast-paced farce turns the familiar tale upside down, with a cowardly hero, an adventure-seeking heroine and a very different Count Dracula. Expect plenty of laughs, theatrical mayhem and vampire fun in this playful take on the legendary story.
Location: Lindsay Family Stage at Granville Island, Vancouver

Fin-tastic Fall Days at the Vancouver Aquarium – September 27-October 31, 2026

Activities: Check out the hands-on Shipwreck Wet Lab, meet the newly rescued sea otter pup and other incredible rescued marine mammals. Discover small fish with big appetites and learn the wild secrets of bats at our seasonal Hagfish Feeds and Bat Talks. Immerse yourself in the hidden world of bugs and more in a new 4D movie.

Get a taste of fall with seasonal-inspired food and treats for a limited time only: BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, Fall Mac + Cheese, Sweet Potato Poutine, Seafood Chowder, Assorted Aquatic Fall-Themed Sugar Cookies, Hot Apple Cider, Pumpkin Spiced Latte’s, and BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine. 

Location: 845 Avison Way, Vancouver, in Stanley Park.
Website: www.vanaqua.org/fall-days

Here is our video from last year’s Fin-tastic Fall visit.

Fintastic Fall Days at the Vancouver Aquarium

Fintastic Fall Days at the Vancouver Aquarium

Apple Festival – UBC Botanical Garden – October 17-18, 2026

This is the 35th year of the UBC Apple Festival at Botanical Gardens.

Activities: Apples and apple trees will be available to buy. The festival includes a children’s area, a food and craft fair, entertainment, and a display of nearly 200 types of apples grown in BC. For an additional fee, you can taste a variety of heritage and new apples in the tasting tent. Tickets provide access to the UBC Botanical Gardens and Greenheart TreeWalk. Download a map.

Tickets go on sale October 1. Tickets are available only online and are limited to ensure the best possible experience.
Location: UBC Botanical Garden, 6804 SW Marine Drive, Vancouver, BC.

Get ready for one of Vancouver’s biggest Halloween events when Fright Nights returns to Playland with seven haunted houses, 15+ rides, live performances and roaming scare actors.

Explore terrifying attractions including The Bloodshed, Carn-Evil, Darkness, Haunted Mansion, Keepers Doll Factory, Materia Medica and The Void, then take on Playland rides after dark.
Fright Nights runs on select nights from October 7–31. Weekends are typically the busiest, so consider visiting on a weekday and arriving early to make the most of the haunted houses and rides.

Hours: 6–11 p.m. on select nights; 6 p.m.–midnight on Fridays, Saturdays and Halloween

Admission: Advance tickets from $39; prices vary by date
. Location: Playland, Vancouver

Good to know: Recommended for ages 13+. Costumes and costume makeup are not permitted.

Fright Nights at Playland. Photo: Stephanie Carr©

Uncover a Dark Truth – Murder Mystery Dinner Experience – until December 19, 2026

Don’t miss this entertaining, immersive, and interactive event. In collaboration with Netflix, Secret City presents a one-of-a-kind murder
mystery dinner experience launching for the first time in Vancouver, Canada. The Perfect Bite, A Dinner Experience Inspired by Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery takes a bite out of the captivating and thrilling universe of the Knives Out film series. This immersive and interactive event will have guests on the edge of their seats as they dine together and work to uncover a dark truth.

A Series of Concerts by Candlelight until December 31, 2026

Enjoy a series of live concerts illuminated by candlelight in a variety of locations throughout Vancouver.

Find out more about this Concert by Candlelight and to book tickets.

Coming in November: Cirque du Soleil LUZIA – November 4 to December 13, 2026

Plan ahead for Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA – A Waking Dream of Mexico, coming to Vancouver under the Big Top at Concord Pacific Place from November 4 to December 13, 2026. Tickets are on sale now, so book early for the best dates and seats.

LUZIA takes audiences on a colourful journey through an imaginary Mexico, blending spectacular acrobatics with music, elaborate costumes and striking visual effects inspired by the country’s landscapes and culture. One of the show’s most remarkable features is its use of water during live acrobatic performances — a first for a touring Cirque du Soleil production.
Location: Concord Pacific Place, 88 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
. Tickets must be purchased in advance online.

Disney On Ice presents Jump In! November 25–29, 2026

More than 50 Disney characters take to the ice at the Pacific Coliseum, including new appearances by Anxiety from Inside Out 2 and characters from Moana 2. Expect world-class skating, aerial acrobatics, special effects and favourite Disney songs, plus Olaf’s Festive Sing-Along Preshow included with admission. Pre-Sale Code: PR6FDX good until September 7.  www.ticketleader.ca

Burnaby October Events

North Vancouver and West Vancouver October Events

Ambleside Farmers Market – Now until the end of October

Shop the Ambleside Farmers Market for an assortment of BC Crafts, a variety of farm-fresh produce and delicious prepared foods.

The market is open from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sundays at Ambleside Park, located at the foot of 13th Street.

Capilano Regional Park – Celebrate Salmon Season – mid-October through early November

Take a short hike at Capilano Regional Park to view salmon swimming upriver to spawn. The Coho Look provides some of the best views. Walk through towering Douglas fir trees to cross two bridges to take in scenic views of the river.

The trail is a 1 km loop and starts near the Capilano Fish Hatchery. Download a map.

Canyon Frights at Capilano Suspension Bridge – October 9 – November  1, 2026

Get into the Halloween spirit at Canyon Frights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, when the North Vancouver attraction transforms into a spooky woodland filled with glowing pumpkins, eerie lights and family-friendly surprises.

Follow the darkened trails past graveyards, giant spiders and creepy crawlies, spot watchful owls at Treetops Adventure and discover glowing mushrooms along the pond pathways. Returning skeletal displays are joined by new surprises, while seasonal food and drinks add to the Halloween fun.

Hours: 10 a.m.–8 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. October 23–25 and October 30–November 1.

Vancouver’s North Shore Craft Beer Week – October 30, 2026

Taste and sample Vancouver’s North Shore’s finest Craft Breweries in the Historic Shipyards District. There will be food trucks, live entertainment, prizes and games.

New Westminster October Events

Haunted Walking Tour of New Westminster

Activities: Join Ghostly Vancouver Tours for their Ghostly New West Walking Tour and spooky storytelling of lingering spirits in Downtown New Westminister. They say they do not fabricate ghost stories; all haunted stops are researched through archives and interviews. This adult-oriented event is for ages 12 and up. Check out all four tours offered: Ghostly Downtown, Ghostly West End Stories, Ghostly Gastown and New West.
Admission: $29 – Adults.
Hours: Weekly on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 pm

Bury the Hatchet – October 17, 2026

Revisit one of history’s most notorious murder mysteries when the award-winning UK theatre company Out of the Forest brings Bury the Hatchet to New Westminster.
The inventive production re-examines the story of Lizzie Borden, who was tried and acquitted of murdering her father and stepmother in 1892. Bluegrass music and murder ballads combine with gallows humour and vaudevillian horror for a decidedly different take on the infamous case.

Tickets: $38–$51
 Location: Anvil Theatre, New Westminster

Halloween Cemetery Tour – October 28 and 30, 2026

Explore one of New Westminster’s oldest cemeteries by lantern light during a special Halloween edition of the city’s historic cemetery tours.
The evening walk through Fraser Cemetery delves into true stories from New Westminster’s past, including tales of mystery, mayhem, unsolved questions and headline-making crimes.
Hours: 6:30–8 p.m.
 Admission: $15 
Location: Fraser Cemetery, New Westminster

Good to know: This tour is for ages 18+

Hidden Wonders Speakeasy Magic Experience – every week through December 2026

Two-time world champion of magic Shawn Farquhar will perform his intimate sleight-of-hand trickery at a secret location in historic downtown New Westminster. Farquhar has appeared on Ellen, Masters of Illusion and Fool Us. Only ticket holders will be given the exact location. Book tickets.

Richmond and Delta October Festivals and Events

Reifel Bird Sanctuary Lesser Snow Geese start arriving in October through mid-December

Visit the Reifel Bird Sanctuary, one of the top birding watching spots in North America, to see masses of white Lesser Snow Geese. The mid-winter count hovers around 135,000.

Snow Geese like to sleep on the water and large dense flocks can often be seen in the marshes and rivers in the Sanctuary. Find out more. Before heading out, check road conditions to Westham Island.

Coquitlam October Events

Salmon Come Home Celebration – October 25, 2026

Celebrate the return of salmon to Coquitlam rivers. The prime time to see chum, chinook and coho salmon battle their way up the river to their spawning grounds is usually mid-October through early November.

Coquitlam has eight viewing spots, but one of the best is Hoy Creek Linear Park. Caution: always watch out for bears. Know what to do if you encounter a bear.

Surrey October Festivals and Events

Mom’s the Word Talkin’ Turkey – October 14–24, 2026

The popular Mom’s the Word Collective returns with a comedy about family, motherhood and the chaos that can come with gathering everyone around the Thanksgiving table.
Presented as part of Surrey Civic Theatres’ 2026/27 season, the Arts Club Theatre Company production mixes candid storytelling and humour as the women tackle family traditions, ageing parents, adult children and holiday expectations.
Location: Surrey Arts Centre

Spooktacular Halloween Market – October 24, 2026

Activities: 60 vendors, free kids’ activities, food trucks, costumed characters, photo ops, and more.
Admission: Admission by donation to Surrey Hospitals Foundation
Location: 6050 176th Street, Cloverdale.

Maple Ridge October Events

Celebrate the Night – Festival of Lights – October 24, 2026

Activities: Celebrating fall and Halloween. Family fun-filled activities include storytelling, pumpkins, crafts, games, food trucks and a fireworks finale.
Admission: Free
Hours: 6 pm – 8:00 pm. Fireworks at 8:00 pm.
Location: Memorial Peace Park, 11900 224 Street, Maple Ridge
Email: culture@mapleridge.ca
Phone: 604-467-7325.

Langley October Festivals and Events

The Bog Riverside Cranberry Farm – Late September – October, 2026

Come experience the Cranberry Harvest and Farm Tour at Riverside Cranberry Farm.

Take the Harvest Walk around the perimeter of the cranberry field to watch active cranberry harvesting. On a self-guide audio tour to learn about cranberry farming and its history. There are lots of great photo opportunities. For an additional fee, take the cranberry plunge wading experience.

Remember to visit the farm to table store onsite to pickup fresh cranberries for Thanksgiving. The stage of harvest cannot be guaranteed for tour date purchased

Check for dates and tickets.

Harvesting cranberries can be found near Vancouver in September at the Bog Riverside Cranberry Farm in Langley

Harvesting cranberries at the Bog Riverside Cranberry Farm in Langley

Fort Langley Cranberry Festival – October 10, 2026

Celebrate the Fraser Valley cranberry harvest at one of Fort Langley’s biggest fall events. The 31st Annual Fort Langley Cranberry Festival fills the historic village with local food, fresh cranberries, artisan vendors and family-friendly activities.

The day begins with the Fort Langley Lions Club pancake breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by the main festival from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. More than 125 vendors and 15 food trucks are expected throughout the village.

Fort Langley National Historic Site also joins the celebration with cranberry-themed activities and demonstrations, making this an excellent Thanksgiving weekend day trip.

Hours: Festival 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; pancake breakfast begins at 8 a.m.
 Location: Fort Langley village

Admission: Free to attend the village festival; regular admission applies to some activities at Fort Langley National Historic Site.

Abbotsford October Events

Abbotsford Farm and Country Market – Every Saturday until October 31st, 2026

Pick up locally grown and produced products from Abbotsford farmers and artisans.  The market is Abbotsford’s longest running market. All vendors are vetted, meaning the market showcases the best in the area. Location: Jubilee Park,  2552 McCallum Road. 9 a.m. – Noon.

Taves Family Farms Applebarn, Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze – 2026

Activities: Pumpkin Patch, U-Pick apples, slides, zipline, beehive viewing, cider press demonstrations, petting barn, three corn mazes (Mystery Maze, Corn Quest Maze, and the kiddie maze), pedal carts, hay rides, playground, Jumping Pillow and Pumpkin Pillow, Bunny Town and Farmville. Pick up a locally grown pumpkin.  See the video from our visit.

Check out our last visit to Taves Family Farms Applebarn.

Be sure to check out Taves Estate Cidery when you visit the farm. Remember to book a tasting.

The Fall Experience – The Corn Maze opens around September 13, 2026, and the Pumpkin Patch runs until October 31, 2026. Check to see which activities are available.
Location: 333 Gladwin Rd, Abbotsford, BC
Website: https://www.tavesfamilyfarms.com/rates/

Taves Family Farms Pumpkin Patch adventures in Abbotsford. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Maan Farms Fall Festival – Forest Pumpkin Patch and Enchanted Corn Maze – September 13 – November 2, 2026

(about an hour from Vancouver)
Maan Farms gets better every year. The newest addition to the Forest Pumpkin Patch is a life-size pumpkin-shaped house, towering at 10 feet tall. Carrying over from Spring at the Farm, the whimsical mushroom house, butterfly house, bee house, and pumpkin hut will be returning, surrounded by a river of heirloom pumpkins. Visit furry friends and 11 fun farm attractions in the Barnyard Adventureland, make your way through the Daytime Corn Maze and create magical memories. And don’t forget the tasty treats.

We tasted the Butter Chicken Naan Tacos, Double Pumpkin Spice Cream, and Pumpkin Spice Mini Donuts, which were all delicious.
Location: 790 McKenzie Road, Abbotsford, BC.Website: https://www.maanfarms.com

See our guide to Metro Vancouver Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes

A visit to Maan Farms Fall Festival. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

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Chilliwack October Events

Greendale Acres Fall Festival: Family Fun, Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze

(about an hour from Vancouver)
The Greendale Acres Fall Festival kicks off right after the Labour Day long weekend, starting on Sept. 6 with First Responder Day. For the next two months, families can celebrate the season with themed events, including:
• Apple Days • Fairytale & Superhero Day • Pumpkin Patch Kickoff
• Grandparents’ Day • Princess Day in the Pumpkin Patch
• Thanksgiving on the Farm • Grand Halloween Parade – Oct. 31

Family-Friendly Activities at Greendale Acres
Alongside these special events, guests can enjoy Greendale Acres’ signature fall attractions every day of the festival. Popular highlights include the bee-themed Corn Maze, the Greendale Express Train, and the Pumpkin Patch and Pyramid, all perfect for making autumn memories. Families can also relax in designated picnic areas while the kids explore:
Jumping Pillow, Adventure Course, Ball Zone, Bubble Bar, Pedal Cart Track, Hay Bale Maze, Animal Displays, Farm Carousel

Location: 41905 Yale Road West, Chilliwack, BC, Exit 109 off Hwy 1
Website: http://chilliwackcornmaze.com/

Harrison Hot Springs October Festivals and Events

Harrison Sunflower Festival – Closed

Squamish October Events

Bald Eagle Viewing – Late October through February

Download a map of the best Bald Eagle viewing area. The Eagle Run viewing site, along the Squamish River, is open all year and the shelter has informational panels about eagles. Check here for the daily eagle counts.

BAT-to-the-Bone Fang-tastic Halloween -2026 to be announced

(about an hour from Vancouver)
Activities: A special Halloween underground tour.

Location: Britannia Mine Museum, 150 Copper Drive, Britannia Beach, BC
Website: Britannia Mine Museum

Going to Squamish? Why not make a weekend of it and stay over so you can also check out the Squamish Craft Tasting Trail.

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