While Vancouver is best known for its snow-capped mountains, waterfront skyline, and natural beauty, we’re firm believers that Vancouver has earned its place among North America’s most exciting destinations. With a rapidly growing roster of world-class events each year, the city now stands shoulder to shoulder with heavyweights like New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Toronto when it comes to culture, sport, and entertainment.
From global sporting spectacles and international food festivals, to stadium-filling concerts and city-wide celebrations, here are some of the most highly anticipated events coming to Vancouver in 2026.
1. Dine Out Vancouver Festival
DATE: JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 8, 2026
LOCATION: VARIOUS PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS
With an impressive range of global cuisines and world-class restaurants, Vancouver’s food scene takes centre stage every January. The Dine Out Vancouver Festival is Vancouver’s largest food and drink event of the year, drawing thousands of diners to over 400 restaurants for prix-fixe menus, chef-led events, and pop-up dining experiences.
Most notably, the festival’s World Chef Exchange program flies in acclaimed chefs from around the globe to collaborate with local culinary stars for one-night-only dinners. In 2026, expect global collaborations with teams from Chicago, London, Seoul, Bangkok, and Penang coming to town.
Why go: Michelin-recognized spots, neighbourhood gems, and global cuisines at affordable prices.
2. HSBC SVNS Vancouver
DATE: MARCH 7 TO 8, 2026
LOCATION: BC PLACE STADIUM
One of the stops on the World Rugby Sevens Series, HSBC SVNS Vancouver returns with two-days of fast-paced matches featuring the world’s top men’s and women’s national teams. Since hosting its first tournament in 2016, Vancouver has embraced rugby sevens with open arms – and an unmistakably party-forward attitude.
Why go: High-octane sport meets party-level energy. Even if rugby isn’t your thing, the atmosphere will win you over by match two.
3. BMO Vancouver Marathon
DATE: MAY 3, 2026
LOCATION: CITY-WIDE
Named one of the world’s top destination races, the BMO Vancouver Marathon annually draws runners from more than 60 countries each year. The course winds through vibrant neighbourhoods, along the seawall, and finishes with iconic waterfront views that make the toughest kilometres all the more rewarding.
Why go: It’s the ultimate city sampler. Whether you’re running or cheering, you’ll see Vancouver at its best.
4. FIFA World Cup 2026
DATE: JUNE 11 TO JULY 19, 2026
LOCATION: BC PLACE STADIUM
The biggest sporting event on the planet is coming to Vancouver. As one of 16 official host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the city will welcome soccer fans from around the globe for seven matches at BC Place Stadium – including two chances to see Canada’s Men’s National Team take the field on home turf.
For weeks, downtown Vancouver will be electric, with fan zones, public viewing parties, and street celebrations turning the city into a non-stop football festival.
Why go: Once-in-a-generation energy. National pride. The world’s biggest sport on a global stage.
5. WNBA – Vancouver Games
DATE: SUMMER 2026
LOCATION: ROGERS ARENA
With women’s basketball on pace for yet another record season, Vancouver will host a Toronto Tempo regular season at Rogers Arena, bringing elite talent out west. Expect packed stands, buzzer-beaters, and a city eager to prove it deserves a permanent team.
Why go: Top-tier basketball, history in the making, and a front-row seat to the future of women’s sports.
6. Guns N’ Roses World Tour
DATE: AUGUST 29, 2026
LOCATION: BC PLACE STADIUM
Rock royalty Guns N’ Roses storm back into Vancouver as part of their massive 2026 world tour. After rocking through stages across Latin America, Europe, and North America, the band lands in Vancouver ready to deliver a full-throttle night of iconic hits and fan favourites.
Why go: “Sweet Child O’ Mine” live in a room with 50,000 other fans? BC Place is about to get very loud.
Where to Stay in Vancouver
When the city’s biggest events take the stage, Smithe House is the place to stay. Just steps from BC Place Stadium and walking distance from Rogers Arena and public transit, Smithe House puts you in the heart of the action. Perfect for soccer fans, concert-goers, and families looking for space to stay together, each design-forward suite is fully furnished with flexible layouts and the thoughtful details of a boutique hotel. Book your modern stay today.
