Join us for the 23rd Vancouver Chinatown Festival!
VANCOUVER CHINATOWN BIA SOCIETY ANNOUNCES 23RD ANNUAL VANCOUVER CHINATOWN FESTIVAL, PRESENTED BY BMO -- a free two-day community festival is happening Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13, 2025
VANCOUVERCHINATOWN BIA SOCIETY ANNOUNCES 23RD ANNUAL VANCOUVER CHINATOWN FESTIVAL,PRESENTED BY BMO
This free two-day community festival is happening Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13, 2025
The Vancouver Chinatown Business Improvement Area Society (VCBIA) is proud to announce the return of its beloved summer tradition, the 23rd annual Vancouver Chinatown Festival, presented by BMO. Taking place over a summer weekend, on Saturday, July 12 and Sunday, July 13, 2025, the free family-friendly festival will once again beheld on Keefer and Columbia, in the heart of historic Chinatown.
This year, festival-goers can look forward to a variety of entertainment, culinary options, cultural experiences, and community activities. Highlights include: the Main Stage with multicultural performances; an expanded Children’s Theatre; a Cultural Zone, and the popular Artisans Market featuring a curated selection of local makers and food vendors.
“The Vancouver Chinatown Festival is a celebration of culture, community, and connection, and we are thrilled to have BMO’s support for our 23rd year,” says Joey Kwan, executive director of VCBIA. “We’re proud to see the festival continue to grow with new and returning experiences for all ages. It’s a reflection of the energy and resilience that define Chinatown, and we can’t wait to share this year’s festivities with everyone.”
The Main Stage will feature a range of performances throughout the weekend, including by: Cindy Yang Dance Academy of Canada, Boogaloo Dance Academy, and Colours of Dance Academy. Musical highlights include marimba ensemble Muevete, the BC Chinese Music Association, and Rain City 6, a six-piece band known for their energetic pop and rock sound. Cultural showcases include Japanese Yosakoi dance by Appare, Brazilian rhythms by Samba Fusion, and more community-driven dance and music acts.
The expanded Children’s Theatre will feature interactive shows and activities tailored for families, with appearances by Barbie, Ken, Elsa, and Anna, along with the return of crowd favourites like magician Blake Aleong. New additions include roving giant bubble stilt walkers, Story on Wheels, and an appearance from Science World On the Road. Kids can also enjoy face painting, balloon twisting, t-shirt painting, MiniMakers crafts, and games throughout the day.
The Cultural Zone will once again feature Vancouver Chinatown walking tours hosted by Bob Sung of A Wok Around, plus Chinese painting and calligraphy demonstrations, mini massages, paper lantern and fan-making, and the ever-popular giant Mahjong setup.
As with last year, the Artisans Market along Keefer Street will highlight a curated group of local makers and food vendors. Participants to be announced at a later date.
“The Vancouver Chinatown Festival is a celebration of community, heritage, and fun,” adds Kwan. “We’re excited to welcome visitors of all ages back to Chinatown this summer.”
The VCBIA encourages people to share their experiences by participating in the festival’s interactive “Where’s Van Van the Panda?” contest. Using the Vancouver Chinatown Festival app or following @visitchinatownon Instagram, participants can track the beloved mascot around Chinatown for a chance to win tickets to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Chinese Canadian Museum, and Chinatown Storytelling Centre.
For more information about Vancouver Chinatown Festival, please visit www.vancouver-chinatown.com/festival.
