So, you’re planning a wedding and feeling a bit overwhelmed? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a student on a budget or a young family juggling a million things, the Fraser Valley Wedding Festival is here to help make your big day a little easier—and a lot more fun.

This festival is the longest-running wedding event in the Fraser Valley, and it’s packed with everything you need to plan your wedding. From caterers and photographers to florists and DJs, you’ll find over 50 local vendors ready to help you create the wedding of your dreams. And the best part? It’s all in one place, so you can compare prices, ask questions, and get inspired without running all over town.

The festival usually takes place in Abbotsford at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre. It’s a great spot—easy to get to and with plenty of parking. The event typically runs from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore.

Tickets are affordable, especially if you grab them early. General admission is around $15, but if you buy before the early bird deadline, you can snag them for just $8.50. VIP tickets are also available, offering perks like early access and a complimentary bar ticket. Plus, VIPs have a chance to win a $250 cash prize—just for showing up!

Inside, you’ll find a variety of exhibitors showcasing everything from wedding dresses and tuxedos to cakes and décor. There are also live music performances, fashion shows, and even contests to keep things lively. And don’t forget the prize draws—there’s always a chance to win something special.

For families, the festival is a great way to get the kids involved in the wedding planning process. They can help you pick out flowers, taste test cakes, and even try on some fun accessories. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly environment where everyone can have a good time.

So, if you’re in the midst of wedding planning and looking for some inspiration and local vendors, the Fraser Valley Wedding Festival is definitely worth checking out. It’s a one-stop shop for all things wedding-related, and it’s a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Keep an eye on the festival’s website for the latest information on dates, ticket sales, and vendor lists. And remember, whether you’re planning a big celebration or a small, intimate gathering, the Fraser Valley Wedding Festival has something for everyone.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

One of the coolest fall events in Vancouver is the Day of the Dead Latin Market on Granville Island. It’s not just a market—it’s a whole vibe. Music, art, food, colors, family, memories, culture. If you’ve ever wondered what Día de Muertos feels like in Vancouver, this gives you a pretty full picture—without having to travel far.

The market usually runs for a full day, often into evening hours, sometimes even over two days. Families, students, artists, tourists—all kinds of people show up. It’s put on by Latincouver as part of Latin American Heritage Month. The location is the open lot near Old Bridge Street, close to the Public Market area. It’s lovely to wander, especially when the fall air is just right—not too cold, but crisp enough to make being outside feel good.

Food is one big draw. Tacos, tamales, quesadillas, hot chocolate, sometimes local takes on traditional Mexican sweets—things that smell like home (or like somewhere you wish home was). The vendors are varied: some sell food, others art, crafts, or handmade goods. You’ll find things made by Latin American artisans—maybe jewelry, prints, small trinkets that are both pretty and meaningful. There are ofrendas (altars) set up, often decorated with marigolds, sugar skulls, candles—places for remembrance. That part tends to feel emotional, especially for people who’ve lost someone and want to honour them.

Music, dance, and performances give the market its energy. Live bands, traditional music, sometimes dance performances or storytelling. You’ll hear rhythms you might not know, see people in costume (think Catrina / Catrín), face paint, big flower crowns… all the colors and pageantry. It’s not super rigid—more celebratory and inclusive. Kids have things to do too: face painting, arts & crafts, maybe workshops where they can learn about the traditions.

Visiting tips so it doesn’t feel overwhelming: go earlier in the day if you can, because booths fill, food and special items sell out, and the crowd gets thicker toward evening. Bring cash and comfy shoes—you’ll walk a lot. Layers are smart: afternoons can be warm, evenings cooler. If you’re coming with friends or family, maybe pick a meeting spot in case you split up.

The emotional pull of the event is big. It’s not only about buying stuff or eating great food—it’s about collective memory, honoring people who passed away, and sharing culture openly. For young families, it’s educational: kids can see traditions up close, learn about heritage in a way that’s hands-on and sensory. For students, it’s a cultural break, something to feed your soul and Instagram story alike.

What I like most is how it manages to be festive and respectful at the same time. It doesn’t feel like a show or a parade exactly, but more like a gathering of people who want to remember, celebrate, and connect. There’s laughter, there’s music, there might be tears, but ultimately, you leave feeling a little fuller—fuller in heart, in senses, in experience.

If you are around Vancouver in late October or early November, this market is well worth checking out. Grab a friend, bring your curiosity, go hungry, bring a small bag for goodies, and be open. Even if you don’t buy much, just the sights, sounds, smells, and feeling of community will make it one of those days you remember for a long time.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

So there’s this event in Vancouver called the Comic & Toy Show, and if you’re into comics, action figures, or just random cool stuff, it’s pretty fun. It happens at the PNE Forum, which is a big hall that can fit a ton of vendors, and it runs for a whole weekend. This year it’s at the end of October, right before Halloween, so the timing feels kind of perfect for a nerdy weekend.

The hours are simple: 11 in the morning until 5 in the evening both days. Tickets aren’t too bad either. If you’re over 13, it’s about twenty bucks for Saturday, a bit cheaper for Sunday, and you can also get a weekend pass if you want to go both days. The best part? Kids 12 and under are totally free, which makes it easy for families to bring their kids along.

Once you’re inside, it’s kind of overwhelming at first because there are so many tables—like hundreds. People sell all sorts of stuff: old comic books, rare collectibles, trading cards, posters, and of course, toys. You’ll see Funko Pops, action figures, Lego sets, and sometimes even things you forgot existed. It honestly feels like a mix of a giant flea market and a nerdy treasure hunt.

They also bring in special guests, usually artists or people connected to comics and pop culture. Sometimes you can get them to sign stuff, and other times they’re just hanging out with their artwork. You’ll see cosplayers too, like people dressed as superheroes, anime characters, or Star Wars stormtroopers. It’s fun to walk around and take pictures because the costumes are usually pretty impressive.

The vibe of the show is pretty relaxed, though it does get busy. You’ll see collectors carefully looking through boxes of comics, kids pointing at toys they want, and students wandering around just checking everything out. It’s also easy to get carried away and spend more money than you planned. There are even door prizes during the day where you can win gift cards to use at the show, which makes it a bit more exciting.

Practical stuff: wear good shoes because you’ll walk a lot, and bring cash if you can. Some vendors take cards, but not all. There are ATMs inside just in case, and food trucks outside so you don’t have to leave if you get hungry. Also, if you’re after something specific, go early because the rare items can sell fast.

Overall, the Vancouver Comic & Toy Show is a good weekend activity whether you’re a serious collector or just curious. Families can make it a day out, and students can go with friends to see what’s new or weird. It’s not fancy, but it’s a lot of fun, and you never really know what you’ll find. Even if you don’t buy anything, just walking around and soaking up the atmosphere is worth it.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Autumn in Vancouver means sweater weather, fallen leaves… and Oktoberfest everywhere. If you like beer, music, good food, or just hanging out in a fun crowd, there are some solid Oktoberfest-type events this season that are worth checking out. One of the biggest is Harvest Haus, and there are others downtown too. Here’s the lowdown so you can pick what sounds best.

Harvest Haus is kind of the main Oktoberfest party in Vancouver. It happens over a weekend (this year it’s early October) at a big venue, and it’s 19+, so this one is more for students who are old enough, or adults. The thing I like about Harvest Haus is how it mixes the German traditional stuff (like bratwurst, pretzels, steins, oompah bands, people in lederhosen) with more modern vibes (craft beers, DJs, dance music, food vendors with funky seasonal stuff). The crowd seems into it: part boisterous, part just there for the atmosphere and hanging out. The ticket prices start lower if you buy early and go up closer to the event. There are general-entry tickets, but you can also reserve a VIP table so you have a guaranteed spot and maybe a slightly more comfy experience. Also, you get a souvenir stein if you go.

If Harvest Haus feels like too much, there are some smaller Oktoberfest events around town. One is the Bentall Biergarten Oktoberfest downtown, which is more compact and a bit more casual. People there still get into German-style food, beer, pretzels, and music. You don’t need to commit an entire evening or travel far. Because it’s in the city centre, it’s easier to just pop in, grab something to eat, enjoy some music, and head home without making it a big production.

What makes these Oktoberfest events fun isn’t just the drinking: it’s the atmosphere. Hearing live music (sometimes “oompah” bands), seeing people in costumes or traditional Bavarian clothing, watching the steins clank together, dancing or singing along to well-known tunes, trying new beers or ciders you haven’t tasted before, sharing giant pretzels or sausages with friends. For students, that stuff makes it feel more like a party than a performance or a show.

A few heads-ups though, especially if you’re going with friends or family. Because it’s popular, tickets sell out, or at least the cheaper ones do. If you wait too long, you might pay more, or lose out. Also, since these events tend to be evening affairs (or at least partly at night), plan for transit or safe rides home. Dress warmly—a lot of Oktoberfest venues are in large halls or outdoor tents, which aren’t always super cozy, and fall nights in Vancouver get chilly.

If you’re under 19, these big beer-oriented events won’t work, but sometimes there are family-friendly Oktoberfest-style dinners or smaller celebrations in German clubs or restaurants that are more open to all ages. Keep an eye out for those if you want the flavour of Oktoberfest without the strict age restrictions.

All in all, Vancouver’s Oktoberfest scene this year looks like it’s delivering: good food, good drinks (for those old enough), live music, and a strong dose of community. Whether you go big at Harvest Haus with a group of friends or hit a more relaxed downtown beer garden event, it’s a solid way to celebrate autumn, try something different, and maybe get a story or two out of the night.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Every autumn, something kind of cool happens in Fort Langley: the Cranberry Festival. It’s one of those days where the whole village gets in on the fun, families and students mix together, food trucks show up, there are cranberries everywhere, and it honestly feels like fall made an event just for you.

This year marks the 30th time the festival is happening, so it’s been going for a while. It takes place on a Saturday, right before Thanksgiving, which is smart because everyone’s already getting into that cozy, harvest vibe. Doors open early—around 9:00am—and the fun lasts until about 4:00pm. The main location is around Glover Road, in Fort Langley Village.

What makes it such a good time is that there’s something for almost everyone. If you like food, you’ll be happy. There are food trucks with all kinds of goodies, including some treats that use cranberries in creative ways. If you like shopping, there are lots of vendors—more than a hundred in past years—selling crafts, art, fresh produce, things made locally, etc. And yes, cranberries are a big deal: you can buy fresh ones, baked goods with cranberries, preserves, sauces—anything that shows off those tart, red berries.

Families especially enjoy it because it’s very kid-friendly. There are games, crafts, face painting, and places for kids to run around. If you’re a student, it’s also a nice break—something that gets you outside, experiencing local culture, eating good food, and maybe getting that feeling of “fall is really here.”

One of the more interesting parts is at the Fort Langley National Historic Site. On the day of the festival it usually has free admission, which is cool. The historic site puts on things like cranberry stomping so you can literally squish cranberries with your feet, demonstrations that show how cranberries were used in the past, and storytelling or talks that link the cranberry harvest to local history. There’s also a Scarecrow Showcase where people make creative scarecrows across the fort or village, you can find them, vote on your favourite, and just wander around looking at them.

Getting there can be part of the adventure. Parking in Fort Langley can fill up, especially because lots of people come. Some festival-goers go early to avoid crowds and long lines. Wearing layers is a good idea since mornings can be chilly, afternoons warmer, and late afternoon sometimes cools off. Comfortable shoes help too because you might be walking a lot.

One fun bonus is the pancake breakfast that the local Lions Club often hosts early in the morning in the village. If you arrive early, that’s a great way to kick off the day with friends or family.

The vibe of the festival is friendly, relaxed, colorful. It’s not super fancy or overly polished; it’s more about community, local pride, enjoying the season, and celebrating something simple but meaningful. The cranberries might seem small (literally), but they bring a lot of flavor to the day.

If you’re in Vancouver, or near Langley, and want something to do on a crisp Saturday in October, the Cranberry Festival is one of the better choices. It’s nice to hang out with people, try new fall foods, see local stuff, and enjoy being part of a tradition. Whether you drag friends, go with family, or spend a quiet afternoon alone, you’ll probably leave feeling like fall actually showed up in style.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Every October when the leaves start to change and the weather gets colder, UBC hosts something called the Apple Festival. It’s held at the UBC Botanical Garden and it’s one of those events that feels very fall and very Vancouver. Students, families, and a lot of people from around the city show up, and it usually gets really busy, especially if the weather is nice.

This year the festival is happening on October 18 and 19. It’s been running for years and it raises money for the Botanical Garden. Apparently more than 15,000 people sometimes come over the two days, so it’s definitely not a small event. The gardens themselves are already a nice place to walk around in the fall with all the colourful trees, so it makes sense that people like to go.

The main thing at the Apple Festival is, obviously, apples. There are a lot of different kinds to try—dozens of them, more than most people even realize exist. In the apple tasting tent, you can sample all sorts of apples, from sweet to tart, and it’s kind of fun comparing them. You can also buy apples to take home, and even apple trees if you’re into that kind of thing. On top of that, there’s a market area with local vendors selling food and crafts, which makes it feel a bit like a fall fair.

It’s not just apples though. There’s entertainment too, like music and performances that run throughout the day. Kids seem to like it because it’s not boring—there’s stuff going on, and they get to taste apples and run around outside. For families, it’s an easy outing, and for students, it’s something different to do on the weekend instead of just hanging out at home.

Admission is pretty cheap, usually about nine dollars, and kids seven and under are free. If you want to go into the tasting tent, that usually costs extra, but it’s still affordable. The festival runs from around eleven in the morning to four in the afternoon on both days, so you don’t have to get up super early to go.

One thing to know is that it gets crowded, so it’s better to go earlier in the day if you don’t want to wait in line forever. Parking at UBC can be a hassle too, but there are usually shuttles from the nearby parkades, which makes things easier. The weather can be unpredictable in October, so it’s smart to wear layers and good shoes.

Overall, the UBC Apple Festival is a nice way to enjoy the season. It’s not a huge flashy event, but it’s fun, relaxed, and definitely feels like fall. Whether you’re a student looking for something to do with friends, or a family with kids, it’s worth checking out. Even if you’re not a big apple fan, the atmosphere and the garden itself make it a good time.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Halloween in Vancouver isn’t just about costumes and candy—it’s also about getting active, having fun, and supporting a great cause. Enter the Big Halloween Run, a spooktacular event that combines fitness, festivity, and philanthropy. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to celebrate Halloween, this event has something for everyone.

The Big Halloween Run takes place on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Olympic Village in Vancouver. The evening kicks off with a 1km dash at 6:00 PM, followed by a 5km run/walk at 7:00 PM. Both courses wind along the scenic False Creek Seawall, offering participants beautiful views of the city and the water. The routes are designed to be accessible, with minimal inclines and stable paths, making them suitable for all ages and abilities. Plus, the event is pet and stroller-friendly, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun.

This isn’t your typical race. The Big Halloween Run is all about community, creativity, and celebration. Participants are encouraged to dress up in their best Halloween costumes, adding to the festive atmosphere. From witches and zombies to superheroes and pumpkins, the costumes are as diverse as the participants themselves.

In addition to the runs, the event features door prize giveaways, local vendors, and a DJ to keep the energy high. There are also costume contests with categories like Best Costume, Best Pet Costume, and Best Selfie, so make sure to bring your A-game.

The Big Halloween Run is more than just a fun event—it’s also an opportunity to give back. The run supports Covenant House Vancouver, an organization dedicated to helping youth experiencing homelessness. Participants can choose to donate to this cause during registration, making their participation even more meaningful.

Registration for the Big Halloween Run is straightforward. Early bird pricing starts at $22.27 for the 1km run/walk and $41.36 for the 5km run/walk. Discounts are available for groups of four or more, and participants under 18 can enjoy the 5km run for just $29. Each registration includes a customizable Halloween name bib, a finishers souvenir, and a finish clock to mark your time. Please note that there is no chip timing; the finish clock is used instead.

On race day, check-in opens at 5:00 PM, with the 1km warm-up starting at 5:45 PM. The 1km race begins at 6:00 PM, followed by the 5km warm-up at 6:50 PM and the 5km race at 7:00 PM. The event concludes by 8:45 PM. Remember to arrive early to pick up your race kit and get settled before the festivities begin.

The Big Halloween Run is a fantastic way to celebrate Halloween in Vancouver. It combines the thrill of a run with the joy of dressing up and the satisfaction of supporting a worthy cause. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or just looking to enjoy the evening with friends, this event promises a memorable experience. So, lace up your running shoes, don your favorite costume, and get ready to run, walk, or trick-or-treat your way through Vancouver’s Big Halloween Run.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Halloween in Vancouver isn’t just about haunted houses and candy—it has some seriously fun and creative traditions too. One of the most unique is the Witchilano Paddle, a Halloween-themed paddleboarding event where students and locals dress up as witches and paddle through False Creek. Imagine dozens of witches gliding across the water, hats on, brooms in hand (well, paddleboards instead of brooms) — it’s exactly as magical as it sounds.

The Witchilano Paddle usually kicks off in early October. Participants meet at Kitsilano Beach and prepare for a journey that takes them along False Creek toward Granville Island. If you’re feeling brave, you can paddle back too. The whole vibe is friendly and festive, and even though it’s unofficial and unsupervised, people of all ages join in to share in the spooky fun.

One of the coolest things about the event is that it’s not just about looking awesome on a paddleboard. It’s also for a good cause. The organizers welcome donations of cash or non-perishable food, which go to support local families in need. So while you’re dressed up as a witch, you’re also helping out your community—basically turning Halloween into a holiday for giving as well as having fun.

If you’ve never tried paddleboarding before, this might feel a little intimidating at first. The water can be chilly in October, and balancing in a costume takes a bit of skill. But if you’re confident on a board or want to try something new, this is the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself and enjoy the outdoors. Even if you just watch from the shore, it’s an incredible sight—imagine dozens of witches paddling in formation, all in their creative Halloween outfits.

Costumes are a big part of the fun, and students especially get into the spirit by showing off their creativity. From classic black hats and capes to funny or spooky twists, the more imaginative your outfit, the better. Just make sure it’s safe and doesn’t get tangled in your paddleboard, and remember a lifejacket is a must.

Beyond the costumes and paddling, the event is about community and connection. Students can meet new friends, enjoy the waterfront in a completely unique way, and be part of a really unusual Vancouver tradition. It’s one of those events that looks small on paper but turns into something memorable in person—perfect for photos, laughs, and making Halloween a little more magical.

So, if you’re in Vancouver around early October, consider joining the Witchilano Paddle or even just checking it out from the beach. It’s a chance to be part of a playful, creative, and charitable event all at once. Whether you’re paddling, watching, or just soaking in the Halloween spirit, it’s a local tradition that’s not only fun but truly unforgettable.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Hey students and young families! Are you tired of wandering the same streets every October 31st? Looking for a safe, spectacular, and—best of all—free way to celebrate Halloween? Then you absolutely need to circle Minoru Park in Richmond on your calendar, because that’s where the magic (and the massive fireworks) happens!

While some parts of the Lower Mainland might get a little quiet on Halloween night, Richmond steps up in a huge way by hosting the incredible Richmond Halloween Fireworks Festival. It’s the city’s massive, family-friendly outdoor party, and it’s the perfect spot to end your trick-or-treating adventure with a bang!

This event is a dream come true for parents and younger students. Why? Because the City of Richmond takes care of the fun, making it the best, safest Halloween party around. Instead of just candy hunting, you get to experience a festival packed with activities that cater to all ages:

Trick-or-Treating Opportunities: Even if the weather isn’t cooperating, there are usually opportunities to grab some treats right at the park, making sure everyone fills their Halloween quota!

Live Entertainment Extravaganza: The stage lights up with live music and dance performances. Keep an eye out for roving performers like magicians, jugglers, and sometimes even a fire juggler—just another reason to wear your favorite costume and join the parade of excitement.

Wacky Wonders: Past festivals have featured fantastic things like an inflatable corn maze for kids to navigate, a pro-pumpkin carver showing off incredible artistry, and even a colossal, 600-pound-plus giant pumpkin that’s perfect for a spooky family photo op!

The biggest reason thousands of people flock to Minoru Park every Halloween? The fireworks display! As the evening winds down, usually around 8:30 PM, all eyes turn skyward for what is often described as the city’s largest and most impressive Halloween fireworks show.

Imagine standing on the grass, surrounded by friends and family, watching a spectacular burst of colour and light fill the night sky. It’s the perfect, dramatic conclusion to a day of dress-up and fun. It turns a chilly October night into an absolutely unforgettable event.

Since this event is so popular, a little planning goes a long way. The Minoru Park event typically runs from about 6:30 PM to 8:45 PM on October 31st, but you’ll want to arrive early to get the best spots and enjoy all the activities before the fireworks start.

 Minoru Park is centrally located in Richmond, just a short, 10-minute walk from the Richmond-Brighouse SkyTrain Station. Taking public transit is highly recommended, as parking around the park can fill up quickly!

Whether you’re a high school student looking for a fun night out with friends, or a young family making memories with your little ones, the Richmond Halloween Fireworks Festival at Minoru Park is the definitive, feel-good way to cap off the spooky season. Grab your coat, put on your costume, and get ready for a night of free fun and fabulous frights! We’ll see you there!

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

If your kids (or maybe even you) have ever been mesmerized by big machines, cranes, bulldozers, or diggers — then you’re in for a treat. This year, Dozer Day Vancouver comes to town, and it’s not your usual “look but don’t touch” kind of event. It’s your chance to actually operate real construction equipment (safely, with supervision), experience what it feels like to drive big machines, and get behind the scenes of how things are built.

Mark your calendars: October 4 & 5, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, down at the Clark County Event Center. If you’ve been hunting for a weekend activity that’s fun and educational, this one kind of nails both. Imagine kids’ eyes lighting up when they get to sit in the cab of a machine, push a lever, or see earth move before their eyes.

Dozer Day is an interactive, hands-on experience, meaning you’re not just watching; you’re part of the action. Under expert supervision, attendees get to handle heavy equipment — safely, of course — and take part in other construction-themed activities. There are also educational displays, career booths, and opportunities to talk with people in the industry. For families, it’s a mini-road trip into how our cities, roads, and buildings are made. For students, it’s a peek into future job paths — maybe as operators, engineers, mechanics, or safety experts.

The event is also about connection. Local sponsors and construction firms use Dozer Day to show how their work supports communities — from building roads and infrastructure to shaping neighborhoods. It’s a stage to highlight the importance of safety, sustainability, and the craftsmanship behind the scenes. And the event supports local charities and community partners, which adds a heart to the heavy machinery.

If you go, come ready to make memories. Bring a camera, wear comfortable shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dusty (just in case), and maybe pack snacks — though food trucks or vendors might be there. Bring your adventurous side. Help your kids imagine what it would be like to control such powerful tools — even for a few moments.

Dozer Day Vancouver is a rare chance to put your family in the driver’s seat (figuratively and literally) of construction. Whether you’re curious about machines, want a fun and different weekend outing, or want to spark a child’s interest in a hands-on trade, this event delivers. So, gather up the family, talk your kids into it, and get ready for a day of dirt, motion, awe, and construction magic.

See you at Dozer Day. Be ready to roll up your sleeves — and maybe press some buttons.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca