Spring Break is coming up soon, and many families across Metro Vancouver are starting to think about how to spend that extra time together. If you’re hoping to find activities that are fun for all members of the family, there are plenty of great options that will keep kids engaged while giving everyone a chance to enjoy the break.
To make planning a little easier, we’ve gathered five fabulous, family-friendly events taking place around the Lower Mainland. These events have lots to offer with free or low-cost admission! From exploring the outdoors to discovering local arts and culture, there are activities for all ages to check out.
1. Spring Break at Steveston Tram
Location: Steveston Tram, 4011 Moncton Street, Richmond
Date: March 14 – March 29
Step back in time and climb aboard the 113-year-old Tram Car 1220 to experience history up close. Kids can dress up as a tram conductor for some great photo opportunities, and explore interactive exhibits about Richmond’s transportation history. The Tram’s annual Spring Break visitor, Hamm the cheeky pig stuffy, is back and hiding. Follow the clues to find his hiding spot somewhere inside the museum and earn a special bookmark. Track down “Hamm on the Tram” this Spring Break at the Steveston Tram. Admission is free for this family-friendly museum.
2. Spring Break at The Burnaby Village Museum (Free Admission)
Location: Burnaby Village Museum, 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby
Date: March 16 – March 27
Histories of Burnaby’s diverse communities are showcased in this 10-acre open-air site. Explore how homes and businesses used to look, see how different cultures help shape our community and learn from Indigenous educators. Education staff are available in select exhibits to interact with and learn from.
3. The Making Place: Pastel Drawings & Circular Drawings
Location: Vancouver Art Gallery, Vancouver
Date: March 15
Get creative in the Gallery! Head upstairs to Room 4East on the 4th Floor between 11 AM and 4 PM to explore your artistic side and make your own work inspired by the art on display. The Making Place is open to all ages, and is held every Sunday, with each event revolving around different artistic themes. Each event also includes a guided tour at 2pm, suitable for ages 5 – 12. On March 15, the Making Place will include pastel drawings, inspired by That Green Ideal: Emily Carr and the Idea of Nature, and circular drawings, inspired by We who have known tides: Indigenous Art from the Collection.
4. Sea to Sky Model Train & Hobby Show
Location: Railway Museum of British Columbia, Squamish
Date: March 21 – 22
Join the Railway Museum for a fun weekend of trains to see and ride! You’ll be surrounded by trains of all sizes, including the famous Royal Hudson #2860 and other historic steam locomotives, cabooses and luxury passenger cars. The event features model trains, model railway equipment, as well as hobby tools. There will be toys, diecast models, RC cars & trucks for sale and lots of hands-on activities for children of all ages, like operating RC vehicles on a Hill Climb course!
Location: Historic Stewart Farm; 13723 Crescent Rd, Surrey, BC
Date: March 17 – 20, March 24 – 27
Track down some naughty bunnies and win a prize this Spring Break! Naughty bunnies are taking over the farm. Complete the Bad Bunny Scavenger Hunt and hand it in to staff to receive a plush bunny of your very own! You can also pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the grounds, complete your visit with a nature walk throughout Elgin Heritage Park, or take part in free drop-in activities hosted by The Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!