Family Day 2026 in Vancouver: Dates, Activities & Things To Do
Family Day 2026 is taking place on Monday, February 16th in the province of British Columbia, and we’ve put together your guide to making the most of the holiday in Vancouver. Family Day is a great chance to slow down, reconnect with loved ones, and enjoy one of the final holidays of the winter season.
What Is Family Day?
Family Day is a Canadian holiday celebrated in most provinces, sometimes under different names (for example, it’s called Islander Day in Prince Edward Island). While not a federal holiday, many provinces choose to observe the holiday as a way to give Canadians extra time with their families.
The holiday originated in Alberta in 1990, as Premier Don Getty wanted to emphasize family values and give working parents the chance to spend more time with their children.
The concept has since spread to many other provinces, including British Columbia, where it was first officially observed in 2013. Family Day is now observed on the 3rd Monday of February each year in B.C., alongside Alberta, New Brunswick, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba (Louis Riel Day), Nova Scotia (Nova Scotia Heritage Day), and Prince Edward Island (Islander Day).
How To Celebrate Family Day 2026 in Vancouver
Unlike many other holidays, Family Day is relatively new and doesn’t have many specific traditions associated with it. You won’t find themed decorations or activities for Family Day the same way you will for days like Halloween, Christmas, or Easter.
However, many Canadians have begun building their own traditions for Family Day, with the goal of enjoying the extra time with loved ones. A few fun and typical ways to celebrate in Vancouver include:
Day trips or weekend trips to nearby destinations like Whistler, Victoria, or North Shore Mountains
Enjoying winter sports at local ski resorts and parks
Visiting local community centres, museums, and art galleries
Attending local festivals that are running in February
Checking out new indoor activities, shows, or performances
Hosting family meals and get-togethers
All in all, Family Day is a great time to experience what Vancouver has to offer, visit a new destination that’s been on your list, or just relax at home with family and friends.
Family Day Activities in Vancouver (2026)
Let’s explore some specific attractions, events, and activities taking place this year for Family Day in Vancouver.
Outdoor Winter Activities Near Vancouver
Since Family Day takes place in February, it’s a great opportunity to get outdoors and make the most of the season with winter sports and activities. Sledding, skiing, snowboarding, and other cold-weather fun are all available near Vancouver.
If you want to make the most of the whole weekend, consider taking a trip to North America’s largest ski resort in Whistler or a bit further to the breathtaking town of Pemberton.
If you want to stay close to home or enjoy a day trip, check out nearby ski resorts like Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, or Mount Seymour.
Family Day Events in Vancouver
Several Vancouver destinations are hosting special Family Day activities and events in 2026. You can take a look at your local community centre’s programming, or check out:
Kitsilano Community Centre’s Family Day Celebration: A free, all-ages community celebration with fun activities for the whole family. (Monday, February 16th from 10:30am to 12:30pm)
Make & Play: Family Day at the Museum of Vancouver: An interactive and creative day with hands-on activity stations and family-friendly programs. (Monday, February 16th from 11:00am to 4:00pm)
Family Day at the Vancouver Maritime Museum: A full day of interactive exhibits and engaging activities throughout the galleries at the museum. (Monday, February 16th from 10:00am to 5:00pm)
Festivals and Shows in Vancouver
While not all Family Day-specific, these festivals, shows, and performances line up with Family Day 2026:
Family Forward Festival: A three-day, donation-based creative festival with family-friendly performances and interactive shows. (February 14th to 16th)
Fan EXPO Vancouver: A pop culture celebration featuring comics, cosplay, celebrity panels, and a kids’ zone. (February 14th to 16th)
Lunar New Year Festivities: Lunar New Year begins just one day after Family Day, on February 17th, 2026. Many festivities will be available throughout February, including on Family Day weekend, such as LunarFest (running from Feb 14th to 28th), and plenty of events taking place throughout the month at Metropolis at Metrotown.
Just for Laughs Vancouver Comedy Festival: This iconic comedy festival runs throughout the month with shows citywide, including family-friendly sets and creative activations. (February 12th to 22nd)
Big Bang Festival: An energetic music and interactive arts festival with mini-concerts, creative sound experiences, and engaging activities geared toward families. (Sunday, February 15th from 12:00pm to 5:00pm)
Hot Chocolate Festival: A celebration of chocolate taking place with vendors across the city, with unique events and workshops running from January 31st, 2026 to February 14th, 2026.
Indoor Activities In Vancouver
Family Day is the perfect day to try something new! Check out indoor activities and spots such as:
Museums & Exhibits: Check out Science World, Beaty Biodiversity Museum, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, the Vancouver Aquarium, the Vancouver Art Gallery, or the BC Sports Hall of Fame for some indoor fun, learning, and exploration!
Kid-Friendly Fun: Visit Granville Island’s Kids Market, get active at Extreme Air Park or 365 Fundays Theme Park, or check out gaming fun at eSpot, Sumo Dino, or GO Game On.
Virtual Reality Activities: Try your hand at virtual reality with immersive games and activities offered at Zero Latency BC or Sandbox VR.
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Family Day 2026 in Vancouver offers a wide range of activities for you to make the most of the long weekend. Whether you decide to take a weekend trip, explore the city, or just enjoy some time off, enjoy your holiday!
