Vancouver, BC

Vancouver, British Columbia, is a city that pulses with energy, where the natural beauty of mountains and ocean meets a thriving cultural scene. From the electric atmosphere of a Vancouver Canucks game to the soulful melodies echoing through historic theaters, Vancouver’s events calendar is packed year-round. Whether you’re a local looking for your next night out or a visitor eager to dive into the city’s offerings, Vancouver’s venues and events promise unforgettable experiences.

Let’s explore the city’s biggest venues, the types of events they host, and why Vancouver is a must-visit destination for sports, music, and theater enthusiasts.

Major Venues in Vancouver

Vancouver’s event venues are as diverse as the city itself, ranging from massive stadiums to intimate historic theaters. Below, we dive into the top five venues that define Vancouver’s entertainment landscape.

BC Place

Capacity: Approximately 54,500
Location: 777 Pacific Boulevard, Downtown Vancouver
History: Opened in 1983 for Expo 86, BC Place was once the world’s largest air-supported domed stadium. Its original Teflon-coated fiberglass roof was a marvel, but by 2010, it was replaced with a state-of-the-art retractable roof—the largest of its kind globally—costing $400 million. This renovation transformed BC Place into a versatile venue capable of hosting events in any weather. It has welcomed over 35 million visitors and hosted iconic moments like the 2010 Winter Olympics opening and closing ceremonies and the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup final.

Events:

• Sports: Home to the BC Lions (Canadian Football League) and Vancouver Whitecaps FC (Major League Soccer), BC Place is a hub for professional sports. The annual Canada Sevens rugby tournament, part of the World Rugby Sevens Series, brings international teams and a festive vibe.

• Concerts: The stadium’s retractable roof and large center-hung HD scoreboard make it ideal for concerts by artists like Taylor Swift, U2, and Coldplay.

• Special Events: BC Place hosts consumer shows like the Vancouver International Boat Show and the BC Home & Garden Show, as well as community events through its Community Benefit Program, which has raised approximately $2 million for local charities.

Unique Features: The retractable roof opens or closes in just 20 minutes, and the stadium’s synthetic turf field ensures durability for various events. Its downtown location, a five-minute walk from Rogers Arena, makes it easily accessible via SkyTrain or nearby hotels like the Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown.

Notable Moment: In 1984, Pope John Paul II addressed an over-capacity crowd of 60,000 for “A Celebration of Life,” marking one of the stadium’s most historic non-sporting events.

Rogers Arena

Capacity: 18,910 for hockey, 19,700 for basketball, 19,000 for concerts
Location: 800 Griffiths Way, Downtown Vancouver
History: Opened in 1995 as General Motors Place, Rogers Arena was built to replace the Pacific Coliseum and accommodate the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks and the NBA’s Vancouver Grizzlies (who later moved to Memphis). Renamed in 2010 after Rogers Communications took over naming rights, the arena has hosted major events like the 2010 Winter Olympics ice hockey tournaments, where Canada won gold in both men’s and women’s events.

Events:

• Sports: The primary home of the Vancouver Canucks (NHL) and Vancouver Warriors (National Lacrosse League), Rogers Arena is a mecca for hockey fans. The arena’s electric atmosphere during playoff games is legendary.

• Concerts: With state-of-the-art video screens and sound systems, it hosts major artists like Adele, Justin Bieber, and the Rolling Stones.

• Other Events: Family shows, circuses, and trade shows round out the arena’s diverse calendar.

Unique Features: Rogers Arena offers excellent sightlines from all seats, premium hospitality options like the Club Lounge, and accessible seating on multiple levels. Recent renovations, including new seats for the 2024-2025 season, enhance the fan experience. The arena is accessible via the SkyTrain’s Stadium-Chinatown Station.

Notable Moment: The 2011 Stanley Cup Finals saw Rogers Arena packed with fans as the Canucks battled the Boston Bruins, creating an unforgettable atmosphere despite the team’s loss.

Commodore Ballroom

Capacity: Approximately 990
Location: 868 Granville Street, Downtown Vancouver
History: Since opening in 1929, the Commodore Ballroom has been a cornerstone of Vancouver’s music scene. Originally a dance hall for big band performances, it has hosted legends like The Beatles, Tina Turner, and Nirvana. After closing in 1996, a $3.5 million renovation in 1999 restored its Art Deco charm and added modern sound and lighting systems. It’s now recognized as one of North America’s top music venues by Billboard Magazine.

Events:

• Concerts: The Commodore hosts nearly 150 concerts annually, spanning rock, pop, jazz, and electronic music. Recent acts include The Weeknd, Coldplay, and Lady Gaga.

• Private Events: Available for weddings, corporate events, and fundraisers, the venue’s intimate setting and historic ambiance make it a unique choice.

Unique Features: The sprung dance floor, lined with horsehair, absorbs impact for a comfortable dancing experience—a rare feature globally. The venue’s Art Deco design and excellent acoustics enhance every performance. It’s accessible by public transit, with limited street parking nearby.

Notable Moment: In 2004, Tom Waits performed during the Commodore’s 75th anniversary celebration, marking a milestone in its storied history.

Orpheum Theatre

Capacity: 2,800
Location: 884 Granville Street, Downtown Vancouver
History: Opened in 1927 as a vaudeville house, the Orpheum Theatre became a movie palace before its restoration in the 1970s. Designated a National Historic Site in 1979, it’s now part of the Vancouver Civic Theatres and home to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Designed by Scottish architect Marcus Priteca, its Spanish Renaissance style features gold leaf décor and chandeliers.

Events:

• Classical Music: The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra performs regularly, alongside the Vancouver Bach Choir and Vancouver Chamber Choir.

• Theater and Dance: The theater hosts operas, ballets, and contemporary performances.

• Special Events: Film screenings, lectures (like Neil DeGrasse Tyson’s upcoming 2026 talk), and galas are common.

Unique Features: The Orpheum’s Wurlitzer organ, installed in 1927, is still used for select performances. Its ornate décor and acoustics make it a premier concert hall. Accessible via SkyTrain’s Granville or Vancouver City Centre stations, parking is limited, so plan ahead.

Notable Moment: A young Frank Sinatra nearly got kicked out for practicing his golf swing in a dressing room, breaking lights—a story shared during Orpheum tours.

Vogue Theatre

Capacity: 1,161
Location: 918 Granville Street, Downtown Vancouver
History: Built in 1941 as a movie house, the Vogue Theatre was restored in 1998 and converted into an event space in 2010. A National Historic Site since 1993, its Art Deco design features a neon sign topped with a silhouette of the Roman Goddess Diana.

Events:

• Concerts: The Vogue hosts diverse acts, from indie bands to established artists like The Church.

• Film Screenings: It’s a venue for the Vancouver International Film Festival and other screenings.

• Comedy and Events: Comedy shows, spoken word events, and corporate gatherings are frequent.

Unique Features: The theater’s state-of-the-art sound system and wheelchair-accessible main floor ensure a great experience. Its historic charm and modern amenities make it a standout.

Notable Moment: The Vogue’s role in Vancouver’s ComedyFest has made it a go-to spot for laughter, hosting comedians like those featured in its 2026 lineup.

Usual Events in Vancouver

Vancouver’s events reflect its diverse, vibrant culture. Below are the main categories of events you can expect year-round.

Sports Events

Vancouver is a sports lover’s paradise, with professional teams and international tournaments.

• Hockey: The Vancouver Canucks (NHL) play at Rogers Arena from October to April. Playoff games create “Canucks fever,” with fans packing the arena.

• Football: The BC Lions (CFL) play at BC Place from June to November, offering fast-paced Canadian football.

• Soccer: The Vancouver Whitecaps FC (MLS) compete at BC Place from March to October, with passionate fan sections.

• Rugby: The Canada Sevens at BC Place draws global teams and a lively crowd.

• Lacrosse: The Vancouver Warriors (NLL) play at Rogers Arena during winter.

• Other Events: The Vancouver Marathon, cycling races, and youth tournaments add to the city’s sports calendar.

Concerts and Music Festivals

Music is central to Vancouver’s identity, with venues hosting everything from global stars to local talent.

• Large-Scale Concerts: BC Place and Rogers Arena attract artists like Beyoncé and Harry Styles.

• Intimate Shows: The Commodore Ballroom and Vogue Theatre host acts across genres, from rock to jazz.

• Festivals:

  • Vancouver International Jazz Festival (June): Features free outdoor concerts and performances citywide (coastaljazz.ca).

  • Vancouver Folk Music Festival (July): Held at Jericho Beach Park, showcasing folk and world music (thefestival.bc.ca).

  • Squamish Constellation Festival (August): A mix of indie and electronic music in Squamish (constellationfestival.com).

Theater and Performing Arts

Vancouver’s theater scene is rich and varied, offering something for every taste.

• Classical Performances: The Orpheum Theatre hosts the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, operas, and ballets (vancouversymphony.ca).

• Contemporary Theater: The Vancouver Playhouse, part of Vancouver Civic Theatres, presents modern and classic plays.

• Experimental Arts: The Firehall Arts Centre and Vancouver East Cultural Centre showcase innovative theater and dance.

• Dance and Opera: Companies like the Goh Ballet and Vancouver Opera perform at venues like the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

In Short

Vancouver, BC, is a city where events come to life against a backdrop of natural beauty and urban energy. From the roar of BC Place during a BC Lions game to the elegance of the Orpheum Theatre’s symphony performances, the city’s venues offer a stage for every passion. Whether you’re cheering for the Canucks, dancing at the Commodore, or exploring a festival, Vancouver’s events scene is a reflection of its dynamic spirit. Check venue websites like Ticketmaster Canada for schedules, and plan your visit to experience the heart of Vancouver’s cultural life.