Shipyards Night Market – Must-Visit in North Vancouver

If you’re looking for a lively slice of North Vancouver’s community spirit, check out the Shipyards Night Market. This weekly event has become a summer favourite, bringing locals and tourists to the pretty waterfront of the Shipyards North Vancouver for an evening of food, music, and local crafts.

Running every Friday from May to September, the Shipyards Night Market offers a great mix of city energy and relaxed coastal feels. It’s not just a market – it’s a celebration of local culture and a nod to the area’s rich history as the North Vancouver Shipyards.

Wind Down After the Market: Online Casino Games to Try

After enjoying the fun and lively atmosphere at the Shipyards Night Market, you might want to unwind and relax. Online casino games are a great way to do just that, offering a variety of options like fast-paced slots or classic games like blackjack and roulette.

While BC offers its own regulated platforms, those curious about alternative ways to stay entertained in other parts of Canada might find Ontario online casinos a particularly appealing choice. These platforms are known for their secure environments and engaging games, providing a seamless way to keep the excitement going from the comfort of your home or hotel. With a wide selection of games catering to both casual players and seasoned enthusiasts, these Ontario-based sites excel in delivering personalized gaming experiences. They also feature user-friendly designs and robust customer support, ensuring an enjoyable and hassle-free experience for all players.

It’s a perfect way to round off your night, blending the thrill of gaming with the convenience of online access.

Atmosphere and What to Expect

Imagine this: The sun’s starting to go down, casting a warm light over the water at North Van Shipyards. The air’s filled with the sound of live music in North Vancouver and the smell of food trucks. Families, friends, and couples walk around, looking at artisan stalls or relaxing with a cold drink in the beer garden.

That’s what the Shipyards Night Market is like. It’s where North Vancouver comes to chill at the end of the week, mixing the best of local food, music, and crafts into one busy event.

Kids have fun, too. There’s a splash park right in The Shipyards, perfect for cooling off on warm summer nights.

Students and Festivals: New Trend

Students are naturally drawn to festivals like the Shipyards Night Market, as they offer a vibrant space to relax and socialize. The lively music, variety of food options, and energetic atmosphere appeal to the student lifestyle, providing a break from academic routines. Festivals also give students the chance to explore local culture, shop for unique artisan goods, and unwind with friends after a busy week.

The blend of entertainment and social interaction makes festivals a favorite weekend destination for many students. With students enjoying the vibrant festival atmosphere, the entertainment lineup at the Shipyards Night Market adds even more excitement to the evening with live performances and music.

Entertainment Lineup

Music is the heart of Shipyards Live North Vancouver. Each week has different live performances and DJ sets, keeping the energy high all evening.

In 2024, visitors saw local favourites on stage as part of the North Vancouver live music scene. The music typically starts at 5 PM with an opening act, followed by the main show at 7 PM. DJs play between sets, so there’s always music going on at The Shipyards North Vancouver.

The variety of music means there’s something for everyone, from calm acoustic sets perfect for a relaxed dinner to upbeat shows that’ll have you dancing as the sun goes down over the North Vancouver Shipyards.

History of the Shipyards Night Market

The Shipyards Night Market has grown a lot since it started 11 years ago. It began as a small community event and has become a beloved summer tradition that brings thousands each week to The Shipyards North Vancouver.

The market’s first organizer, Ingrid Doerr, sadly passed away in 2018. In 2022, with the okay from Ingrid’s family, the event was taken over by iMADE and restarted as the “Shipyards Night Market 2.0”. This change brought new life to the event while keeping its community-focused spirit.

The location itself has a lot of history. The North Vancouver Shipyards used to be a busy shipbuilding area. Today, the Night Market remembers this heritage, mixing the area’s industrial past with its lively present.

Tips for Attending

To get the most out of your Shipyards Night Market experience, keep these tips in mind:

1. Come early: The market opens at 3 PM, but things really get going around 4:30 PM. Arriving then helps you avoid crowds and food truck lines.
2. Getting there:
3. Public transit is your best choice. Take the SeaBus from Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver.
4. If driving, arrive early to get a parking spot. Shipyards parking can be tricky, with limited street parking and pay lots nearby.
5. Cycling? There’s a bike valet service available at The Shipyards.
6. Make it a full evening:
7. Visit the Lonsdale Quay Night Market before the Shipyards Night Market starts.
8. Take a sunset walk along the pier after you’ve had your fill of food and shopping.
9. Bring cash: While many vendors take cards, having cash can make things quicker.
10. Dress in layers: North Vancouver evenings can get cool, even in summer.

The Shipyards Night Market is a fantastic way to spend a Friday night in North Vancouver. Whether you’re there for the food, the music, or the local shopping, you’re sure to have a great time. The event has grown into a major social hub, bringing together the community in a fun and welcoming setting.

While this year’s market is already over, it’s worth planning for next year. The mix of food trucks, live music, artisan vendors, and the lively atmosphere makes the Shipyards Night Market a must-visit event. Be sure to mark your calendar for next summer’s season starting in May 2025.