City To Host Free Music, Movies And More This Summer In Vancouver (Photo) - 05/26/26
Vancouver, Wash. – Vancouver’s summer calendar is packed with free ways to enjoy live music, community celebrations, arts, and the outdoors. Starting in July, Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department is offering a full lineup of free, family-friendly events designed to bring the community together and make the most of the summer season.
Whether you are picnicking at a waterfront concert, enjoying a movie under the stars, or exploring a local festival, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
America250
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday in true Vancouver style from noon to 11 p.m. on July 3 at the Fort Vancouver Parade Grounds. This free event is presented by the Historic Trust and City of Vancouver. The day includes live music, family games and activities, and food vendors. Throughout the day there will be tours of the historic Marshall House and demonstrations from the Fort Vancouver Historic Weapons Program and the Fort Vancouver National Park facilities will be free from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to close out the evening with a film screening of “A League of Their Own” (PG) under the stars, sponsored by Kaiser Permanente.
Free concerts
Dance your summer evenings away at one of Vancouver’s two free concert series. Performances are family friendly and offer a great way to connect with the community and experience the talent of the Pacific Northwest. Please remember, alcohol is not permitted in parks.
Vancouver Waterfront Concert Series
Location: Vancouver Waterfront Park, 695 Waterfront Way
Dates: Thursdays, July 9 to 30 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Set along the Columbia River, this series features a world music lineup including Cuban sensations Dina Y Los Rumberos, Jujuba’s Afrobeat, and Latin swing by the Shangai Woolies. Indian funk group Cha Wa joins us from Louisiana thanks to a new collaboration with Clark College Foundation. This concert series is presented by the Waterfront Vancouver Parking Center.
Sunday Sounds at Columbia Tech Center
Location: Columbia Tech Center Park, 17701 S.E. Mill Plain Boulevard
Dates: Sundays, July 12 to Aug. 16 | 6 to 8 p.m.
Bring a picnic or enjoy food from local vendors while listening to family-friendly rock, soul and country from Aaron Meyer, Tracy Stone Band, Petty Fever, Slicker Band and Kalimba. The July 26 concert with Prom Date Mixtape will include live ASL interpretation. This concert series is presented by Riverview Bank.
Free Friday Night Movies
In August, the big screen comes to life with Free Friday Night Movies under the stars, presented by Kaiser Permanente.
Location: Various parks throughout Vancouver
Dates: Fridays, Aug. 7 to 28 | Movies start at dusk
Enjoy big-screen favorites including “Fantasia (1940),” “Super Mario Galaxy,” “Zootopia 2” and “Superman (2025)". Arrive before the movie starts for fun activities and special performances. All movies are captioned. “Superman” will be presented with on-screen American Sign Language (ASL).
Festivals and celebrations
Celebrate the season at a variety of free festivals and community events:
Vancouver Arts & Music Festival
Location: Esther Short Park
Dates: Aug. 7-9
This three-day event includes outdoor stages, GRAMMY-winning musicians, art demonstrations, community workshops and dozens of local food and craft vendors.
Additional free summer celebrations:
- Lemonade Day Junior Market – June 6, Esther Short Park
- Juneteenth Freedom Celebration – June 20, Esther Short Park
- Pollinator Festival – June 20, Marshall Community Park
- Saturday in the Park Pride – July 11, Esther Short Park
Esther Short Park and other venues will also host additional summer events organized by local businesses and community partners. While not all events are free, they offer great opportunities to connect and celebrate Vancouver’s vibrant culture.
Plan your summer
With no cost to attend City-sponsored concerts and movies, Vancouver is the perfect destination for affordable summer fun. Consider supporting local vendors by purchasing food, gifts, and other treats at events.
Visit www.cityofvancouver.us/events or connect with Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services on Facebook and Instagram to make the most of your summer in Vancouver.
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