KidsOutAndAbout Weekly Newsletter |
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Fri, Jun 19: National Indigenous People's Day
Sat, Jun 20: Scandinavian Midsummer Festival
Sat, Jun 20: National Indigenous Peoples Day
Sat, Jun 27: Golden Spike Days
Sun, Jun 28: Greek Day on Broadway
Mon, Jun 29: Summer Camps- Webb's Holiday Acres
Sat, Jul 4: Coquitlam Pride 2026
Thu, Jul 16: Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert
Sat, Jul 18: Celebrate Mount Pleasant Park Festival
Fri, Jul 24: Disney’s The Lion King Live in Concert
Sat, Jul 25: Burnaby Pride |
Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers: One summer afternoon during a family camping trip in New Jersey when I was about 6 or 7 years old, a horse fly suddenly appeared next to my ear and started following me everywhere I went. I’m sure that, from its own perspective, it was just going about its business doing ordinary horse fly things, but to me it felt enormous, ominous, and purposeful. I can't remember if it
actually bit me, but I can still summon the hot panic of not being able to get away from its threatening buzz. To my small self, that fly wasn't a little distraction, it was a crisis with wings. The memory surfaced recently when my daughter Ella sent me the above photo, taken in Quintana Beach County Park, near Houston. The point was clear: Proceed, and you will be under attack, and not by any adorable Northeastern bugs you might be used to. No, these bugs were born in Texas. Beware. Sometimes that is exactly
how challenges feel, especially to kids: Problems loom much larger to them than they do to adults with decades of experience. A broken toy, a skinned knee, a mistake in front of the class, or a slight misunderstanding with a friend may be a fly in the ointment to us, but a Texas-sized monster to a child. The trick is to validate the feeling without validating helplessness. We stand beside them and say, Yes, I know, this feels huge. The bugs, even if they're not as large as they
think, are real. They watch us shoo them away and learn gradually to do it for themselves. If I had seen the sign above, my first instinct would have been to flee back to the safety of the car. And Ella said it was not exaggerating, at least not by much: The moment she stepped onto the property, giant mosquitoes descended, and they were hungry; even leggings soaked with OFF Deep Woods did not deter them. She assures me that the photo she got of the Bay-breasted Warbler was
worth all the bites on the backs of her knees. She knew better than to show me the damage. Clearly, the script has flipped.
—Debra Ross, publisher of KidsOutAndAbout.com, co-author of The Eclipse Effect: How to Seize Extraordinary Moments to Build Strong Communities
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KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Do more. Connect more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
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Beginner Summer Camps at The Happening Dance Company are the perfect introduction to dance in a fun, welcoming, and energetic environment. These week-long camps run throughout July and are designed for ages 4–7 and 8–14. Dancers will explore a wide range of styles—including Acro, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, Popping, Waacking, Contemporary, Breaking, and more—while building confidence and discovering what they love. With guidance from experienced instructors, dancers will develop foundational skills, make new friends, and experience all our studio has to offer. Dance with us this summer: www.thehappeningdance.com/camps
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Discover an unforgettable summer in sunny Tsawwassen at Southpointe Academy. Designed for students entering Grades 1–12, our Summer Programme offers enriching experiences in academics, STEM, and the arts within a caring, engaging community where every learner is encouraged to grow. Whether your child is building new skills, exploring a passion, or discovering something entirely new, Southpointe provides a summer filled with creativity, confidence, and connection. Led by experienced educators and instructors, each programme is thoughtfully designed to inspire curiosity and joyful learning through hands-on experiences and meaningful friendships. Spaces are extremely limited and expected to fill quickly. Explore our full range of summer offerings and register early to secure your child’s place in an unforgettable Southpointe summer!
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Last chance to make waves this summer at Vancouver Aquarium's AquaCamp! Designed for ocean explorers ages 5–12, AquaCamp combines hands-on activities, animal observations, science experiments, outdoor play, and unforgettable underwater adventures—all in one fin-tastic week. Guided by experienced aquarium staff, campers will discover marine ecosystems, learn about ocean conservation, and connect with amazing animals while building confidence, curiosity, and new friendships along the wave. Camp sessions are booking up fast, and availability is limited—secure your spot before your preferred dates swim away.
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Goh Ballet Academy presents the world premiere of The Dream. See the next generation of dancers across two distinct works: the pure elegance of classical Études, followed by the enchanting mischief and transformation of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Get your tickets today!
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Beneath our feet, a league of superheroes is hard at work making life on Earth possible. Discover the hidden world of soil science and conservation in Soil Superheroes, a fun and interactive exhibition on loan from the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, part of Ingenium Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation. This exhibit raises awareness of soil health and sustainability, critical issues that directly impact food security, climate resilience, human health, and the overall quality of life for Canadians.
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The Vancouver Canadians are dedicated to providing a family-friendly experience here at Nat Bailey Stadium with post-game Fireworks Nights, Superstar Series Nights with MLB and Blue Jays Alumni signing autographs, Nooners, A&W Family Fun Sundays, and promotions and giveaways all season long. The team itself is comprised of minor leaguers in the Blue Jays system, players we will soon see in the majors playing for Canada's Team, the Toronto Blue Jays.
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This is a FREE unstructured lounge drop-in program supervised by our youth staff for ages 11-14. We’ve got a Nintendo Switch, board games, snacks, phone chargers, art supplies and books-the perfect recipe for a chill Friday night! A free citywide pass is required and youth must scan in at the front desk upon arrival (no program registration needed).
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Come and explore the unique and enriching Métis heritage by learning about current and historical traditions with performances, speakers, and artisans.
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Fishin’ for Fun is where summer memories are made.Bring the kids, the grandparents, and your favourite people for a laid-back afternoon at Silverbrook Farm filled with fishing, animals, music, and wide-open space to roam. This all-ages version of our popular Fishin’ in the Dark event is designed for families who want fresh air, hands-on fun, and time together - without staying up past bedtime. Kids can cast a line, feed the animals, play yard games, and dance in the grass, while parents relax and soak in the farm vibes.
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Join us for our annual Public Works Open House on Sat, May 30 from 11am to 3pm! This event is an opportunity for the Engineering and Public Works Department to publicly acknowledge our operations staff who provide a variety of services, especially maintaining our infrastructure. Likewise, City staff are able to showcase the work that is done on a daily basis to ensure the safety and health of the community. This exciting event highlights the importance of public works in community life and celebrates the annual National Public Works Week in May, recognizing the people who provide and maintain the infrastructure services known as public works.
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OWL’s Open House will be held on May 30th & 31st from 10am-3pm. We will have educational bird of prey talks, a raptor release each day at 1pm, and bird of prey meet and greets. Visit our ambassadors birds, and enjoy a meal from various food trucks, games and more!
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Run Up for Down Syndrome presented by RCG and LiUNA Local 1611 is a family-friendly event for people of all ages and abilities. In addition to the 5k and 1.5k run/walk, the event features fun and games in the Kidz Zone, a team costume contest, on-stage entertainment, local vendors including small businesses owned by entrepreneurs with Down syndrome, and scrumptious snacks. Most importantly, by participating in Run Up for Down Syndrome, you will help those with Down syndrome flourish throughout life through the specialized programs and services of the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation. Be there for BC’s biggest Down syndrome event!
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Soccer & Technology from the FIFA Museum, presented in partnership with the Province of British Columbia, makes its North American debut right here in Vancouver. This new exhibition takes visitors behind the scenes of the beautiful game, showing how innovation has shaped its evolution. Visitors will discover the role of technology in soccer today through five distinct zones: Broadcasting and Media, Intelligent Data, Refereeing and Fair Play, Staging the Game, and Innovation Lab. So, whether you’re a lifelong soccer fan or simply fascinated by the science, this feature exhibition will shine a spotlight on parts of the game we don’t often see. Score!
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This is our Classic Dairy Program. Visitors will have the chance to make butter, hand milk a cow, feed the cows, and visit with the baby cows. Chocolate milk samples for all and an activity book for the children finish off the program.
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Head down to Granville Island for the Vancouver International Children’s Festival May 25 to May 31 and enjoy spectacular performances from around the globe for kids and families of all ages! The 2026 Festival will feature circus arts, puppetry, theatre, dance, and music shows plus lots of arts activities created just for children.
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- Friday Night Youth Lounge Drop-In - False Creek Community Centre - 1318 Cartwright St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R8, Friday, May 29, 2026, 6-9 pm
- Creative Math Lab Series - North Vancouver District Public Library (Parkgate branch) - Banff Court, North Vancouver, BC, Friday, May 29, 2026, 4:30pm-5:15pm
- Shipyards Night
Market - 138 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC, Friday, May 29, 2026, 3-10 pm
- Meet & Greet with Author Harpreet Bahia - Coles - Fraser Highway, Langley Township, BC, Friday, May 29, 2026, 3:00PM - 6:00PM
- White Rock Farmers Market - 15154 Russell Ave, White Rock, BC V4B 2P6, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10 am - 2 pm
- Mount Pleasant Farmers Market - 2300
Guelph Street, Mount Pleasant, Vancouver, BC V5T 3P1, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10 am- 2 pm
- Kitsilano Farmers Market - 2614-2658 Larch St, Vancouver, BC V6K, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10 am- 2 pm
- West End Farmers Market - 1100 Comox St, Vancouver, BC V6E, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 9 am- 2 pm
- Trout Lake Farmers Market - Trout Lake John Hendry Park,
Vancouver, BC, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 9 am - 2 pm
- Riley Park Farmers Market – Summer - Riley Park Farmers Market - Winter, East 30th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10 am- 2 pm
- Haney Farmers Market - Memorial Peace Park, 224 Street, Maple Ridge, BC, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 9 am- 2 pm
- Fort Langley Village Farmers' Market -
9025 Glover Rd, Langley, BC V1M 2R7, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 9 am- 3 pm
- Abbotsford Farm and Country Market - George Ferguson Way, Abbotsford, BC, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 9 am – 1 pm
- Parents' and Kids' Night Out - North Vancouver District Public Library (Parkgate branch) - Banff Court, North Vancouver, BC, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 6:00pm-8:00pm
- Paws 4
Stories - North Vancouver District Public Library (Capilano Branch) - 3045 Highland Blvd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 2X4, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 11:00am
- Public Works Open House - 5599 Lynas Lane, Richmond, BC, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 11 am- 3 pm
- Métis - Children of the Fur Trade - Museum of Surrey - 17710 56A Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 5H8, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 12-5 pm
- Family Storytime with
DUPLO® - Surrey Libraries – City Centre Branch - 10350 University Dr, Surrey, BC V3T 4B8, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 11 am - 12 pm
- OWL Orphaned Wildlife Open House Fundraiser - OWL Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society - Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10am
- Buzz and Bloom Fest - Surrey Nature Centre, Green Timbers Way, Surrey, BC, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 12:00 - 3:00 pm
- Soil
Superheroes - Museum of Surrey - 17710 56A Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 5H8, Saturday, May 30, 2026, Times vary
- Meet & Greet with Author Harpreet Bahia - Indigo - Grandview Corners - 161A Street, Surrey, BC, Saturday, May 30, 2026, 12:00PM - 3:00PM
- Soil Superheroes - Museum of Surrey - 17710 56A Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 5H8, Sunday, May 31, 2026, Times vary
- White Rock Farmers Market -
15154 Russell Ave, White Rock, BC V4B 2P6, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 10 am - 2 pm
- Mount Pleasant Farmers Market - 2300 Guelph Street, Mount Pleasant, Vancouver, BC V5T 3P1, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 10 am- 2 pm
- Kitsilano Farmers Market - 2614-2658 Larch St, Vancouver, BC V6K, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 10 am- 2 pm
- West End Farmers Market - 1100 Comox St, Vancouver, BC
V6E, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 9 am- 2 pm
- Trout Lake Farmers Market - Trout Lake John Hendry Park, Vancouver, BC, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 9 am - 2 pm
- Riley Park Farmers Market – Summer - Riley Park Farmers Market - Winter, East 30th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 10 am- 2 pm
- Haney Farmers Market - Memorial Peace Park, 224 Street, Maple Ridge, BC, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 9
am- 2 pm
- Fort Langley Village Farmers' Market - 9025 Glover Rd, Langley, BC V1M 2R7, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 9 am- 3 pm
- Abbotsford Farm and Country Market - George Ferguson Way, Abbotsford, BC, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 9 am – 1 pm
- OWL Orphaned Wildlife Open House Fundraiser - OWL Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society - Sunday, May 31, 2026, 10am
- Connecting with Teens: A Conscious Parenting Approach - North Vancouver District Public Library (Capilano Branch) - 3045 Highland Blvd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 2X4, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 10:30am-12:30pm
- Meet & Greet with Author Harpreet Bahia - Indigo - Metropolis at Metrotown - Kingsway, Burnaby, BC, Sunday, May 31, 2026, 12:00PM - 3:00PM
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Click here to discover Birthday party locations in the Vancouver area. From Arcades to Ziplines our Big List will help you think outside the box and plan the party of your kids' dreams! KidsOutAndAbout has dozens of ideas!
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The KidsOutAndAbout annual guide to summer camps in the Vancouver area is back! You can search by date, age, or categories like day/overnight, sports, drama, music, theatre, arts & crafts, technology, robotics, horseback riding, preschool, & more.
Our guide puts summer fun right at your fingertips!
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Looking for a thrilling family-friendly adventure in the Vancouver area? Escape rooms are interactive, puzzle-packed experiences where you and your team work together to solve clues and complete your mission-all before time runs out! Whether you're escaping
a spooky cabin, cracking a high-stakes heist, or breaking a magical curse, escape rooms offer exciting, screen-free fun for kids, teens, and adults.
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Wishing you and your family health and happiness!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
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