People clapping in a crowd

Organize a special event

COVID-19 (Coronavirus) update

May 19, 2020: Since March 17 our event permitting offices have been operating under the orders and the protective measures that the Provincial Health Officer has put into place for large events and gatherings.

Event organizers have been ordered to limit all public gatherings larger than 50 people indefinitely, or until the Province updates the order. This includes indoor and outdoor sporting events, conferences, meetings, concerts, religious gatherings, or other similar events. Guidance is changing often. Please check the Province’s website for the latest information. Review the Provincial order on mass gathering events

Hosting special events during COVID-19? Review frequently asked questions  (134 KB)

Vancouver has two special events offices:

  • The Park Board Special Events Office - for events held in a park and on the seawall.
  • The City Special Events Office (FASE) - for events held on streets, sidewalks, and public plazas. 

Events bring people together to have fun, to mark important events, or to work towards a higher purpose.

The focus of event approvals is to make sure that events are safe, and don’t negatively affect the community. We want you to have a fun, safe, memorable event.

Organize an event on a street, sidewalk, or plaza

Review the steps and permits required to getting approval for a special event on a street, sidewalk, or plaza in Vancouver.

Organize an event in a park

Review the steps and permits required to getting approval for a special event in a Vancouver park or beach.

Park wedding ceremony permit

To hold an outdoor wedding ceremony in our designated Vancouver park sites, you'll need a permit. Learn what's included in the permit and apply.

Block parties

Find information on throwing block parties in Vancouver.

Event permits private property

Get a temporary event licence and permit; including permits for buskers, weddings, dances, and more.

Greening your event

Make your event more sustainable with our Green Events Planning Guide. How will you manage garbage and recycling? Hire us, a business, or do it yourself.

Special event complaint form

Make a complaint about a special event on a street, sidewalk, or public plaza.

Film and special event inquiry

Send us an inquiry about holding a special event on a street, sidewalk, or public plaza.