Runners at the starting line of the Vancouver Sun Run

City’s special event season kicks off this weekend with Vaisakhi Parade and Sun Run

April 14 2023 –

Vancouver’s spring special events season is officially here!

Following a three-year hiatus, the Vancouver Vaisakhi Parade returns Saturday, April 15 welcoming thousands of residents and visitors to the heart of the Punjabi Market for first harvest celebrations. The following day on Sunday, April 16, thousands of runners will take to downtown streets in the annual Vancouver Sun Run 10k road race. 

“Events, festivals, and cultural celebrations have a significant and positive impact on our city. They bring vibrancy into our communities, help support local our local economy, and play an integral role in enhancing quality of life in Vancouver,” says Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim. “We are thrilled to see the return of these fantastic and long-standing events.”

To help ensure the Vaisakhi Parade and the Vancouver Sun Run operate as smoothly as possible this year, we’re asking everyone participating to follow these tips:

  • Walk, bike, roll, or take transit whenever possible.
  • Stay ahead of road closures.
  • Don’t let waste become litter: put waste in its place in the nearest garbage, recycling or organics bin. 
  • Be considerate of the neighbourhood and keep noise to a minimum when leaving.

Vaisakhi parade details and road closures 

  • Saturday, April 15, 2023 - 11 am to 5 pm
  • Parade route
  • Event website
  • To accommodate the parade road closures will be in effect on Saturday, April 15, from 8am to 7pm on sections of the following streets:
    • 1100-200 SE Marine Dr. from Ross St. to Main St.  
    • 8100-6500 Main St. from SE Marine Dr. to E 49th Av.
    • 200-600 E 49th Av. from Main St. to Fraser St.
    • 6500-7200 Fraser St. from E 49th Av. to E 57th Av.
    • 700-1000 E 57th Av. from Fraser St. to Ross St. 
    • 7300-8000 Ross St. from E 57th Av. to SE Marine Dr.

Sun Run details and road closures 

More upcoming major special events for spring and early summer: 

  • BMO Marathon and ½ Marathon, May 7
  • RBC Race for the Kids, June 11
  • Italian Day on the Drive, June 11
  • Jazz Festival – Downtown, June 23-July 3
  • Vancouver Half Marathon, June 25
  • Greek Day on Broadway, June 25

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