Looking for a summer adventure that keeps the kids entertained and gives you a chance to sneak in some shopping, great food, and maybe a little treat for yourself? Metropolis at Metrotown is making that a reality this year with a stellar lineup of free family-friendly events during their Summer at the Met celebration, running from June 16 to September 1, 2025.
The theme this year is Explore the Galaxy, and trust me, they’ve gone all in—think dancing aliens, space-themed dance parties, a planetarium, and some of the best food vendors around. Whether you’re a parent trying to survive summer break or just looking for some local fun that won’t break the bank, this is a must-add to your summer bucket list.
Here’s everything you can explore this summer at the Met.
Summer Market at the Met (July 3–6): Food, Fun & Galactic Festivities
If you only make it out to one event this summer, let it be this. Running over four days, the Summer Market at the Met is completely free to attend and has something for literally everyone in the family.
More than 15 food vendors will be dishing out everything from Taiwanese favourites at Typhoon BBT Café to wildly creative Japanese-style burgers at Wakwakburger. Craving something sweet? Cake It Easy will be serving up Filipino desserts, and Crema Ice Cream is bringing their Asian-inspired frozen treats. I also love that you can sip on a refreshing mango shake or authentic Indian chai from Chaiwagon while soaking in the vibes.
And it’s not just about the food—there’s entertainment around every corner. Live music, fire performances, dancing aliens, balloon twisters, and face painters will keep the kids busy (and happy), while adults can enjoy the atmosphere and maybe snap a few selfies at the Roaming Selfie Ring Photo Booth.
Also on the must-see list? SMASH!—an energy-packed performance where everyday objects become musical instruments. It’s loud, fun, and totally unforgettable.
Interactive Galactic Displays (All Summer Long)
If you’ve got kids who love space, planets, or simply running around and discovering new things, the Met’s immersive galactic displays are a total win. Designed by Lazy Wizard Design, these visual treats include floor decals that look like the ground is cracking open, pop-up astronauts and aliens for photo ops, and a full solar system you can hop through right outside Zara.
Pro tip: Scan the QR codes scattered around the displays with your phone. They reveal fun facts about space and alien flora—making your mall walk both educational and entertaining.
Collect Your Summer Passport & Win
Pick up a Summer Passport from Guest Services to track your journey through the various activations. Each stop earns you a stamp, and once you’ve got seven, you’ll score a free gift. Collect ten and you’ll be entered to win a $100 prize.
This is such a great way to turn a shopping trip into a little adventure. Kids will love checking things off the list, and you’ll love the added incentive to explore.
One-Day Events for Extra Family Fun
July 19: Summer Dance Party (12–2pm)
Catch a roving DJ party as it moves through the mall with astronauts, aliens, and prizes in tow. It’s spontaneous, silly, and sure to get everyone dancing—even if it’s just a little wiggle in line at Old Navy.
July 26 & 27: Starlab Pop-Up Planetarium (12–3pm)
Presented by H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, this 10-minute mini planetarium show is a gem. It’s engaging, educational, and a great way to escape the heat while your little ones learn a thing or two about the universe.
Bonus Events for Parents (and Babies!) This June
June 8: Free Car Seat Safety Workshop
Partnering with baby enRoute and BCAA’s Child Passenger Safety Program, this free session offers one-on-one help from certified techs to ensure your car seat is installed properly. It happens in the Grand Court and registration is required—so book your spot early.
June 4–29: Armani Mare Pop-Up
Feeling like you could use a little luxury? The Armani Mare pop-up near Sephora offers exclusive gifts, product launches, personalized engraving on select weekends, and even a gorgeous beach towel if you spend $200 or more. It’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself.
Make Metropolis at Metrotown Your Summer Launchpad
With over 330 stores, SkyTrain access, and free parking, Metropolis at Metrotown is already a go-to for Lower Mainland families. But this summer, it’s more than just a mall—it’s a full-on space-themed experience designed to delight kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re stopping in for the day or planning multiple visits to hit all the events, Summer at the Met makes it easy to turn a typical mall outing into a memory-making adventure.
For full event details, visit www.metropolisatmetrotown.com and follow along at @metropolisatmet.
P.S. If you’re looking for free and affordable summer fun around Metro Vancouver that keeps the kids engaged while sneaking in a little shopping or downtime for you—this is the event lineup to bookmark.