Are you on the lookout for enriching and memorable family experiences in and around Vancouver? Get ready to embark on a journey where creativity knows no bounds and imagination takes centre stage! Here are eight family-friendly art activities that not only promise hours of enjoyment but also nurture your child’s creativity, boost their confidence, and broaden their horizons. Create lasting memories and inspire a lifelong love for art and culture in your little ones!
Vancouver’s North Shore
Kids First at the Polygon Gallery
Located in the vibrant community of Vancouver’s North Shore, the Polygon Gallery offers the “Kids First” program, designed for young art enthusiasts (5-12 years old). The program gives families an opportunity to create an in-house art project, based on the exhibitions being shown in the gallery. It’s a fantastic way for children to explore their creativity in a welcoming and supportive environment. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is by donation.
Get there on transit: SeaBus -1-minute walk from the SeaBus at Lonsdale Quay.
Explore & Create Saturday Art Program at the Gordon Smith Gallery
The Explore & Create Saturday Art Program at Gordon Smith Gallery is perfect for families seeking a fun and educational weekend activity. Through guided tours of exhibitions and hands-on art activities, children can unleash their creativity while learning about different artistic techniques and styles. It’s a great way for families to bond while exploring the world of art together. Participation is by donation. Parent or guardian supervision is required for children ages 5-12.
Get there on transit: Bus 230, 240
Vancouver
Family Programs at the Vancouver Art Gallery
The Vancouver Art Gallery hosts a variety of family programs designed to engage children and parents alike in the world of art. From guided tours tailored for families to interactive workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These programs not only foster a love for art but also encourage critical thinking and imagination in young minds. Ask for your free self-guided art agent pack during your next visit! Admission to VAG is free for children 12 and under, when accompanied by an adult.
Get there by transit: 7-minute walk from Granville SkyTrain Station.
Burnaby/Online
Inspired by the Burnaby Art Gallery’s Permanent Collection, Out of the BAG offers a series of online art activities for families, teachers and individuals to engage in creativity. This program provides opportunities for children to engage with art in innovative ways. Families can enjoy the benefits of creative expression from the comfort of their own home by downloading PDF activities designed by arts instructors.
Whistler
After School Art at the Audain Art Museum
The Audain Art Museum’s After School Art program in Whistler offers a fantastic opportunity for children to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the history and methods of art-making in British Columbia. Through a series of three 1.5 hr sessions students gain an understanding of different ideas, materials and techniques used in carving, painting, and photography, appreciate the evolution of artistic styles over time, understand artworks within their socio-historical and cultural contexts, and become aware of the diverse art forms and cultural exchanges in British Columbia. $30-$36 per student, per session (3 classes).
Langley
BEZ Art’s Hub in Langley is a haven for families seeking creative expression and artistic exploration. With a wide range of programs and workshops designed for children of all ages, BEZ Art’s Hub offers something for everyone. It is a one-stop arts centre offering performances, concerts by notable artists, classes of all sorts (dance, acting, music, choir), special community events and more! Make sure to reach out to them to find your bonheur.
Get there on transit: Bus 501
New Westminster
Various Programs at New Media Gallery
New Media Gallery in New Westminster offers unique and innovative school programs and creative tech workshops. From AI classes to interactive design, there’s always something exciting for 3-13 (and beyond!) These programs provide families with a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of art and technology while sparking curiosity and creativity in children. Exhibition tours and OpenLab Drop-ins are free of charge. Make sure to reach out for more information.
Get there on transit: Take the Expo Line Skytrain to New Westminster Station. From there, it’s a two-minute walk to the Anvil Centre, where NMG is located on the 3rd floor.
Surrey
Family Friendly Programs at the Surrey Art Gallery
Surrey Art Gallery is committed to providing family-friendly programs that inspire creativity and bring people of all ages together through art. Their Art Stations, ArtThinker, ArtMaker and ArtExplorer stations encourage creativity and art learning opportunities for children and their families. Family Art Parties are free drop-in events where art exploration and interactive live performances expand learning through hands-on art making with artist-educators.
Get there on transit: From King George Skytrain Station, take the R1 Newton Exchange bus to 88th Ave. It’s about a 5-minute walk from there!
Vancouver and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of family-friendly art activities that are both educational and entertaining, and there’s something for every family to enjoy. These activities not only provide opportunities for artistic expression but also promote family bonding and lifelong learning. So why wait? Plan your next family art adventure today!
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