September in Vancouver, BC: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The weather in Vancouver, British Columbia, is unpredictable in September. As far as major Canadian cities go, Vancouver is known to have year-round moderate temperatures contrasted by dull skies, fog, and sometimes seemingly endless rain. If you're familiar with the weather in Pacific Northwest cities like Seattle and Portland, Vancouver is very similar. It can get somewhat dreary, but you may have some really gorgeous days too.

This city by the waterfront offers a variety of cultural festivals and events this month, as well as gorgeous beaches and parks with a variety of activities—it is easy to find something for everyone to enjoy.

Vancouver Weather in September

September is one of Vancouver's best months temperature-wise, with an average overall temperature of 58 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius). Hopefully, you'll get mild and clear skies, but be prepared for wet, dull, and gray days.​

• Average high: 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius)
• Average low: 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius)

In a city that is famous for its rain, September is not the rainiest by far. You can expect about eight days, or about one-quarter of the month, to be rainy.

What to Pack

Since it is tough to forecast, it can make packing for your trip more difficult—the best course of action is to plan to dress in layers and bring rain-resistant wear. When you are packing, consider that Vancouver is a laid-back city, more partial to socks and hiking boots or sandals than high heels and stockings. Residents are generally active people dressed in sportswear.

Pack warm, waterproof clothing, including sweaters and a jacket for the cooler evenings. Closed-toe shoes are good to have along, although sandals may be used during the day. Bring an umbrella for rainy days, and remain optimistic for those sunny days: Include a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

September Events in Vancouver

In the month of September, you'll find everything from neighborhood farmers markets to large cultural events and international film festivals in Vancouver.

• Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival: From June through September, you can enjoy a Shakespearean performance in Vancouver's Vanier Park—against a natural backdrop of sea, sky, and mountains—in this festival that's been taking place for 30 years.
• Vancouver Fringe Festival: This is an 11-day celebration of more than 700 diverse theater performances, with everyone from beginners to veterans having a chance to participate. All artists receive 100 percent of regular box office revenues from the festival.
• Vancouver International Film Festival: From the end of September into the first two weeks of October, the film festival going strong for almost 40 years will screen more than 320 films from scores of countries, including Canada. Films span fiction, documentary, and genre-defying categories.
• Artists for Conservation Festival: A three-day event in late September, this festival benefiting wildlife features art and environmental education. You'll have a chance to meet international artists and enjoy creative demos, presentations, films, and music and cultural performances.
• Pacific National Exhibition (PNE): From mid-August until early September, PNE and Playland Amusement Park hold a huge fair for all ages, with over 50 attractions and rides, live performances, agricultural and animal displays, games, and food. If you don't mind massive crowds, join the more than 1 million people who attend each year.
• Haney Farmers Market: Check out this fun market every Saturday from May through November in Memorial Peace Park in Maple Ridge. You'll find food and wine, pottery, woodwork, jewelry, clothing, and more, while experiencing live music and street performers.

September Travel Tips

• The first Monday of September is the Labour Day holiday, so expect crowds. Banks and most stores will be closed.
• If you want to see the beauty of Vancouver and save some money, one of the best free things to do is to head to Stanley Park to walk around the seawall or even visit one of the many Vancouver beaches. Stanley Park has much to offer children, from kiddie driving lessons to a farmyard to a free water park.
• If your trip spans from the end of August into September, or is at the tail end of the month extending into October, you'll find plenty of great activities in those months, too.
• Learn more about weather and travel to other Canadian cities.

To learn more about visiting Vancouver in the Fall, check out our guide on the best time to visit.