If you live in Squamish or are planning a Squamish vacation, you probably already know this town packs a big punch when it comes to community celebrations. Festivals in Squamish happen all year round, and they are a wonderful way to connect with local culture, enjoy family time, and discover hidden gems around town. Planning what to do in Squamish with kids can feel overwhelming with so many options, so here is a friendly guide to the events you will not want to miss.
When it comes to Festivals in Squamish that truly cater to families, the Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival stands out. It perfectly blends the excitement of traditional logging sports with activities designed specifically for children, making it the ideal choice for families visiting town. From the moment you arrive, there is a sense of energy and community that makes kids feel welcome and parents at ease. It is not just a festival to watch, it is one your whole family can dive into together.
The festival features a dedicated children’s area with face painting, mini golf, a kid-safe version of axe throwing, music, bubbles, and other playful activities. Kids can explore, laugh, and meet new friends while parents relax nearby and take in the lively atmosphere. Later in the day, the action continues with the main Loggers Sports Show. Children are pretty amazed to see competitors using giant saws, racing in timber events, climbing big poles, and showing off impressive skills. Families can cheer together, enjoy local food options like the famous Rotary barbecue, and soak up the energy of this long-standing Squamish tradition. It is a festival experience that creates lasting memories for children and parents alike.
When the snow falls and the air turns crisp, the Squamish Hot Chocolate Festival warms hearts and toes. Cafes and bakeries across Squamish create unique hot chocolate treats, giving families a delicious reason to explore the town. This festival is one of the most cherished Winter Festivals in Squamish, combining cozy indoor experiences with the joy of wandering the festive streets. I have to admit I am a little biased because Sunflower Bakery makes some of my favourite doughnuts, but they always have a strong contender for kids’ favourite, offering flavours that appeal to the child in all of us, like Lucky Charm and other playful creations. Kids love tasting all the creative flavours while parents enjoy a leisurely stroll through local shops and galleries. Even places like the Sea to Sky Gondola get in on the fun, making it a whole-town celebration of chocolatey goodness. The cold never feels too harsh because the chocolate and community spirit more than make up for it. Pace your hot chocolate tastings, or you might have a few very energetic kids to keep up with!
One highlight for adults is the Squamish Beer Festival, an annual half‑day celebration usually held on the third Saturday in June, where over 2,000 beer lovers gather to enjoy great beer and mountain culture. Nestled in the heart of Sea to Sky Country and right in downtown Squamish, it pulses with food trucks, games, axe throwing, DJs, live music and fun, featuring over 55 breweries and cideries along with 200+ local creators. Since it’s strictly 19+, parents will need to plan ahead, maybe arrange for a sitter, ask grandparents or relatives, or use a local service like Sea to Sky Nannies to watch the little ones while you enjoy the event.
A new festival in Squamish that’s been grabbing attention is the Sp’akw’us Feather Shakedown. It’s actually part of the Squamish Arts Festival, and after its inaugural 2025 run was so fun and vibrant, everyone’s hoping it becomes a yearly fixture. This one-day festival takes place on the closing day of the Squamish Arts Festival at Sp’akw’us Feather Park, a beautiful waterfront space with stunning views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. The event features top-notch DJs and live music performances, like Smalltown DJs and The Librarian, giving it an adult-festival energy while still being all-ages, so the whole family can enjoy the music together. The combination of high-quality music, the dramatic mountain backdrop, and the lively atmosphere makes it a festival experience the whole family can enjoy. Families leave with shared memories of a joyful, energetic celebration set against some of the most breathtaking views Squamish has to offer.
After a full day of festival fun, keeping the kids entertained back at your accommodation can be a challenge. Quiet, hands-on activities are perfect for winding down, which is where our baby toy rentals come in handy. Whether it is for a hotel room, Airbnb, or cabin, a few simple toys can keep little ones happily engaged while parents relax after a busy day. If you are planning a full Squamish vacation, exploring other baby equipment rentals can make life so much easier. You can focus on enjoying the festivals, hiking trails, and all the adventures Squamish has to offer without worrying about hauling strollers, cribs, or high chairs. Festivals in Squamish create memories for the whole family, and with a little planning, you can soak it all in while keeping your trip stress free.
The Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival is typically held over the Canada Day long weekend, usually from the end of July into early August. It’s a full weekend of family-friendly fun, including kids’ activities, live demonstrations of traditional logging sports, and plenty of delicious food options.
The Squamish Beer Festival usually takes place on the third Saturday in June. This adult-focused event features over 55 breweries and cideries, live music, food trucks, games, and plenty of local flavour.
The Squamish Hot Chocolate Festival runs throughout February. Many local cafes and bakeries participate, creating unique hot chocolate flavours. Make sure to grab a tasting passport from participating locations so you can track your tastings. Collect stamps to be entered for prizes, which often include local goodies and festival treats. It’s a fun way for kids and adults alike to explore the town and sample seasonal flavours.
Absolutely! The Squamish Arts Festival has many hands-on workshops and activities designed for children of all ages. Kids can create art, participate in interactive performances, and enjoy live music, while parents stroll through artisan markets or watch performances in the park.
Yes! The festival takes place in a large, open park with stunning views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. There’s plenty of space for kids to run and play, with room for blankets, picnic seating, and everyone to comfortably enjoy the performances. The high-quality DJs and live music create an energetic, all-ages atmosphere that makes it a fun experience for the whole family.
It’s recommended, especially during peak festival seasons, to ensure availability. Services like Sea to Sky Tots make it easy to reserve strollers, car seats, toys, and other essentials so your Squamish vacation is stress-free.
Squamish offers a wealth of outdoor activities perfect for families. Hiking trails suitable for all ages, kayaking on local waters, climbing at beginner-friendly locations, and visiting parks like Smoke Bluffs or the Sea to Sky Gondola base are all great ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Combine these with festival days for a perfectly balanced family adventure.
