Light Up Chinatown returns for its sixth year with exclusive food collabs and 20,000-person festival draw

Light Up Chinatown!, the Vancouver festival celebrating the neighbourhood's revitalization, is returning for its sixth year next month with exclusive food collaborations, live performances, and community programming.

The two-day festival has grown from a pandemic-era lifeline for local businesses into one of Vancouver's most anticipated summer events, drawing over 20,000 visitors. "More than just a festival, Light Up Chinatown! has become a driving force behind Chinatown's revitalization," said Carol Lee, Chair of the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation.

Food highlights include a Roasted Pork Quiche from Beaucup Bakery and Chinatown BBQ (available at Chinatown BBQ from noon until sold out), Meatball Dumplings from Say Hey and Dicky's Dumpling (available at Say Hey from 11 a.m. until sold out), and "The Chinatown Affogato"—a collaboration between DD Mau, New Town Bakery, and Keem Ice Cream (available at Chinatown BBQ from 11:30 a.m. until sold out). Hawkers Lane will return with Asian street food from chefs including DD Mau, Eat Fish by Chef Dez Lo, Ember HK BBQ, and Street Hawker Eatery.

A standout is the White Rabbit Bubble Tea Roll, a collaboration between Foo Hung Curios and Buttermere Patisserie—Chef Jamie Tung returns to the neighbourhood after closing her storefront. The Chinatown Passport Program encourages visitors to explore 16 blocks and collect stamps for prizes including two Bruno Mars: The Romantic Tour tickets (grand prizes) and 35 other awards such as Vessi vouchers, Cirque du Soleil tickets, and Capilano Suspension Bridge passes.

Performances include Hon Hsing Athletic Club, Goh Ballet, and headliners Marie Hui and The Phonix Band. A Community Kids Zone supported by the Canucks for Kids Fund will feature mini-golf and family activities.