The Shipyards Festival will return to Lower Lonsdale on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, from noon to 9 p.m. The free community event will feature live music on multiple stages, local vendors, and activities across The Shipyards and the 100 block of East 1st Street.
However, expect large crowds and traffic congestion. “We encourage people to walk, bike, or take transit to the festival,” the organization said in a statement.
Several road closures and parking restrictions will be in place. From 7 a.m. Friday, Sept. 19, until 2 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, the 100 block of East 1st Street between Lonsdale Avenue and St. Georges Avenue will be closed to vehicles and parking. EV chargers at 140 East 1st Street will also be unavailable.
On Saturday, Sept. 20, the east-west lane north of East 1st Street will be open to local traffic only, with parking lot access available from East 2nd Street. In addition, loading bays on Victory Ship Way and Wallace Mews will be restricted to event parking from 5 a.m. to midnight.
Festival organizers advise people to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and expect possible transit delays. Parking in the area may also be limited. TransLink updates can be found at translink.ca/alerts.
The BIA notes that the SeaBus provides direct access to The Shipyards, with buses connecting nearby. Bike racks will be available throughout the area, and waterfront trails make it accessible for those arriving on foot.
