Granville Island is a vibrant cultural district located in the unceded, ancestral, traditional territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓ əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations. Located in the centre of Vancouver, minutes from downtown and surrounded by ocean, cityscape and mountain views. Granville Island attracts millions of visitors each year, provides a haven for locals and tourists from around the world, and provides an ideal location for photographers, filmmakers, and event organizers. It is administered by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), a federal crown agency of the Government of Canada, and is financially self-supporting. This event policy has been developed and is administered by the Public Affairs & Programming Department of CMHC-Granville Island.  

Particularly in the summer months, Granville Island is a very busy place, with more than 300 businesses that employ approximately 3,000 people – this includes theatres, restaurants, artists’ studios, a hotel, and its famous Public Market. The organization’s mission is “to steward this public land for meaningful urban and social experimentation among diverse, creative cultural and business models, engaging local First Nations, communities and welcoming the world.” 

In keeping with this mission, there is no application fee to apply for an event permit. Additionally, Public Affairs and Programming may be able to provide additional, free-of-charge event benefits known as in-kind support, to approved public events. These benefits are offered to support cultural activities and artistic community building. In-kind support may include items such as, parking passes, tables, chairs, tents, and/or signage materials. All additional in-kind support is pending availability of supplies and nature of the event application. 

(For the purpose of this policy, “events” encompasses performances, site activations, public awareness activities, sporting/athletic events, exhibits, celebrations/parties, educational events, outdoor receptions etc.)

Looking for something else? 

Indoor Venues 

Looking for an indoor venue to rent? Please visit Venues for Rent. 

Hosting a Birthday Party, Wedding or Family Gathering?  

Several outdoor locations on Granville Island are available for private community event bookings throughout the year. Guidelines and priorities exist for each location. Outdoor Spaces Bookings. 

Filming & Photoshoots  

Photographers and filmmakers, please visit: Granville Island Filming Policies and Application.