February brings longer days, Lunar New Year and some of the best snow of the season on the local mountains. By the end of the month the first cherry and plum blossoms appear on city streets, and Family Day gives locals a long weekend.
February in Vancouver at a glance
- Average high / low: 8°C / 2°C
- Precipitation: about 91 mm, on about 16 days
- Daylight: about 10 hours a day
- Sunshine: about 91 hours over the month
- What it feels like: still winter, with the first signs of spring by the end of the month
Weather in Vancouver in February
Highs average about 8°C and lows about 2°C. It is drier than January, with rain on about half the days, and sunshine increases noticeably. Cold snaps with snow are possible early in the month. Daylight grows from about 9 to over 10.5 hours, with sunset after 5:30 pm by month end.
Averages are for Vancouver International Airport, 1991 to 2020, from Environment and Climate Change Canada (sunshine 1981 to 2010). The North Shore and the mountains are cooler and wetter than the city.
What to pack for Vancouver in February
- A waterproof jacket and warm mid-layer
- Waterproof walking shoes
- A warm hat and gloves for evenings and the mountains
- Layers you can remove indoors, since buildings are well heated
Events and festivals in February
- Lunar New Year, usually falling in late January or February, with the Chinatown parade, lion dances and celebrations in Richmond
- Vancouver International Wine Festival, one of the largest wine events in North America, usually in late February
- PuSh International Performing Arts Festival continues into February
- Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival usually runs until mid-February
- Family Day on the third Monday of February, with family events at museums and community centres
- Valentine’s Day dinners and events across the city
Dates change every year. See the February events calendar for this year’s dates, or check things to do in Vancouver today and this weekend.
Things to do in Vancouver in February
- Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden and Chinatown around Lunar New Year
- Explore Asian food and shopping in Richmond
- Ski or snowshoe on the North Shore at Cypress, Grouse or Seymour, or head to Whistler
- See the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Museum of Vancouver on rainy days
- Walk the Seawall on a clear day for snow-capped mountain views
- Look for early blossoms in Queen Elizabeth Park and VanDusen Botanical Garden late in the month
Tips for visiting Vancouver in February
- Family Day weekend is busy at family attractions; book timed tickets where possible.
- Hotel rates stay low for most of the month.
- Winter tire rules still apply on mountain highways.
Plan your trip
Build a day out with our free trip planner, follow one of our Vancouver itineraries or browse all upcoming events in Vancouver. On wet days, our rainy day guide has plenty of indoor ideas.
Frequently asked questions
Is February a good time to visit Vancouver?
Yes, if you want low prices, skiing and Lunar New Year. Expect cool, often wet weather, with more dry days than in January.
When is Lunar New Year in Vancouver?
It moves each year between late January and mid-February. Check our February events calendar for parade and festival dates.
What is the weather like in Vancouver in February?
Highs around 8°C, lows around 2°C and rain on about half the days.
Vancouver month by month
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