Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) – Vancouver’s Iconic Fairgrounds for Fun, Food, and Family Entertainment

Located at Hastings Park in East Vancouver, the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) is one of the city’s most iconic and historic attractions. Since its founding in 1910, the PNE has been a beloved gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering a diverse mix of family-friendly events, amusement park thrills, live concerts, seasonal festivals, and educational exhibits.

Whether you’re attending the world-famous PNE Fair, riding the classic Wooden Roller Coaster at Playland, or experiencing spine-tingling chills at Fright Nights, the PNE is a year-round hub for entertainment, culture, and community engagement.

About the Pacific National Exhibition

The PNE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating memorable experiences through events, exhibitions, and amusement attractions. Spanning over 100 acres of entertainment space, it hosts some of Vancouver’s most anticipated annual events, while also operating as a venue for concerts, sporting events, and cultural showcases.

The PNE Fair – Vancouver’s Biggest Summer Celebration

The PNE Fair, held annually from mid-August to early September, is a 15-day celebration that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. It's a dynamic blend of amusement, food, and festivity for all ages.

Key Highlights of the PNE Fair:

• Summer Night Concerts: Featuring world-class musical acts across genres, held at the PNE Amphitheatre.

• Cultural and Educational Exhibits: Including the popular Farm Country, Kidz Discovery Farm, and travelling exhibits like Dinosaurs Around the World.

• Food & Beverage: Famous for outrageous fair foods like deep-fried Oreos, mac-and-cheese stuffed burgers, and gourmet poutines, along with refreshing lemonade and local eats.

• Rides and Games: A wide range of carnival rides and skill-testing games for kids, teens, and adults.

• Shopping and Vendors: Dozens of booths selling everything from household gadgets to handmade crafts.

Playland Amusement Park

Operating from May through September (with special openings in October), Playland is Vancouver’s oldest and most beloved amusement park, located within the PNE grounds.

Popular Attractions at Playland:

• Wooden Roller Coaster – A historic ride built in 1958, consistently ranked among the top wooden coasters in the world.

• ThunderVolt – Canada’s fastest launch coaster, introduced in 2024, delivering intense speed and thrills.

• Atmosfear, The Beast, and dozens more rides ranging from extreme thrill rides to family-friendly carousels and bumper cars.

• Games Midway – Classic games and carnival prizes for all ages.

Playland also features mini donuts, cotton candy, food stands, arcade games, and cooling stations during hot summer days.

Seasonal Events at the PNE

The PNE keeps the excitement going all year long with a wide array of seasonal and themed events.

Fright Nights

Held every October, Fright Nights transforms Playland into a haunted experience with:

• Multiple haunted houses

• Scare zones and live performers

• Night rides and eerie lighting
  Not recommended for young children, this event is a must-do for thrill-seekers and Halloween fans.

PNE Winter Fair

Launched in recent years, the PNE Winter Fair brings festive cheer to Vancouver in December with:

• Holiday-themed light displays

• Artisan markets and holiday shopping

• Indoor family activities

• Visits with Santa and festive food options

Other Year-Round Activities

The PNE grounds also host:

• Concerts at the Pacific Coliseum

• Trade shows, expos, and markets

• Sporting events and esports tournaments

Education, Community, and Culture

As a nonprofit, the PNE is deeply connected to the Vancouver community through:

• Educational Programs for school groups and youth

• Cultural Celebrations promoting diversity and inclusion

• Support for Local Artists through vendor opportunities and event programming

• Employment and Volunteer Programs, especially during major events

Visitor Information

Location: 2901 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC
Website: www.pne.ca
Public Transit: Easily accessible via TransLink bus and SkyTrain
Parking: Paid parking available on-site
Hours: Vary by season and event; check the official website for details
Admission: Varies by event (Fair, Playland, Fright Nights, etc.)

Plan Your Visit

If you’re visiting Vancouver in the summer, the PNE Fair and Playland are must-see experiences. If you’re here in the fall or winter, the Fright Nights and Winter Fair offer unique entertainment you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

No matter the season, the PNE delivers unforgettable experiences for kids, adults, and everyone in between.

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