Tami knows that shame firsthand. She started losing her hair at 15 and spent most 20 years hiding it before she found the courage to do something different. Now she’s the founder of Hair Loss Pride, a Vancouver-based community helping women and teen navigate hair loss through coaching, wig consultations, education, and real connection. She’s also a mom of two girls, a wife of 14 years, and someone who believes vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.

We asked Tami what make her a Vancouver Mom to Follow, and her story is exactly the kind of honest, brave and deeply human answer you’d hope for.

Describe your business or career role

I’m the founder of Hair Loss Pride, a Vancouver-based community supporting women and teens navigating hair loss through coaching, wig consultations, education, and connection.

What makes my business unique is that I created it from my own lived experience. I began losing my hair at 15 and, at the time, had no community or support to help me navigate it. I felt completely alone, ashamed and unlovable, and genuinely believed I was the only one going through it. I spent nearly 20 years trying to hide my hair loss.

Hair Loss Pride is the community I wish I’d had back then. My goal is simple: no woman should have to experience hair loss feeling as alone and ashamed as I did. I’m working to change that through support, representation, education, and honest conversations about something women are still often afraid to talk about.

What makes you a Vancouver Mom to follow?

I’m trying to turn something women have been taught to hide into something we can talk about openly, find community in, and ultimately feel empowered by. Through Hair Loss Pride, I advocate for greater representation of women with hair loss in beauty and fashion, while creating spaces for education, connection, and support.

I also host Shedding the Shame, a podcast about the things women are often taught to keep quiet about, from grief and loss to relationships, motherhood, money, and identity.

What sets me apart is that I lead with vulnerability. I’m willing to share the difficult, messy and sometimes uncomfortable parts of my own life because I believe deep connection and vulnerability make us stronger, not weaker. My mission is to empower women however I can and remind them that they are never as alone as they think they are.

Tell us about your family.

Home is my husband of 14 years, Eric, our daughters Isla (9) and Zoe (7), and our 11-year-old Pitbull/Border Collie rescue mix, Emmitt. Eric works for Adobe and travels quite a bit, but he’s the kindest, most supportive partner and, after 16 years together, still makes me laugh every day.

Isla calls herself “a gamer” and builds incredibly intricate worlds in Minecraft. She’s also an amazing artist, and I’m constantly blown away by what she creates. Zoe is our performer, always singing, dancing or inventing a game, and she’s basically a giant ball of love. Emmitt is the best boy, loves people and is amazing with kids, but is also the most anxious dog you’ve ever met. I’ve even tried doggie Prozac with zero success!

Our house is loud, chaotic and usually filled with laughter. We love having friends over and host almost-daily after-school playdates, plus weekly neighbourhood happy hours on our lawn. More than anything, I want our home to feel safe, welcoming and open to the people we love.

What are your go-to activities, places, or hidden gems in Metro Vancouver that you and your family love?

I’m a big coffee person, so most weekends you’ll find us at To Live For Bakery. My girls gobble up their treats, while I love the coffee, kid-friendly atmosphere and Erin, the owner. We also frequent 49th Parallel for the donuts and Mish Mish for what my girls call their “fluffy pitas.” Their smoked salmon board is incredible, too.

Eric and I like to hike, so when we’re on our own we’ve done The Grouse Grind or some tougher hikes. Our kids will tolerate the Quarry Rock hike in Deep Cove, and I usually bribe them with Honey’s Donuts.

We live in East Van, and Science World is always a win. Kits Beach is another favourite, especially watching the girls search for shells and crabs.

These days, many weekends are spent at baseball or soccer fields cheering on our youngest and hanging out with the other parents.

When Eric and I get time alone, we love brunch at Maxine’s, Greenhorn or Café Medina, walking the seawall, biking Stanley Park, or catching live comedy or a concert at the Vogue.

What’s something motherhood has taught you about yourself?

My kids have taught me that I don’t have to be perfect. They love me best with my wig off, in sweatpants, making silly faces, watching a movie or drawing together. They’ve taught me that the to-do list can wait, but connection can’t.

I’ve also learned that I’m a better mom when I take care of myself, whether that’s working out, spending time alone or with friends, or going on a date night with Eric.

I used to be afraid I wouldn’t be a good mother because I didn’t have a healthy relationship with my own mom. Motherhood has taught me that I can be the mother I needed, both for my girls and for myself. In doing so, it has healed parts of me I never knew could heal and shown me what unconditional love really feels like.

Where can we follow you?

If you’d like to stay connected, you can find me here:

• Website: www.hairlosspride.com
• Instagram:@hairlosspride
• LinkedIn: Tami Wong

Tami Wong is one of our Vancouver Mom to Follow, and this feature couldn’t come at a better time. September is Alopecia Awareness Month, a time to talk openly about a condition that still carries so much silence and shame for the women and teens living with it. Tami, helps women and teen across Vancouver navigate hair loss through coaching, wig consultations, education and genuine connection, while also hosting Shedding the Shame, a podcast about the things women are taught to keep quiet. 

At home, Tami is wife to Eric, mom to Isla and Zoe and the proud owner of one very anxious rescue dog. She’s proof that leading with vulnerability doesn’t make you weaker, it makes you the kind of person other people feel safe around. 

If this September is teaching us anything through Tami’s story, it’s that no one should have to face hair loss, or any hard thing, feeling alone. 

Would you like to be a Vancouver Mom to Follow? Sign up

The post Vancouver Mom to Follow: Tami Wong appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

Here’s what you need to know.

The arena will be built at the former Safeway site near King George Boulevard and 104 avenue, right by the Surrey City Hall and steps from Surrey Central Skytrain Station. It’s set to become the new home of the WHL’s Vancouver Giants, who are moving over from Langley Events Centre. Beyond hockey, the venue will also host concerts, events, and entertainment, giving Surrey a proper big-stage venue of its own. 

The announcement came with a bit of star power too. Singer Michael Bublé was on hand to help make the reveal, and he told the crowd he plans to come back and perform once the arena opens. 

To mark the occasion, Mayor Brenda Locke kicked off the first demolition on site, an early sign that construction is officially underway. The project comes with a 350 million price tag, funded through the city’s 2026 budget, and the target completion date is 2030.

For Families across Metro Vancouver, this means a major new venue that’s transit-accessibrule and close to home, whether it’s a Giants game, a concert, or a future family event. We’ll be following the project as it moves forward and sharing updates on anything that matters most to families, like ticket pricing, transit access and family-friendly programming. 

Stay tuned to VancouverMom.ca for updates as this one develops.

The post Surrey Is Getting a New 10,000-Seat Arena appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

Family events in Metro Vancouver

Filipino Fest

September 12, Museum of Surrey

Experience Filipino Fest at the Museum of Surrey. Enjoy authentic street food and dishes, live entertainment and family-friendly children’s activities, artisan vendors, cultural displays and textile exhibits.

Museum of Surrey – 17710 56A Ave, Surrey
11am-4pm
Cost: Free

River Basin Days (Magnificient Mushrooms)

September 12, Tynehead Regional Park, Surrey, 2-3pm (Serpentine Hollow Parking Lot)

River Basin Days is a monthly outdoor program perfect for families to explore the Fraser River Basin. Each session offers hands-on activities, experiments, and art projects focused on the region’s biodiversity. This month, at Tynehead Regional Park in Surrey, families will learn about mushrooms anatomy, observe mushroom features while on a mushroom walk and experiment with different spore transportation methods.

Registration includes admission to the Fraser River Discovery Centre for a future visit. Cost Varies. 

North Shore Kids Fest

September 13, Shipyards District, North Vancouver

The North Shore Kids Fest is a fun-filled family event featuring live performances, interactive activities, and creative workshops. Families can enjoy interactive, educational activities that entertain kids of all ages, while also fostering connections with local organizations. With creative workshops and inspiring demonstrations, kids will have the chance to explore new talents and interests, making this event a memorable experience for everyone.

12-6pm, 19 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver, BC V7L 0B2

Car Free Day – Main Street

September 13, Vancouver

Experience Vancouver’s original Car Free Day on Main Street. This free, eco-friendly event has transformed the street into a vibrant hub for pedestrians, featuring food trucks, local vendors, live music, street performers, and activities for all ages. With games of road hockey, family-friendly fun, and beer gardens, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a car-free celebration in Metro Vancouver.

12pm-7pm
Along Main Street between 10th Avenue to King Edward Avenue.
Cost: Free

Fall at the Farm – Mann Farms

September 12 – November 1, Abbotsford

Visit Maan Farms this Fall and wander through their expanded Forest Pumpkin Patch. Take on two enchanted corn mazes, meet their adorable animals, including their Highland cows and then check out the Barnyard Adventureland and their newest attraction the Corn Play Pit. And you got to try all their delicious food. 

Get your tickets today

Taves Farm – Magic of Fall

Make sure to visit Taves Family Farms for their annual Magic of Fall. Walk through the fairytale pumpkin garden, pumpkin house and pose by the princess carriage. Explore the corn mazes, ride the hayrides, play on the giant jumping pillows or test out the brand new 150 foot slide. And not to forget to visit the alpacas, minature horses, goats and pigs in the petting barn. And they also have apple U-pick where you can pick multiple varieties of fresh apples directly from the orchards. And before you leave make sure to try their double pumpkin spice ice cream, apply pie nachos, mini donuts and drinks. 

333 Gladwin Road in Abbotsford, BC
Weekdays 10am-530pm, Weekends/holidays 930am-6pm
Get your tickets today

Have you seen our Vancouver Mom Event Listings? Submit your own or see what’s happening in our community, ow.ly/A8A430jivP8 

The post 6 Family events in Metro Vancouver on September 12 & 13 appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

The idea that everyone can take part at their own level and work towards their own goal is one of the reasons family-friendly events like the Big Fun Run Series are such a good fit for active families. Add some festive costume pieces, a fun, musical warmup plus a medal at the end and you’ve got full family buy-in. 

On Saturday, September 19, 2026, the Big Pirate Run returns to Garry Point Park in Richmond for its fifth year, bringing pirate costumes and other colourful characters, waterfront routes and a relaxed approach to running for all ages and abilities.

There’s a 1–3km Little Pirate Run/Walk for kids, along with 5km, 10km, 15km and half marathon, 21.1km, distances open to any age. Routes are stroller, wheelchair and dog friendly. The focus is less on the clock and more on getting moving, breaking a sweat and having fun together.

The event also supports the Richmond Food Bank, a local service essential to health and well-being, adding a charitable community element to the day.

To hear more about what running can look like when you’re balancing work, kids and family life, we connected with Marcia Tsang, aka @marmarjoshmama, a full-time working mom and experienced marathoner. She shares how running fits into her life, how she gets her family involved and what she’s learned from making movement part of family life.

Here are Marcia’s thoughts and advice on bringing her family into one of her passions and being active together.  

“I’m a mom of two boys, ages 11 and 4, and we also have a one-year-old dog who is part of our family.

I love running because it gives me personal time and a healthy mental space. Completing a marathon makes me proud because it represents months of training and commitment, regardless of my finishing time. I also want to show my children that Mommy can do hard things.

I hope my boys grow to enjoy running, not necessarily competitively, but as a hobby we can share. As they get older, I hope our runs can become bonding time when they can talk to me about their lives while I listen and run beside them.

We’ve participated in several family runs, and my kids have really enjoyed them. My older son initially found it difficult to keep up, but he soon found his rhythm and enjoyed the atmosphere. I especially like Big Fun Run events because our whole family, including our dog, can participate together.

My advice to other moms is to keep it fun without focusing on time or distance. Choose nice weather and an enjoyable route, maybe even finish with ice cream! Run alongside your children and create positive memories together. The more enjoyable the experience is, the more likely they are to discover their own love of running.”

Ready to make fun run events a tradition for your family? Register here for the Big Pirate Run. Choose from the 1–3km Little Pirate Run/Walk for kids, or go for the 5km, 10km, 15km or half marathon distances.

Use code VANMOM15 for 15% off registration and don’t forget your pirate costume!

This post is sponsored by The Big Fun Run Series

The post From Solo Training to Family Fun: Making Fun Runs a Family Activity appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

Things to do this Labour Day Weekend in Metro Vancouver

Close out the PNE

Last chance to hit the Fair or take a dizzying spin on an amusement ride because the messy colourful PNE/Playland Fest winds up on Labour Day with farm animals, SuperDogs and rides for big and small.

>> Get your PNE Tickets

ArtFest

ArtFest is happening this weekend.  This event is for all families. Kids get to actually try things: drums, violin, guitar, ballroom dancing, even hockey skills training, alongside outdoor nature play and hands-on art and music (there’s even a program for the 3 and 4 year old crowd). Grab a Kona Ice or some HK-style soft serve while the kids bounce between stations, and let them find the thing that sticks.

When: September 5 & 6, 2026
Time: 11am-7pm
Where: Aberdeen Neighbourhood Park 8331 Cambie Road, Richmond, BC

>> Full schedule is at art-fest.ca.

Climb aboard a mini train

Bear Creek Park Train
Climb aboard the miniature train at Bear Creek Park in Surrey. This charming 10 minute adventure, on Eddy the train will lead you through themed tunnels, forests, and over bridges. Kids can even give the whistle a toot! It’s open all long weekend from 10am – 5pm, $7 a ride and under 2 years old are free. And if you have time for mini golf too try it out for $7.

>> Bear Creek Train

Burnaby Central Railway

All aboard for family fun at the Burnaby Central Railway! Tucked inside Confederation Park, this unique 1/8-scale ride-on miniature railway is run by passionate volunteers from the BC Society of Model Engineers. Hop on for a 10-minute ride through the woods complete with tunnels, bridges, and spirals—perfect for kids and adults alike. With hand-built steam engines that puff just like the real thing, along with electric and diesel locomotives, every visit feels like an adventure. 

Open Labour Day Long weekend,
Time: 10am- 5pm (last ticket sales 430pm)
Where: : 120 N Willingdon Ave, Burnaby
Cost: $5 for a single ride, all passengers 3 years old and up

>> Burnaby Central Railway

Snap a pic in sunflower field

Head to the valley for a wander through massive fields of towering sunflowers for one final summer shot of the fam. This fest boasts five-plus acres of more than a dozen varieties of peak-season sunflowers in varying shades of yellow, orange and red. Also there are loads of insta-spots (think swings, tractors and the like) and fun for the kids.

>> Sunflower festivals in Metro Vancouver

Take one last plunge

Most of our spectacular outdoor pools close after Labour Day.  So take the kids for a final glorious swim at one of these pools: Maple Grove, Kits, New Brighton or and Second Beach. (Water parks will remain open until September 30 and are another great (and free) way to cool off.) You must book your slot online the day before and arrive swim ready.

>> Amazing outdoor pools

Summer Discovery Days – Fraser River Discovery Centre (New Westminster)

Celebrate the Labour Day long weekend with Summer Discovery Days at the Fraser River Discovery Centre (August 30–September 1). Families can dive into hands-on activities exploring how our daily choices impact the Fraser River, from learning about water turbidity and its effect on wildlife to discovering how plastic pollution harms animals. Kids will love storytime, myth-busting fun, and a playful recycling stacking game. Programs run daily from 10:00am–4:00pm, with special activities scheduled throughout the day—making it the perfect way to wrap up summer with learning, play, and discovery by the river.

When: September 1-5, 10am-4pm
Where: Fraser River Discovery Centre, 788 Quayside Drive, New Westminster, BC 
Cost for admission: Here is where to see the rates

TaiwanFest

Over Labour Day weekend, downtown Vancouver will once again come alive as the beloved Taiwan Fest returns, transforming the heart of the city into a vibrant celebration.

From August 30 to September 1, Granville Street and the šxʷƛ̓ ənəq Xwtl’e7énk Square by the Vancouver Art Gallery will be buzzing with activity. As the clock strikes noon each day, the festival springs to life with a lively beer garden, tempting food stalls, and an array of market vendors offering unique finds. It’s a weekend where culture, cuisine, and community come together, inviting everyone to join in the festivities, the theme this year is Echoes of the Ocean.

When:  September 5-7, Various times
Location: Downtown Vancouver, Granville Street and he šxʷƛ̓ ənəq Xwtl’e7énk Square by the Vancouver Art Gallery

>> More details about Taiwan Fest

Vancouver Car Free Day on Commercial Drive

Wrap up summer with a lively celebration at Car Free Day Vancouver on Commercial Drive. This free community event invites everyone to ditch the car and enjoy a vibrant street festival filled with live performances, family-friendly games and activities, tasty local eats, refreshing drinks, and community showcases. It’s a perfect way to spend the day connecting with friends, neighbours, and the city in a fun, eco-friendly way.

When: September 5, 2026 (Grandview to 1st Avenue)
Time: 12pm-5pm
Cost: Free

Crave Halal Fest

Crave Halal Fest is back in Surrey, and it’s shaping up to be a big one. Think halal food vendors, local shops and artisans, community groups, live entertainment, and activities for the kids, all in one spot. Thousands are expected to turn out across the two days, so it’s a great one to plan for if you’re in the Surrey area this long weekend.

When: September 5-6, 2026
Time: 11am-9pm (Saturday), 11am-730pm (Sunday)
Where: Surrey Civic Plaza,13450 104 Ave, Surrey, BC
Cost: Free

Our Neck of The Woods Festival

Head out to Maple Ridge’s Memorial Peace Park for the annual Our Neck of the Woods Festival. It covers the whole downtown core, not just the park. Expect live music on two stages, a food truck alley, craft beer from The Patch Brewing, a Shop Maple Ridge Market, a car-free street party on 224th, and a dedicated family zone. Bring a blanket to sit on since chairs aren’t allowed onsite, and dogs are welcome.

When: September 5, 2026
Time: 2pm-10pm
Where: Memorial Peace Park and the Downtown Core, Maple Ridge
Cost: Free

The post Fun family Labour Day weekend Events & Activities in Metro Vancouver appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

If you sound anything like me here are 5 tips to make your September more enjoyable:

1. Get Back-to-School organized with a Shopping Checklist

Order School supplies! Stop putting it off. If you order online head to Amazon if not head to Walmart or Staples and get what your kids need. Don’t wait until it’s all picked over.
Backpacks, lunchboxes, lunch kits, water bottles, runners (a second pair of indoor runners are usually needed for younger grades), rain boots, rain gear, socks and spare clothes are a few things to check if they need replacing from last year. Think ahead – snow pants, winter boots, gloves and warm hats!

> Get your back-to-school essentials

Clicking the back-to-school links earns us a small commission from Amazon at no extra cost to you.

2. De-clutter Kids’ Closets Before the New School Year

De-clutter and purge your kids closets. Anything too small donate! Make room for all of the new items you have purchased for the upcoming school year. Throw out anything that’s too worn to donate.

>> Where to Donate your kids stuff

3. Get Outdoors in Metro Vancouver Before Rainy Season Hits

The days are still warm, so go explore before the rainy season hits. Playgrounds, parks and beaches are all so much fun this time of year! Plus after a long school
day your kids will be loving the extra fresh air and outside time. Make the most of warm evenings and every sunny weekend.

>> Where to check out Million Dollar Playgrounds in Metro Vancouver

4. Fun things to do in September in Metro Vancouver

• PNE is open until September 7, 2026
• Apple Picking at Taves Family Farms
•  Richmond Sunflower Festival
• Catch a movie – Spiderman and Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie are both playing in theatres
• Vancouver Fringe Festival – September 10-20, 2026 – kids events: Puppet Makers workshop and Circus Lab and more.

5. Self-care tips for Busy Moms this Back-to-School Season

Do something for yourself. Join a workout class, go for a pedicure, have lunch with a friend. Summer was a whirlwind of fun and busy days, but September is the perfect month to get your routine back on track and take some time for yourself.

The post 5 Ways to Beat the “Back to School” Blues! appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

We sat down with Genicca to ask her what makes her a Vancouver Mom to Follow, and her answer is exactly the kind of honest, grounded wisdom you’d expect from someone who has built a career on financial clarity and a life on showing up fully, at work and at home

Describe your business or career role.

I’m a Licensed Holistic Financial Planner, speaker, author, and philanthropist, and my mission is helping families, business owners, and professionals build lasting wealth. Through my work, I combine strategic financial planning, tax efficient wealth strategies, investing, entrepreneurship, and financial education so families can build prosperous lives with real confidence and clarity, not guesswork.

My approach is holistic because money never exists in isolation. Every financial decision I help a client make is tied back to their long-term goals and the legacy they want to leave behind. I also host the Raise Rich Kids Podcast and run the Kidpreneur Challenge, which are two of my favourite ways to bring financial literacy into everyday family life. At the core of everything I do is one mission: break the cycle of financial stress, increase financial literacy, and empower families to build generational wealth with real conviction.

What makes you a Vancouver Mom to follow?

I’m redefining what modern motherhood can look like. As a Licensed Holistic Financial Planner, speaker, author, and entrepreneur, I share practical strategies that help families build wealth, raise financially confident kids, and create lives by design, not by default.

From teaching kids entrepreneurship through the Kidpreneur Challenge and the Raise Rich Kids Podcast, to empowering women through Mothers x Mission, I believe motherhood and ambition can absolutely coexist. My content blends financial literacy, business, parenting, personal growth, and community, and it’s all meant to inspire families to break generational cycles and build a legacy that lasts.

I’m passionate about making money conversations approachable, empowering, and actionable, because I believe financial literacy is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves, and the next generation.

Tell us about your family.

I’m mom to two incredible girls, ages 11 and 12, and they are honestly my biggest why behind everything I do. Watching them grow into curious, confident young women is what keeps me grounded no matter how full my calendar gets.

Our home is full of conversation, whether it’s about money, dreams, school, or whatever big idea one of them is chasing that week. I’ve always believed that the lessons we teach our kids about money, confidence, and possibility start at the kitchen table, long before they start earning their own income. My girls have grown up watching me build a business from the ground up, and I love that they’re learning firsthand that ambition and family aren’t opposites. They can exist in the same home, at the same time, fully.

What are your go-to activities, places, or hidden gems in Metro Vancouver that you and your family love?

We are a family that loves being outside. Some of our favourite weekends are the ones with no real plan, just a new park, forest trail, or beach we haven’t explored yet. There’s something about being surrounded by the trees, the mountains, and the water here that resets all of us, especially after a busy week. We’ll pack a blanket and just show up, no agenda, and let the girls run until the sun starts going down.

What’s something motherhood has taught you about yourself?

Motherhood has activated superhuman powers I never knew existed. I have conquered fears, accomplished dreams, and rediscovered my own inner child through being a mother. I’ve learned how to find grace in heavy moments, how to actually ask for help instead of white knuckling through everything, and how to be fully present for the small, meaningful moments that make up a life.

Becoming a mother helped me realize what I am truly capable of. I love myself today more than I ever have, because I am a mother.

Where can we follow you?

If you’d like to stay connected, you can find me here:

• Website: www.genicca.com
• Instagram:@geniccadotcom
• LinkedIn:Genicca Whitney

Genicca Whitney is one of our Vancouver Moms to Follow. She’s a Licensed Holistic Financial Planner, speaker, author, and philanthropist who helps families build lasting wealth through strategic planning, tax efficient investing, and financial education. She is the host of the Raise Rich Kids Podcast, creator of the Kidpreneur Challenge, and founder of Mothers x Mission, a community built to empower women to pursue ambition without ever setting motherhood aside.

Genicca lives in Metro Vancouver with her two daughters, ages 11 and 12, where weekends are spent on forest trails, in local parks, and thrifting together as a family. She’s on a mission to break cycles of financial stress and help families build generational wealth with confidence, one honest money conversation at a time.

Would you like to be a Vancouver Mom to Follow? Sign up

The post Vancouver Mom to Follow: Genicca Whitney appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

• A Porter Flight out of Victoria was cancelled in August 2026 after a young child wouldn’t stay buckled for takeoff.
• The plane returned to the gate, and by the time the situation was resolved, the runway had closed for the night, so the flight was cancelled.
• Arlene Panganiban, CEO and Publisher of VancouverMom.ca, joined CBC Radio’s On The Coast on August 10, 2026 to discuss what flying with young kids is really like and how parents can prepare.
• Her key message: a mid-flight meltdown isn’t a parenting failure, it’s a normal response to an overwhelming environment.
• Full audio and practical tips for flying with kids are below, along with an FAQ

Anyone who has flown with a toddler know the flight itself is only half the challenge. The other half is everything happening in a tiny seat next to you: overtired kids, popping ears, and a seatbelt sign that won’t budge.

That reality made headlines this month after a Porter Airlines flight from Victoria was cancelled when a young child would not stay buckled in for takeoff. Crew and the child’s parent worked to resolve it, but the plane had to return to the gage, and by the time everything was sorted, the runway had closed for the night.

The story spread quickly, and so did the opinions. CBC Radio’s On The Coast invited Arlene Panganiban, CEO and Publisher of VancouverMom.ca, on air August 10 to bring some perspective to the conversation, not about that specific family, but about what travelling with young children actually looks like for the average Metro Vancouver parent.

Listen to the full interview: CBC Radio, On the Coast – Air Travel with young children

During the inteview, Panganiban made the point that a meltdown mid-flight isn’t a parenting failure, it’s a normal reaction to an overwhelming environment. Loud engines, cabing pressure, and hours of sitting still are a lot to ask of a small nervous system, and most parents have had a rought flight moment of their own.

Tips for Flying with Young Kids

• Practice at home first. Buckle your child into a seatbelt or car seat a few times before the trip so it’s not a brand-feeling on travel day.
• Time it around sleep. Book flights close to nap or bed windows when you can.
• Save something new. A toy or snack your child hasn’t seen yet can buy valuable minutes during takeoff and landing.
• Talk it through before. Explain what to expect: engine noise, ears popping, the seatbelt sign staying on.
• Loop in the airline early. Let gate staff know if you’re expecting a tough transition. Many airlines can offer early boarding or extra support.
• Build in buffer time. Skip the tightest connection when booking, a little breathing room goes a long way.

FAQ

Why was the Porter flight cancelled? The plane returned to the gate after a young child wouldn’t stay buckled for takeoff. By the time the situation was resolved, the runway had closed for the night, so the flight was cancelled.

Is it normal for kids to struggle with seatbelts on flights? Yes. Engine noise, cabin pressure, and long stretches of sitting still can overwhelm young children, and pushing back against a seatbelt is a common reaction, not a discipline issue.

Why are seatbelts rules so strick on planes? Takeoff and landing are the highest-risk parts of any flight. Crews are legally required to have every passenger secured before the aircraft can move.

What can parents do to make flying with kids easier? Practicing the seatbelt at home, timing flights around naps, packing a “new” toy or snack for takeoff, and giving fate staff a heads-up ahead of time can all help.

Where can I hear the full CBC interview? The full conversation is available on CBC Radio’s On The Coast, recorded om August 10, 2026. Listen here.

What happened on the Porter flight in Victoria, BC? A Porter Airlines flight leaving Victoria in August 2026 returned to the gate after a young child would not stay buckled in for takeoff. The delay caused the flight to miss the airport’s overnight runaway closure, and the flight was cancelled as a result.

How can I prepare my child for their first flight? Walk them through what to expect before travel day: the engine noise, the feeling of ears popping, and staying buckled during takeoff and landing. Practicing with a seatbelt at home ahead of time also helps make it feel familiar rather than new.

Who is Arlene Panganiban? Arlene Panganiban is the CEO and Publisher of VancouverMom.ca, a Metro Vancouver family and parenting media platform. She was interviewed on CBC Radio’s On The Coast on August 10, 2026 to speak to the realities of travelling with young children.

VancouverMom.ca is a Metro Vancouver’s trusted resource for local parents, covering family travel, events and everyday parenting life.

The post Tips When Flying With Young Kids appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

Metro Vancouver Summer 2026 Festivals, Concerts and Plays

Theatre Under the Stars

Dates: July 3 – August 22, 2026
Location: Malkin Bowl, Stanley Park

Step into the magical world of musicals as Theatre Under the Stars lights up Stanley Park with Sister Act and The Little Mermaid. These energetic, family-friendly shows are set in the stunning Malkin Bowl, offering the ultimate picnic-and-a-show experience. A Vancouver summer staple for decades, TUTS promises music, laughter, and memorable nights under the stars.

Bard on the Beach

Dates: June 9 – September 19, 2026
Location: Vanier Park, Vancouver

Enjoy timeless stories of love, power, and wit under the setting sun. Bard on the Beach, Vancouver’s premier Shakespeare festival, returns to the beautiful waterfront setting of Vanier Park. This year’s line up is Macbeth, Antigone, and Goblin: Oedipus. With professional productions set against breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean, this summer tradition combines literary classics with natural beauty for a truly magical evening.

BC Halal Food Fest

Date: July 24-26, 2026
Location: Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre, Surrey, BC
Admission: Free
Time: July 24 (3pm-11pm), July 25 & 26 (11am-11pm)

Bring the whole crew to Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre in Surrey this weekend, July 24 to 26, for three days of halal eats, local shopping, and family fun. With over 50 food vendors and another 50-plus market stalls, plus carnival rides and live entertainment running all weekend, it’s an easy way to fill an afternoon (or three). Best part: it’s completely free to get in. 

Chiquitzin Kids Fiesta

Date: July 25, 2026
Location: Thompson Community Centre, Richmond
Cost: FREE

If you’re stuck on weekend plans, tomorrow’s the day to check out this free cultural mashup happening around Metro Vancouver, where Latin American and French traditions collide in the best way. Think live music, dance performances, theatre and storytelling, plus a magic show that’ll have the little ones’ jaws on the floor. There’s also arts and crafts, inflatables, face painting, and a photo booth for all those “proof we left the house” pics. My favourite part? Kids get a Chiquitzin passport to stamp along the way, with prizes and surprises hidden throughout the day. It’s the kind of low-effort, high-fun outing that fills a whole afternoon without you having to plan a thing.

Music with Marnie & Lightsaber show

Date: July 25, 2026
Location: KidsMarket on Granville Island

Music with Marnie — Free family show at 12:15pm right at Granville Island’s Kids Market. Marnie and her band bring the high-energy, up-on-your-feet tunes that turn any afternoon into a dance party, complete with puppets and costumed characters keeping the kids hooked from song one.

Lightsaber Show with Saber Guild Alderaan Temple — Two free shows at 12:00pm and 1:30pm bring epic lightsaber battles to life for Jedi, Padawans, and Sith of every age. Stick around after each performance for a meet-and-greet and photo op with the characters. May the Force be with you.

BC Pride Festival

Date: July 25, 2026
Location: Burnaby Civic Square, 6100 Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby, Admission: Free
Time: 3pm – 7pm

Head to Civic Square for Burnaby’s ninth annual Pride celebration, a free, family-friendly afternoon honouring the diversity of Burnaby’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Expect live music, drag, comedy, and educational booths, all set up to welcome families, kids, and allies alike. It’s a warm, community-first way to spend a summer afternoon and show your little ones what celebrating each other looks like.

Uptown Summer Live Series

Dates: June 27 – September 13, 2026
Location: Uptown New Westminister (Various Locations)
Cost: Free

Free, family-friendly, and running every Saturday and Sunday until September 13, Uptown Live turns New West into one big open-air stage with busker-style performances popping up across plazas, patios, and street corners all summer. No tickets, no cover, just wander the neighbourhood and let the music find you. Rain or shine, the show goes on.

Summer Light in English Bay

Date: July 31, 2026
Location: English Bay, Vancouver
Admission: Free
Time: The fireworks are expected to launch after dusk (around 10pm)

English Bay Beach lights up with a free, one-night fireworks show, no tickets needed. It falls on the closing weekend of Vancouver Pride and kicks off the BC Day long weekend, so expect big crowds and plan accordingly: walk, bike, or take transit if you can, since parking will be tight and several nearby lots will be closed. Grab a spot on the sand early, pack a blanket and snacks, and settle in for a night sky full of colour with the kids.

Summer in Langley City

Warmer, longer days mean live music under rainbow umbrellas, Shakespeare in the park, and juicy berries from the farmers market. Here’s what’s still on the calendar this summer, and it’s all free and family-friendly.

• Langley Community Farmers Market — Fresh berries, food trucks, and live music from over 30 vendors, every Wednesday through August 26, 5:30–8:30pm at Douglas Park.
• McBurney Plaza Summer Concert Series — Live music under a stunning aerial umbrella display, plus treats and giveaways. July 28 at McBurney Plaza.
• Langley Pride Day — Drag bingo, live performances, and a 19+ concert with Disaster in a Dress and The Unbranded. August 8, noon–4pm (concert starts at 6pm), Creekside Hall.
• Arts Alive Festival — Celebrating 30 years, with 200+ artists, live music, interactive installations, and artisan vendors filling downtown. August 15, 10am–5pm, Fraser Highway (between 204 and 206 streets).
• Fork & Finger — A self-guided tasting trail through local restaurants, with feature dishes, live entertainment, and a chance to win $2,500 in Downtown Dollars. August 22, 11am–4pm, McBurney Plaza.
• Heritage Classic Car Show — North America’s longest-running Jaguar-MG car show, with vintage motorcycles and restored classics rolling into Douglas Park. August 23, 10am–3:30pm.

Oval Community Day

Date: August 9 , 2026
Location: Richmond Olympic Oval
Admission: Free
Time: 10am-3pm

Free and family-friendly, this all-day celebration of sport and fitness takes over the Richmond Olympic Oval. Kids can tackle inflatable obstacle courses (including a 90-foot challenge and a bungee run), try sports like fencing, foosball, and wheelchair basketball, and get their face painted between snacks from Kona Ice and Tap & Snack’s BBQ. There’s live music, circus acts, and gymnastics showcases throughout the day, plus prize giveaways and self-guided tours of the Olympic Experience if you need a break from the sun.

PNE Summer Night Concerts: Summer’s Hottest Stage

Dates: August 22 – September 7, 2025
Location: Pacific National Exhibition (PNE), Vancouver

The PNE Fair’s most anticipated tradition returns, and this year it’s got a serious upgrade: the brand new Freedom Mobile Arch. This purpose built amphitheatre brings better sightlines and top tier acoustics, so whether you’re bringing the whole family or sneaking out for a date night, every seat feels like a good one. The lineup spans rock, pop, hip hop, alternative, and orchestral acts, so there’s genuinely something for every taste in the house. Tickets start at $49 plus fees and include full access to the PNE Fair, meaning your concert night doubles as a trip to the midway, the animal barns, and all the fair food you can handle.d-of-summer event paired with mini donuts and midway fun.

Plan Your Ultimate Summer in Vancouver

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, live music by the ocean, multicultural feasts, or open-air theatre, Metro Vancouver’s summer events calendar for 2026 is bursting with opportunity. From Surrey to Fort Langley and the heart of downtown Vancouver, there’s something happening every weekend. Bookmark this list, grab your friends or your little ones, and get ready for a summer full of celebration, culture, and unforgettable memories.

The post Top Festivals, Concerts & Plays You Won’t Want to Miss this Summer appeared first on Vancouver Mom.

In this Q&A, Emily shares how Dine Wilder came to life, what home looks like with two little boys underfoot, and what motherhood has taught her about showing up as her full, imperfect self.

Describe your business or career role.

I’m a lifelong gatherer of humans, a storyteller, and the founder of Dine Wilder, a company born from a simple belief: life is better when we stop rushing through it and start sitting around the table together.

What began as a long-table dinner series has evolved into a movement. I’m wildly passionate about championing small business owners, creating opportunities for collaboration, and connecting people who may never have crossed paths otherwise.

Now, 22 months in, with a newly launched online membership called The Room, Dine Wilder has grown into a community built around dinners, retreats, panels, and FEAST, my signature gathering in Squamish on October 25th. It’s an experience unlike anything you’ve likely attended before, combining the inspiration of a conference with the warmth and connection of a dinner party. Food for the mind, celebrating ambition, storytelling, and the magic that happens when the right people are in the same room.

I’ve built my life and my business around one belief: the magic happens when we lean into the unknown, jump before we’re ready, and move with our hearts more than our heads. Less logic, more action. Less waiting for the perfect moment, more trusting ourselves enough to create it.

What makes you a Vancouver Mom to follow?

I think what sets me apart is that I’m constantly choosing the less obvious path.

I’m a mom of two boys, a founder, a storyteller, and someone who has built a life around saying “why not?” more often than “why me?” I’ve never been particularly interested in fitting into a neat little box. I believe we can be ambitious and deeply present, creative and practical, a mother and a woman with dreams that exist outside of motherhood.

I’m passionate about showing up as my full, imperfect self with overflowing childlike excitement, and reminding other women that they don’t have to shrink themselves to create a beautiful life. Whether I’m gathering hundreds of people around a table, cheering on another small business owner, or doing school drop-off in a pair of heels while dreaming up my next wild idea, I hope to inspire others to trust themselves, take the leap, and create a life that feels like theirs.

Tell us about your family.

Our family is made up of my husband, Dean, who owns Squamish Coastal Contracting Inc., our two boys, Jack Wilder (5) and Wilf Parker (3), better known as Wilfy, and me.

Jack unknowingly became the inspiration behind the entire Wilder brand. When he was just 10 weeks old, I co-founded Graze Wilder, and that one little word, Wilder, has stayed with us ever since. It has grown alongside our family and now lives on through Dine Wilder, The Room, FEAST, and everything I create.

Life in our house is loud, full of muddy shoes by the front door, endless snack requests, dance parties in the living room, and Yorkshire puddings on a Sunday. You can take the girl out of Yorkshire, but she’ll never let her Yorkshire puds go. Life feels like it’s overflowing at the seams in the best possible way.

My mom always told me that home isn’t a place, it’s a feeling you create wherever your feet are. I often pinch myself that our home in Squamish has become exactly that for so many other people too. Friends, family, neighbours, and complete strangers know the kettle is always on, the door is always open, and there’s probably a charcuterie platter about to be whipped up.

What are your go-to activities, places, or hidden gems in Metro Vancouver that you and your family love?

I love being taken anywhere I’ve never been before. There’s something so exciting about discovering a new place, having an unexpected conversation, and finding little gems you’d never stumble across if you stayed on the same path.

For work, I love spending time at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. There’s such an incredible energy there, and it feels like every conversation I have somehow sparks a little bit of magic. I love meetings at Water St. Café, dinners at Hy’s or Black+Blue, and wandering through the beautiful brick streets and independent stores of Gastown because it gives me a little taste of the UK.

With the boys, you’ll often find us at Science World, the Vancouver Aquarium, exploring West Vancouver, grabbing a coffee at Crema, or spending slow afternoons at Ambleside and the beaches. Weekends are often spent at Whytecliff Park, letting the boys explore while we soak up the views.

When my parents come to visit, they love taking the boys to Science World, the Aquarium, or Granville Island. I think that’s what I love most about Vancouver. There is always somewhere new to discover, no matter how long you’ve lived here.

What’s something motherhood has taught you about yourself?

Motherhood has taught me that there is no arrival point. It’s one long evolution, and just when you think you’ve found your rhythm, everything changes again. Becoming a mom changed me. Becoming a mom of two changed me all over again.

I used to think being a great mom meant being completely selfless. Looking back, I think I’d have felt even more like myself if I’d taken the occasional moment to refill my own cup. Now I know my boys need the fullest version of me.

I’m not a mom who follows all the rules or worries too much about the “shoulds.” I’d much rather say yes to watching the stars past bedtime, wearing pyjamas to the movies, or dancing to one more song in the kitchen. I want my boys to remember a childhood full of unexpected yeses, not things.

More than anything, I hope they grow up watching a mom who was brave enough to chase her dreams, kind enough to bring other people along with her, and never afraid to jump before she was ready.

Where can we follow you?

If you’d like to stay connected, you can find me here:

• Website: www.emilywilder.ca
• Dine Wilder: www.dinewilderevents.com
• Instagram: @emily_wilder
• LinkedIn: Emily Shimwell

Emily Wilder is one of our Vancouver Moms to Follow. She’s the founder of Dine Wilder, a Squamish based community built around long-table dinners, retreats, and her signature annual gathering, FEAST, happening October 25th. What started as a simple dinner series has grown into a movement that connects small business owners, storytellers, and dreamers who might never have crossed paths otherwise.

Originally from Yorkshire, England, Emily now calls Squamish home alongside her husband Dean, owner of Squamish Coastal Contracting Inc., and their two boys, Jack and Wilfy. Her days are a mix of hosting rooms full of new connections, cheering on fellow entrepreneurs, and chasing her boys around the backyard, often in heels.

Emily believes in leaning into the unknown and moving with heart over logic. Through Dine Wilder and her new membership community, The Room, she’s building spaces where people feel seen, inspired, and genuinely connected, one table at a time. Stay tuned for more inspiring moms who are shaping motherhood and leadership across Metro Vancouver.

Would you like to be a Vancouver Mom to Follow? Sign up

The post Vancouver Mom to Follow: Emily Shimwell of Dine Wilder appeared first on Vancouver Mom.