Vancouver Fetish Weekend 2026
- 30 Jul – 3 Aug 2026
- Vancouver
Vancouver Fetish Weekend is an annual five‑day celebration for the fetish, kink and alternative lifestyle community that takes over multiple venues across the city each summer. It started as a small party run by local promoters in the early 2010s and has steadily evolved into one of the largest events of its kind in Canada. With its mix of themed club nights, costume balls, markets and social gatherings, the festival draws visitors from across North America as well as Europe and Asia. Unlike some club‑oriented events that only appeal to hardened fetishists, Vancouver’s weekend tries to create a space where curious newcomers and more seasoned participants can explore, dance and socialise in a welcoming atmosphere.
Because the event is spread over several days, there’s room for a variety of experiences. The 2025 edition, which ran from Thursday 24 July through Monday 28 July, kicked off with a casual meet‑and‑greet where attendees collected their wristbands, connected with friends and checked out outfits for the weekend. The opening night party, which has always been a highlight, embraced a ‘Candyland’ theme for 2025 – colourful latex, neon wigs and sugary décor set the scene as international DJs played until the early morning. The following evening, a formal Fetish Ball took over one of Vancouver’s grand theatres. People arrived in elaborate leather, corsetry and drag, with photographers on hand to capture the looks. It was more than just a show of fashion: organisers highlighted consent and body positivity, making sure everyone, from shy first‑timers to seasoned perverts, felt comfortable.
Saturday afternoon saw a new addition to the programme, a kink market and daytime social that allowed folks to mingle in a relaxed environment. Independent makers sold harnesses, latex pieces and handcrafted accessories, and there were demonstrations on bondage, flogging and kink safety. That evening, the Eleventh Anniversary Fetish Ball (the event was born in 2014) filled a warehouse with live DJs, fetish fashion shows and immersive performances by aerialists and fire artists. Once again there was an emphasis on creating a space free from judgement; volunteers circulated to remind people of the festival’s code of conduct, and there were quiet chill‑out areas for those who needed a break from the intensity.
On Sunday morning, a boat departed from Coal Harbour for the VIP Fetish Cruise. For many returning guests, this three‑hour sail along the Vancouver coast was a favourite part of the weekend. The top deck became a dance floor, with views of the mountains and skyline providing a dramatic backdrop to the cluster of leather, latex and extravagant headwear. Downstairs, rope suspension rigs and bondage frames allowed practitioners to share knowledge in a safe environment. Later in the afternoon, the infamous Decompression Beach Party took over the clothing‑optional Wreck Beach. This part of the weekend has developed almost mythical status: regulars pack coolers, towels, sunscreen and shade structures, and spend hours lounging on the sand. By evening, a makeshift stage hosts DJs and performers, with attendees dancing as the sun sets over the Pacific. Although the beach is public, festival organisers co‑ordinate with local authorities to ensure a respectful environment and remind participants to leave no trace.
One of the reasons Vancouver Fetish Weekend has lasted so long is that it continues to adapt and grow. Each year the organisers add new workshops and social spaces in response to feedback. Those who attended the 2025 weekend praised the accessibility of venues – with dedicated wheelchair spaces and quiet zones – and the emphasis on inclusivity, whether someone was into latex, leather, rubber, cosplay or simply curious about the scene. There was also a renewed push to promote the voices of queer and gender‑diverse performers; drag kings, burlesque artists and trans fetish models were front and centre at many of the shows. Throughout the weekend, a strict no‑photography policy was enforced unless someone was in a designated photo area and gave consent, a policy that underscored the organisers’ commitment to safety.
The 2026 edition is already in the works, with tentative dates set from Thursday 30 July to Monday 3 August. While full details of themes and line‑ups have yet to be published, early announcements suggest the event will expand on the elements that made 2025 so memorable. Expect the return of the opening night ball, VIP cruise and beach party, alongside new workshops on rope technique, ethical non‑monogamy and fetish fashion design. Local clubs have hinted that they’ll host additional after‑hours events, and there are plans to include a community brunch on the Monday to give attendees a chance to decompress before travelling home. Tickets generally go on sale in early spring, and given how quickly wristbands sell out, it’s wise to keep an eye on the official website.
For those planning to attend, Vancouver in late July and early August offers mild temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for exploring the city before evening events. The festival coincides with the lead‑up to Vancouver Pride, which takes place the following weekend, so many visitors choose to extend their stay to take part in both celebrations. Accommodation ranges from downtown hotels to hostels and short‑term rentals, and there is a thriving dining and arts scene to enjoy during the day. Whether you’re a seasoned kinkster or someone who simply wants to dance in latex beneath the lights, Vancouver Fetish Weekend promises a sense of freedom and community that keeps people coming back year after year.
Because the event is spread over several days, there’s room for a variety of experiences. The 2025 edition, which ran from Thursday 24 July through Monday 28 July, kicked off with a casual meet‑and‑greet where attendees collected their wristbands, connected with friends and checked out outfits for the weekend. The opening night party, which has always been a highlight, embraced a ‘Candyland’ theme for 2025 – colourful latex, neon wigs and sugary décor set the scene as international DJs played until the early morning. The following evening, a formal Fetish Ball took over one of Vancouver’s grand theatres. People arrived in elaborate leather, corsetry and drag, with photographers on hand to capture the looks. It was more than just a show of fashion: organisers highlighted consent and body positivity, making sure everyone, from shy first‑timers to seasoned perverts, felt comfortable.
Saturday afternoon saw a new addition to the programme, a kink market and daytime social that allowed folks to mingle in a relaxed environment. Independent makers sold harnesses, latex pieces and handcrafted accessories, and there were demonstrations on bondage, flogging and kink safety. That evening, the Eleventh Anniversary Fetish Ball (the event was born in 2014) filled a warehouse with live DJs, fetish fashion shows and immersive performances by aerialists and fire artists. Once again there was an emphasis on creating a space free from judgement; volunteers circulated to remind people of the festival’s code of conduct, and there were quiet chill‑out areas for those who needed a break from the intensity.
On Sunday morning, a boat departed from Coal Harbour for the VIP Fetish Cruise. For many returning guests, this three‑hour sail along the Vancouver coast was a favourite part of the weekend. The top deck became a dance floor, with views of the mountains and skyline providing a dramatic backdrop to the cluster of leather, latex and extravagant headwear. Downstairs, rope suspension rigs and bondage frames allowed practitioners to share knowledge in a safe environment. Later in the afternoon, the infamous Decompression Beach Party took over the clothing‑optional Wreck Beach. This part of the weekend has developed almost mythical status: regulars pack coolers, towels, sunscreen and shade structures, and spend hours lounging on the sand. By evening, a makeshift stage hosts DJs and performers, with attendees dancing as the sun sets over the Pacific. Although the beach is public, festival organisers co‑ordinate with local authorities to ensure a respectful environment and remind participants to leave no trace.
One of the reasons Vancouver Fetish Weekend has lasted so long is that it continues to adapt and grow. Each year the organisers add new workshops and social spaces in response to feedback. Those who attended the 2025 weekend praised the accessibility of venues – with dedicated wheelchair spaces and quiet zones – and the emphasis on inclusivity, whether someone was into latex, leather, rubber, cosplay or simply curious about the scene. There was also a renewed push to promote the voices of queer and gender‑diverse performers; drag kings, burlesque artists and trans fetish models were front and centre at many of the shows. Throughout the weekend, a strict no‑photography policy was enforced unless someone was in a designated photo area and gave consent, a policy that underscored the organisers’ commitment to safety.
The 2026 edition is already in the works, with tentative dates set from Thursday 30 July to Monday 3 August. While full details of themes and line‑ups have yet to be published, early announcements suggest the event will expand on the elements that made 2025 so memorable. Expect the return of the opening night ball, VIP cruise and beach party, alongside new workshops on rope technique, ethical non‑monogamy and fetish fashion design. Local clubs have hinted that they’ll host additional after‑hours events, and there are plans to include a community brunch on the Monday to give attendees a chance to decompress before travelling home. Tickets generally go on sale in early spring, and given how quickly wristbands sell out, it’s wise to keep an eye on the official website.
For those planning to attend, Vancouver in late July and early August offers mild temperatures and long daylight hours, perfect for exploring the city before evening events. The festival coincides with the lead‑up to Vancouver Pride, which takes place the following weekend, so many visitors choose to extend their stay to take part in both celebrations. Accommodation ranges from downtown hotels to hostels and short‑term rentals, and there is a thriving dining and arts scene to enjoy during the day. Whether you’re a seasoned kinkster or someone who simply wants to dance in latex beneath the lights, Vancouver Fetish Weekend promises a sense of freedom and community that keeps people coming back year after year.