One of Vancouver’s tastiest spring traditions returns this month as the 20th annual Spot Prawn Festival takes over False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf on Sunday, May 31.
Hosted by the Chefs’ Table Society of British Columbia, the waterfront event celebrates the start of BC spot prawn season and gives locals a chance to enjoy one of the province’s most beloved sustainable seafood delicacies just steps from Granville Island. The festival runs from 11am to 3pm at 1505 West 1st Avenue.
The family-friendly festival includes free access to the docks, chef cooking demonstrations, educational booths, and live music. From 11am to 2pm, local chefs will take the demo stage to share tips and inspiration for cooking with BC spot prawns at home. This year’s demo chef lineup includes Chris Irving, Cheryl Chang of Nourish, Chanthy Yen of Touk, Vish Mayekar of ELEM, Ying Gao of Araxi, and Benedict Lim of The Lunch Lady.
For those looking to eat, the festival offers two ticketed options. Spot prawn chowder is available in timed servings from 11am to 2:30pm, with advance tickets priced at $12 plus tax, or $15 at the wharf. Each serving includes an eight-ounce bowl of prawn and seafood chowder with a bun.
The festival’s popular Spot Prawn Brunch is also back, with two services from 11:30am to 1pm and 1:30pm to 3pm. Tickets are $85 plus tax and include six BC spot prawn dishes created by local chefs, a sweet treat, and samples of BC craft beverages. The brunch is a stand-up outdoor event, runs rain or shine, and is limited to guests 19 and older.
For Kitsilano and West Side residents, the festival is an easy seawall stroll, bike ride, or short trip to False Creek for a seasonal taste of the coast.
