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A full day at the Vancouver International Children’s Festival is a lot of fun, and staying sun smart helps you make the most of it.
When the sun comes out, and you’re not prepared, kids get tired faster, energy dips, and you might have to wrap up the day’s activities a lot sooner than expected.
Being sun smart makes a difference. A few simple habits like finding shade, staying hydrated, and throwing on a hat can help keep the day on track. Follow these easy tips from Sun Safe BC to help you stay comfortable and enjoy more of the day:
a little planning goes a long way
Take a quick look at the schedule before you arrive and pick a few things you do not want to miss. That becomes your anchor for the day.
From there, build in some flexibility. If the sun is out, it helps to plan higher-energy outdoor activities earlier, then shift into indoor shows or shaded breaks as the day goes on. This is especially helpful between late morning and mid-afternoon, when the sun tends to be strongest.
Checking the UV Index before heading out can also give you a better sense of how to pace your day.
what to throw in your bag
When you are out for several hours, a few things can make a big difference.
Even if the day starts off cloudy, it is worth being prepared for when and if the sun comes through. It helps to think ahead to the middle of the day, not just the start.
A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+), light layers, and a water bottle go a long way. Add snacks and wipes, and you are in a good spot for the day.
Reapplying sunscreen every couple of hours, and not forgetting spots like ears and neck, can also help avoid having to cut the day short.
dress for comfort (and coverage)
What kids wear starts to matter more as the hours add up.
Breathable clothing that covers the skin, along with a wide-brimmed hat, can help keep everyone comfortable when the sun is out.
take the break before you need it
One of the easiest ways to avoid burnout is to build in breaks before anyone hits their limit. That might mean stepping into the shade for a few minutes, sitting down for a snack, catching an indoor show, or just slowing the pace for a bit.
In the middle of the day, these small resets can make a big difference in how things unfold.
mix it up!
The Festival is designed for movement, but also for pause.
Shaded areas and indoor performances are part of what makes a full day feel manageable. Rotating between indoor and outdoor activity can help keep everyone comfortable and engaged.
keep it simple
Being sun smart does not have to be complicated.
It is checking the UV Index before you head out, putting on sunscreen as you are getting out the door, throwing a hat on when you remember, and making sure everyone has had some water along the way.
know when to call it a day
Small habits like these tend to make the biggest difference over the course of the day.
Even with the best plan, sometimes ending earlier is the right call.
A shorter, enjoyable day is always better than pushing through until everyone is exhausted.
By the end of the day, it’s usually the small things that make the biggest difference: finding shade when you need it, taking a break before things go sideways, having what you need on hand so you don’t have to leave early. When those pieces are in place, a full day at the Festival feels a lot more doable and a lot more fun!
Make sure to swing by Sun Safe BC in the Activity Village on the weekend for Sun Smart Fun—a quick, easy way to reset, pick up free sunscreen, and keep the day going!