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Blitzen Pop Up On Now Till December 23, 2017

11 Dec

IBlitzen Shopn the space next to Heartbreaker Salon, was Whiskey Cake Home, who we’ve learnt has left this space to focus on their store on Main Street. Which means a great little retail space in the midst of a host of restaurants such as Les Faux Bourgeois, Osteria Savio Volpe, Matchstick Coffee, Los Cuervos at the corner of Kingsway and Fraser.  Most of these spots have waits and line ups, so while you wait for your table, why not pop in to the Blitzen Pop Up and get a bit of Christmas shopping done.  Blitzen Pop Up features a range of products from local makers including:

Anita Sikma Jewelry
Handwoven rugs/pillows/garlic baskets by Becky Brisco
Candles by EastWix
Leather Goods by Hannah Joan
Sriracha Revolver Hot Sauce
Patch Planters
Batch salts/scrubs/room sprays By Kis•met Essentials
Andrew Pommier’s Limited Edition Artist Prints
Locally designed textiles and baby swaddlers by Anara
The Vancouver Shop – local neighbourhood patches, prints & giftware
Pacific Northwest Prints
Silk Scarves By Mona Sultan
Handmade Soaps & Balms by Violet Alchemy
Kids clothing and colouring cards by Jamie Anderson
Local Pickles and Pickled Onions by Deandra Vaughn

Blitzen Pop Up is local at 623 Kingsway, corner of Fraser & Kingsway and is open Wednesday to Saturday from Noon to 8:00 pm. Stop by and see what’s in store or check them out on Instagram @blitzenpop.

 

 

 

What’s On East Van: December 8th Edition

8 Dec

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERALots happening in East Van this next week.  Our weekly feature What’s On East Van sets out cool events for the upcoming week. Beyond the week, we invite you to check out our Event Listing which is updated daily and features events for the month and beyond.

Brock House Big Band – Trout Lake Community Centre – December 8, 2017

Trout Lake Community Centre is hosting the Brock House Big Band on Friday, December 8th. This is a free concert happening from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. So you are invited to stop by, sing or dance-a-long.

Christmas Tree Pop Up Sale – Luppolo Brewing Company – December 9, 2017

Luppolo Brewing Company in Strathcona is hosting a one day Christmas tree sale with proceeds benefitting Leah’s Place.  Pop Up runs from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm so you have the full day to pop by and grab a tree.

GotCraft? – Maritime Labour Musuem – December 9 & 10, 2017 

If you wish to shop local, this is a great weekend to do it.  Choices abound, first up Got Craft? At the Maritime Labour Museum Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.  Get thirsty, you have some great craft breweries and Pallet Coffee close by if you need to recharge.

Make It! Vancouver – PNE Forum –  December 7-10, 2017

Make It! Vancouver is on now at the PNE Forum showcasing some amazing Canadian talent. Expect to find over 265 exhibitors selling handcrafted items. They will also have a beer garden and food trucks to round out the shopping experience.   Make It! Is on Friday, December 8th from 11 am to 9 pm, Saturday, December 9th from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm.  Admission is $8, but they are offering a $2 off coupon on their website.

Shiny Fuzzy Muddy – Heritage Hall – December 9 & 10, 2017

Shiny Fuzzy Muddy happens at the Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, this Saturday (11:00 to 6:00 pm) and Sunday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm) with over 30 artisans offering a range of items. Admission is $3.00.

The 19th Annual Animation Show of Shows – Rio Theatre – December 10, 2017

The Rio Theatre hosts the 19th Edition of Ron Diamond’s wonderfully curated Animation Show of Shows this Sunday, December 10th at 2:15 pm.  More films will be showcased December 11th and 18th.

Entertainment, Comedy + Live Theatre

Looking for humour, The Geekenders Presents How I Met My Mother: A Back To The Future Parody Musical at the Rio Theatre on Friday, Saturday and Sunday night at 8:00 pm.  Don’t forget the Winter farmer markets are in full swing at Nat Bailey Stadium on Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm and Hastings Park on Sunday also from 10 am – 2 pm.  To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.

Image Credit: June Hunter

 

This New East Van Business Is Sriracha Hot!

7 Dec

SrirachaRevolverIn case you hadn’t heard, Srircha is hot, literally and figuratively. If you aren’t familiar with Sriracha, it is a type of hot sauce or chili sauce made from a paste of chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar and salt.  It varies in consistency, ingredients and hotness.  We recently met Jordan Hocking, owner of the new Sriracha Revolver, an East Van business that’s only been in operation since June of this year, but has been flying off the shelves literally.  Their sriracha-style hot sauce is made in a local commissary in small batches. They use all natural and fresh ingredients to make something unique and delicious. 

Jordan started making sriracha in 2012 when she was 9 months pregnant with her second child. She made and canned small jars as gifts one Christmas and everyone loved them.  Jordan then started experimenting with recipes. We learnt that most sriracha recipes call for red jalapeños, but Jordan wasn’t a fan of the taste so she substituted Thai chili peppers. Once she had the hot sauce down, she experimented with other recipes and created one based on her favourite flavours Beets + Tequila. In The Spring of 2013, a friend took her sauces to foodie party and next thing you know she was receiving orders and requests to buy her sauces. 

Not only do the sauces pair nicely with a variety of foods, we hear they are perfect for cocktails. Jordan says that each sauce works perfectly in a caesar and encourages those to try tequila instead of vodka in their caesars.   We see a cool new drink in the lounge at Odd Society Spirits with this local business, hint hint, nudge nudge.

If you wish to try these sauces for yourself, you have a few options. They have an online shop open 24/7. Cost of a small bottle is $8 plus shipping.  You can also find their sauces on the menu at a few restaurants around town including The Shameful Tiki Room on Main Street.  Sriracha Revolver has lined up a number or retailers already including most recently Gourmet Warehouse. To see the full line up of retailers, visit their website’s Where To Find Us. If you wish to do a bit of taste testing and buy their gift pack with all 3 sauces, check them out this weekend at Got Craft? happening December 9 & 10 at the Maritime Labour Museum from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. If you missed them at Got Craft?, you can purchase the Gift Pack at Blitzen Pop Up Shop at 623 Kingsway.  Stop by and see what’s hot in East Van. 

Premiere of Web Series – The Dangers Of Online Dating

6 Dec

DOODContributing writer, Nicole Alivojvodic recently checked out the premiere of the new web series The Dangers of Online Dating.  No matter where you live, East Side or West Side, this applies to us all and this show is funny! Here’s what Nicole has to say about this new series:

Five years in the making, award-winning filmmaker Brianne Nord-Stewart launches her web series The Dangers of Online Dating, which follows a young sexual health nurse stumbling through the world of online dating in a hilarious and relatable way. The launch party, held at Vancouver’s historic Penthouse Nightclub, screened the first two seasons in full, had a question and answer period with the cast and creator and a contest for prizes like no other.

The first season began filming in 2012, shortly before the online dating game made the transition from taboo to “everybody’s doing it”. However, while the technology and the stigma have changed, the actual experience of dating online has evidently not. The web series covers all the common online dating fails and more: everything from crazy tattoos to misleading profiles to getting ghosted. It also showcases Nurse Paula’s relatable blunders as she searches for love online, whether she’s sending 1 (or 10) texts too many, licking her hot yoga teacher or trying to steal her French lover’s pee, this series will have you cracking up and covering your eyes in horror at the oh so relatable struggle.

To watch the first episode and subscribe visit The Dangers of Online Dating You Tube ChannelThe Dangers of Online Dating launched on YouTube on November 23. A new  episode will be released each week.

By Contributing Writer Nicole Alivojovdic

Shiny Fuzzy Muddy At The Heritage Hall December 9 & 10, 2017

5 Dec

SFM xmascard 2017 Print (002) Shiny Fuzzy Muddy happens this weekend at the Heritage Hall. This well curated market is now in its 15th year and is brought to you by artists, Kari Woo, Janna Hurtzig, Arleigh Wood and Frances Dickinson.  This year they showcase some new talent including Russell Hackney with ceramics, Kat Cadegan who is coming from Revelstoke to showcase her jewellery. They will be along side, Zed Handmade, Sans Soucie Textile, Claudia Schultz and many more.  All artists chosen for this market exhibit a high level of craftsmanship and quality in their designs. We invite you to stop by and check out Shiny Fuzzy Muddy this weekend. It runs Saturday, December 9th from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm and Sunday, December 10th to 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission is $3.00 at the door.

 

 

 

 

 

Oh Man! At Havana Theatre December 8 & 9, 2017

4 Dec

OhManOh Man! is coming to Havana Theatre this Friday and Saturday.  Jo Dworschak, creator and producer of Story Story Lie, has put together a multimedia monologue about a mom trying to overcome her fear of men before having one.  With some assistance from TJ Dawe, a respected playwright, actor and director, Jo Dworschak has put together this autobiographical production which features some problematic relationships with men in her family life, to learn she’s pregnant and having a boy.  The production won Best Solo Show at the Montana Fringe Festival and this week’s show will be the first showing in Vancouver and possibly the last.  Jo bills this show as “humorous, heart warming and the perfect night out for the parent”.  You can catch her show Friday, December 8th and Saturday, December 9th at Havana Theatre. Tickets are $10 and available through Eventbrite or at the door. Show kicks off at 8:00 pm. Partial proceeds will be given to “Together We Can”, a support group to help me in need.

What’s On East Van: December 1st Edition

1 Dec

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Lots happening in East Van this next week.  Our weekly feature What’s On East Van sets out cool events for the upcoming week. Beyond the week, we invite you to check out our Event Listing which is updated daily and features events for the month and beyond.

The Dirty Betty Show – Café Deux Soleils – December 2, 2017 

This is a fun night out complete with hot comedians, improvisors and drag superstars.  The fun happens at Café Deux Soleils Saturday night at 8:30 pm. Tickets $10 at the door.

Artisan Markets / Craft Fairs – December 2 & 3, 2017 

To get a jump on your Christmas shopping, we invite you to check out some of the smaller artisan markets happening around Vancouver this weekend.  Saturday you will find Tugboat Landing Artisan Market on the Fraser River at the foot of Victoria Drive in SE Vancouver 11 am – 4 pm.  If Sunday’s a better day to get out and shop, River District Winter Craft Fair happens at the foot of Kerr Street from 11 am – 4 pm.  The East Side Best Holiday Shop happens at the Russian Hall from 11 am – 5 pm and delish homemade dumplings will be available.  Also Sunday in Hastings Sunrise, great spot Di Oliva Tasting Bar on East Hastings at Slocan Street is hosting an art sale with local makers and delish tastings of the olive oils and balsamic vinegars.

East Van Panto – York Theatre

One of our favourite events of the holiday season kicked off this week, the East Van Panto. This year’s theme Snow White & The Seven Dwarves is a guaranteed night of fun and laughs for the whole family.  This is a production that gets better every year, if that’s possible. It’s musical, fun, clever and pokes a little fun here and there at East Van, our Mayor Moonbeam, transit, traffic, cyclists and whatever tickles the writers and producers fancy that year.  The East Van Panto previewed November 29th and continues to January 6, 2018, but tickets are selling quick. So be sure to grab some tickets while you can.

Ronnie Burkett’s – The Little Dickens – The Cultch – December 5, 2017

Ronnie Burkett is back Tuesday, December 5th with his show The Little Dickens at The Cultch. This is puppets for adults and we do mean 19+. Ronnie Burkett is a master puppeteer and he will having you rolling in the aisles, if not up on stage for a bit of a hand.  Not to be missed if you want a fun night out.  The Georgia Straight has previously called it “one of the best shows you’ll ever see”.  Tickets start at $22 and are available online at The Cultch.

Retro & Design Fair – Croatian Cultural Centre – December 3, 2017

A Retro Design & Antiques Fair happens this Sunday, December 3rd at the Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Drive. There will be 175 vendors on hand with a variety of items plus ‘drop-in appraisals’. The event runs from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. General admission is $5 at the door. There will also be a special early-bird admission for $20 from 7:00 am – 10:00 am for those wanting a jump on things.

DIY Holiday Gifts – Little Mountain Neighbourhood House – December 5, 2017

The Little Mountain Neighbourhood House, 3981 Main Street, is hosting a do it yourself workshop Tuesday, December 5th.   Some of the things you will be learning to make include candles and bath bombs. This is a free workshop and open to everyone. Workshop runs from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Kutapira Kristmas – December 9, 2017

Kutapira brings a high energy Afro-Cuban sound with melodies from Zimbabwe. Event happens at 657 East 15th (Fraser & Kingsway). Tickets in advance are $12 through Eventbrite or at the door for $18. Best hat gets in free.

Entertainment, Comedy + Live Theatre

Looking to take in a movie this weekend, don’t forget the good folks at Black Dog Video on Commercial Drive with an excellent selection of videos this winter.  Winter farmer markets are in full swing with Nat Bailey Stadium on Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm and Hastings Park on Sunday also from 10 am – 2 pm.  To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.

Image Credit: June Hunter

Smaller Artisan Markets Happening This Weekend In East Van

29 Nov

There are many smaller artisan markets happening around East Vancouver this year. we’ve set out a few lesser known markets. So if you don’t like big crowds when you do your holiday shopping, why not check out some of the smaller markets packed with local talent.

Tugboat Landing Artisan Market – December 2, 2017 11 – 4 

The 2nd Annual Tugboat Landing Artisan Market happens on the Fraser River in SE Vancouver this Saturday, December 2nd. This is a smaller intimate market with 16 vendors within a cozy atmosphere. Admission is free, event runs from 11:00 am 4:00 pm at 2010 East Kent Avenue at the foot of Victoria Drive.  Some of the items on hand include handmade leather goods, crocheted jewellery made from reclaimed Argentium silver, beautiful handmade blankets, linen pillows, knitted hats and candles to keep you warm this winter, floral creations and ornaments to help decorate your home over the holidays. For the foodie in your life you will find, local honey, artisan chocolates as well as baked goods.  For the animal lover, you will find something for both cat and dog lovers.  As this is a big pet community, they are holding a raffle with gift basket to help raise funds for the Vancouver BC SPCA. To see what else is in store, you can check them out on Eventbrite.

East Side Best Side Holiday Pop Up Market  – December 3, 2017 11 – 5

Dumplings! Need we say more?  Well maybe just a little more. A group of East Vancouver artisans who create soaps, syrups, canned goods, artwork along with some vintage items will be hosting The East Side Best Side Holiday Pop Up Market this Sunday, December 3rd from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.  You are invited to stop by and do a bit of shopping, have a boozy holiday drink or snack on some dumplings.  Admission is $2 with proceeds to benefit the Take A Hike Youth At Risk Foundation.

Art Sale & Tasting – DiOliva Tasting Bar 12 – 4 

This Sunday, a great little spot in Hastings Sunrise, Di Oliva Tasting Bar, 2632 East Hastings Street (at Slocan) is hosting an Art Sale with tastings of some of their delectable offerings which include fresh olive oils and balsamic vinegars.  You are invited to pop by and check out some art by makers living and working in the Hastings Sunrise community. Event happens 12:00 to 4:00 pm.

Photos: Threaded Needle Design, DIG Leather & First Growth Reclaimed

New In Town: Gatley On Commercial Drive

28 Nov

IMG_1587We recently stopped in to check out another new addition on Commercial Drive recently, Gatley.  Well the store isn’t entirely new, but it has been taken over by a new owner, Erin. She has a background in interior design and was planning a different career trajectory, but was a fan and regular customer of Gatley.  After several conversations with the previous owner, a plan formed for Erin to take over the store. You can certainly see the evolution of the store and the new additions. The store previously was a bit on the sparse side, but that is no longer the case.  Erin has curated a great selection of Canadian made products, many local which include clothing, shoes, accessories, some bath products, jewellery and a bit of home décor.  Speaking of décor, you will find Erin’s interior design touches throughout the store which make for an inviting space.  Gatley is located at 1136 Commercial Drive just steps away from the Portugal Club of Vancouver.  Stop in and see what’s in store.

 

 

What’s On East Van: November 24th Edition

24 Nov

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Lots happening in East Van this next week.  Our weekly feature What’s On East Van sets out cool events for the upcoming week. Beyond the week, we invite you to check out our Event Listing which is updated daily and features events for the month and beyond.

Blue Moon Marquee with The Milk Crate Bandits & Gillian Moranz – Wise Hall 

If you love the old delta blues, swing, jazz and ragtime music, then you best head over to The Wise Hall this Friday night.  Blue Moon Marquee  will be performing along with Gillian Moranz and The Milk Crate Bandits.

The Italian Christmas Market – Italian Cultural Centre – November 24, 2017

If you can believe it, Christmas is just over a month away.  Although hard to wrap one’s head around.  If you want to get a jump on your gift shopping, check out the The Italian Christmas Market at the Italian Cultural Centre happening from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm. We love that this is an evening event, lots of great local vendors plus food trucks.

June Hunter – Studio Sale – November 25, 2017

East Van artist, June Hunter, is having a one day studio sale this weekend Saturday, November 25th from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.   June has a great selection of prints, art, jewellery, coasters the majority feature some aspect of nature. Whether you are looking for a birthday gift or Christmas gift, stop by June’s studio for some civilized leisurely shopping in the comfort of her studio. We expect there will be some cookies and refreshments on hand. Studio is located in the back of 2785 Parker Street. 

3rd Annual Burlesque Marathon – Rio Theatre – November 25, 2017 

The Rio Theatre hosts 25 burlesque dancers who will be performing for the camera to apply for festivals and competitions around the world. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

Entertainment, Comedy + Live Theatre

Looking to take in a movie this weekend, don’t forget the good folks at Black Dog Video on Commercial Drive with an excellent selection of videos this winter. If you wish to get out to see a movie, Lucky shows at the Rio Theatre Saturday, November 25th at 1:45 pm.   Of course, the winter farmer markets are in full swing with Nat Bailey Stadium on Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm and Hastings Park on Sunday also from 10 am – 2 pm.  To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.

Image Credit: June Hunter