Love to laugh? Or may you just need a laugh. We recommend you check out The Quiz Show coming to The Fox Cabaret on Saturday, September 9th. The show which was originally featured at the now defunct Hot Art Wet City is back. Graham Clark grew up loving all the old game shows and has created an interesting hybrid from game shows of the past. The Quiz Show is hosted by Graham Clark and features local comedians as contestants doing their best to make audience members laugh for which they win prizes. If you are unfamiliar with Graham’s comedic talents, he is a 3 time Canadian Comedy Award winner, co-host of Maximum Fun’s Stop Podcasting Yourself, a regular on CBC’s The Debaters, has appeared at Just For Laughs, as well as Halifax and Winnipeg Comedy Festivals and even won best stand up last year a the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. So we would lay bets the guy will make you laugh. Tickets for the show are now available on Eventbrite for $10 in advance of $12 at the door.
What’s On East Van: August 18, 2017
18 Aug
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.
Family Night Series – Grandview Park – August 18, 2017
The Commercial Drive Business Improvement Society is hosting a free community event in Grandview Park Friday, August 11th. The evening which runs from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm includes crafts for kids, poetry, photography and live music.
Italian Market – Italian Cultural Centre – August 18, 2017
One of our favourite markets, The Italian Market happens in the parking lot of the Italian Cultural Centre. Lots of great local vendors with, of course, a hint of Italian flavour. Some delish food trucks will be hand and an outdoor eating area. Market runs from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm.
Community Paint Day – Britannia Community Centre – August 19, 2017
Are you artistic? Love to paint? You are invited to join others in creating ground murals at Britannia Community Centre from Noon to 4:00 pm this Saturday.
PNE/Playland – August 19, 2017
It’s opening day for the Pacific National Exhibition this Saturday, August 19th. Things kick off at 10:00 a.m. To see what’s on for this year’s fair, visit PNE/Playland.
Artful Sundays – Napier Greenway -August 20, 2017
Artful Sundays return to the Napier Greenway at the Britannia Community Centre this Sunday. You can expect to find local artisans, workshops, demonstrations and live music. Event happens Noon to 5:00 pm. It is a free event and everyone is welcome to attend.
Vancouver Queer Film Festival – August 18 & 19, 2017
The Vancouver Queer Film Festival brings four films to the York Theatre on August 18th and 19th. To learn more about which films and times, visit Vancouver Queer Film Festival.
Pop Up Pulp Jewels From France – Uncommon Café – August 24, 2017
French Designer Camille, owner, designer and jewelry maker of Pulp Jewels is hosting a one-day Pop-up Sale on August 24th at the Uncommon Café from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. To learn more about the event visit Pulp Jewels Event.
Entertainment, Comedy + Live Theatre
New play Two Rooms is featured at Havana Theatre from August 15th to 19th. The play focuses on a hostage taking in Beirut and the actions of the spouse on the other side of the world and how that culminates into a startling conclusion. Looking to laugh? Don’t forget Havana Theatre features improv comedy Friday and Sunday nights. Another option for entertainment tonight, is the Rio Theatre which is hosting Lord of the Schwings: A Tolkien Burlesque Night. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. The fun kicks off at 8:00 pm.
Vancouver Fringe Previews At Havana Theatre August 29 – September 2, 2017
16 Aug
The Vancouver Fringe Festival happens September 7 to 17, 2017 at various venues around the City. Havana Theatre tucked away in the back of Havana Restaurant on Commercial Drive is again hosting a sneak preview of some of the upcoming shows. These will be full versions of the performances coming during the festival. This is your chance to catch them before they sell out. We’ve run down which shows they will be featuring during the preview. Tickets for all shows are $10 and available at the door.
Tightrope Talking – August 29, 2017 – 7:00 pm
Time spent in a Berkeley slammer – lane-dancing with a dealer — cars and sex through the ages – obituaries – bus drivers — Marylee Stephenson is upping the story ante by outsourcing the topic to the audience! You name it, she tells it, in a dynamic, suspenseful combination of instantly well-crafted stories. No two shows can ever be the same!
Blue River Blues – August 29, 2017 – 9:00 pm
What do you do when you’re surrounded by gorbies and the glacier you’rr standing on is slowing melting into the sea? This one-person storytelling is about the summer Jim spend as a Snowmobile Tour Guide at the Columbia Icefields in Jasper National Park. There he fended off gorbies (slang for pesky tourists) and had a summer of adventures that resonated through the rest of his life. The story is told against the backdrop of the magnificent Athabasca Glacier which has been flowing and receding for over 250,000 years but which is expected to disappear within the next 150 years.
Almost A Stepmom – August 31, 2017 – 7:00 pm
Based on a true story. Keara moved to Ireland. She fell in love. Then she became a stepmom well almost. This is a darkly comic tale about the ups and downs of becoming a stepmother. The show includes multiple characters and a murder attempt round off this tumultuous and touching solo show. In case you hadn’t heard, Almost a Stepmom played to critical acclaim at multiple festivals throughout Western Canada, most recently winning the Emerging Artist Award at the 2016 Calgary Fringe Festival.
Shades of Dave – August 31, 2017- 9:00 pm
A loving tribute and erotic parody of The Vinyl Cafe. Fifty Shades of Dave thrusts Dave and Morley into situations you’ve never heard on the CBC. All the warmth and wit of Stuart McLean’s beloved stories with a sexy twist.
The Euphio Question – September 1, 2017 – 7:00 pm
Stage adaptation of Vonnegut’s 1951 short story about a young physicist who discovers radio waves from outer space that, when amplified and broadcast, make anyone within earshot completely and utterly euphoric. The Euphio Question asks audiences what the true cost of happiness is when it comes at the mere the flick of a switch?
No Big Deal – September 1, 2017- 9:00 pm
A young woman, her boyfriend, and the man who assaulted her on a bus each tells their story. Each is telling the truth, but each is trying to make us believe something. In the end, what makes a sexual assault no big deal?
Katherine Ferns Is In Stitches – September 2, 2017 – 9:00 pm
Brutally funny storytelling show from Manchester-based comedian Katharine Ferns is a comedic journey about learning to laugh at the visible and invisible scars of surviving mental illness, domestic violence, drug addiction plus some feminism for comic relief. Obviously, the story begins on April 21st, 2016 the day Prince passed away and Katharine ends up in stitches (literally). Come to the show and you’ll end up in stitches too (figuratively).
Draining the Swamp – September 3, 2017 – 2:00 pm
The play tells the story of a business leader who travels to a dangerous foreign location intending to enrich the country by building a new luxury resort on unusable swampland. He runs into trouble when he’s forced to shoot a trusted employee and is taken to court.
What’s On East Van: August 11, 2017
11 Aug
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.
Family Night Series – Grandview Park – August 11, 2017
The Commercial Drive Business Improvement Society is hosting a free community event in Grandview Park Friday, August 11th. The evening which runs from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm includes crafts for kids, poetry, photography and live music with the Rio Samaya Band.
SUP-A Series – Sassy One-Of-A Kind Theatre To August 12, 2017
One-Of-A-Kind theatre continues at Havana Theatre until August 12th. Un-produced Projects brings together an eclectic mix of up-beat theatre, never before seen in Vancouver. Participants involved in this project wish to promote more local and independent theatre. Shows happen nightly at 8:00 pm.
Victoria Drive Festival – Jones Park – August 12, 2017
The Victoria Drive Business Improvement Association is hosting an afternoon of free family fun at Jones Park which is located at 38th Avenue. The event will run from 12:00 – 5:00 pm and features kids fun zone, community booths, live music and more.
Artful Sundays – August 13, 2017
Artful Sundays return to the Napier Greenway at the Britannia Community Centre this Sunday. You can expect to find local artisans, workshops, demonstrations and live music. Event happens Noon to 5:00 pm. It is a free event and everyone is welcome to attend.
Vancouver Queer Film Festival – August 11-20, 2017
The Vancouver Queer Film Festival runs from August 11-20, 2017 in various venues around Vancouver. Four films will be featured at the York Theatre on August 18th and 19th. To learn more about which films and times, visit Vancouver Queer Film Festival.
Live Jazz Music w/ Natasha D’Ogostino Quartet – Tangent Café – August 17, 2017
Tangent Café hosts live jazz Thursday from 8:30 to 11:30 pm. No cover charged, but cool spot for a beer and a bite.
Entertainment, Comedy + Live Theatre
Looking for fun and games? Playland is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm until August 18th. On a more serious note the new play Two Rooms is featured at Havana Theatre from August 15th to 19th. The play focuses on a hostage taking in Beirut and the actions of the spouse on the other side of the world and how that culminates into a startling conclusion. Looking to laugh? Don’t forget Havana Theatre features improv comedy Friday and Sunday nights. If you love guitar, you may wish to check the Mike Machado Trio at Falconetti’s on Saturday night at 9:00 pm. The kid knows how to play a guitar.
Outdoor Pizza & Beer ‘Good Grains’ Happens August 24, 2017
9 Aug
The Italian Cultural Centre invites you to an evening of beer and pizza in their outdoor space adjacent to Beaconsfield Park. Outside of having some great beer and authentic Italian pizza, you will learn about BC grains, the bakers and brewers and at the same time meeting some of the bakers, brewers and growers. The event is about is as local as you can get. Pizza will be made from Fraser Valley grown wheat, beer is from Luppolo Brewing Company and Vancouver’s only organic brewery, Dogwood Brewing. Tickets for the event are $30 per adult and $5 per child. For tickets call 604.430.3337 or visit their website at Italian Cultural Centre.
What’s On East Van: August 4, 2017
4 Aug
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.
SUP-A Series – Sassy One-Of-A Kind Theatre – August 1 – 12, 2017
An interesting new series being featured at Havana Theatre. Un-produced Projects brings together an eclectic mix of up-beat theatre, never before seen in Vancouver. Participants involved in this project wish to promote more local and independent theatre. So they will be a showcasing a different one-of-a-kind show each evening for 12 days from August 1 to 12, save for Sunday, August 6th which show will be at 2:00 pm.
Game of Thrones – August 4 + 5, 2017
Fans of Game of Thrones may wish to check out the Rio Theatre this Friday or Saturday night, your pick. They will be showing The Hodor Rises at 8:00 pm both evenings.
Workshop Build Your Own Trunk – August 5, 2017
Spend the day working with an wood working educator that will walk you through the steps to make your own trunk. This is a hands on class for which no experience is required. You get to choose from 4 designs and cost is pretty darn reasonable. To register, visit Eventbrite.
Opening Artist Reception – August 9, 2017
The Cultch Gallery invites you to an opening reception featuring art from The Art Studios and paintings by Julia Russell. Event runs from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and is open to everyone. If you miss opening reception, the exhibit runs till September 2nd.
Fundraiser for Red Cross BC Wildfire Relief Fund – August 10, 2017
12 Kings Pub at 395 Kingsway invites you to a fundraiser on Thursday, August 10th. The evening will raise funds for the Red Cross BC Wildfire Relief Fund with a portion of every beer sold going towards the Red Cross. There will also be silent auction with some great items on hand. Again, all proceeds raised will go to the Red Cross. The evening also includes prizes such as JRFM prize pack, 50/50 draw and the opportunity to win 2 tickets to the Whistler Village Beer Festival. Lots of breweries involved in this event. To see a full listing of participating breweries, visit What’s Brewing.
1st Annual East Van Cider Fest August 16, 2017 At The Wise Hall
2 Aug
Liberty Merchant Company presents the 1st Annual East Van Cider Fest on Wednesday, August 16th, 2017 at the Wise Hall, 1882 Adanac Street. In case you hadn’t heard the news, some are touting cider as the new craft beer. However, some say craft beer has paved the way for new industries in the craft beverage market such as distilled spirits, mead and, thankfully for us, craft cider. However you slice it, we are pleased to see this new growing industry of small cideries. The 1st Annual East Van Cider Fest will be featuring cider, mead and spirits from all over BC. The evening will also feature tasty bites from local businesses, a silent auction and door prizes which directly support the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society. Tickets for the event are $24.99 and you are asked to bring a non-perishable food event with you. Your ticket includes 10 tasting tokens, a welcome cocktail and a keepsake glass. To purchase your tickets, visit any Liberty Wine Merchants location. In East Vancouver, you can visit them at 1622 Commercial Drive or call them at 604.633.1922. The event gets under way at 7:00 p.m. and goes till 9:00 pm. If you wish to learn more about BC’s growing cider industry, we invite you to check out this informative write up by What’s Brewing.
Artful Sundays at Britannia Community Centre
31 Jul
Artful Sundays return to the Britannia Community Centre this summer. This is an outdoor visual arts market that begins Sunday, August 13th, 2017. The event will run every consecutive Sunday until September 3rd. This event now in its 17th year and features local artists, workshops, artist demonstrations, live music and more. Some of the artists on hand include Sue Griese with ceramics, Hive Printing with screen printed clothing, Jen Conway with mixed media art, jewellery and accessories, Kirsten Brundin with her photography, Amy Lee with paintings and jewellery to name just a few. There will also be live music each week throughout the day varying from week to week, but we hear that Clara Shandler, The Sidewalk Cellist will be on hand as will Russell Shunsky and Bud Kurz. There will be workshops available each Sunday. The event will take place in the Napier Greenway at Napier Street & Commercial Drive from Noon – 5:00 p.m. To learn about what’s happening on which date, we invite you to check out their Facebook page for updates, or stop by on any given Sunday from Noon to 5:00 pm.
What’s On East Van: July 28
28 Jul
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.
Playland Nights – July 28, 2017
Last chance to catch Playland Nights which is an evening set aside for adults having fun at Playland without the kids. Kicks off at 7:00 pm till midnight. If you prefer to go with the kids, Playland is now open during the week 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday to Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. After July 31st, it’s open 7 days a week 10:00 am to 7:00 pm until the Fair at the PNE begins August 19th.
80s Night at Federico’s Supper Club – July 28, 2017
If you love 80s music and are looking for a fun night that includes dinner, dancing and great tunes, you may wish to see if there’s still a spot left at 80s Night at Federico’s Supper Club on The Drive. Mark Olexson and The A-Deez are performing some hits from the icons from the 80s including Prince, George Michael, The Police, INXS, Simple Minds, Bon Jovi and more. To reserve your spot, contact Federico’s Supper Club.
The Big Sound – Vancouver 26 Piece Soul Orchestra – July 29, 2017
If you prefer the big band sound, you will want to check out The Big Sound at the Wise Hall on Saturday, July 29th. This is a bi-monthly event featuring a 26 musicians that will recreate a Motown sound. Tickets are $25 and available from Brown Paper Tickets.
Free Pancake Breakfast – July 30, 2017
There may not be a free lunch anymore, but there is a free pancake breakfast this Sunday, July 30th at The Cultch. You are invited to breakfast outdoors with the gang at The Cultch and enjoy some good food, make some new friends and maybe learn more about some of the great art coming at The Cultch for the 2017-2018 season. An RSVP is requested which can be done online at The Cultch. Breakfast runs form 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.
The Geekenders Present A Harry Potter Burlesque Birthday Bash – July 31, 2017
If you are looking for a silly and sexy fun night out, this is your ticket. You can expect an evening with Harry Potter styled Burlesque hosted by the Geekenders. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Show gets under way at 8:00 pm at the Rio Theatre.
Image: June Hunter
Upcoming Foodie Events In East Vancouver
24 JulWe love food and checking out foodie events in and around East Vancouver. Honestly, there are a swack of them to choose from this summer and into the fall months. Some from past experience we’ve learnt do sell out quickly. Thus, if there is something that’s up your alley, we recommend grabbing tickets sooner vs. later. Whether you like pie, cookbooks, BBQ, wine, cocktails or cheese, we think there’s something for everyone.
Sushi Workshop – Gourmet Warehouse – September 23, 2017
If you wish to learn how to make your own sushi, you may wish to check out the workshop being offered at Gourmet Warehouse on September 23rd. Seasoned pro Chef Cindy Low will teach you how to make sushi in this hands on class. She will cover it all, how to make sushi rice, mix wasabi, prepare a variety of fillings and will cover rolls, cones and a variety of other shapes. She will even give you tips on how to host your own do-it-yourself sushi party. Workshop runs from 11:00 to 2:00 pm on Saturday, September 23rd. Cost of the class if $79. To register, visit Gourmet Warehouse. Added bonus 10% off your purchases in store the day of your class.
September – November 2017: Cheese & Wine Tasting – les amis du fromage
The fine folks at les amis du fromage have a great line of cheese & wine tasting classes starting September 12th with Wine & Cheese 101. More classes follow in September featuring cheese from Italy, France and Quebec. Price runs $65 – 70 per person per class and includes wine with your cheese tasting. Although the dates seem a little ways off, these classes do sell out. To purchase your ticket(s), visit les amis du fromage. Note, all classes take place at their East Vancouver location at 843 East Hastings Street.
August – September 2017: Summer Pie Workshops – The Pie Shoppe
We can personally speak to the pie making talents of the French sisters that created this shop. These two sisters have some serious pie making experience under their belts and we have to say make some pretty dam fine pie. They are teaching a number of workshops this summer if wish to master the art of pie making. If you prefer to start with pastry fundamentals, they have a workshop dedicated solely to that on September 13th. To register for their workshops, visit The Pie Shoppe.
October 5, 2017: Book Launch ‘Starters, Salads & Sexy Sides’ by Caren McSherry – Gourmet Warehouse
Caren McSherry, chef and owner of the Gourmet Warehouse, has written a cookbook ‘Starters, Salads and Sexy Sides’. They are hosting a book launch on Thursd
ay, October 5th which includes a cast of local culinary talent such as Scott Jaeger from The Pear Tree, Robert Clark from The Fish Counter, Trevor Bird from the Fable Kitchen to name a few. Tickets for the evening event are $50 and include a copy of Caren’s new cookbook. To reserve your spot, we recommend you call the store directly at 604. 253.3022.
Photo Credit: Gourmet Warehouse
