It’s Friday and if all goes well, one day soon we will be able to attend the PNE in person and enjoy live events again. Fingers crossed. In the meantime, we’d like to share this cool drone aerial video taken over PNE/Hastings Park by Eye Spy. They invite you to try and Find The Hidden Objects which truth be told we found a bit hard to see. But we will say the aerial view, along with the relaxing music, provides for a moment to just enjoy the view and forget about everything else going on in the world.
Aurora Winter Festival At Hastings Park/PNE November 22, 2019 to January 5, 2020
19 NovLooking for something fun and seasonal to do? Canada’s largest winter festival comes to Hastings Park and the PNE with the Aurora Winter Festival. The festival will have a wide array of events to keep the whole family entertained. There will be both indoor and outdoor activities. You can wander the Luminous Gardens, Whimsical Forest, Polar Passage and the Land of Giants. Or stop by and meet Santa Claus at the North Pole which will have a crafty section for kids. While there you can write a letter to Santa which we hear gets delivered to the North Pole. There will also be an outdoor skating rink as well as amazing light display. For shopping, expect to find a Christmas Market. If you get hungry, there will be food gardens. For fun, there will also be a tube park along with other amusement rides. Tickets for the event are available from TicketLeader. Tickets are purchased by the hour you arrive ie. 2:00 – 3:00 pm, 3:00 – 4:00 pm and most ticket prices are approximately $20 adults, $15 for children and a family pass for $62, but note if you wish to get their earlier in the day, there is a $2 discount per ticket for those that wish to get an early start on the experience.
UPDATE ON HOURS: For those wishing to attend the Aurora Winter Festival during the week, organizers have advised they are realigning their hours and will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for the following dates: December 3, 4, 10 and 11).
Photo Credit: Aurora Winter Festival
What’s On East Van: August 16th Edition
16 AugOur weekly feature What’s On East Van sets out some cool events for the upcoming weekend. Beyond the weekend, we invite you to check out our Event Listing which is updated daily and features events for the month and beyond.
Kiwassa Outdoor Community Market – Kiwassa Neighbourhood House – August 16th
The Kiwassa Neighbourhood House, 2425 Oxford Street (near Nanaimo and Hastings) is hosting another Community Market Friday, August 16th from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. You can expect to find fresh produce, preserves, snacks, seeds, popcorn, activities for the kids. There will be some local artisans along with fresh local produce at very reasonable prices. Lastly, post market, Kiwassa’s Youth Program will be featuring an outdoor climate change film screening. For more info, visit Kiwassa.ca.
Outdoor Summer Movie – Grandview Park – August 16th
The Commercial Drive BIA Society is hosting an outdoor movie this Friday night in Grandview Park. They will be showing Back To The Future at dusk, a mighty fine choice. You are invited to bring your lawn chairs and blankets.
The Fair At The PNE – August 17th to September 2nd
The Fair at the PNE kicks off this Saturday at 11:00 am and goes till 11:00 pm every evening until September 2nd. In case you hadn’t heard, there are lots of free events with admission once inside the gates. Kids under 5 are free with an adult and children aged 6 to 12. If you are looking for free gate admission dates, they are August 20 & 27, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. There is also a free gate admission for seniors 65+ on August 22nd from 11:00 am to late. For more ways to save, visit Ways To Save at The Fair.
The Dude Is Back – Dude Chilling Park – August 17th
A bronze replica of “The Dude” has been created for Dude Chilling Park to replace the previous wood one that has seen better days. There was quite a bit of work including fundraising by many to make this artistic endeavor happen. So this Saturday there will be a celebration from 12-4 pm to celebrate that the Dude Is Back. Expect hot dogs and bratwurst on the BBQ and live music by the Undercovers along with some Parks Board members on hand. You are invited to grab a blanket and come kick back and relax with The Dude.
Yeast Van Patio Party – 1216 Franklin Street – August 17th
The Yeast Van Brewery District Cooperative is hosting their first ever Patio Block Party at Container Brewing, 1216 Franklin Street this Saturday. Tickets are $20 and include 2 drink tickets. Big Day BBQ will be on hand with eats and Dr. Alex will be spinning vinyl. Lots of great local breweries will be participating in this event. To grab your ticket in advance, visit Eventbrite.
Outdoor Summer Movie – Riverfront Park – August 17th
The good folks at Collingwood Policing Centre are back at Riverfront Park in SE Vancouver near the Fraser River for an outdoor movie this Saturday night. They will be showing The Princess Bride at dusk.
Railtown Tailgate BBQ – Railtown Café – August 18th
If you love BBQ, this is the place to this Sunday. Railtown Café chefs and co-owners are hosting a big ass BBQ with loads of food between 11:00 am and 8:00 pm. There also be some delish refreshments Lynchburg Lemonade and Railtown Ruby Sangri. Cost is $27 per person or $17 for the vegetarian option. For tickets or more info, visit Eventbrite.
Biggest Dog Meet Up – Trout Lake – August 18th
The 7th Biggest Dog Meet Up happens at John Hendry Park at Trout Lake Beach this Sunday from Noon to 4:00 pm. This is a free event. Everyone is welcome to attend with a pup or not. For those that don’t have a dog and are considering one, it’s a great opportunity to see a variety of breeds and chat with owners about what might be a good fit for you.
Comedy, Music & Entertainment & More
Do you love cartoons? Miss those Saturday morning cartoons you used to watch as a kid. Do you know Storm Crow Tavern offers cartoons Saturday morning from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm whilst you enjoy breakfast/brunch?
Also 7 days a week, you will find live music at the Libra Room on The Drive. Tangent Café hosts live jazz Sunday nights from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. Saturday, Pat’s Pub has live jazz Saturday afternoons from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm, no cover.
Looking to shop and support local? Be sure to check out one of the farmer markets happening this weekend. Saturday is Riley Park Farmers Market at 30th & Ontario from 10 am – 2 pm and Trout Lake Farmers Market from 9 am – 2 pm at John Hendry Park. Sunday, Mount Pleasant Farmers Market is back in Dude Chilling Park from 10:00 am – 2 pm. To see more of What’s On in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing. We also have a separate listing of Free Events for those on a budget and in Vancouver, who isn’t.
Image Credit: June Hunter
What’s On East Van: August 31st Edition
31 Aug
Our weekly feature What’s On East Van sets out some 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.
PNE – Playland – To September 3rd
This is your last weekend to catch the PNE along with the SuperDogs, mini donuts, rides and nightly summer concerts which this weekend features Burton Cummings on Friday night and Chicago on Saturday night. PNE is open 11:00 am till late all weekend.
Songs of Peace and Social Justice – The Cultch – August 31st
The Cultch plays host to an evening of music and song this Friday. A long line up of talent will be performing original songs along with some classic with the theme of peace and social justice. Performers include Jim Byrnes, Howard Lee Naylor and Carole Cote. Tickets are $10 available through The Cultch.
Family Night – Grandview Park – August 31st
The Commercial Drive Business improvement Association will be hosting a Family Night this Friday in Grandview Park. There will be lots of fun activities for the kids including balloon twisting, face painting and more. As this is the last one of the summer season, there will also be a movie showing at dusk Coco. Fun gets underway at 5:00 pm and goes till 9:30 pm.
Grease Sing-A-Long – Rio Theatre – August 31st
You can still experience a last bit of summer with some Summer Lovin’, Grease-style. The Rio Theatre is hosting a sing-a-long tonight celebrating 40 years of rockin’ and rollin’. Fun gets under way at 7:00 pm. All ages welcome. Costumes encouraged.
History Walk With James Johnstone – 696 E. Hastings St. – September 1st
If you want to learn about the fascinating history of East Vancouver James Johnstone is your man. He has a wealth of knowledge of about the many faces and places of East Van from days long ago. This Saturday James will be hosting a walking history tour that starts at The Heatley, 696 East Hastings St. in Strathcona at 10:00 am. Cost is $20.
Itsumo Life Summer Pop Up – 478 Union Street – Until September 3rd
Itsumo is hosting a summer pop up show on now until September 3rd at 478 Union Street. This pop up features Japanese lifestyle items including table and kitchen ware, textiles, some vintage, incense and candles. Pop up is on 12 pm – 8 pm daily until September 3rd.
Electro Recycle – Trout Lake Farmers Market – September 1st
Electro Recycle is back at the Trout Lake Farmers Market this Saturday. So if you’ve been holding on to any old or broken small electrical appliances, bring them on down to the market with you this Saturday.
Madhatters Tea Party – Riley Park Community Garden – Sept. 1st
The folks at Riley Park Community Garden are hosting a Madhatter Tea Party Saturday, September 1st from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. There will of course be tea, snacks and hat making. Everyone is invited to attend. All ages welcome.
A Night Of Acoustic & Soul – Café Deux Soleils – September 2nd
Café Deux Soleils on the Drive will be hosting a night of acoustic and soul this Sunday night. On stage you will find Ivan Hartle, Candace Coker and Matt Storm. Doors open at 7:00 pm, music at 8:00 pm. Cover is $10.
15th Annual Corn Festival – Britannia Community Centre – September 2nd
The Britannia Community Centre plays host to the 15th Annual Corn Festival this Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The Latin American community is hosting their annual corn harvest fiesta. There will be food, live music and dancing. This is a free event for all ages.
Bayanihan Filipino Celebration – Trout Lake Community Centre – Sept. 2nd
You are invited to come experience a taste of the Philippines this Sunday from 11:00 am – 1:30 pm at Trout Lake Community Centre. Lots of family friendly activities. Free event, but registration is required.
Live Music, Comedy & Entertainment
Looking for live music? Leah Barley will be performing this Saturday night at Café Deux Soleils along with Kellen Saip. Music gets under way at 9:00 pm, cover is $10. Libra Room regularly hosts live music every night of the week. If it’s jazz your after, Sunday nights the Tangent Café regularly hosts live jazz music.
Three Farmer Markets happening this weekend – Saturday it’s Riley Park (10 am – 2 pm) and Trout Lake (9 am – 2 pm) and Sunday, Mount Pleasant Farmers Market in Dude Chilling Park from 10 am – 2 pm. To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.
Image Credit: June Hunter
What’s On East Van: August 17th Edition
17 AugOur weekly feature What’s On East Van sets out some 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.
Tremors 2018 – Italian Cultural Centre – August 16th – 25th
Young emerging artists perform 3 contemporary Canadian plays at the Italian Cultural Centre. They include Selfie by Christine Quintana, Tiny Replicas by Dave Deveau, and Theory by Norman Yeung. The performances are Pay What You Decide. For more information on times and tickets, visit Tremors 2018.
Family Night – Grandview Park – August 17th
Commercial Drive BIA, Whitecaps FC and Fortis BC are hosting a free movie and family activities in Grandview Park Friday night. The movie is Peter The Rabbit. There will also be a Kids Zone, balloon twisting and more. Event gets underway at 8:00 pm.
Italian Market – Italian Cultural Centre – August 17th
The outdoor Italian Market is back Friday, August 17th in the parking lot in front of the Italian Cultural Centre from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. This market has a distinctly Italian taste to them which includes the food and the music
Pizza Making Workshops – Beaconsfield Park – August 17th
Running along side this Italian Market this Friday, will be Pizza Making Workshops in Beaconsfield Park located directly behind the Italian Cultural Centre. You will have the opportunity to stretch and cook your own pizza with pizza master. This is a hands-on event that is suitable for all ages. Two basic pizzas are being offered, but you are invited to bring or buy extra toppings from the market to make the pizza distinctly yours. Cost of the Pizza Making Workshop is $13 online or $15 at the event. There will be 4 pizza workshops starting at 5:00 pm. They will continue at 5:45 pm, 6:30 pm and 7:15 pm. To reserve your spot, visit the Italian Cultural Centre online.
Friday Night Live – Hastings Racecourse – August 17th
If you want to check out the horse races this summer, last opportunity to catch Friday Night Live Racing at Hastings Racecourse. Admission is free, races start at 7:00 pm.
PNE – Playland – August 18th – September 3rd
The Fair at the PNE opens this Saturday, August 18th. As always, they have lots of great entertainment lined up throughout the Fair as well some great eats. This year, you can also find the Lost World of Dragons, Action Sports World Tour, Knights of Valour and of course the forever favourites, The Super Dogs. The fun gets under way at 11:00 am Saturday and goes till late.
Mobile Market – August 18th
Looking for fresh BC corn and other summer veggies? Fresh Roots Urban Farm is hosting a Mobile Market this Saturday at 3 locations. First up, Cedar Cottage Neighbourhood House from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, After that Kensington Community Centre from 1:00 – 2:00 pm, followed by a pop up market at Brant Villa from 3:00 – 4:00 pm.
Artful Sunday – Napier Greenway – August 19th
Artful Sundays kicks off this Sunday in the Napier Greenway by the Britannia Community Centre. This outdoor visual art market features local artists, workshops, artist demonstrations, live music and more. Stop by between Noon – 5:00 pm.
The Good, The Bad The Ugly – Rio Theatre – August 19th
If the heats getting you and you want to sit back in air conditioning with a nice cold beverage, you may wish to check out the classic Clint Eastwood movie The Good, The Bad & The Ugly playing at the Rio Theatre Sunday night at 9:00 pm.
Live Music, Comedy & Entertainment
Looking to take in some comedy, East Van Improv League is at Havana Theatre Sunday night at 7:30 pm and Graham Clark’s Laugh Gallery is Monday night at Havana Theatre 9 pm. If you are looking to keep the kids entertained, big or small, Playland is now open daily from 10 am – 7 pm. Three Farmer Markets happening this weekend – Saturday it’s Riley Park (10 am – 2 pm) and Trout Lake (9 am – 2 pm) and Sunday, Mount Pleasant Farmers Market in Dude Chilling Park from 10 am – 2 pm. To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.
Image Credit: June Hunter
What’s On East Van: July 6th Edition
6 JulOur weekly feature What’s On East Van sets out some 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.
Vancouver’s Greek Summerfest – Boundary & 29th Ave – July 5-15
Great food, live entertainment and dancing for 11 days at this summer festival. The Greek Summerfest is back at Boundary and 29th Avenue. Jim Byrnes and Gotta Be George Michael will be two of the performers over the course of the festival. This is an all ages event and admission is free. For more information, visit Greek Summerfest.
Plant Club With Wine – Figaro’s Garden – July 6th
The first Friday of the month, Figaro’s Garden Centre on Victoria Drive is hosting Plant Club. Stop by for a glass of wine and as they say ‘geek out on plants together’. To chat about all things plants, get some tips, stop by between 3:30 – 5:30 pm this Friday.
Adult Nights – Playland – July 6th
Playland Nights continues this Friday Night for the 3rd of 6 evening events for the 19+ crowd. There will be beverages, alcoholic and non, midway games, rides, DJs spinning tunes with a definite party theme. New this year is also a burlesque show and the opportunity to test your lumber Jack/Jill skills with axe-throwing which we understand there’s an extra charge to participate in. Tickets are $31 in advance or $34 at the gate.
Bakery Pop Up – les amis du fromage – July 7th
Les amis du fromage is hosting another Bakery Pop Up Shop this Saturday, July 7th. Ritchie’s Bakery will be on site at their East Van location at 843 East Hastings Street from Noon – 5:00 pm this Saturday or until they sell out. Ritchie’s Bakery specializes in artisanal breads and pastries.
Compost Workshop – Riley Park Community Garden – July 7th
You are invited to stop by and learn about composting by Master Composter Angela Hoy this Saturday at Riley Park Community Garden. They will be building new compost bins for the season. Workshop happens from 1:00 – 2:00 pm in Riley Park Community Garden at 30th & Ontario Street.
Sweet Peanut Sample Sale – Little Mountain Shop – July 7th & 8th
Local kids clothing company, Sweet Peanut, is hosting a warehouse sale at Little Mountain Pop Shop at 4386 Main Street this weekend. All pieces $10. Sizes are newborn to 12. Open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday & Saturday.
Mini Car Free Day – Commercial Street Village – July 8th
The local businesses that comprise the 3400 – 3500 block Commercial Street are hosting a Mini Car Free Day this Sunday from Noon to 4:30 pm. There will be chainsaw carving, live music, kids t-shirt giveaway, giant Genga game, street art, rummage sale, chocolate tasting, bike repair as well as an electric bike demo and a whole lot more.
Car Free Day – Commercial Drive – July 8th
Vancouver’s original Car Free Day kicks off at Noon this Sunday and will run for 15 blocks along Commercial Drive. There will be live entertainment, local artisans and activities for all ages and of course great food. If you are travelling by bike and wish to store it while you wander, BEST Bike Valet will be on hand. Event runs till 7:00 pm.
Pre-Launch Narcoleap – Rio Theatre – July 9th
You are invited to an exclusive pre-launch screening of NarcoLeap at the Rio Theatre Monday, July 9th. They will be screening all 8 episodes of this Sci-Fi Thriller Web Series. Doors open at 6:00 pm as does the bar. Screening gets under way at 7:00 pm. It’s free, but of course the bar Is not. Q & A follows the screening.
Street Photography Exhibit – Meet Me At The Lamp(p)ost Until July 10th
Massy Books located at 229 East Georgia Street in Chinatown has a sweet gallery upstairs. It’s currently hosting two self-taught lens based artists. They are Irish-born, Canadian residents Laura Noonan and Tara Mary Paget, through place-specific street photography, Meet me at the Lamp(p)ost. The exhibit promotes contentment in self and place. Laura and Tara founded Meet me at the Lamp(p)ost in 2016. You can view their exhibit until July 10, 2018 during regular hours, being 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday to Wednesday and 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Thursday to Sunday.
Live Music, Comedy & Entertainment
If you are looking for comedy, East Van Improv League hangs out at Havana Theatre Sunday nights at 8:00 pm. If you need a laugh once your week gets started, Graham Clark hangs out at Havana Theatre Monday nights with his Laugh Gallery which kicks off at 9:00 pm. Three farmer markets are happening this weekend. Saturday it’s Riley Park (10 am – 2 pm) and Trout Lake (9 am – 2 pm) and Sunday, Mount Pleasant Farmers Market is back at Dude Chilling Park from 10:00 am till 2:00 pm. To see more of what’s on in East Vancouver, check our Event Listing.
Image Credit: June Hunter
East Van Panto – Snow White & The Seven Dwarves At The York Theatre
30 OctWe were going to wait until after Halloween to tell you about this upcoming holiday tradition, but we just can’t wait. The East Van Panto is a favourite event we look forward to every year and this show never ceases to disappoint. Celebrating its 5th year, the East Van Panto is back with an outrageous take on Snow White. In this East Van tale, our hero flees the Queen of North Vancouver across the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge and lands straight into the madness of the PNE, where she dances with SuperDogs, hops a ride on the Wooden Roller Coaster, and befriends washed-up ‘80s rock stars “The Seven Dwarves”. Pure Panto hilarity ensues as they do everything they can to escape the Queen’s wicked clutches.
“It is really hard to believe that we are doing the East Van Panto for a fifth year!”, says The Cultch’s Executive Director, Heather Redfern. “So many people tell me that it’s a holiday tradition for their family and friends, and that just warms my heart because the Panto is all about celebrating local artists, local places, and local families. This year, we are presenting Snow White & the Seven Dwarves – who just happen to have landed at the PNE! I mean what could be more fun to sing and dance about than that?! The East Van Panto is for everybody and it’s made here especially for us.”
There is amazing cast of talent behind this production. The East Van Panto is open to all ages 5 and up. Tickets start at $22, family packs are available which include 4 tickets for $135. Note, all seats for ages 18 and under are $22. Tickets are available at The Cultch either in person, by phone or online. The shows previews November 29th and November 30th and continues until January 6, 2018. For those looking for a matinee, there are many 2:00 pm shows. For more information on tickets, visit The Cultch. See you there!
Photo Credit: Tim Matheson
What’s On East Van: August 18, 2017
18 AugLots 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.