Notable Now Vancouver: February 8, 2013

Ayden Gallery Artist Collective (2103-88 West Pender Street)
For art’s sake, this Friday be sure to head down to the Ayden Gallery for an opening reception featuring the works of Antonis Ensoe, Adam Lupton, Jose Rivas and Nathan Grey. With live music helping set the stage for an elegant evening, mingle with other like-minded art aficionados, enjoy cocktails and partake in the auction. For more information about the gallery and event, click here. Reception takes place from 7PM until 11PM.

Just Opened: PiDGiN (350 Carrall Street)
After a few construction delays, Vancouver’s newest culinary hot spot has opened the doors of its Gastown locale featuring Asian fusion cuisine with a decidedly French twist. Look for plenty of Korean and Japanese-influenced dishes coupled with a sleek/sexy decor that will get the conversation flowing. With great cocktails, refreshingly simple dishes (courtesy of award-winning Canadian Culinary Champion Makoto Ono) and killer atmosphere (right down to the suspended meat cleaver and trio of quail suspended above the chef’s table), this spot is definitely worth checking out. Find more info here.

Don’t Miss: Beggars Banquet #008 (213 East Georgia in Chinatown)
Be sure to head over and check out the latest offerings of this ultimate pop-up vintage market that has consistently seen top-notch offerings from the cities best boutiques and curio vendors alike.  They’ve shifted locations to a bigger venue – due to demand, but still aim to feature their trademark eclectic collection.  Look to score retro collectables, accessories, locally produced specialties and plenty more.  Enjoy a bevy while you shop – there will be a cash bar on site to loosen up the wallet.  Find all the details here.

Fill Up: Food Truck Fest at the Vancouver Farmers Market (4601 Ontario Street)
Be sure to head over to the Vancouver Farmers Market this Saturday and save plenty of space in your stomach for this drool-worthy festival. Located just outside of Nat Bailey Stadium, this Saturday is extra special, as it will feature a slew of food trucks (including plenty of noteworthy newbies). Enjoy feasting your way around the market, stocking up on goodies, live music and plenty more. For full details click here.

River Market’s Great Canadian Winter Festival (810 Quayside Drive)
Head out of downtown for a day at New Westminster’s quaint River Market and you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied and enlightened. They are hosting a weekend-long celebration of the season, featuring comedy shows, Chinese New Year dinner, Vancouver Circus School demonstration, a speed-dating session at Wild Rice restaurant and plenty more. Find more info by visiting here.

Looking for a Laugh? Vancouver Comedy & Arts Festival (various venues)
Back for another year loaded with laughs, The Vancouver Comedy and Arts Festival will again see some of the best comedians from around the world converge on our city. Since its start in 2004, this festival has consistently drawn top talent and offers up a variety of funny fixes (look for the likes of Bob Saget, Martin Short, Reggie Watts and Margaret Cho to take the stage). Tickets are on sale now and more festival info can be found here.

Photo courtesy PiDGiN