We’ve already given you plenty of reasons to make this weekend all about a mountain adventure in Whistler as part of the Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival, but if you’re not feeling so inclined to don your winter garb and would rather embrace a weekend around town, there are still an abundance of options.
Get things started after work this Friday and try to knock off work early to take in the sunset at one of our city’s fine waterfront restaurants. Our top-picks? Local Public Eatery in Kits with their heated outdoor and covered patio area and killer view; the new Cactus Club at English Bay; and for those still in suits and skirts, we recommend you head over to the newly reopened Reflections lounge at Rosewood Hotel Georgia.
Looking for a little cultural awakening Saturday? Might we suggest you head over to check out the 2012 Vaisakhi Parade taking place in Little India? This annual parade sees about 80,000 people attend and participate in the cultural festivities (one of the city’s longest parade routes) that marks the New Year and anniversary of the establishment of Khalsa dating back to 1699. You’ll likely need a nice long walk post-noshing on all the free food available to taste as part of the festivities. The parade starts at 10:30am at 8000 Ross Street and moves along SE Marine Drive. For once, follow the crowd.
Now here’s something noteworthy and unique to mull-over for Saturday night: Mission Possible invites Vancouverites to NOT attend their No-Show Gala on April 14th in support of a charitable cause that works to create jobs and work opportunities in support of people from the Downtown Eastside. With so much going on these days on our notable calendar, this is a great way to keep costs in control and directed at a great cause. Mission Possible urges non-attendees to stay home, put your feet up and not worry about getting dressed up by simply RSVP’ing to their non-event ($25 tax-deductible contribution will likely leave you a bit of extra cash to chill on the couch with a glass of wine instead).
If you’re not up for flying solo on Saturday night, might we suggest that you venture out to a unique after-dinner event taking place at Gastown’s W2 Media Cafe and Performance Centre at the Woodward Building for Indulge n’ Dance. The event aims to gather up-and-coming pastry chefs for a little bit of relaxed, fun socializing in a funky atmosphere. It’s set to kick off at 8:30pm and tickets are only $18 and will land you entry and samplings of sweet creations, beverages and wicked 80s tunes to get the night going.
On Sunday, it’s all about the Vancouver Sun Run. If you’re already registered, great; if not, what are you waiting for? This annual Vancouver favourite is one of Canada’s largest 10K races with thousands of people out and about hitting the pavement. It’s a great way to grab a group of friends and do something active. Registration cut-off is April 14th and the run takes place April 15th at 9am.
Once you’ve washed-up and recovered post-run, grab a bit of brunch at Cafe Medina and load up on their amazing waffles (perhaps the best in town), coffee, and fresh juice, and peruse a menu loaded with Mediterranean-inspired offerings such as Tagine or their all-day Paella.
Post-brunch, fill up the rest of your Sunday afternoon by partaking in a little good, green deed and head out to check out The Frock Swap – a clothing drive with a cause. This worthy clothing exchange event is the perfect way to cull your closet of those duds that have become duds whilst adding a few fresh new pieces to your wardrobe for spring/summer. Any unswapped items are donated to the Dress for Success Vancouver and Covenant House Vancouver.
Photo courtesy Cafe Medina