Vancouver Weekender: August 19th through 21st, 2011

It’s looking like another stunningly sunny weekend is ahead of us in Vancouver, and we’ve sourced plenty of notable events around the city we you need to plug into your agenda…

Let’s start kicking things off by suggesting you snag a few remaining tickets to this Friday’s Beerlesque Festival taking place at Yaletown’s Roundhouse Community Centre. Officially touted as “an Adult Carnival for the Senses,” we think this notable event is worth dolling-up for and provides the perfect opportunity to get to know your local brew and burlesque.

Start your Saturday off with a java boost and quick bite courtesy of JJ Bean Coffee Roasters at the corner of Bute and Alberni before you head over to North Van for a quick cruise up Grouse Mountain to partake in free yoga (with a view!) With just a few complimentary classes to spare this summer, Grouse Mountain Resort has partnered with YYoga to inspire sleepy Vancouverite’s to start their weekends off right!

Not into the trek? No problem. Roll out of bed and head over to one of our tried, tested and truly amazing brunch spots in the heart of Kits: Abigail’s Party for your Saturday morning fix. Say ‘hello’ to ridiculously good, gooey Cinnamon Bun French Toast that is delectably-dripping in sweet mascarpone sauce. It’s definitely an original – and not for the calorie-watcher.

Have a four-legged friend? Love dogs, but don’t have one yet? The 4th Annual West End Dog Show happens this Saturday from 10am to 3pm at the Nelson Dog Park with all proceeds raised going to the BC Guide Dog Services. Pack up your pooch and prepare for a few hours of canine craziness as you mingle with hundreds of other dog-owners in support of a great cause. Complete with a fashion show, tail-wagging contest, and opportunity for your pup to do some ‘networking’ of its own, this is a perfect way to pamper your loyal pal.

Chill out at Chill Winston in the heart of Gastown and take in the street scene on their primo patio located at 3 Alexander Street. Offering an exceptionally well-crafted cocktail list and diverse (and irresistibly delicious) menu, this is the perfect place to kick back and relax. Don’t get too comfy though…We suggest you pay your last respects to the crew a few blocks away at Boneta – always a hot-spot within the Gastown/Vancouver cocktail-crowd. Saturday night is the last night avid Boneta fans can walk through the doors of 1 West Cordova Street. This popular watering-hole (and its amazing team) is gearing up to shift locales in early September (where they will call Blood Alley’s Water Street Garage Courtyard home).

Start Sunday off right with a cruise around the sea-wall (with coffee in-hand). If you don’t have a bike, no problem: The folks at Spokes Bicycle Rentals can help you out by the hour or for the day at a great price.

If you opt for the latter, consider a side-trip to Capers or Cardero Bottega to grab some picnic fixings and Italian deli-styled sandwiches and plan on parking yourself at picturesque Third Beach for a bit.

Feeling extra athletic? Pack your swim gear and head to one of the city’s outdoor pools (half fresh and half salt water) for a few laps. Measuring in at 137.5 metres long, the Kitsilano Pool will put you through a cardio test.

Looking for a great way to unwind before heading back to the office? The Italian Job is playing Sunday night in David Lam Park (Yaletown) starting at 8:30pm. This free viewing is one of the last outdoor screenings of the summer and the perfect excuse to soak up every last bit of the season!