If you’re like us, Friday couldn’t come sooner – what with having a nice elongated break from our normal work routine, this week’s been a bit of a rude awakening. That being said, the weekend is a perfect way to clean up after the holidays (both at home and within), so use Friday to chill out and gear up for a few days of low-key local activities…though if you are pining for a bit more festive-style fun, you might want to check out the Friday Night Supper (Perogy Night) instead. It takes place on the first Friday of every month at the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral. Dinner is served starting at 5pm with new friends and a full belly all-but guaranteed for around $12.
Come Saturday morning, hit up the gym, Sea Wall or yoga studio first thing, and then we suggest you grab your breakfast to-go before heading over to the first Vancouver Winter Farmers Market of 2013. Stock up on fresh, locally sourced goods that will help you trim back to your pre-holiday waistline. Peruse the tasty take-home wares of nearly 80 different vendors (we always make a point of stopping by Earnest Ice Cream, Crisp Organics and The Bean Buggy) before grabbing a bite at Taser Sandwiches and the Pie Company.
Once your fridge is fully stocked, we’re betting you’ll be all but ready to bid farewell to the remnants of the holidays… starting with the recycling of your Christmas tree. This Saturday afternoon provides the perfect opportunity to do just that – with several locations offering free recycling, as well as the collection of non-perishables you might be looking to find a new home for (it’s all about starting a fresh in the New Year, isn’t it?).
Grab a bite at one of our new Notable favourites in Yaletown, The Parlour, for one of their buzz-worthy pizzas or re-do Christmas celebrations (Ukrainian-style) and head over to the Gramercy Grill. One look at the planned menu and you know they’re serious about this upcoming Ukrainian feast with multi-course menu for $30. We say pass the Perogies, please.
Post dinner, pop by to check out the return of Instagram-o-rama taking place at Five Sixty (starts at 6PM until late). It’s back for another noteworthy year of top-notch art (courtesy of 20 different local artists) who have submitted more than 200 Instagram prints available for sale (proceeds will support both imagine1day and Looking Glass); DJ’s will be on-site along with drinks and snacks to sweeten the deal. It’s the perfect opportunity to squeeze in a little socializing without suffering a hangover the next day… though we’re told there is indeed an after-party taking place too.
Segue into Sunday by packing some snacks and coffee to-go and heading over to North Vancouver for a trek up Mount Seymour for a bit of snowshoeing or skiing. With the weather below the snowline seemingly soggy for the foreseeable future, elevation is key to keeping a sunny outlook for 2013 in our books. Work up a sweat on one of their many trails as you enjoy the scenic coastal backdrop and plenty of fresh air.
If you haven’t already caught a performance of the inspirational and magical production of Cirque Du Soleil’s Amaluna, do so this Sunday (it’s only in town for another few weeks). They have both a matinee and early evening performance scheduled, and it’s the perfect way to unwind before the work week ahead. Tickets are priced from $40 and it’s money well spent as you find yourself whisked away to an ancient world for several hours of whimsical fun mastered by the Cirque artists.
Alternatively, swing by to catch the final day of the Museum of Vancouver’s Untold Stories: History of Immigrants in Vancouver exhibition. It provides an insightful, in-depth look (through personal stories, portraits and interviews) that the role of Immigrant Service Society of BC has had over the past 40 years. Considering the demographic make-up of British Columbia, and Vancouver specifically, it’s definitely worth noting.
Photo courtesy The Parlour