Head out for some Ukrainian goodness this Friday and be sure to score a seat at this month’s Perogy Night that takes place at 154 E. 10th Avenue. From 5 until 8pm, you’ll more than get your fill of a delicious assortment of specialty Ukrainian foods (a must-try are their cabbage rolls and Ukrainian sausage). It’s the best bang for your buck, if you ask us. A meal easily rings in at about $10 – leaving you plenty of cash for drinks later on.
If you’re looking to get dressed up for cocktails, why not head out to one of YVR’s many classy patios post work? The Westin Grand is celebrating the season with the revival of their #PopUpPatio (complete with light bites, amped up lounge area, fresh cocktail list including adult-only popsicles and a wicked, poolside atmosphere that will make you feel as though you’re in LA). Alternatively, you can hop on over to Reflections – we can’t get enough of the Zen-like atmosphere and (of course) people watching opportunities it provides.
Happening all weekend long and worth looking into is Music Waste. It’s an annual independent music, comedy and arts festival celebrating creativity. Not totally hippy-dippy, not to worry. You’ll love cruising around town, discovering new up and coming bands, taking in free stand-up acts and checking out a plethora of original artwork at pop-up galleries. Gain all the insider knowledge you need for a mere $15 by checking out details here.
Yet another interesting cultural event is also taking place this weekend and it’s called In The House Festival. What is it, you ask? Essentially, for a per show fee (or full weekend pass), you get to explore 20 different artistic performances in the backyards, basements, kitchens and living rooms of people’s homes in and around East Van. You might find yourself enjoying a monologue on a stranger’s front porch, catch a circus act in the making in a backyard, or take in a risqué puppet show in someone’s garage. Interest piqued? Tickets and details can be found here
Sunday, get going with a lap around the Seawall (we suggest aiming to get up and out on the early side to avoid crowds) or opt for a quick dip in one of the city’s large outdoor pools (open longer hours as of the weekend). Alternatively, rent a paddleboard (starting at under $20) and make your own waves at either Kitsilano Beach or English Bay.
Next, you’ve likely worked up a bit of an appetite, so remedy that and grab a quick breakfast at the Acme Cafe in Gastown before making the trek (we advocate you bike) to Commercial Drive for Italian Day fun.
Always a huge success, this year’s Italian Day celebrations embrace the Venetian style, right down to colourful costumes and masks. Dubbed ‘Carnevale Di Venezia’, expect plenty of signature events, performances, fashion and more. Enjoy strolling along the Drive, sampling authentic Italian cuisine, or try your hand at a game of Bocce Ball. Regardless of what you decide to do, be prepared to party. The Italians know how to do it and it’s a great way to unwind before heading into another workweek ahead.
Finally, if you’ve still got energy in you (and haven’t overdone it with too many Peroni and cannoli), head over to the Vancouver Urban Winery for their Supper Club (a ticketed event we’ve mentioned earlier). It starts at 6pm, and is a great way to chill, enjoy sampling new wines and casual conversation. This long-table feast will focus on the flavours of spring with plenty of locally sourced produce and seafood – infused with Asian influence. Sommelier David Stansfield will be on-hand to go through all the pairings, so bring your brain hat to this one.
Top photo courtesy Vancouver Urban Winery