Vancouver Weekender: June 8 through 10, 2012

We’re not sure about you, but at Notable HQ we’re all about the upcoming Euro Cup 2012 and where to watch. To literally kick things off for a weekend of game-watching, we think you ought to head out of the office and over to either The Red Card Sports Bar & Eatery or The London Pub for a guaranteed ‘ball’ of a good time.

Not in a football mood? Perhaps you’re hoping to channel your inner swinger (not that kind). Museum of Vancouver is hosting a toast to the Art Deco era this Friday with a special evening that will transport you back to the 1920s in no time (complete with live musical performances, 1920s-style cocktails, fashions and more.  Tickets are getting scarce – so don’t let this time pass you by.

Stroll into what we hope will be a rain-free Saturday and head out for a bite of brunch at one of our Notable faves: Two Chefs And A Table or HouseXGuest to find your fix. Post eats, walk down to Chinatown and take in the recently-opened outdoor installation ‘Lotus In Motion’ at The Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Take in the unique fusion of nature, colour and art brought to Vancouver by globally-recognized Canadian artist Gordon Halloran on display until later this summer.

Looking for something a bit different to dig into for Saturday night? Head out for an evening of alternative-artsy fun at the Music Paste Poster Show (part of the Music Waste Festival). Check out original poster art by nearly a dozen local artists and take in live music courtesy of bands such as Fieldhead and Hallow Moon. The main event takes place at Little Mountain Gallery located at 195 East 26th Avenue and Main Street with an after party at The Biltmore Cabaret.

On Sunday, start things off on the right foot by stopping by the Acme Cafe for an early morning breakfast. This bright, cheerful diner-style spot is located at 51 W Hastings Street and serves all the usual brunch suspects with a few twists. We love the spaciousness of the room accented by 50s-style touches and healthy comfort food options (current craving: the baked eggs benny and European breakfast). 

Next on the Sunday funday agenda, head over to The Drive for a slice of Italian-inspired fun as Italian Day takes over the neighbourhood. One of Vancouver’s best annual events and always well-attended, lively and entertaining, Commercial Drive sets the stage for a full day living la dolce vita in Van-city.  With plenty of Italian-style fashion, food and fun on the agenda, it’s a must-do. Consider kick-starting the festive day early by seeking out a spot to watch the game (Italy takes on Spain at 9am) and get into party mode….assuming the Azzurri win.

Winding down this Sunday is the HSBC City of Bhangra 2012 festival. If you haven’t already had the chance to check out any of the various events around town yet, this is your last opportunity.  The Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza will play host to a full day of free performances, cultural exhibitions, DJ beats and more. Also happening as part of the festival finale and taking place at the nearby HSBC Pendulum Gallery is the official Closing Gala (tickets are only $35). Nosh on Punjabi bites alongside BC wine pairings before heading home to recoup for another work week ahead.

Photo courtesy Acme Cafe