Vancouver Weekender: May 4 through 6, 2012

Swing into gear this weekend, channel summer and  grab a taste straight off the grill by heading down to Peckinpah in Gastown. This long-time Notable go-to spot is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy week of work. Fuel up on their vast selection of locally-sourced goods while you people watch from your roadside perch (we love the openness of this quaint corner space).

If you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail apres-eats, might we suggest you head around the corner to Boneta for a quick fix? Having happily moved to their happening new locale, this Vancouver hotspot is always a sure bet for libations and laughs. Our recommended drink of choice: the 30th Century Man…try it, you’ll love it.

Next up: take a peek at the line up of noteworthy flicks on offer as part of the DOXA Film Festival and head out for a screening. The festival launches this Friday and has more than 100 different shows to choose from at various locations around the city.  This year’s festival is their largest yet, guaranteed to be memorably insightful. For more info and to start planning your screen-filled weekend, click here. 

Strut into your Saturday, take advantage of the forecast (yup, sunshine is in the mix) and head down to the 6th Annual Spot Prawn Festival at False Creek’s Fisherman’s Wharf for a day of seafood fun. This event draws a huge crowd and sells out, so purchasing tickets in advance is advised. Check out cooking demos by top city chefs, take in live music and grab your own freshly caught prawns straight off the dock.

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that Saturday also happens to be Cinco De Mayo – a much-loved Latino reason to par-tay. If you weren’t able to make it over to check out the Waldorf Hotel’s Latino-themed event, fear not. We’ve got a few options.

Starting with a Margarita-mixing competition at The Charles Bar at the Woodward’s Building in Gastown, Saturday night will be off to a Cha Cha Cha charming start. Take in what is bound to be a highly entertaining afternoon of blending, sipping and tequila-fuelled fun before you step aboard the Abitibi for a Mexican celebratory cruise we doubt you want to miss. This massive cruiser yacht has plenty of room to party, features two floors, DJs galore and a Mariachi band to boot.  Don’t let the good times stop there; head back to the always-fun Red Room for continued Cinco De Mayo festivities.

Segue into your Sunday and grab brunch at longtime local favourite Paul’s Omelettery where you can choose from several pages worth of breakfast selections. Endless coffee refills will help cure the hangover, or grab a Mimosa. You know what they say: “hair of the dog that bit you…”

Fill the remainder of your day with a stroll along South Granville to check out the newly opened SALONTEA boutique, stock up on goods at neighbouring Meinhardt’s and (for the ladies) score a fresh look at locally-owned Violet Boutique or Oliver & Lilly’s.  

Before you head home to rest up for a busy week ahead, why not get started with a bit of Mother’s Day shopping and swing by the 11th Annual Got Craft show taking place this Sunday until 5pm at the Royal Canadian Legion. This event always draws a crowd looking to support the DIY culture and find unique pieces. Timing couldn’t be better to find something memorable for Mom (and maybe even yourself).