We’re being treated to some serious soggy weather out here on the West Coast…but don’t let the forecast dampen your spirits, there’s still plenty of ways to make the most out of your weekend. We’ve done the leg work for you and rounded up some noteworthy options. Read on and gear up for a great weekend – with or without an umbrella in tow.
Be sure to head out post-work Friday and grab a beverage and bite at one of a few recently-opened spots around town. Start by heading to Yaletown for a drink at El Azteca Modern Tequila Lounge, which recently opened at 1130 Mainland Street. Alternatively, make your way over to Kitsilano and grab a seat at La Cigale Bistro (formerly Bistrot Bistro) where you`ll find an ample selection of French comfort food and fleshed out wine list perfectly paired to compliment the cuisine.
Saturday, be sure to grab your coffee to go and light bite at Notable favourite cafe newcomer The Last Crumb before you make your way over to the launch of Vancouver`s Winter Farmer`s Markets set to kick off the season. With more than 60 different vendors at the Nat Bailey Stadium location, it`s guaranteed to get you fully stocked. Live entertainment, music and plenty of samples await you.
If you happen to be in the market and looking to add a pet to your menagerie, look no further than VOKRA`s Adoption Weekend event taking place at PetSmart in North Vancouver (13245 Main Street). Add a feline friend to the mix and consider adopting one of the hundreds of kittens and cats hoping to find their forever home. Learn more about this non-profit organization and pre-apply to adopt here.
Saturday night, there are a few noteworthy options…starting with A Night of a Thousand Wonders taking place at the Robinson Studio Gallery. Expect an evening of festive fun complete with live jazz, wine, and silent auction all in celebration of Fiveleft Leather designer Lincon Heller, who is set to reveal and gift his 1,000th bag to a lucky bidder. Take in the comedic act of Gary Jones and catch the magic of Jamie D. Grant.
Alternatively, make your way over to SYNDICATED: a gala presented by Motionball. Be sure to wear your best Prohibition attire to this noteworthy party geared toward YPs and help support Canada`s Special Olympic Athletes. The Vancouver Urban Winery will be transformed into a 1930s Speakeasy-themed hot spot highlighting this provocative era. Enjoy drinks, bites, live music and entertainment as you mingle with other young professionals and celebrities in attendance. Tickets start at $100 – this event is not to be missed.
This Sunday, enjoy an extra hour of sleep (yup, we `fall` back) and chill out at home before heading out for a bit of eats and exercise. Duck out of the rain, strap on some skates and head out to one of Vancouver`s many indoor rinks. Head to the West End or Kitsilano Community Centres for a few practice laps… Mark your calendar for the December 1st return of Robson Square`s free outdoor rink.
After you`ve worked up an appetite, head over to try out brunch at Le Parisien before you unleash your inner kid at Heritage Hall for the return of Vancouver Comic Con (11AM until 5PM on Sunday). Catch special guests like Kurtis J. Wiebe and James Lloyd, trade and buy new and gently-used graphic novels, and score a chance to win hourly prizes.
Another option that will add a little culture to your lazy Sunday: grab some tickets and catch the final screenings in celebration of VAFF: 16th Annual Vancouver Asian Film Festival (running all weekend). Films are showing at the International Cinemas and are all in English – or with English subtitles, not to worry.
Come Sunday night, take it easy by skipping kitchen duty and grab a bite at one of our go-to spots for comfort food in the West End. By this we mean head to Tavola and order up their super tasty, signature Brick Chicken – you`ll thank us later. Take a peek at their dinner menu if you need more convincing and go!
Photo courtesy Tavola