Vancouver Weekender: November 23 through 25,2012

We’re definitely heading into the holiday season – as is evident in this weekend’s Notable guide. Read on and get the scoop on what’s taking place in Vancouver, discover a few new spots to grab a drink at, and gear up for some Grey Cup action before heading back to work on Monday.

Friday get things into gear and be sure to pop by Vancouver newcomer Left Coast Bar and Bistro located at 2958 W. 4th Ave (the old Flying Tiger locale). Open post-work until late, they boast plenty of craft beer, well-priced wine and cocktails complimented by tapas-style treats.

If you’d rather partake in something a bit more fancy (and for a great cause) on Friday evening, why not head to the H’Arts for the Homeless benefit taking place at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel (tickets are $110). Proceeds to this worthwhile event will support the Lookout Society and help provide the less fortunate with a safe, clean haven off the streets. Expect games, live visual artists at work, a silent and live auction all fused together with performances and custom cocktails.  

Saturday, it’s all about getting into the Christmas spirit! There are several holiday-themed markets that kick off this weekend and aim to provide young professionals with an excuse to get going with their holiday shopping. On our notable list: the Vancouver Christmas Market all but takes over the Queen Elizabeth Theatre for another year of old-fashioned fun with a definite European flare.

Also helping you get into the ‘spirit’ of things this weekend, head to Yaletown and catch all the CandyTown festivities taking place. Shop your way up and down Mainland and Hamilton streets and sip holiday cocktails before meeting Trevor Linden (on hand to sign autographs) Saturday afternoon.  

After you’ve had your holiday fill (for now), we think you ought to claim a barstool at the renovated Flying Pig restaurant. They underwent a noteworthy expansion earlier this fall – and it looks fab. Their comfort food-oriented menu always has us leaving happy, crispy Brussels sprouts included. 

Come Sunday (and rain or shine, for that matter), head over to the base of Mt. Seymour and partake in the MEC North Vancouver Classic 5K/10K race. The race starts at 9am at the Seymour Valley Trailway head (4900 Lillooet Road) and costs $15 for those interested. Learn more and register here

We’re betting you’ll be a smidge hungry post-run and suggest heading over to The Tomahawk for some eats in a classic diner-style setting (they’ve been around since 1926!). If you’re looking for another option, we hear that a noteworthy brunch will also be served at the just-opened Forage Restaurant located at the Listel Hotel. 

After you’ve had a chance to chill out and fill up, be sure to head over to catch the final day of Portobello West’s Holiday Market featuring between 50 and 60 local artisans displaying their crafty creations.

Given that Sunday also marks a big day when it comes to the Grey Cup, we think you ought to grab a crew and mosey on over to claim a table at one of these sports-friendly spots… Try out mainstays such as Earl’s or Cactus Club… or head to Gastown’s The Charles Bar (hosting their own Grey Cup party) or Score on Davie. Need more ideas? We’ve done the homework already in this post

Photo courtesy Left Coast Bar and Bistro