Vancouver Weekender: October 4 through 6, 2013

If you haven’t had a chance to catch the LAMP exhibit, be sure to head down to the Woodward’s Atrium for this artistic installation slash fundraiser that’s got some serious buzz about it. It’s the first annual Lighting Architecture Movement Project that features a live design installation exhibit, pitting various notable creatives against each other to raise funds for the Arts Umbrella (public admission is by donation). Be sure to check it out before it’s lights out on October 5th. 

While in Gastown, we think you ought to meander your way on over to our favourite cocktail spot, Pourhouse. We recently met colleagues there for a much-needed glass of vino and light bites and were reminded as to how awesome both the sense of ambiance and service are. Score a spot in their lounge or grab a set of stools and befriend the bartender who’ll no doubt mix you something special. We highly recommend you dig into the pulled pork croquettes; they are scrumptiously addictive. 

Gear up for a solid start to your Saturday and head out to get active. Break a sweat despite the weather and head over to one of the city’s Bikram Yoga locations for a deep stretch and sweat. It’s the perfect way to ease into the day, shrug off the stress of the workweek, and walk out feeling oh-so-good (at least in our books). Alternatively, try your hand (or should we say grip) at indoor climbing and head over to North Van’s Edge Climbing Gym for a morning of chalked-up fun. You can rent all the equipment on premise – no worries and no excuse. 

We’re guessing you might have worked up a bit of an appetite and brunch at Abode is just the answer. Conveniently located along Robson Street below the Blue Horizon Hotel, this spot is definitely in demand for lazy risers. Try their Good Start Sandwich or Kitchen Benny and you won’t be disappointed.

After you’ve had a chance to chill out for a bit (and cleaned up, we hope), why not throw a little culture into the mix by making your way to view the latest installation to take over the walls of Main Streets Winsor Gallery, featuring works by Vancouver artist Martha Varcoe Sturdy. This series, titled “The Breakup,” is her first solo exhibit and on display until October 25th before travelling eastward. 

Reserve Saturday night for paying a visit to Crosstown to check out the newly opened Bismarck. This 60-seat bar is a welcomed addition to the blossoming neighbourhood that straddles Chinatown and Gastown. You’ll have a hard time choosing from their vast selection of craft beer available (about 20), not to mention Bismark’s own savoury sausages, artisanal bread, 9oz burger, flatbread and other fixings that are aplenty. We’re thinking this will soon be a pre and post-game hot spot given their convenient proximity to the major sporting arenas. 

Chill out around the house on Sunday or go grab a pick me up at Milano in Vancouver’s West End or Gastown hoods before you head to one of the local markets to load up on fall goods. 

If you’ve saved up a bit of an appetite, be sure to check out Vancouver Foodster’s latest (and largest) Tasting Plates Tour of Kitsilano/W. 4th Avenue. The line up looks delectable; who wouldn’t want to join in for the culinary fun? Check out more details here.

Wrap things up on Sunday night by grabbing a few tickets for local design diva Nicole Bridger as she takes Eco Fashion Week by storm. Celebrating its 6th year, EFW consistently ups the ante on green/sustainable designs from both local and international designers and visionaries – definitely worth checking out.

Top photo courtesy Abode