Just because we’re into the first week of fall (the unofficial ‘get back to work’ and ‘take life seriously again’ month) doesn’t mean the fun stops. Get ready to gear up for plenty of action – beyond that seemingly endless stream of projects, paperwork and planning.
That being said, mark Friday night as a play night and head out for cocktails at Gastown’s Boneta or The Diamond. These two (dare we say) old-school charmers all but put Gastown on the map where hot drinking spots are concerned. We love the inventiveness of their current listings and the relaxed, lose-the-attitude-style vibes they imbue.
Also kicking things off in time for the weekend is the Vancouver Fringe Festival. If you missed out on the official gala event (Thursday), no worries; this festival guarantees plenty of other means to get the party going, both on stage and off, with venues popping up around town, including in someone’s apartment. With more than 600 shows set to take place around the city, there is simply no excuse not to partake.
If you haven’t paid our local farmers markets a visit as of late, be sure to do so this weekend. With about 10 taking place around town (including a fairly new one in Yaletown), there’s no excuse not to load up on locally sourced goods. A few of our Notable favourites have to be the Trout Lake Farmers Market and the quaint offerings to be found in Kerrisdale. When there, be sure to fit in a bit of retail therapy (if only to ramp up your fall wardrobe on stylish finds). W. 41st is full of quaint boutiques guaranteed to lighten your wallet.
Saturday morning we think you ought to rise on the early side for a bit of brunch at the West End’s own Adesso Bistro. You’ll find this little oasis in the city carved out of the tree-lined streets on the edge of Stanley Park – replete with lush greenery and an outdoor patio. Grab a Mimosa (or two) and bite into a mix of offerings guaranteed to get your day off to a great start.
Now that you’ve got a reason to work up a slight sweat, make your way over the Lion’s Gate Bridge to West Vancouver to check out the annual Coho Festival. This outdoor festival celebrates habitat, environmental awareness and sustainability with a side of fun. There will be live entertainment, a huge salmon BBQ, beer garden and plenty to keep you entertained for the afternoon.
If fast cars and serious style are more your thing, then perhaps grabbing tickets to this year;s Luxury Supercar Weekend at Vancouver’s Van Dusen Botanical Gardens is more up your alley. We always make a point of popping by this stellar event – it’s the perfect mix of posh, polished and unpretentious. Take in a bevy of top-notch collector cars while grabbing a glimpse of brand new drool-worthy wheels. In between all of that, you can take in a fashion show, grab cocktails and tasty treats, catch DJs at work, and do some serious socializing in the serenity offered by this lush, green venue.
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Sunday, grab your bike or blades and get out to enjoy the weather while scoring some serious exercise. Move it on over to False Creek/Olympic Village and hit up the Food Cart Festival where you can feast to your heart’s content at more than 30 different four-wheeled venues. Chill out while you catch up with friends and take in live music as well as a pretty sweet waterfront scene.
Also taking place in the neighbourhood is Portobello West Fall Market (on both Saturday and Sunday). If you’re on the hunt for a few fine finds for fall, this is definitely worth checking out. Support local artisans, crafters and the like and pop by. There’s even a special silent auction in support of Dress for Success – all the more reason to get your shop on.
While you’re in the area, you might as well head on over to the Tap & Barrel for a pre-Monday bevy. We love their casual vibe and wraparound patio (not to mention plethora of beer on tap and fried dill pickles!) It’s the perfect spot to wind down and gear up for the work-week ahead.
Top photo courtesy Tap & Barrel