Vancouver Weekender: September 6 through 9, 2012

It might be back to school, or back to work deadlines for Vancouver Notable readers come September, but don’t let this time of year dampen your party spirits. There’s plenty going on around town, and this Weekender will ensure you’ll kick off the month in serious style.

Thursday night, gear up to do some potentially heavy damage (in style, of course) by helping our city celebrate and support all things fashion industry-related at the first Fashion’s Night Out Vancouver events taking place around YVR. With free fashion shows, shopping incentives, trend spotting, styling tips and plenty more, we’re thinking it’ll be one noteworthy night not to miss.  For more details on all events check out this site and prepare to get your shop on.  

Friday marks the return of the 3rd Annual Etsy Craft Party taking place at BLIM on East Pender and is the perfect excuse to unplug after a busy week back at the office. It’s not an event entirely centred on crafting per se, it’s more about creative expression mixed with social networking and the community. In addition to the artsy activities, attendees can expect music, a cash bar, and an after party at Fortune Sound Club. Purchase tickets here.

Also taking place this weekend until September 16th is the 28th Annual Vancouver Fringe Festival. This year’s festival features more than 750 performances by nearly 100 groups in just under two weeks. All the theatrical goods go down at various stages and venues around town with an eclectic mix of performances from seasoned veterans and emerging talents alike.   

After all this crafty and theatrical action, reserve some energy and make your way out for a bite at one of these favourite go-to spots for some southern-styled good times (and eats): Chewies Steam and Oyster Bar always makes our list thanks to its penchant for laidback Louisiana fixings and killer Caesars, or pop over to Main Street’s Cray Kitchen+Bar for a plate full of Creole-style crawfish washed down with a cold one (or two). Another option to revisit is the Merchant’s Oyster Bar on The Drive for your fresh-shucked oyster fix…and we’d be remiss not to suggest that you pay the boys a visit at Yaletown’s Rodney’s Oyster House – it’s always packed and promises a good time.

Saturday is all about cars. Luxury cars, that is, and we’re advocating for you to use the return of the 4th Annual Luxury Supercar Weekend event as an excuse to put on your garden party gear and make a day (and night) of it.  With the sun shining, wade your way through the grounds taking in North America’s finest collection of specialty cars, motorcycles and collectibles at the stunning Van Dusen Gardens. Join other well-heeled auto aficionados, take in fashion shows, grab a cocktail and mingle with other young professionals at this uber-classy event you don’t want to miss. Tickets start at $50 and sell quickly.

If you’re feeling like more of a laidback day around town on Saturday, here are few additional suggestions. Stay local and check out the seasonal pickings at the remaining local Farmers Markets open until mid-October. Or perhaps head out to the West End Festival taking place all day between Burrard and Denman along Davie Street. There will be live musical performances, a dodge ball tournament, street food vendors and plenty more to keep the day colourful. 

Sunday funday ought to be reserved for a little R&R. Consider venturing out for a leisurely brunch a la Fraiche Restaurant in West Van, or perhaps you’re into something a little more West Side like Bistro Pastis instead. Regardless of the choice, enjoy the relaxed and upscale ambiance these two spaces offer (not to mention mouth-watering selection of brunch goodness).

Fill the remainder of the day by heading out to the Feast of Fields event taking place at Golden Ears Cheesecrafters farm in Maple Ridge. Get a taste of the local offerings courtesy of BC chefs, farmers, ranchers and artisans over the course of four hours. Pick up some farm fresh goodies to take home, and stop by the local Fraser Valley wineries to stock your cellar for the week ahead. One of our faves is Township 7 – grab a few bottles of their Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon, perfect for those rainy fall nights.

Photo courtesy Township 7