B.C. Day Long Weekend Music Festival
Saturday, Aug. 2 to Monday, Aug. 4
Nine free performances at the Plaza of Nations including Pop Junkies, Mojo Stars, Dr. Strangelove and Rob Montgomery and his All-Star Band. Check sponsor Edgewater Casino’s website for full schedule. Beer garden and food vendors will be on site. Fireworks Sunday at 10:30 p.m.
UBC Farm Market
Saturday, Aug. 2, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
A short drive along the highway just far enough to feel you have escaped from the urban into the rural. Fresh veggies, fruits, herbs, flowers and even free-range eggs straight from the UBC Farm are for sale. Arrive early to check out the best selection as produce goes fast. Local bakers, craftspeople, prepared food and live musicians will also have set-ups. A farm tour begins at 11 a.m. Located 6182 South Campus Rd.
Powell Street Festival
Saturday, August 2 and Sunday, August 3, 11:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
The Japanese festival enjoys its 38th year as Vancouver’s longest running community celebration. Be aware of this year’s relocation in light of Oppenheimer Park’s protesting campers: the center of the festival will be Alexander Street and Jackson Avenue, a minute away from the original park location. Four blocks of performances, food and market goods. Feast on ramen, takoyaki and croquettes. Watch a thrilling sumo competition and feel the pounding of taiko drumming.
Honda Celebration of Light, Team Japan
Saturday, Aug. 2, 10 p.m.
The third and final evening of the annual fireworks event. Nothing beats the view from English Bay Beach but many also enjoy Kits Beach. Be sure to show up early to grab a spot on the sand and plan transit accordingly due to road closures and masses scrambling to get home. Alternative spots are the Burrard Bridge or Puget Drive in Arbutus Ridge for those who do not wish to brave the crowds. Fireworks last approximately 25 minutes. Live bands will be playing on the bathhouse roof between 7:15 and 9:30 p.m.
Food Cart Festival
Aug. 3, noon - 5 p.m.
Located 215 West First Avenue (intersection with Cook Street), the festival is a collection of Vancouver’s favourite food carts without having to hunt them down on a mobile map. A treat of diverse flavours from jerk chicken with potato roti to Indonesian braised beef poutine. Some others attending are Taco Fino, Yolk’s, Mom’s Grilled Cheese and The Juice Truck. Admission is $2 or with a non-perishable donation to the food bank.
Evolution of Gaming
Until Aug. 10, 9 a.m. - noon, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m., 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
An exhibition at the Centre for Digital Media (685 Great Northern Way) displaying the history of gaming from its roots to the future with a special focus on the roles Vancouver and France played in the industry. Parents who visit will recognize classics children may puzzle over and kids will meet pixilated versions of modern reincarnations.
