According to a recent survey, more than half of Canadians plan on staying close to home this summer and Vancouverites are no exception.
A recent survey shows 55 per cent of Canadians plan to stay in their home province this summer to focus on saving or paying back debt instead of going away.
Luckily, Vancouver offers endless outdoor activities for those who plan on staying in town with many of them taking place or located on the city’s east side.
The following is just a sampling of suggestions and ideas for those planning the ideal East Van staycation:
- Playland: The oldest amusement park in Canada with more than 30 rides, dozens of games, and its signature mini donuts, makes for a guaranteed fun time. Day passes for Playland are $29.50, guardian passes are $21.50 and kids under 48 inches get in for $22.75, making for a reasonably priced full day of fun. Visit pne.ca/playland.
- Hastings Racecourse: Weekend races offer a chance to soak up some sun while sipping on cold drinks and placing bets on prize-winning horses. Not only do the bleachers and benches provide stunning views of the races, the mountainous backdrop of Vancouver’s longest-running sports facility is unbeatable. The racecourse, which opened in 1889, hosts races every weekend and is adjacent to a casino with more than 600 slots. Biggest days at the track include Canada Day, B.C. Day, the Weiner Dog Race and the Deighton Cup, which all feature live music, food trucks and a chance to dress in your Sunday best. Visit hastingsracecourse.com and deightoncup.com.
- East Van Summer Jam: Outdoor music festivals are always a popular option in the summer months and now East Vancouver has one of its own. The East Van Summer Jam takes place at Strathcona Park July 5. The Boom Booms will perform along with other local talent, including the Rascalz, Funk Hunters and Bestie. Visit welcometoeastvan.com.
- Thunderbird Community Centre’s Canada Day Celebration and Classic Car Show: This third annual event takes place June 28 and gives local car enthusiasts a chance to showcase their vehicles while supporting a great cause. Check out a variety of automobiles and vote for your favourites in five categories including best in show, best import and best classic car — or enter your own show vehicle for $10. All proceeds from the event go towards youth programs in the community. Check out Thunderbird Community Centre on Facebook.
- Trout Lake Free Summer Concert Series: Starting July 2, musical groups perform everything from jazz to bluegrass every Wednesday evening on the outdoor stage at Trout Lake Community Centre. Visit troutlakecc.com/news-and-events.
- Brewery Tours: Vancouver’s craft beer scene has blown up in recent years and the newly reformed liquor laws now allow the addition of on-site tasting rooms. Go for a tour at one of the many found in East Van, such as Parallel 49, or sign up with Vancouver Brewery Tours and tour multiple breweries. Visit vancouverbrewerytours.
