Happy Thursday, Vancouver! And what a nice Thursday it is, since there’s finally a little rain in the forecast for this weekend. While we love the summer sun, we were starting to feel a little dried out there, so this is a welcome relief. And, we want to make the most of it!

Here are 10 of the best things to do this weekend in Vancouver.

Shipyards Live

New for this year, Shipyards Live is an ongoing concert and market series taking place at the Lonsdale Quay. Do some shopping, try a food truck, and hit the beer garden as you enjoy the sounds of some fantastic local artists. And, best of all, it’s free to attend!

When: July 30th to September 18th
Where: Lonsdale Quay Area

Polygon Gallery- Interior Infinite

If you’re already on your way to North Van, then we think a stop at the Polygon Gallery is pretty much a must. Right now they’re showing Interior Infinite, an international show that focuses on self-portraiture primarily. Trust us, those IG influencers have nothing on these selfies.

When: Open throughout August
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: By donation

The Magic Hour

For a little more personal experience, the Presentation House Theatre in North Van has opened a new immersive, walk-through show. Following a loose narrative, guests get to explore the entire theatre space, which has been re-done to resemble an admittedly very weird house.

When: Showing until August 22nd
Where: 333 Chesterfield Ave, North Vancouver
Cost: $27 per person

Bike to Shop

Half our friends are at least casually into cycling, and we think this is a great option for them. This initiative from HUB Cycling offers people a bunch of free stuff and sweet deals all around the city. And to access it, all you have to do is register

When: August 7th to August 20th
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: Free with registration!

Vancouver Mural Fest

Things are more or less back to normal for the Vancouver Mural Festival this year, with local art tours, musical performances, and a pop-up patio all planned for it. And of course, it also means dozens of new public art murals going up, too.

When: August 4th to August 22nd
Where: 2105 Main Street
Cost: Varies per event

Visit with Uncle Fester

Vancouver’s infamous corpse flower, nicknamed Uncle Fester, is getting ready to bloom! These exceedingly rare flowers only bloom every 2-3 years at best, but can take up to a decade if the conditions aren’t right. It’s going to smell terrible, but it’s a must for those looking for a weirder option.

When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 4600 Cambie Street
Cost: $7.05 (Online reservations required)

Hike up Grouse Mountain

Of course, we couldn’t forget the Grouse Grind as a summer option. Not so easy that you’ll cruise through it, but not so hard that you’ll be wondering if heading there was a good idea in the first place. Plus, the need to purchase a download ticket assures some rest and relaxation once your climb is complete.

When: Open throughout August
Where: Grouse Mountain
Cost: $20 (for the download ticket)

Chilliwack Sunflower Fest

Now in its fourth year, the Chilliwack Sunflower Fest offers a whopping 15 acres of flower fields to enjoy. It’s not just sunflowers, either- there are also dozens of different kinds of dahlias each year, plus a selection of gladiolas. But of course, the real focus is on the sunflowers.

When: Open throughout the week
Where: 41310 Royalwood Drive, Chilliwack
Cost: $15+ for GA

Indigifest 2021

After a one-year hiatus, this music fest is back for August. Every Thursday this month, you can tune in (for free) to hear some amazing local singers and bands do what they do best! It’s a great option for background music, or if you’re trying to uncover some new talent.

When: Kicks off Thursday, August 5th
Where: Online
Cost: Free

Watch a movie

Honestly, we saw the new A24 movie The Green Knight last night and we think you should too. If you like weird tales that make you question your own morality and the purpose of life, then this is right up your alley! Yes, we’re super fun at parties, how did you know?

When: Showtimes throughout the weekend
Where: Theatres around Vancouver
Cost: Varies

That’s our lineup for this weekend! Have fun out there and stay safe, folks!