Wow! Things are finally starting to open up in the city. This is awesome for its own reasons, but it also means that there are now more things to do in Vancouver. So, if you’re looking for some interesting and fun events or things to do this week, we got the antidote for your affliction. From old standbys that are back, to exploring new, unique events, we got some great things for you to do this week in and around Vancouver. Let’s check ’em out!

Kit & Ace 20% off sale

kit and ace final
Photo via Kit & Ace

Boom, Flash, Pop! You can get 20% off sitewide at Kit and Ace this week for two days only. Kick summer off with some much-needed wardrobe replacements and take your warm-weather fits to the next level!

Where: Online and in-store
When: June 21st and June 22nd

Go watch a movie in the theatres

If case you haven’t heard, movies are coming back! Which also means that theatres in town are opening up again. So, whether you want to see a crowd-pleaser at the Rio, or highbrow fare by the Japanese master Yasujirō Ozu at The Cinematheque, it’s about high time to get back to the theatre!

Where: The Rio, The Cinematheque, or at a Cineplex

Go for a road trip

With restrictions easing up a bit, that also means that regional travel is now allowed. So, grab a few friends (only a few!), book an AirBnB (we’ve got a few in mind), and take a trip. We know we are dying to get the chance to see the province. So, if you’re able to, go out and explore.

Where: Click the link above for our top pick

Visit a gorgeous lavender farm

Lavenderland is finally opening its doors this week. Starting with a launch this weekend, they will be taking reservations to visit their newly opened grounds. Walk along the thousands of lavender plants, take in the sweet smell and take a few Instagram photos as well. It’s an opening 4 years in the making which is also very exciting!

When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. until October 10
Where: 8460 Steveston Highway, Richmond
Cost: $15 for GA

Chill with the TD Vancouver International Jazz Fest

Whether you take Giant Steps or think to yourself “So What” the Vancouver International Jazz Fest is really worth checking out. There will be a bunch of streaming shows all week, as well as some in-person, From celebrated jazz musicians from around Canada and the world. This event is a must check out.

When: June 25 – July 4
Where: Online and some in-person venues
Cost: Depends on the show, but many are free

Pig out at TGIF (AKA Thank Granville It’s Food Trucks)

Who doesn’t love food? And, who doesn’t love a good food truck? For food-lovers across the city, this food truck celebration is happening all summer until Labour Day on Fridays and Saturdays. Indulge in BBQ, mini donuts, grilled cheese sandwiches, and whatever else they have on offer.

When: Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: West 10th Ave and Fir Street
Cost: The cost of whatever you want to eat

Discover your magical potential

Yes, you read that right. You’re a wizard reader. Well, not actually. But you can feel like one at the new Wings and Wizards events happening at BC place all summer. Use your magic wand to cast spells, solve puzzles and turn your friends into toads. Okay, maybe we lied about that last one. Reserve your slot and like out your magical dreams.

When: All summer
Where: BC Place, 777 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $65+

Get running with the Scotiabank Half Marathon and 5K

One of the benefits of not being able to hold a regular race event is that you can now do the Scotiabank Half Marathon and 5K wherever and whenever. Also, there’s less pressure! This is a great chance to motivate yourself to strap on those running shoes, maybe with a friend, and run knowing thousands across the city are doing the same thing.

When: June 2 to July 5
Where: Wherever
Cost: $25 to $60 depending on the race you do

Take a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola

In the mood for an amazing view? Yeah, we thought so. The Sea to Sky Gondola is now up and running and is very much worth the trip. While it might seem sort of “touristy,” if you live in the area you got to check it out! And hey, if you go during the week it probably won’t be that busy!

When: Now open
Where: 36800 BC-99, Squamish
Tickets: $55.95 for GA, $14.29 for Ride-Down Only

Have a drink and a meal at your local patio

You look like you could use a drink and maybe a bite to eat in the sun. Granted, everyone looks like they could use that. A bunch of neighbourhoods in Vancouver have put together a list of the best patios to check out across the city. Yes, the interactive map has 400 spots, oh and yes, there are prizes involved.

Where: All over the city. Click the headline for more info.

Well, that’s our round-up of things you need to check out this week. Hopefully, with these, you can start getting into that summer vibe!