It’s never easy to come back from a long weekend, but with the weather finally cooling down a bit, we think it’s the perfect time to regroup for next weekend. Thankfully, there’s still plenty of fun to be had around Vancouver that will make the days pass even faster. Let’s get into it – here are 10 of the best things to do in & around Vancouver this week (August 2-5).

Thundercat

Fans of progressive R&B take note. The LA-born and raised bassist and guitarist Thundercat is slated to perform at the Orpheum Theatre on Thursday, August 4th – and the Grammy-winner truly puts the soul in soul funk. This is one you won’t want to miss!

When: Thursday, August 4th
Where: 601 Smithe Street, Orpheum Theatre
Cost: $49+

BANKS

American singer-songwriter BANKS started writing music at just 15 years old, releasing her debut album Goddess in 2014, and has taken the world by storm ever since. Electropop meets moody, contemporary R&B.

When: Friday, August 5th
Where: 630 Hamilton Street, Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Cost: $45.05+

Check out Vancouver Mural Festival

And now, for the headlining summer event this week: Vancouver’s coveted Mural Festival. The fest is back after 2+ years with a ton of exciting mural walks, dance parties, food vendors, and live entertainment slated for the 10-day duration. Honestly, if there’s one summer event we’re most looking forward to this year, it’s the mural fest.

When: Thursday, August 4th to August 14th
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: Varies per event

Rolla Skate pop-up sessions

While Rollerland won’t be up and running until after the PNE Fair in September, that doesn’t mean you can’t lace up and skate this summer. Rolla Skate Club is hosting pop-up outdoor skate sessions around Vancouver, so grab that membership & secure your spot!

When: Friday, August 5th to Friday, September 13th

Ghosts of the Machine – Polygon Gallery

Whether you’re scrolling on Instagram, playing a game, or wearing a VR headset – the online world is often thought of as separate from reality. This exhibit at the Polygon Gallery examines how the two worlds are interconnected, and our ever-evolving relationship with the digital world.

When: Until Sunday, August 14th
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver,
Cost: By donation

Take a dip at a clothing-optional beach

The weather is really starting to heat up, and we think it’s high time Vancouverites get out there and enjoy the water – with a bathing suit on, or in your birthday suit.

Where: See our picks above

Check out a lavender farm

Lavender lovers, this one’s for you. BC is full of gorgeous lavender farms, and it’s currently peak wildflower season – which means there’s never been a better time to roam a lavender field and breathe in that aromatic air.

Where: see our picks above

Check out a hidden cafe

Whether you want to hole yourself up in a cozy reading nook, see some new faces, or sip on a latte while you ‘people-watch,’ there are a ton of neighbourhood cafes shattered across Vancouver that would fit the bill.

Where: Click the link above for our picks

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Fridays on the Front

We know it’s only a four-day work week, but Fridays always deserve a little extra celebration. Why not drop in for the huge block party series in New West?? Admission is free…

When: Every Friday until Friday, August 19th
Where: Front Street Mews, between 6th and McKenzie Street

Go for a patio beer

Yes, a patio beer (or non-alcoholic alternative) is something we consider to be worthy of a bucket list. After all, Vancouver has got maybe the best craft beer scene in Canada, and that extends to the patio options. Need some spots? We rounded up some of our absolute favourites for you.

When: Open throughout the summer
Where: Click the link above for our picks

And that’s our roundup, folks. Have a great week – and enjoy the bit of reprieve from the heatwave.