The weather might not be super motivating, but we’ve got a ton of fun events coming up this weekend that might just get you out of the house. From the return of the beloved Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival to taking a new dance class, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (January 13-15).

Vancouver Hot Chocolate Festival 

 

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The Vancouver Hot Chocolate fest is returning to the city this weekend, and we’re sure participating spots are bringing their A-game when it comes to crafting the best cups of cocoa around. From 49th Parallel & Lucky’s Doughnuts to specialty vegan hot chocolate flavours at Everbean, here is everything you can sip on at this year’s festival.

When: Saturday, January 14th to February 14th

Explore the award-winning menu at Kishimoto Japanese Restaurant on Commercial Drive 

We all love a good sushi night, and Kishimoto Japanese restaurant is delivering all the tasty goods. Come see for yourself why this Commercial Drive gem was ranked top 10 in Vancouver for the best sushi.

When: Reservations can be made online or by calling 604-255-5550
Where: 2054 Commercial Drive, Vancouver BC
Cost: Menu items range – see menu for details

Vancouver Giants

 

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The Vancouver Giants are facing off against the Chiefs on Friday, January 13th, and the Americans on Sunday, January 15th. Why not snag some $20 tickets and head to the Arena Bowl at the Langley Events Centre?

When: Friday, January 13th and Sunday, January 15th
Where: 7888 200 Street Langley
Cost: $20

Start your year with a health challenge & chance to win big health cash prizes 

Pacific Blue Cross is all about improving health and well-being for British Columbians, which is exactly why they are offering four lucky winners a health cash prize of $2,023 each for making a healthy goal: . You can choose to quit smoking, exercise more, eat better, or practice mental health. Entering is as easy as that!

When: The Pacific Blue Cross Health Challenge runs until February 28th, 2023
Where: Enter the HealthChallenge here

Go snow tubing

Tubing (or tobogganing) is a classic wintertime activity that all ages can enjoy, so we think it’s the perfect time to toss our list of the best tubing spots in BC your way. Simply suit up in your warmest thermals and footwear, and head to the slopes.

Where: See our picks above

Check out a new dance class

 

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From improv-style classes at Formation Studio to learning bachata steps at Baza Dance, there are plenty of fun, inclusive dance studios in Vancouver offering classes that are just as much of a social gathering as they are a workout. So bring your friends and get ready to dance it out with some new ones, too.

Where: See our picks above

Celebrating Maestro Bramwell Tovey: His Life in Music

And now, a classical music pick. The Orpheum is hosting an afternoon celebrating the music and life of Maestro Branwell Tovey, the legendary British conductor and composer. Maestro Tovey received his formal music education as a pianist and composer from Ilford County High School, the Royal Academy of Music and the University of London.

When: Sunday, January 15th
Where: 601 Smithe Street
Cost: $29.52+

See an improv show

From Date Night improv to monthly standup sessions, House Team showcases, and more – there’s always something exciting going on at The Improv Centre on Granville Island. And why not start off the year with a couple of laughs and libations with your loved ones?

Where: 1515 Anderson Street

Go for a Swim

That’s right, it doesn’t need to be summer to dive into a pool or get some laps in. Vancouver’s indoor swimming pools are open all month long, and it won’t hurt your wallet to go for a swim. Note that the Lord Byng Pool will reopen on January 3rd.

When: Open throughout January
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: $6.66 for GA

And that’s a wrap on some of the best things to do around Vancouver this weekend. Cheers!