Get ready, Vancouver, because there are a handful of highly-anticipated festivals coming your way this weekend. Prepare to be wowed by the early music genre, connoisseur-level cocktails, an exciting pro wrestling show, and more – here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (July 28-30).
Early Music Vancouver Summer Festival
Every year, Early Music Vancouver’s concerts bring some of the most renowned artists in the early music genre to the stage, from all around the globe. This year’s focus will shift to female artists who made and continue to make waves in the industry and beyond. So get ready to brush up on your early music history and learn about some of the most fascinating, revolutionary artists of their time.
When: July 27th to August 5th
Where: Multiple venues
Cost: $19 to $68 for Early Bird tickets
Posh Ball at D6 Bar & Lounge
There are still tickets left to the hottest party in town this weekend: Vancouver Kiki Ballroom Scene’s 3rd annual Posh Ball. From 6 to 11 pm on Friday, July 28th, the D6 bar & lounge will transform into the ultimate creative, fun space – where guests are encouraged to feast their eyes on curated art and enjoy live entertainment.
In partnership with Vancouver Pride Society, partial proceeds of the tickets will go towards the Vancouver Black Therapy & Advocacy Foundation.
Note that there will be an afterparty from 11 pm to 3 am ($20 per ticket), though tickets to the Posh Ball secure entry to the D6 lounge!
When: Friday, July 28th
Where: 39 Smithe Street
Cost: $22.63+
Punchbowl Festival
View this post on Instagram
This cocktail-focused festival celebrates some of the best mixologies in the city, featuring over 250 of the finest summer spirits, beer, wine, and cider cocktail creations – as well as mouthwatering bbq. The tasting event will take place at the PNE Fairgrounds with live music on throughout the day.
Oh, and don’t forget to stop by the festival’s Margarita Village for some of the best margs and tacos in town.
When: Saturday, July 29th
Where: 1055 Canada Place
Cost: $30 advance, $45 GA
Russell & Roots Rock Night
Russell Brewing and Softball City in Surrey are launching a first-ever concert series with two exciting events on the summer roster: The Russell & Roots Rock Night and Country Night. The former will be headlined by Marianas Trench, Big Wreck, Default, and The Wild, and include a thrilling “Russell Mania” pro wrestling show, along with food truck eats from Rosie’s BBQ, Corner Kick Concessions, and TNT Wraps.
When: July 29th
Where: 2201 148 Street, Surrey
Cost: $89+
Honda Celebration of Light
View this post on Instagram
The grand finale of this year’s Honday Celebration of Light is this Saturday, and the Philippines will be presenting what is sure to be a fantastic show. Our advice? Pick a spot near False Creek for the ultimate view and far fewer crowds than English Bay or Vanier Park.
When: Saturday, July 29th
Where: English Bay
Halloween in July at the PNE
View this post on Instagram
Fall and Halloween lovers, get ready, because the PNE is having its “Halloween in July” event this weekend – and you’re sure to get your fill of summer spooks. Think of this as a teaser for what the PNE has in store for this year’s Fright Nights this October!
When: Sunday, July 30th
Where: 1055 Canada Place
Cost: $30 advance, $45 GA
The Haven Takeover
From 1 to 5 pm at the Bubly Davie Street Lounge, trans art collective The Haven will take over the lounge with captivating performances that redefine artistic expression.
When: Sunday, July 30th
Where: 1207 Bute Street
Rosé Disco
Love light, summer wines? Why not celebrate the season with sips of rosé as you dance at PNE’s own disco party? Rosé Disco is bringing over 25 local wineries, artisans, and top chefs together for a full afternoon of pink-and-white fun. So don your favourite summer wear and get ready to live it up – wine connoisseur style.
When: Sunday, July 30th
Where: 2901 East Hastings
Cost: $35 for pre-sale, $55 for GA
Theatre Under the Stars
Theatre Under the Stars has been transforming Stanley Park’s Malkin Bowl into a special summer stage for decades now, and it looks like this year will be no different! So get ready to enjoy a summer full of music, laughs, and artistry under the night sky.
Starting this July, the company will be presenting two iconic shows almost daily: Roald Dahl’s “Matilda The Musical” and Broadway’s musical comedy “The Prom.”
When: Until August 26th
Where: Malkin Bowl, Stanley Park
Cost: $45 for GA
Try some new ice cream spots
Nothing sums up summer more than a scoop of delicious ice cream, and Vancouver is absolutely filled to the brim with options. From plant-based treats to some truly zany flavours, you can have a scoop a week and still have stuff left on your list when summer ends.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
So there you have it, Vancouver. Enjoy the last weekend of July and get ready for an even more exciting August!
