Another week, another roundup of things to do. This week might be on the slower (and rainier) side, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need, whether you’re coming off of a rowdy Saint Patrick’s Day weekend or just need to slow things down for a couple of days. It’s also a great time to get outside and check out the cherry blossom varietals that are already blooming, and see any exhibits you’ve been looking forward to. Without further ado, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (March 20-24).

Skin: Living Armor, Evolving Identity 

Presented by Acuitas Therapeutics, Science World’s newest exhibit will bring guests up close and personal to the amazing properties of skin across multiple organisms. From skin receptors in crocodilians to the super thick skin of whales, you can learn about all the interesting shape-altering, colour-changing, and adaptable nature of the skin.

The exhibit was created by the California Academy of Sciences and distributed by the Science Museum of Minnesota.

When: March 3rd to May 29th
Where: 1455 Quebec Street

Ryan Adams

American singer-songwriter Ryan Adams has released 24 studio albums throughout his career – three of which as a former member of Whiskeytown. He’s also known for his debut solo album, “Heartbreaker,” which rose to critical acclaim in 2000.

When: Tuesday, March 21st
Where: 918 Granville Street
Cost: $52.12+

As We Rise: Photography from the Black Atlantic

things to do vancouver march 20-24
Photo via Jamel Shabazz

This week is as good a time as any to visit the Polygon Gallery if you’re in the area, and the As We Rise exhibit is a must-see. Created by Elliott Ramsey, the exhibit features more than 100 photographs from the Wedge Collection – the largest privately owned collection championing Black artists in the country. So if you’re interested in learning about different Black communities and identities across Canada, this is an amazing exhibit to check out.

When: February 24th to May 14th
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: By donation

Check out a free museum

By the same token, there are plenty of museums and art galleries in Vancouver offering free admission to their exhibits year-round. And while the list is by no means complete, we think this is a solid place to start this month.

Where: See our picks above

ALOK

Brazilian musician and DJ ALOK is coming to Vancouver on Friday, March 24th. Best known for his single “Hear Me Now,” the artist was actually ranked the 4th best DJ in the world by DJ Mag in 2021 and 2022! So this one’s definitely someone to keep your eye on.

When: Friday, March 24th
Where: 760 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $112.23+

Pop-up Latin dance class

This month, Vancouver Civic Theatres is hosting a $10 pop-up Latin dance class at their Annex downtown. If you’ve been looking to connect with other dance enthusiasts or learn some new steps, this is a great opportunity to do both.

When: Friday, March 24th
Where: Annex 823 Seymour Street
Cost: $10

Take a walk at VanDusen

Now open from 10 am to 5 pm, March is a great time to visit VanDusen and check out some beautiful spring foliage – once the weather gets on the same page, that is. This month on the bloom calendar? A mix of winter berries, cherry blossoms, and if we’re lucky – some rhododendrons and magnolias as well.

Where: 5151 Oak Street
Cost: $8.90

Snowshoeing at Cypress

And now, for some winter sports options. But, if you’re ready to take a day trip this month, know that Cypress Mountain has got a serious amount of snowshoe trails for you to explore. Our advice? Check in with your more outdoorsy friends and family to secure a pair, and eliminate half the cost of a trip out!

When: Open until mid-April
Where: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver
Cost: $20 without rentals, $38 with snowshoe rentals

Hit up some coffee shops

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 hidden gems and classic coffee shops across Vancouver that would fit the bill this season. And if you want to go for the highest-rated cafe in the country (because why not?) – hit up Incognito for some exceptional espresso.

Where: Check out our picks above

Vancouver Giants

The Vancouver Giants are facing off against the Rockets this Friday, March 24th at the Arena Bowl at the Langley Events Centre. The good news? Tickets start at just over 20 bucks a pop.

When: Friday, March 24th
Where: 7888 200 Street Langley
Cost: $20

And that’s a wrap on this week, Vancouver! We hope it’s a great one.