It’s officially the last few days of March, and we couldn’t be more excited to enter a full month of cherry blossom season. Coming up this weekend? The International Trans Day of Visibility, new art exhibits, and more. From a new Friday night paella series to seeing Pretty Women onstage, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (March 31-April 2).
Trans Rights Rally
Organized by teen activist 7ven Perks, this rally is an opportunity for the trans community and allies alike to come together and raise awareness of the importance of trans rights. Specifically, the right for trans youth to safely become trans adults.
“We want to send a message that trans people shouldn’t have to live in fear. I’ve organized the rally to help raise awareness of the issues trans people face and to help create a stronger sense of community. It’s important for me that nobody feels alone. I believe that building a strong community is crucial in achieving our goals of respect and equality,” says 7ven in a statement.
The rally will take place at Grandview Park on Friday, March 31st at 3:30 pm. Attendees are encouraged to bring banners and wear their trans pride colours in solidarity.
When: 3:30 pm on Friday, March 31st
Where: 1657 Charles Street
The Big Picnic
Every year, dozens of Akebono cherry trees bloom around the city, bringing people far and wide together to celebrate the season. Vancouver’s Cherry Blossom Festival is bringing back The Big Picnic to mark the occasion on Saturday, April 1st from 10 am to 4 pm.
When: Saturday, April 1st
Where: 1300 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: Free
Friday Night Paella Series
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Smitty’s Oyster House on Main just introduced a new weekly special on top of their late-night happy hour and weekend brunch menu: A month-long Friday Night Paella Series! With the first event under its belt on March 24th, the new series will feature a new paella recipe each Friday, available for guests to order starting at 7 pm.
When: Friday, March 31st, April 7th, and April 14th
Where: 3124 Main Street
2023 Home Design + Reno Show
Homebuilders Association Vancouver is hosting its annual Home Design & Reno Show at VanDusen this Saturday, April 1st. So if you’re interested in seeing the work of over 20 home designers, head there between 9:30 am and 4 pm. All you have to do is reserve your spot online!
When: Saturday, April 1st
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: Free
Pretty Women: The Musical
Based on the 1990 rom-com known for its iconic shopping scene with Julia Roberts, Pretty Women: The Musical is coming to Queen Elizabeth Theatre on Sunday, April 2nd. And not going to see it would certainly be a big mistake. Big. Huge!
When: Sunday, April 2nd
Where: 630 Hamilton Street
Cost: $164 USD+
Taylor Swift Dance Party: Midnights
“Run by Swifties, for Swifties.” This is the slogan and promise of this Taylor Swift-themed dance party, hosted by Levels Nightclub. Get ready to dance to some of the artist’s best works yet, with a portion of ticket proceeds going to charity.
When: Sunday, April 2nd
Where: 560 Seymour Street
Cost: $15.18 – $25
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Grab some Turkish coffee & pastries
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They say that Mediterranean-style breakfasts are some of the healthiest in the world. And while we want to echo that, we’ll also add that they’re some of the most delicious, too. From savoury Turkish pastries to flaky, pistachio-filled baklava, there are simply too many flavours to pick a favourite. And for the coffee lovers out there, you can’t go wrong with Turkish coffee, so here are our top picks.
Where: See our picks above
Hit up a farmers’ market
You may have noticed that a few farmers’ markets have started popping up, so why not stop by a couple? The weekend markets at Hastings Park and Riley Park are officially open, so now is a great time to load up on some fresh produce and get to know the vendors.
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Go on a waterfall hike
It might get drizzly this weekend, but that doesn’t mean you can’t layer up and enjoy a scenic waterfall hike. From Nairn Falls to Cascade Falls – here are some great picks to start with.
Where: See our picks above
Check out some free galleries & museums
High admission fees can be a barrier for many looking to access the local art and history scenes in Vancouver, so here are some spots around the city that offer a unique look into new artistic perspectives free of charge!
Where: See our picks above
And that’s a wrap for this weekend!
