Welcome to the first full week of March, everyone! We’ve got the first Vegan Night Market of the year on the roster, as well as two concerts, a local film fest, and more. Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (March 4-8).

Rise Film Festival

Film lovers can check out the creative works of CapU filmmakers at the Nat and Flora Bosa Centre on Thursday, March 7th. In addition to a red carpet, the event will include film screenings starting at 5:30 pm, followed by Q&A sessions with the filmmakers.

When: Thursday, March 7th
Where: 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission

Vegan Night Market

Peaces’ Vegan Night Market kicks off on March 7th, with monthly markets to follow on the first Thursday of every month. The beloved plant-based, pet-friendly market will feature delicious eats and drinks, cruelty-free clothing and cosmetics, and much more.

While it’s still too early to talk vendors, the night market promises an “unforgettable evening” with “mouthwatering dishes crafted by local chefs.” And if last year’s markets are any indication, we’re in for everything from plant-based tacos and Chickpea fries to desserts.

When: Thursday, March 7th and every first Thursday of the month
Where: 1489 East Hastings Street
Cost: $4 minimum donation

Sponsored pick: Birdies Charcoal Grill  

This line-up-worthy takeout spot has locals losing their minds over their Peruvian-style chicken. Birdies Charcoal Grill has made their name known for its beer-brined chicken, Peruvian marinades, eclectic side dishes and world-travelled chicken sauces. You can order their ‘Birdies’ from your go-to delivery app, or visit them in person at their take-out on East Hastings.

When: Open 12 pm – 9 pm, Tuesday – Sunday
Where: 1205 East Hastings
Cost: See menu for pricing

Nicky Romero

Known professionally as Nicky Romero or Monocule – this Dutch DJ and remixer has worked with everyone from Tiësto to David Guetta, to Avicii, and has certainly carved his own path in the industry. Get ready for familiar tunes, magnetic energy, and tons of dancing.

When: Friday, March 8th
Where: Harbour Event & Convention Centre
Cost: $42.89

LANY 

This American pop-rock band is from LA, but was formed in Nashville in 2014, consisting of members Paul Jason Klein, Jake Clifford Goss, and Leslie Priest. Since the band’s inception, they’ve put out three ‘top 5’ albums: “LANY,” “Malibu Nights,” and “Mama’s Boy.”

When: Friday, March 8th
Where: Harbour Event & Convention Centre
Cost: $69.50

Sponsored pick: Industry Apizza

Canada’s first New Haven-style pizza place just opened, and it’s right here in Vancouver! The trending New Haven-style pizza craze is taking the US by storm, and now Industry Apizza is bringing this thinner, crisper, and fire-charred slice to town. Apizza – it’s not a typo! It’s pronounced “ah’BEETZ” and it’s delicious. Check out the new location on Commerical Drive, available for dine-in, pick-up, or delivery through all major delivery apps.

When: Open daily
Where: 2360 Commercial Dr, Vancouver (Inside of St. Augustine’s)

The Road to Dublin: Jameson Distillery Pop-up Bars

Now in its second year, The Road to Dublin will bring the spirit (and spirits) of St. Patrick’s Day to two Freehouse Collective locations in Toronto and Vancouver respectively, and Vancouver’s location will be at The Ballyhoo.

Here, visitors can enjoy curated menus inspired by the famed Jameson Distillery in Dublin, enjoy live music, and participate in cocktail-making seminars. Oh, and the chance to win a trip for two to Dublin and a VIP Jameson experience!

When: March 1st to 17th
Where: The Ballyhoo, Vancouver

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: $9.80

Go skiing

It won’t be long before the winter snow melts away, so now is a great time to enjoy some March madness on the slopes. All three of Metro Vancouver’s mountains offer great, close-to-home on-piste options.

When: Open throughout March
Where: 1700 Mt Seymour Road, North Vancouver, 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver and 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver

And that’s a wrap on the week, Vancouver! Enjoy!