It’s the first weekend of May, and we’ve got a lot on our radar in terms of things to do. There are several exciting Cinco de Mayo celebrations happening around town, a new night market, and plenty to check out in the local art scene. We’ll get right to it: Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (May 5-7).
Indonesian Night Market
If you’ve ever wanted to try a ton of Indonesian eats and drinks all in one place, this weekend is the perfect chance to do just that. Pacific Arts Market is hosting a new night market, complete with batik fabric, food, drinks, and entertainment from Indonesia.
When: Saturday, May 6th
Where: 1448 West Broadway
Cost: $12 for VIP tickets
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
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From special menus to fiestas, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in the city this year. And if you’re looking for tasty deals to check out all day long, head over to La Taqueria for happy hour margs and mezcal flights!
Where: See our picks above
Free nights at Vancouver Art Gallery
Thanks to a new partnership with BMO, the Vancouver Art Gallery is set to launch free admission to the public on the first Friday of every month, from 4 pm to 8 pm. The first free Friday night will be on May 5th – so mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy some after-work art!
When: Friday, May 5th
Where: 750 Hornby Street
Visual Arts Open House and Pop-Up Opera
This coming month, Vancouver Civic Theatres is hosting a free pop-up opera show and open house in the lobbies of Queen Elizabeth Theatre. The free event will include a 2 pm artist talk and a performance at 3 pm by company members of the Vancouver Opera – so if you enjoy classical music, be sure to reserve your ticket online!
When: Saturday, May 6th
Where: 630 Hamilton Street
Bright Futures at the Bill Reid Gallery
Bright Futures is the Bill Reid Gallery’s newest exhibit, examining the lasting influence of the artist’s iconic work on the development of contemporary Northwest Coast art today. Alongside a selection of works from Bill Reid Gallery’s permanent collection, the group exhibition showcases works from 14 emerging and established artists from a broad variety of disciplines and cultures from throughout BC and the Yukon.
When: Open throughout May
Where: 639 Hornby Street
Hit up a weekend happy hour
With the sun shining and the blossoms blooming, it feels like patio season is already upon us. And if you’re looking for a fun spot to check out on the weekend, there are plenty of happy hours to take advantage of around the city. Whether you’re out shopping on Main or taking a stroll through Gastown, here are 8 of the best weekend happy hours to check out in Vancouver.
Where: See our picks above
Chilliwack Tulip Festival
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Speaking of tulips, the beloved Chilliwack Tulip Festival has officially returned with over seven million stunning tulips in bloom. If you’re looking to take in the spring colours and maybe get in a few family photos for the season, this is the perfect opportunity to do both.
When: Open from April 19th to three or four weeks later, 10 am to 6 pm daily
Where: 41310 Royalwood Drive, Chilliwack
Cost: $11.86 GA
Go on a dog-friendly hike
With so many beautiful spring hikes in BC to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down your top choices. Luckily, there are plenty near Vancouver that offer unparalleled views, for both you and your dog to enjoy!
Where: See our picks above
Swing by your local Farmer’s Market
You better believe that we think a trip to the farmers market is worthwhile any time of year, but especially so in the spring! Picking up great groceries from local producers? This requires no selling on our part.
Where: Locations around Vancouver
And that’s a wrap for this weekend, Vancouver! We hope it’s a great one.
