This week’s a great one for live music, pumpkin patches, and of course – the amazing lineup of films at VIFF. So, if you’re looking for something fun to get up to after working hours this week, there are plenty of options. We’ll get right to it: Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (October 3-7).

The Black Keys 

 

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Emerging as one of the most popular ‘garage rock’ artists of the 2000s, there’s no question that The Black Keys have made their mark on the industry. If you’re not already a fan, you’ve definitely at least heard “Gold on the Ceiling” or “Lonely Boy” playing in your favourite TV show growing up.

When: Monday, October 3rd
Where: 800 Griffiths Way
Cost: $62.73

Florence & the Machine 

The same can be said for Florence + The Machine – even if you’re not an avid fan, you’ve heard their incredible music in media for over a decade now, and for good reason. The English indie rock band consists of vocalist Florence Welch, keyboardist Isabella Summers, guitarist Rob Ackroyd, harpist Tom Monger, and a collaboration of other musicians, making their sound as dynamic as they come.

When: Tuesday, October 4th
Where: 800 Griffiths Way
Cost: $58.50

Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) 

 

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The Vancouver International Film Festival is now in full swing for its 41st edition, and the OG in-cinema experience is finally back. Be sure to check out the amazing lineup of films and attend some of the viewings if you can! This year’s program includes 130 feature films and 100 shorts, which will be screening across seven venues around the city.

When: Thursday, September 29th, 2022 – Sunday, October 9th, 2022
Where: Multiple locations
Cost: Film screening tickets range from $15 – $17. Special events are priced separately.

Frozen River (nîkwatin sîpiy)

Carousel Theatre for Young People presents the award-winning story of two 11-year-olds (Wâpam, who is Cree, and Eilidh, who is Scottish) born under the same blood moon, but in different parts of the world. Grandmother Moon narrates the tale, which unfolds from the ancient forests of the past to present-day Manitoba. Written by Michaela Washburn, Joelle Peters, and Carrie Costello – nîkwatin sîpiy explores how reconciliation efforts and environmentalism are connected in a family-friendly play appropriate for all ages.

You can catch a showing on September 30th, as well as anytime between Wednesday, September 28th and October 16th at Waterfront Theatre.

When: Wednesday, September 28th to October 16th, excluding Mondays
Where: 1412 Cartwright Street
Cost: $35 for adults

Beaded Nostalgia at the Bill Reid Gallery 

The Bill Reid Gallery has a ton of inspiring exhibits right now, including Beaded Nostalgia – a look into the past through the use of contemporary beadwork. Artists Audie Murray (Michif), Hazel Wilson (Haida), Nico Williams (Anishinaabe), and Serena Steel (Secwepemc), each use their innovative beadwork to express feelings of nostalgia and connections to their own experiences.

Pro-tip: If you’re looking to check out the rest of the gallery, note that the gallery offers free admission from 2 to 5 pm on the first Friday of every month.

When: Open throughout October
Where: 639 Hornby Street
Cost: $13 GA

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BC Culture Days 

 

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From uncovering Vancouver’s lost architectural legacy to stories and exhibitions commemorating the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, BC Culture Days always has an array of free (and by-donation) offerings. Check out some live events going on this week, or tune in at home digitally.

Where: See locations at the link above

Take a scenic fall train ride

You can take a scenic ride through the historic Kettle Valley Steam Railway in the Okanagan until Monday, October 10th. So if you’re a fan of trains and learning about local history, this activity is a must. Enjoy the fall foliage and brush up on your local history while you do it!

When: Open until Monday, October 10th
Where: 18404 Bathville Road, Summerland, BC
Cost: $19-$29

Visit a pumpkin patch 

 

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It’s finally pumpkin patch season, and you know what that means. Hot apple cider, a variety of small and giant pumpkins to peruse, farm animals, and fun activities for all ages. Time to grab your friends and fam and head to your closest patch.

Where: Check out our picks above

Check out the Nitobe Memorial Garden

While there is no shortage of spots to enjoy the changing fall colours, we think this classic Japanese garden at UBC is the definition of an urban oasis. Nitobe is actually best experienced in the fall, as the trees turn to vibrant shades of orange and yellow. Bring a notebook and do some journaling or simply take a stroll and enjoy the beauty around you.

When: Open throughout October
Where: 1895 Lower Mall, UBC
Cost: $5

Cozy up on a covered patio 

 

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Come rain or shine, these spots will be there to help us weather through whatever comes our way. From bars to cafes to breweries – to every garden patio in between – there’s truly a spot for everyone on this list.

Where: See our picks above

And that’s it for this week, everyone. We hope you’re able to get outside and enjoy those first crisp October days while they’re here.