As we near the end of the month, a ton of festive things to do around the city are on the horizon. Holiday lights, art festivals, and pop-up performances are just the start. And for folks who prefer to go a different route this week, we’ve got other fun options to toss your way. Without further ado, here are 10 of the best things to do around Vancouver this week (November 21-25).

Blue Rodeo 

The Toronto-born country rock band has truly had one of the most successful careers as a contemporary Canadian band, having released 16 full-length studio albums, four live recordings, and one ‘greatest hits’ album. Members of Blue Rodeo have a long history of collaborating with other Canadian greats, including Cowboy Junkies, Sarah McLachlan, Burton Cummings, and much more.

When: Tuesday, November 22nd
Where: 630 Hamilton Street
Cost: $42

Offside at Polygon Gallery (dir. Jafar Panahi)

free things to do vancouver november
Offside, via The Polygon Gallery

The Polygon in North Van has been screening feminist films from Iran all month long, and this week, you can watch Offside, directed by Jafar Panahi. Note that all films are in Persian, but will include English subtitles. Admission is by donation, and all screenings begin at 7 pm.

When: Every Thursday in November
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court
Cost: By donation

Tacofino Brewery Series

This Thursday, November 24th, Tacofino is officially bringing back its popular Brewery Dinner Series after a two-year hiatus. So mark your calendars and get ready to feast on delicious eats and local brews from Strange Fellows Brewing.

When: Thursday, November 24th
Where: 8 East 5th Avenue
Cost: $64.67

Lumière Festival

For holiday lights with an artistic twist, check out Lumière’s free art festival downtown. This year’s event will feature over 55 artists and performers, illuminated Dream beacons, pop-up performances, workshops, and neighbourhood parades. Each night of the festival will take place in a different location and feature different artists – so no two nights will be the same!

When: Thursday, November 17th to Sunday, November 27th
Where: Locations throughout downtown Vancouver

Glow Gardens Langley

ICYMI, Glow Langley is a beloved annual event that brings over one million cascading lights to Langley. This year’s theme? “The Jolly Jumble,” which features a scavenger hunt, a holiday train ride, pictures with Santa, and much more. And the holiday light festivities are kicking off this Wednesday, November 23rd.

When: Wednesday, November 23rd to December 31st
Where: 6690 216 Street, Langley
Cost: $20-$70+

Reflections: The Winter Terrace

The Winter Terrace at Rosewood Hotel Georgia is officially open for the season, which means you can enjoy some tasty mules, Baileys drinks, and more under cozy lights and surrounded by festive decor.

When: Now open
Where: 801 West Georgia Street

Alan Walker

There are limited tickets left to one of the hottest tickets in town: Alan Walker’s WalkerVerse Tour at the Harbour Event & Convention Centre. The British-Norwegian record producer is known for his EDM single “Faded,” among many other hits. Check back in for the release of the next tier of tickets!

When: Friday, November 25th
Where: 760 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $$36.39 to $57.98

Catch a FIFA match 

After 36 years, Team Canada has finally secured their spot in the FIFA World Cup. And you better believe that sports bars across the country are going all out to celebrate. So, soccer/football fans, check in with your fave local bars and watering holes, or use this list as a guide for where to catch a match this week.

Where: See our picks above

DanceHouse presents Paris Opera Ballet

And if you’re looking to curl up at home instead but don’t want to miss out on the arts & culture scene – consider streaming Play by Alexander Ekman. Performed by the Paris Opera, the show has transformed the historic Palais Garnier into a massive playground for 36 dancers, all of whom are encouraged to improvise with creative sets & elements at their disposal. From now until November 27th, this visually magnificent performance can be streamed online via DanceHouse + Digidance.

When: November 7th to November 27th
Where: Virtual
Cost: $16.14 for one person, $26.14 for one household

Go on a fall hike

BC is absolutely stunning in autumn, and the season is nearing its end soon. So if you haven’t already planned a colourful hike, now’s your chance. Just don’t forget your layers and rain gear!

Where: Check out our picks above

And that’s a wrap on the week, folks.