A no messing around guide to the coolest things to eat, drink and do in Vancouver and beyond. Community. Not clickbait.

‘Vancouver Mural Festival’ Gets Set To Take Over Main Street — August 20th

unnamed

One of the most compelling facets of living in any big city is the constant exposure to art. From gallery openings on The Flats to street musicians serenading Granville Island crowds, there is a broad appreciation for art in our neck of the woods. But we could always use more.

Create Vancouver Society – in conjunction with the City of Vancouver, the Mount Pleasant BIA, and the Burrard Arts Foundation – thought as much, and we’re stoked they’re making an effort to better beautify our city walls with the inaugural Vancouver Mural Festival. Head to Main Street in late August to join 100,000 of your closest friends in celebration of an increase in the public art we’re always wanting more of. It’ll be one big party devoted to interactive art, live music, appreciating process and revering its results. Watch local and international artists at work as they create over 35 new permanent murals to decorate the Mount Pleasant and False Creek Flats communities.

The daytime programming will mean street closures along Main Street between 7th Ave and 12th Ave for performances, interactive art exhibits, community projects, markets and more. Thornton Park will also host a market, art installations and a lounge for festivalgoers to relax and take break from the sun. Music and art’s deep connection will be reinforced with 5 free outdoor stages, the two biggest being the famous Red Bull Tour Bus and the Truckstop Tailgate Party at the Red Truck Brewery on East 1st Ave.

Saturday, August 20th | 12pm to 7:00pm | Main Street between 7th & 12th | Free

EXPLORE THIS NEIGHBOURHOOD

The Garden Adds a Long-Overdue Wine Bar Energy to Strathcona

The Garden in Strathcona has expanded into evening service, adding wine, cocktails, and a menu of share plates to its familiar café-and-retail setup.

THIS Gallery’s $200 Art Show Opens Friday, May 15

More than fifty artists. Every work priced at $200. THIS Gallery’s upcoming fundraiser exhibition turns small-scale sculpture into something energetic, accessible, and worth showing up for.

Casa Molina Is Throwing a Proper Spanish Party This Sunday

Paella pans, hand-carved jamón, vermut, gin & tonics, and laughter drifting between tables. Casa Molina is turning two this Sunday and throwing a full-day Spanish taberna-style party to mark it.

Villa Lobos: Meet the Crew Behind the Next Dinner at Pizza Coming Soon

There’s something refreshing about young people building something together outside the usual scroll. Villa Lobos feels like a reminder of why people get into hospitality in the first place. A few tickets are still up for grabs. Meet the crew...