5 free artsy events to check out during Culture Days this weekend

Vancouver is world-renowned for its thriving arts and culture scene. And this weekend, you’ll have the chance to explore our amazing community – for free.

That’s all thanks to Culture Days, an annual celebration of arts and culture across Canada, which will feature over 60 free events right here in Metro Vancouver.

From an interactive workshop with a professional dancer, to a night-time art adventure through Mount Pleasant, to sailing on a pirate ship along the Vancouver waterfront, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Here are five top picks to check out at this year’s event:

ROVE- A Mount Pleasant Art Walk

ROVE is a one-night adventure through the streets of Mount Pleasant, where you’ll get to experience art in a variety of styles, forms and locations. On Friday September 30, head down to any one of the locations on the official ROVE map. You’ll experience an eclectic mix of hip galleries, artist studios and curated art spaces. Cap off your night with the official after party starting at 10 pm at the Projection Room, located above the Fox Cabaret.

When: Friday September 30, 6 – 10pm
Where: Various locations throughout Mount Pleasant

Image: Culture Days 2015 / Amanda Shatzko

Body Talk

Do you ever wonder what goes on inside a dancer’s mind? Are you ever curious about what it feels like to be a dancer? Well now you can find out thanks to Body Talk. Hosted by dancer Deanna Peters, Body Talk, is an audience participation workshop that incorporates interactive physical movement, a multi-media installation, and some expert knowledge from a well-respected dance professional. Get a true behind-the-scenes look at the demanding and exciting world of a dancer.

When: Friday September 30, 6:15 – 7:45pm; Saturday October 1, 10:15 – 11:45am; Sunday, October 2 2:15 – 3:45pm
Where: The Dance Centre (downtown)

Cloudscape Big Draw Comics Jams

Musicians aren’t the only folks who can jam together. In fact, comic artists know how to crush it with their comic creation jams. On Saturday October 1, anyone and everyone is invited to the Cloudscape Big Draw Comics Jams event. Bring your creativity down to the Memorial South Park Fieldhouse and add your flavour to a giant original comic. Pencils and ink will be provided and you’ll add your sketches to a large section of Tyvek (high-density polyethylene fibre) that will eventually be installed on the fence outside of Cloudscape Comics.

When: Saturday October 1, 10am – 2pm
Where: Memorial South Park Fieldhouse (South Vancouver)

Water’s Edge Day

The beauty and magnificence of Vancouver’s waterfront is part of what makes YVR so special. On October 1, the Georgia Strait Alliance and the Vancouver Maritime Museum invite you to join them for the third annual Water’s Edge Day. A number of family-friendly water activities such as paddling in kayaks, dragon boats and traditional Tsleil-Waututh canoes will be in full swing. What better way to celebrate the awesomeness of H2O?

When: Saturday October 1, 10am – 4pm
Where: Vancouver Maritime Museum (Kitsilano)

Image: Culture Days 2015 / Bob Orchard

Tour of the Arts Club Theatre Company’s Granville Island Stage

Do you ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at the Arts Club Theatre Company? For one day only, experience an exclusive backstage tour of The Granville Island Stage where the company’s next show, The Flick, is getting ready for opening night. You’ll also tour the production shop where all the sets and props are created. Yes folks, this is where the theatrical magic happens.

When: Sunday October 2, 11am – 2pm
Where: Granville Island Stage

Visit Culture Days BC for more information and a complete list of events.