35 things to do in Vancouver this week: August 20 to 24

Jul 31 2018, 10:52 pm

August is flying by, so fill your time with these 35 events happening in Vancouver from Monday, August 20 to Friday, August 24. Titanic in Stanley Park, The Chilliwack Sunflower Festival, and more.

For even more things happening around town check out our events section.

Monday, August 20, 2018

The International DOTA 2 Tournament 2018

DOTA2

DOTA2 held at Seattle’s Key Arena in 2017. (DOTA2 / Instagram)

  • What: The tournament is the largest annual eSports tournament in the world and one of the most prestigious with a prize pool of about US$25 million during last year’s iteration of the tournament, with the first place winner taking home nearly US$10.9 million.
  • When: Monday, August 20 to Saturday, August 25, 2018
  • Times: Various times
  • Where: Roger Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
  • Tickets: Online $125 for midweek (first four days) and $250 for the finals (last two days)

A Paranormal Evening With Alice Cooper

  • What: Alice Cooper pioneered a grandly theatrical brand of hard rock that was designed to shock. Drawing equally from horror movies, vaudeville, and garage rock, the group has rattled the cages and undermined the authority of generations of guardians of the status quo, continuing to surprise fans and exude danger at every turn.
  • When: Monday, August 20, 2018
  • Time: Doors 6:30 pm, show 8 pm
  • Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 600 Block Hamilton Street, Vancouver
  • Admission:  Free

Post A Letter – Social Activity Club Meeting

  • What: Come in a write a card or letter to someone special. We will supply writing materials and stamps at a pay what you can basis. Organized by Post A Letter Social Activity Club.
  • When: Monday, August 20, 2018
  • Time: 7:30 to 10 pm
  • Where: Cartems Donuts – 2190 Main Street, Vancouver
  • Admission: Free

Discover the Birds of Lost Lagoon

  • What: Learn about the natural history of Lost Lagoon and its ecological role for birds within Stanley Park, and the larger Pacific Flyway, on this two-hour walking tour. For beginner to intermediate birders.
  • When: Monday, August 20, 2018
  • Time: 7 to 9 pm
  • Where: Meet at Stanley Park Nature House on Lost Lagoon
  • Tickets: $16.10

The Adventures of Prince Achmed

  • What: CineFest LIVE at the Vancouver Biennale presents “Pioneers in Cinema” outdoor film screening series on Monday evenings. August 20 features  the world’s oldest surviving animated feature film, The Adventures of Prince Achmed. The film is preceded by the featurette, Lotte That Silhouette Girl. Bring a lawn chair.
  • When: Monday, August 20, 2018
  • Time: Seating starts at 7pm, movie starts at dusk
  • Where: Leg in Boot Square (Market Hill and the Seawall, near Stamp’s Landing
  • Admission: Free

Free Outdoor Zumba

  • What: Take part in a free outdoor Zumba class every Monday with ZumbaVancouver.ca instructors. Produced by Vancouver Civic Theatre. 
  • When: Every Monday until August 20, 2018
  • Time: 5:30 pm
  • Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 600 Block Hamilton Street, Vancouver
  • Admission: Free

The MBA Tour – Vancouver 2018

Harvard University/Facebook

  • What: Hear from and meet reps from the world’s leading universities at The MBA Tour taking place at the Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront. Every MBA Tour event is limited to a carefully selected group of business schools which are reviewed and approved by an advisory board of peers. So you can expect to meet reps from only the top schools: Columbia University, Harvard University, IE Business School, Ivey Business School, McGill University, National University of Singapore, New York Institute of Technology, Oregon State University, Queen’s University, Rice University, Simon Fraser University, Thompson Rivers University, University of British Columbia, University of Calgary, University of Southern California, University of Toronto, University of Victoria, Vanderbilt University, and York University – Schulich School of Business.
  • When: Monday, August 20, 2018
  • Time: 5 to 9:30 pm
  • Where: Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront – 1128 West Hastings Street
  • Price: FREE registration – Register via The MBA Tour

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Free outdoor movies in Stanley Park – Titanic

  • What: Watch Titanic at Stanley Park, part of Evo Summer Cinema Series’ 10th Anniversary. Enjoy the film on a four-story inflatable movie screen. Please bring your own blankets and/or lawn chairs and, since it’s a family-friendly event, smoking or alcohol is not permitted. Moviegoers are encouraged to walk, take transit, or bike to Stanley Park for the shows  – there will be a bike valet service offered on site each night too.
  • When: Tuesday, August 21, 2018
  • Time: Dusk
  • Where: Ceperley Meadows near Second Beach, Stanley Park
  • Admission: Free

Powerglove with Runaway Four and 20Six Hundred

  • What: TV game metal legends Powerglove will be playing classic Nintendo tunes with a metal spin on it. Featuring special guests Runaway Four and 20Six Hundred.
  • When: Tuesday, August 21, 2018
  • Time: 7 pm
  • Where: Rickshaw Theatre – 254 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
  • Tickets: Online, $17

CRAFT Caskapalooza 2018

  • What: Caskapalooza is back for another year, so head here for a night of fun, socializing, and sampling – featuring over 30 unique casks. Tickets are $25 and include 12 sample tokens and entertainment.
  • When: Tuesday, August 21, 2018.
  • Time: 4 to 8 pm
  • Where: Craft Beer Market – 85 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver
  • Price: $28; buy online

The Fair at the PNE – Free Gate Admission

  • What: Since 1910, millions of guests have enjoyed shows, exhibits, sporting events, amusement rides, concerts, cultural activities and, of course, the annual summer Fair at the PNE. Explore exhibits, enjoy live performances, be thrilled by rides, play games, learn about livestock, shop for treasures, and eat the yummiest food all in one place. YVR is sponsoring FREE Gate Admission for all Guests on August 21 from 11 am to 1 pm.
  • When: Tuesday, August 21 and Tuesday, August 28, 2018
  • Time: 11 am to 1 pm, The Fair is open until late
  • Where: The Fair at the PNE – 2901 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
  • Tickets: Online

Off The Grid

  • What: Musicians perform, improvise and react to other players and the overall sound that is produced. New musicians and listeners are welcome.
  • When: Tuesday, August 21, 2018
  • Time: 7 to 9 pm
  • Where: Gathering Place – 200 – 2253 Leigh Square Place, Port Coquitlam
  • Admission: Free

Exploring opportunities to grow BC tourism

Cruise Ship / Shutterstock

The Emerald Princess berthed at Vancouver’s Canada Place. (Shutterstock)

  • What: Learn about the data-driven decision-making, trends, and disruptive technologies that are transforming the tourism industry. Hear where the major players in BC’s tourism industry are finding new opportunities for growth and how they are building strong brands. Gain insights into how the tourism industry is reacting to shifting political landscapes – at home and abroad.
  • When: Tuesday, August 21, 2018
  • Time: 11 am to 12:30 pm
  • Where: Vancouver Club – Grand Ballroom 915 West Hastings Street, Vancouver
  • Tickets: Online, $69-$138 plus GST

Twilight Tuesdays at Science World

  • What: While school may be out for the summer, there are still ample learning opportunities to be had, thanks to the return of Twilight Tuesdays at Science World. Until August 28, patrons can enjoy extended hours every Tuesday at Science World, from 5 pm to 9 pm, while exploring the exhibits, catching a live science show, or viewing a larger-than-life OMNIMAX film.
  • When: Every Tuesday until August 28, 2018
  • Time: 5 to 9 pm
  • Where: Telus World of Science – 1455 Quebec Street, Vancouver
  • Tickets: Online

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

The Chilliwack Sunflower Festival

Sunflowers ( salajean / Shutterstock)

  • What: Stroll through more than five acres of sunflowers in bloom. On-leash pets will also be welcome, with a dedicated drinking area and complimentary pick-up bags on-site. Attractions include a one-acre show garden with 15 varieties of sunflowers three-acres filled with giant sunflowers, photo-ops with swing sets, lawn games, local food trucks and more.
  • When: Wednesday, August 22 to Sunday, September 16, 2018 (estimated)
  • Time: Monday to Thursday, 10 am to sunset; Friday to Sunday, 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset
  • Where: 41310 Yale Road, Chilliwack
  • Tickets: Online

Starlight Theatre at Lansdowne Centre – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

  • What: The Drive-In Movie Series returns to Lansdowne Centre for its third year, presented by Fresh Air Cinema. Enjoy Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 on an outdoor screen. Take a drive and cuddle up, or bring a blanket and lawn chair and settle in. Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis (first 200 vehicles), and the movie audio will be broadcast over FM radio. Keep in mind that this is a family-friendly event, so smoking and alcohol are strictly prohibited.
  • When: Wednesday, August 22, 2018
  • Time: Sunset (gates open at 6 pm)
  • Where: Lansdowne Centre, west parking lot – 5300 No. 3 Road, Richmond
  • Admission: Free

Alice in Chains

  • What: Seattle rock legends Alice in Chains perform at Queen Elizabeth Theatre with guests.
  • When: Wednesday, August 22, 2018
  • Time: 12 to 9 pm
  • Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 600 Block Hamilton Street, Vancouver
  • Tickets: Online

Chris Locke

chris-locke-image-jon-sturgel

Image: Jon Sturgel

  • What: Chris Locke takes over Little Mountain Gallery for a night of comedy with guests Graham Clark, Fatima Dhowre, Ryan Williams and Jenny Toews. Hosted by Ryan Biel and Aaron Read.
  • When: Wednesday, August 22, 2018
  • Time: 9 pm
  • Where: Little Mountain Gallery – 195 East 26th Avenue, Vancouver
  • Tickets: $10

The 2nd Annual East Van Cider Fest

  • What: The evening will feature cider, mead, and spirits from all over BC along with tasty bites from local businesses.
  • When: Wednesday, August 22, 2018
  • Time: 7 to 9 pm
  • Where: The Wise Hall & Lounge – 1882 Adanac Street, Vancouver
  • Price: $29.99 plus a non-perishable food donation, proceeds will benefit the GVFBS and tickets are available at all Liberty Wine Merchants locations

Surrey Urban Farmers’ Market

  • What: A vibrant, multi-cultural Farmers’ Market, promoting small-scale farmers, food producers, and artisans. Meet farmers, bakers, distillers, artisan and crafters, food trucks, community groups, and more.
  • When: Every Wednesday to October 3, 2018
  • Time: 2 to 6 pm
  • Where: North Surrey Rec Centre – 10275 City Parkway, Surrey
  • Admission: Free

Summer Movie Nights on the Square – La La Land

  • What: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (formerly Vancouver Art Gallery’s North Plaza) hosts Summer Movie Nights on the Square. Watch La La Land on Fresh Air Cinema’s large, four-storey inflatable screen – just be sure to bring your lawn chairs and/or blankets.
  • When: Wednesday, August 22, 2018
  • Time: Activities begin at 5 pm, movie begins at sunset (check sunset times as that will be your best indication of when movies will start)
  • Where: šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (formerly North Plaza at Vancouver Art Gallery) – 850 W Georgia Street, Vancouver
  • Admission: Free

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Waterfront Cinema at Canada Place – Black Panther

  • What: Each week at dusk, a large inflatable screen will pop up, creating the perfect environment to take in a flick under the stars, all with the North Shore mountains in the background. Enjoy the screening of Black Panther, and keep in mind that this is a family-friendly event so neither smoking nor alcohol are permitted.
  • When: Thursday, August 23, 2018
  • Start time: Dusk
  • Where: North Point of Canada Place
  • Admission: Free

Herobust

  • What: Feel the ground shake with Herobust (Mad Decent) as he brings his unique blend of underground hip-hop aesthetics with bass-heavy dancefloor beats to VENUE.
  • When: Thursday, August 23, 2018
  • Time: Doors 10 pm
  • Where: VENUE – 881 Granville Street, Vancouver
  • Tickets: Online, $25-$30

Vancouver Job Fair

  • What: Meet face to face with recruiters, HR Managers and Hiring Companies from the Vancouver Area and across Ontario.
  • When: Thursday, August 23, 2018
  • Time: 1 to 4 pm
  • Where: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver – 900 West Georgia Street, Vancouver
  • Registration: Online, Free

Le Dîner en Blanc Vancouver 2018

Diner En Blanc Vancouver 2018 contest

Photo courtesy The Social Concierge

Fair at the PNE 2018 Concerts

  • What: PNE Fairgoers will enjoy sensational performances this year including Pop, Rock, Country, and R&B as well as throwback 80s and 90s concerts. The Summer Night Concerts will run every evening that the Fair is open, starting on Saturday, August 18 in the PNE Amphitheatre.
  • When: Now to Monday, September 3, 2018 (closed August 27)
  • Time: Nightly at 8:30 pm
  • Where: The Fair at the PNE – 2901 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
  • Admission: Each concert is free with gate admission to the fairgrounds. However, music fans looking for a more optimal viewing experience of the concerts can acquire reserved seats starting at $20.

Ben Harper and Charlie Musselwhite

Ben Harper

Ben Harper and Charles Musselwhite (A.PAES / Shutterstock)

  • What: Known for his eclectic mix of soul, folk rock music, guitarist skills, activism and unique vocals, Ben Harper will be playing the Orpheum with Charlie Musselwhite. The show is part of Harper’s latest tour as he and Musselwhite hit the road to promote their new collaboration album, No Mercy in This Land.
  • When: Thursday, August 23, 2018
  • Time: Doors 6:30 pm, Show 7:30 pm
  • Where: The Orpheum – 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver
  • Tickets: $35 to $75, available online

Movies at Civic Square – Cars

  • What: Bring a blanket, find a spot on the lawn and enjoy Cars on the big screen at Burnaby’s Civic Square.
  • When: Thursday, August 23, 2018
  • Time: 8:30 pm
  • Where: Bob Prittie Library – Metrotown Branch at Kingsborough and MacKay
  • Admission: Free

Friday, August 24, 2018

Safe & Sound Music Fest

Safe & Sound Music Fest 2017/Just Jash

  • What: Safe & Sound Fest kicks off on Friday with an awesome lineup featuring artists like Vince Staples, Goldlink, Sabrina Claudio, LNDN DRGS, Manila Grey, Sophia Danai, Side, Kenny Gourmet, The Freshest DJs, Floetic, Houtz, and Jay Swing. On Saturday you’ll get to hear performances by Anderson Paak & The Free Nationals, Alina Baraz, SonReal, Rico Nasty, Anders, Tobi Lou, Trill Sammy, So Loki, Angst, Kandy K, Goldstepz, The SJS Crew, Hedspin, Nina Mendoza, Arems & Hoppa, and Raiden.
  • When: Friday, August 24 to Saturday, August 25, 2018
  • Time: 2 to 11 pm (Friday) and 1 to 11 pm (Saturday)
  • Where: Westminster Pier Park, New Westminster
  • Tickets: $59.99 to $249.99 – Available via Safe & Sound Fest

The Curated Grid

  • What: An Instagram Workshop for the creative entrepreneur. The Curated Grid is a one-day intensive workshop designed for creative entrepreneurs who are looking to step up their Instagram game in today’s highly competitive social media market.
  • When: Friday, August 24, 2018
  • Time: 9 am to 2 pm
  • Where: Concious Lab – #200 422 Richards St., Vancouver,
  • Register: Online, $250

OH! Science World Public Light Control 2018

  • What: Vancouver-based experimental design firm Tangible Interaction is teaming up with Science World again to return the ‘OH!’ light control orb to the Olympic Village seawall. The interactive art installation allows participants to control one of Vancouver’s most renowned landmarks by changing the lights on its geodesic dome. Six different animations with variations in colours and patterns, including sparkles, bands, and waves, can be made.
  • When: Now to Friday, August 24, 2018
  • When: 9 pm to 11 pm
  • Where: 1 Athletes Way, Vancouver (False Creek seawall across from Tap & Barrel in the Olympic Village)
  • Cost: Free

Joe Rogan

  • What: The infamous UFC colour commentator is heading to Abbotsford this summer, not to sit ring-side, but to put on a show of his very own. The Stranger Times 2018 tour is Rogan’s North America comedy tour. This isn’t Rogan’s first jaunt into the world of comedy, as he has been working as a standup comedian for more than 20 years, and even has an hour-long comedy special, Joe Rogan: Triggered, that fans can check out on Netflix.
  • When: Friday, August 24, 2018
  • Time: 7:30 pm
  • Where: Abbotsford Centre – 33800 King Road, Abbotsford
  • Tickets: Available online, starting at $50

Live at the Gallery featuring Chris Blaber and Arthur Delahooke

  • What: Live at the Gallery brings music into the gallery setting, to connect fans of visual and musical arts. The event is an exciting mix of art and sound, from the sweet sounds of classical music to chilled out beats of local folk bands. This month’s concert features artists Chris Blaber and Arthur Delahooke.
  • When: Friday, August 24, 2018
  • Time: 7 pm
  • Where: Deer Lake Gallery – 6584 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
  • Admission: Free

Unibrow Arts Festival

  • What: Vancouver’s first comedy + zine fest. Local talent will shake things up across an array of venues up and down Main Street, with comedy, zine markets, exhibitions, interactive caricature drawing, brunch, dance parties, a limited-edition festival zine, and more.
  • When: Friday, August 24 to Monday, August 27, 2018
  • Time: Various times
  • Where: Various locations
  • More Info: Online

Fridays on Front

Weekly food events

@downtownnewwest/Instagram

  • What: Fridays on Front features artisan vendors from New West Craft, live music curated by the New Westminster Arts Council, and Food Trucks from the Columbia StrEAT Food Truck Fest. Steel & Oak Brewing Co. is also on site so you can enjoy a cold beer while strolling around, thanks to a fully-licensed Front Street during the event.
  • When: Fridays from now to August 24, 2018
  • Time: 5 to 10 pm
  • Where: 600-block of Front Street, New Westminister
  • Admission: Free
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