https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/ Latest articles from Daily Hive Vancouver en-us © 2026 Tue, 19 May 2026 02:03:26 GMT jsonfeed-to-rss 3.0.7 (https://github.com/bcomnes/jsonfeed-to-rss#readme) http://www.rssboard.org/rss-specification https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/king-george-boulevard-brt-translink-cost-escalation Kenneth Chan The estimated cost to build the proposed King George Boulevard Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line is now considerably more than what was originally estimated. This is TransLink’s project to build a 19-km-long rapid transit route along the King George Boulevard corridor between SkyTrain’s Surrey Central Station in Surrey City Centre and Semiahmoo Town Centre in South Surrey. Articulated buses would operate on their own right-of-way, using bus-only lanes along 90 per cent of the route outside of the Serpentine River agricultural zone. In addition the dedicated lanes, the buses would benefit from traffic signal priority at intersections. A total of 12 BRT stations would be built along the route, with long station structures  — each resembling a street-level Light Rail Transit (LRT) train station — providing extensive overhead weather protection for waiting passengers, and digital displays offering real-time, next bus times and other pertinent information. You might also like: - Surrey City Council narrowly approves King George Boulevard BRT concept, reignites SkyTrain and LRT debate - Surrey mayoral candidate suggests building LRT instead of King George Boulevard BRT - Surrey mayoral candidate calls for SkyTrain study to South Surrey, more BRT lines - Prototype Bus Rapid Transit station to be built next to King George Station in Surrey - Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension hits major project milestone - TransLink's R2 RapidBus to be extended from North Shore to Metrotown this September According to TransLink, with such bus-priority measures, the King George Boulevard BRT could have a consistent end-to-end travel time of about 40 minutes, making it as fast — or faster than — driving during the busiest periods of the day. During peak periods, travel times between the key northern segment of Surrey Central Station and Newton (72 Avenue) will be under 15 minutes, down from about 25 minutes on the existing R1 King George Boulevard RapidBus, which would be replaced by this BRT. During peak hours, BRT buses will run at frequencies of up to every five minutes. TransLink forecasts the ridership on this BRT line could reach over 25,000 riders per day by 2035. In 2024, the existing R1 RapidBus saw average boardings of over 15,000 per weekday. However, the estimated costs of building BRT — driven by the cost of major road construction works — have steadily climbed over the years. In 2022, during the very early stages of planning BRT, a figure of $15 million per km of BRT was touted as being a more cost-effective rapid transit solution that can be implemented in a much quicker timeline, providing services to meet short- to medium-term demand, compared to $400 million per km of SkyTrain and the associated longer design, planning, and construction timelines. At that juncture, this put King George Boulevard BRT at a total cost of approximately $300 million. In its submission to the federal government in 2023 requesting funding, TransLink estimated its first three BRT lines could each cost between $250 million and $300 million. During TransLink’s public consultation in early 2026 on the preliminary design of both the King George Boulevard BRT and the 22-km-long Langley-Haney Place BRT, the estimated cost was pegged at $20 million for each km of BRT built. At that juncture, King George Boulevard BRT carried a total cost of about $380 million and Langley-Haney Place at approximately $420 million. “WE HAVE TO BE HONEST ABOUT THE COST” The cost of the King George Boulevard BRT has since grown even further, with Surrey mayor Brenda Locke revealing on Thursday that TransLink now anticipates the project will cost about $700 million — or roughly $37 million per km. “We have to be honest about the cost. As I understand it, the most up-to-date rough estimate for a 19-km BRT line is about $700 million,” said Locke during her State of the City address to the business community. “TransLink didn’t want to say it. I don’t blame them,” she continued, before emphasizing that she still believes BRT’s lower-cost and quicker approach is pragmatic at this time, as it acknowledges the current challenging financial realities of TransLink and the Government of British Columbia and the desire to provide improved public transit services sooner than later. At this time, the provincial government has yet to fully approve the BRT concept and provide the necessary funding for it. This comes against the backdrop of the provincial government’s new pivot beginning in the 2026 budget of slowing the pace of its capital spending — construction projects on new facilities and infrastructure — in an effort to better control the accumulation of staggering provincial debt, and the resulting high interest payments on debt that add to the province’s annual operating deficits and overall debt. Some of the most significant capital project cuts relate to the delays to building the multibillion dollar second phase of the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment. “We need transit that will be funded, and while the province has not yet announced the BRT funding, we need to be realistic about the fiscal environment we are in as a province. With the province facing a $13 billion deficit, a new multi-billion dollar SkyTrain or LRT line is simply not going to happen any time soon, and Surrey can’t wait that long for a north-south rapid transit,” the mayor continued. “FRANKLY, LRT MAKES ZERO SENSE ANYWAY” She further asserted that building this 19-km-long rapid transit project along the same King George Boulevard corridor using more complex modes such as LRT would cost about $4 billion, while SkyTrain would cost more than $8 billion. In the same breath, she dismissed LRT, deeming it a higher-cost option that functions similarly to BRT but with fixed rails. “Frankly, LRT makes zero sense anyway. For Surrey, it would operate very much like BRT, but on tracks. So realistically, LRT would take more than a decade to complete, SkyTrain would probably take more than two decades to complete, and those are very, very different scenarios, very, very different numbers and timelines,” said Locke. “I will always fight for Surrey’s fair share and leadership. Leadership also has to be very practical and pragmatic. We do need transit that can be built now. Surrey needs it now.” She suggests that over the longer run, she would like to see BRT replaced with a SkyTrain extension, with the right-of-way space created of BRT repurposed for SkyTrain. “BRT is the practical path forward. It can be delivered in a few years at a significantly lower cost, and it gives residents real service much sooner. It also protects the long-term vision by laying the foundation for a future SkyTrain corridor if the provincial funding becomes available, and that is where Surrey ultimately chooses to go,” continued Locke. In response to an inquiry from Daily Hive Urbanized, TransLink spokesperson Dan Mountain confirmed that the BRT costs have seen an increase due to market inflation, and emphasized the importance of securing the necessary funding from senior governments to prevent any further cost escalation from waiting. He also noted that even though BRT now carries a higher cost, it is still the most cost-effective rapid transit option at this time. “TransLink’s original preliminary estimate for each bus rapid transit route was approximately $400 million. While updated costs will be confirmed through the detailed design phase, project costs are expected to be higher than those initial estimates due to inflationary pressures since they were developed,” Mountain told Daily Hive Urbanized. “BRT remains the most cost-effective option among rapid transit alternatives, and securing funding as soon as possible is critical to help manage further cost escalation,” added Mountain. TransLink has also seen significant cost escalation recently for its other major capital projects under construction. The cost of building its new SkyTrain operations and maintenance centre near Braid Station in Coquitlam (OMC4) has risen from $658 million in 2021 to $1.3 billion, the new SkyTrain control centre building at the network’s Edmonds hub in Burnaby has risen from $110 million to $327 million, and the Marpole Transit Centre battery-electric bus depot on the Fraser River in Vancouver has risen from $308 million during the early planning stages to $848 million. Last week, Surrey City Council approved the preliminary design for the King George Boulevard BRT, while Langley Township Council and Maple Ridge City Council approved the preliminary design for the Langley-Haney Place BRT — TransLink’s other prioritized BRT project for implementation. With these approvals, TransLink will enter the detailed design process, with an aim to finalize the design of both BRT projects in 2027. TransLink is in an earlier stage of planning for the Metrotown-North Shore BRT. In September 2026, as an interim service improvement step, it will significantly extend the North Shore’s R2 RapidBus route from its current eastern terminus of Phibbs bus exchange to reach SkyTrain’s Brentwood Town Centre Station and Metrotown Station via Ironworkers Memorial Bridge, Hastings Street, and Willingdon Avenue. “EVERY DOLLAR SPENT ON THE KING GEORGE BOULEVARD BRT IS A DOLLAR THAT WON’T NEED TO BE SPENT LATER ON SKYTRAIN” Daryl Dela Cruz of SkyTrain For Surrey — the local group that advocated for SkyTrain extensions in Surrey and against the previous street-level Surrey Newton-Guildford LRT project — says he fully supports the King George Boulevard BRT project for how it would better prepare the corridor for an eventual SkyTrain extension. “Every dollar spent on the King George Boulevard BRT is a dollar that won’t need to be spent later on SkyTrain. That’s because BRT construction includes utility relocations, land acquisition, street reconstruction, and corridor widening. All of this work would otherwise be bundled into the SkyTrain budget — at a higher and inflated cost, and with greater disruption,” he said. But Dela Cruz also challenged some of Locke’s cost assumptions for a SkyTrain extension along the King George Boulevard corridor, noting that they appeared to assume the project would mirror the full 19-km BRT route extending to South Surrey. He pointed to TransLink’s previous preliminary studies that considered extending SkyTrain by nearly six km along King George Boulevard to reach 72 Avenue in Newton Centre. In 2019, shortly after the Surrey Newton-Guildford LRT was cancelled, TransLink estimated such a SkyTrain extension to Newton would cost about $1.4 billion and attract 60,000 riders per day by 2050, when combined with enhanced bus services between SkyTrain’s Surrey Central Station and Guildford Town Centre. Some of the comments made in last week’s Surrey City Council meeting suggest the precise approach for future rapid transit in the jurisdiction could become a major campaign issue in the October 2026 civic election. Sitting city councillor Linda Annis, who is the Surrey First party’s mayoral candidate, has vowed to pursue street-level LRT instead of the King George Boulevard BRT project and further SkyTrain extensions. Her party spearheaded the previous Surrey Newton-Guildford LRT project. As well, former Surrey mayor Doug McCallum is also looking to return to his mayoral seat in the upcoming election. Running under his Safe Surrey Coalition party, he issued a statement last week that outlined his four key platform promises, including extending SkyTrain to Newton. During the 2018 civic election campaign, he ran on the promise of cancelling Surrey Newton-Guildford LRT and advancing SkyTrain — something his party initiated soon after being elected. Imagine Surrey party’s mayoral candidate Mike Starchuk — a former Surrey city councillor and former BC NDP MLA for the riding of Surrey-Cloverdale — wants to see a SkyTrain study performed for the King George Boulevard corridor between Surrey City Centre and South Surrey. Based on the understanding that BRT right-of-ways could be repurposed for permanent rail rapid transit infrastructure in the future, Starchuk’s party is supportive of the King George Boulevard BRT, and wants to see the designation of two additional BRT priority corridors: Scott Road/72nd Avenue — as an upgrade of the existing R6 Scott Road RapidBus — and 104th Avenue/152nd Street. The current project of building the 16-km-long, eight-station Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension of the Expo Line — a project that is 100 per cent elevated — will cost just under $6 billion, up from nearly $4 billion. It is expected to reach completion by late 2029. As of now, about 90 per cent of the foundations for Surrey-Langley SkyTrain’s elevated guideway is complete, 75 per cent of the concrete columns supporting the elevated guideway are built, and over 30 per cent or five km of the concrete elevated guideway segments have been installed along the route. Moreover, the temporary precast concrete facility in Campbell Heights has now manufactured half of the segments of the concrete elevated guideway. Additionally, the 16-km-long underground duct bank for SkyTrain’s electrical lines is now more than 75 per cent finished — about 12 km — and trackwork with the installation of rail on the elevated guideway first began in late April 2026. You might also like: - Surrey City Council narrowly approves King George Boulevard BRT concept, reignites SkyTrain and LRT debate - Surrey mayoral candidate suggests building LRT instead of King George Boulevard BRT - Surrey mayoral candidate calls for SkyTrain study to South Surrey, more BRT lines - Prototype Bus Rapid Transit station to be built next to King George Station in Surrey - Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension hits major project milestone - TransLink's R2 RapidBus to be extended from North Shore to Metrotown this September https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/king-george-boulevard-brt-translink-cost-escalation Tue, 19 May 2026 02:03:26 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/translink-hastings-street-bus-stop-balancing-downtown-eastside-rapidbus Kenneth Chan TransLink is working with the City of Vancouver to change the number and location of bus stops along Hastings Street between Downtown Vancouver and Boundary Road, as part of a broader effort to improve travel times and reliability on one of Metro Vancouver’s busiest bus corridors. Roughly one in four bus stops would be removed, relocated, or consolidated along this cross-town segment of Hastings Street within Vancouver. These changes are aimed at reducing delays caused by closely spaced stops, traffic congestion, turning vehicles, and curbside activity. You might also like: - All-day, TransLink bus lanes and stop changes coming to 49th Avenue in Vancouver - Main Street and Kingsway buses in Vancouver get priority as new bus lanes and stop changes roll out - The 15-year plan to overhaul TransLink's bus route network in Vancouver, Burnaby, and New Westminster - Surrey City Council narrowly approves King George Boulevard BRT concept, reignites SkyTrain and LRT debate - TransLink proposes new Stanley Park Drive bus route for peak-season weekends only The proposed changes would primarily affect bus routes No. 14 Downtown/Hastings, No. 16 Arbutus/29th Avenue Station, No. 20 Downtown/Victoria, and the R5 Hastings Street RapidBus — which would see one relocated stop in Downtown Vancouver and new additional bus stops in the Downtown Eastside — along with overnight services N20 and N35. About 1,000 buses use Hastings Street on a daily basis, but it is also one of the most delay-prone corridors in the region. In particular, based on 2024 data, the R5 RapidBus is Metro Vancouver’s 10th busiest bus route, with 4.35 million annual boardings and averages of 13,700 boardings per weekday, 8,900 per Saturday, and 7,300 per Sunday/holiday. As previously undertaken on several other bus corridors across the city, the public transit authority is looking to implement bus stop balancing — the process of removing and relocating bus stops that are spaced too closely together and/or have lower ridership — in an effort to improve travel times and reliability by reducing how often buses need to pull in and out of stops. Currently, nearly 60 per cent of existing stops along Hastings Street are spaced closer than the recommended minimum distance of 300 metres. Along some stretches of Hastings Street, there is a stop on every block. Under the plan, more than 70 per cent of riders would continue using their current bus stop. Where stops are removed, another stop would typically remain within one block, according to TransLink. Bus stops eyed for removal or relocation are situated in Downtown Vancouver and the Hastings-Sunrise neighbourhood, and especially in the Downtown Eastside. Within Downtown Vancouver, the proposed removals are the westbound and eastbound local bus stops on Hastings Street at Hamilton Street. As well, the Hastings Street eastbound stop for the R5 RapidBus at Cambie Street would be relocated one block to the east at Abbott Street. The most drastic changes would take place within the eight block segment between Main Street and Glen Drive in the Downtown Eastside. Seven westbound and eastbound Hastings Street bus stops would be removed at Dunlevy Avenue, Hawks Avenue, Princess Avenue, and Jackson Avenue — a current spacing that provides a stop for every single block within this segment. Instead, if those seven stops are removed, there would be five new stop locations with an improved spacing of roughly two blocks apart — situated at Heatley Avenue, Jackson Avenue, and Campbell Avenue. The new westbound and eastbound bus stops at the intersection of Hastings Street and Campbell Avenue — next to Raycam Community Centre — serve not only the local bus routes, but provide a new additional stop for the R5 RapidBus to better serve the Downtown Eastside and the broader Strathcona neighbourhood. Currently, the closest R5 RapidBus stops are at Main Street and Commercial Drive. The Downtown Eastside segment is the only location along the entire corridor where new bus stops would be considered. Further to the east, other bus stops eyed for removal are at where Hastings Street meets Templeton Drive (west of Nanaimo Street), Kaslo Street (west of Hastings Park), and Skeena Street (near Boundary Road). TransLink’s online survey on the Hastings Street bus stop balancing measures is open until May 24, 2026. The finalized recalibration plan for the corridor’s bus stops will be announced in the summer and implemented in September 2026. In early 2026, the City of Vancouver performed a separate public consultation on implementing 24/7 bus lanes on the easternmost segment of Hastings Street within its jurisdiction — between Kaslo Street and Boundary Road. The expanded curbside bus lane hours on this segment were set to take effect in Spring 2026, but it has now been shared that this implementation of expanded bus lanes has been paused due to the public input received. TransLink indicates that no new bus lanes are planned for Hastings Street to enable the municipal government to perform further review, as part of a comprehensive study in 2027 of Hastings Street bus priority measures, economic factors, and business needs. You might also like: - All-day, TransLink bus lanes and stop changes coming to 49th Avenue in Vancouver - Main Street and Kingsway buses in Vancouver get priority as new bus lanes and stop changes roll out - The 15-year plan to overhaul TransLink's bus route network in Vancouver, Burnaby, and New Westminster - Surrey City Council narrowly approves King George Boulevard BRT concept, reignites SkyTrain and LRT debate - TransLink proposes new Stanley Park Drive bus route for peak-season weekends only https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/translink-hastings-street-bus-stop-balancing-downtown-eastside-rapidbus Tue, 19 May 2026 00:22:30 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-businesses-dripa-economic-certainty-survey Kenneth Chan The results of a new survey by the Business Council of British Columbia (BCBC) suggests growing concern among business leaders over the BC NDP-led provincial government’s highly controversial approach with maintaining the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). The survey was conducted after Premier David Eby made it clear his government would not introduce legislation this spring to amend or suspend DRIPA, despite making repeat previous promises for months that he would take urgent action to address the uncertainty created by the act. Critics argue the requirements for consultation and consent with First Nations under DRIPA are too uncertain, making it hard to predict costs, timelines, and legal risks for projects and developments. That uncertainty has added to concerns about delays, investment and the overall business climate in the province due to the BC NDP’s overall approach with First Nations reconciliation, which has been highly secretive. You might also like: - Premier David Eby confirms B.C. government will not change or amend First Nations DRIPA law this spring - First Nations threaten legal action against B.C. government over any weakening of DRIPA law - B.C. local governments and businesses reject secrecy around Indigenous heritage law reforms - B.C. government retreats from expanding First Nations powers in heritage protections law - Leaderless Conservatives take lead over BC NDP as residents are divided on reconciliation According to BCBC, 98 per cent of respondents — senior executives and decision-makers of businesses, industry associations, and post-secondary institutions across B.C. — indicated they are “very concerned” about DRIPA applying across all provincial laws, while the same share said the legislation is not fulfilling its original promise of creating greater investment certainty in the province. The findings come amid ongoing debate over the future of DRIPA and recent flip-flops in the provincial government’s position on possible amendments to the legislation. Recent court decisions that uphold DRIPA — compounded with other court decisions and ongoing litigation related to Aboriginal title on private and public lands, as well as proposed legislative changes to the Heritage Conservation Act and other reconciliation measures — have contributed to growing investment uncertainty in the province. At the time DRIPA was introduced and approved by the legislature in 2019, the provincial government said the legislation aimed to “create further certainty for investment” while advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. But the opposite has proven true. According to the survey, 74 per cent of business respondents said DRIPA is contributing to decreased investment plans in British Columbia, while 73 per cent cited increased “time, cost, complexity, or uncertainty” in obtaining permits. Other reported impacts included harder access to financing (41 per cent), slower or negative sales growth (36 per cent), decreased hiring plans (35 per cent) and balance sheet pressures linked to project delays (32 per cent). Only three per cent of respondents said DRIPA had reduced permitting complexity or uncertainty, while no respondents reported increased investment or hiring plans tied to the legislation. “There’s been a huge shift since 2019, when the vast majority of people supported DRIPA as a way to advance reconciliation and create the certainty investors need,” said BCBC president and CEO Laura Jones. “The desire to work with Indigenous communities to create prosperity for all remains strong but the message from business leaders is clear: DRIPA isn’t working.” Despite concerns over implementation, the survey found broad support for reconciliation efforts. More than 80 per cent of respondents agreed that “finding a path forward on reconciliation with B.C.’s First Nations is important.” Survey respondents also expressed dissatisfaction with how reconciliation policy has been communicated, with 83 per cent disagreeing that the provincial government has clearly articulated its vision for reconciliation. When asked what government should do with DRIPA, 59 per cent of respondents supported repealing the legislation, while 31 per cent favoured amendments. Only two per cent said the act should remain unchanged. “The business community wants to advance durable reconciliation that protects the public interest, promotes prosperity, and helps close the socioeconomic gaps still experienced by too many Indigenous people,” said Jones. “That’s not in question. What is in question is how to achieve that when the only certainty many investors see in British Columbia right now is uncertainty. It’s up to the government to find a better path forward and to explain how it will work for all British Columbians.” The provincial government and First Nations leaders intend to find a solution to DRIPA that addresses the concerns of both sides before the next legislative session in Fall 2026. In December 2025, the judgement for an appeal court decision over the mineral claim-staking system asserted that the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) — expressed through DRIPA in B.C. — now provides a lens through which all provincial laws must be interpreted and sets the minimum standards the provincial government must meet. Eby subsequently indicated he would amend the legislation in response to the uncertainty this creates, noting that it is the provincial government’s responsibility to perform reconciliation, not the courts. But the premier later sided with First Nations after they expressed opposition to legislative amendments or suspension, and threatened prolonged litigation. BCBC noted its survey was distributed to 297 individuals representing 190 companies and organizations, with 88 responses received from April 21 to 28, 2026. Of those who responded, 84 per cent identified as businesses, while 10 per cent represented industry associations and six per cent represented post-secondary institutions. The organization noted the results were not based on a random sample and were not weighted to reflect B.C.’s economic composition. You might also like: - Premier David Eby confirms B.C. government will not change or amend First Nations DRIPA law this spring - First Nations threaten legal action against B.C. government over any weakening of DRIPA law - B.C. local governments and businesses reject secrecy around Indigenous heritage law reforms - B.C. government retreats from expanding First Nations powers in heritage protections law - Leaderless Conservatives take lead over BC NDP as residents are divided on reconciliation https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-businesses-dripa-economic-certainty-survey Mon, 18 May 2026 19:54:16 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/kitsilano-beach-canada-basketball-courts-refresh Kenneth Chan The newly restored basketball courts at Kitsilano Beach officially reopened over this Victoria Day long weekend, marking the completion of a revitalization for one of Canada’s most recognizable outdoor basketball venues. The Vancouver Park Board unveil the upgraded courts, which received resurfacing, new hoops and backboards, and a redesigned paint scheme through a donation facilitated by the Canada One Athletic Foundation. You might also like: - Opening date and costly future plans for ailing Vancouver Kits Pool revealed - Calls for independent audit of Vancouver Aquatic Centre redevelopment decision with a 25-metre pool - $230-million Harry Jerome aquatic and community centre in North Vancouver to open this summer - Park Board opens door to potential Vancouver Canucks practice facility at Britannia ice rink According to the Park Board and Canada Basketball, which is the country’s national basketball federation, these courts at Kitsilano Beach have attracted players from across the region for decades and have hosted generations of Canadian athletes, including Olympians who trained on the courts after they were first built in the 1970s. They assert the courts are frequently mentioned alongside internationally known urban basketball sites, such as Rucker Park in New York City and Venice Beach in Los Angeles. The project is described as both a restoration of a historic public space and an investment in the future of the sport at the grassroots level. “For decades the Kits Beach courts have been an important hub for players of all levels to gather and connect through the game of basketball,” said Park Board commissioner Tom Digby in a statement. “Thanks to this generation donation, the courts will remain a vibrant part of the Park Board’s sports network for many years to come.” The renewed courts now also feature Canada Basketball branding, a move national team officials said reflects the growing connection between community courts and the country’s elite basketball development system. “Canada Basketball is deeply appreciative of the Board’s leadership and investment in revitalizing this historic space. Seeing the Canada Basketball logo featured on the courts is a powerful symbol of the connection between grassroots basketball, community participation, and high-performance sport,” said Michael Bartlett, the president and CEO of Canada Basketball. “For decades, these courts have been a place where communities connect through the game, and where generations of athletes — including multiple Canadian Olympians — have trained. We are proud to celebrate the reopening of the courts and expect they will inspire players of all ages and skill levels, while strengthening Canada’s basketball culture for years to come.” Canada men’s national team head coach Gord Herbert said the addition of Canada Basketball imagery to public courts across the country could help strengthen national pride and visibility for the sport. “Having Canada Basketball logos in public spaces across Canada is an amazing idea from Kits Beach’s two-time Olympian, Howard Kelsey. I’m so proud to be a Canadian going for Gold,” said Herbert, who will be leading Canada’s men’s basketball team into the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics. The refurbished courts are expected to remain a central gathering place for local players and visitors alike throughout the summer and beyond. These courts have received refurbishments periodically, with the last major upgrades conducted in the early and late 2010s. > Great turnout for the opening of the new Kits Beach basketball court! It was nice to see people of all backgrounds & abilities united through sport and shared public spaces. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or playing for the first time #vanpoli #vancouver #kitsbeach #kitsilano pic.twitter.com/JHato2ucTb > > — Spencer van Vloten (@SpencerVanCity) May 16, 2026 > As a former @ParkBoard Commissioner it was great great to attend the opening of the refurbished Kits Beach Basketball 🏀 Courts Wonderful collaboration between Canada One Foundation lead by Howard Kelsey and @ParkBoard Congratulations pic.twitter.com/gaT0UqsxVS > > — John Coupar (@JohnCCoupar) May 16, 2026 You might also like: - Opening date and costly future plans for ailing Vancouver Kits Pool revealed - Calls for independent audit of Vancouver Aquatic Centre redevelopment decision with a 25-metre pool - $230-million Harry Jerome aquatic and community centre in North Vancouver to open this summer - Park Board opens door to potential Vancouver Canucks practice facility at Britannia ice rink https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/kitsilano-beach-canada-basketball-courts-refresh Mon, 18 May 2026 19:00:02 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/britannia-mine-museum-cat-truck-exhibit Kenneth Chan A ginormous new addition has arrived at Britannia Mine Museum, where visitors this summer will be able to get up close to one of the mining industry’s largest machines as part of a new interactive exhibit focused on heavy equipment and modern resource extraction. The museum’s seasonal exhibition, “Giants at Work: Big Jobs, Bigger Machines,” spotlights the recently installed Cat® 793C Mining Truck — a massive haul truck donated by Finning Canada that once operated at a mine in northern British Columbia. While the mining truck is now a permanent fixture of the museum, the seasonal exhibit, now open, runs through Sept. 7, 2026 and explores the evolution of industrial mining equipment, from early hand tools to today’s data-driven and automated systems. You might also like: - Historic Sea to Sky village now open in final step of 20-year project - Britannia Mine Museum featured in latest episode of 'The Last of Us' - A giant match ball outside, soccer science inside: Science World goes all in on FIFA - New pedestrian drawbridge to be built to Downtown Squamish from highway side Standing more than 21 ft. tall and weighing 350,000 lbs., the truck now dominates the museum grounds at Britannia Beach. The rear axle alone weighs 54,000 lbs., while the truck frame is 94,000 lbs. The historic museum and its new truck are impossible to miss — located next to the Sea to Sky Highway, just south of the Sea to Sky Gondola and Squamish. According to the museum, the truck logged more than 78,500 operating hours during its working life and transported upwards of 43 million metric tons of material before being retired and relocated to the site. “We’re excited to debut the Cat® 793C Mining Truck as our newest attraction at the Britannia Mine Museum,” said Cheryl Hendrickson, executive director of the Britannia Mine Museum, in a statement. “It allows visitors to experience the immense scale of these mining giants firsthand, encouraging a deeper and more informed understanding of modern mining.” The truck’s installation itself was a major logistical undertaking. A four-person Finning Canada crew spent a week assembling the machine on-site after it arrived in six separate transport loads. The exhibit is designed to appeal to both mining enthusiasts and families, with interactive stations aimed at explaining the engineering principles behind modern excavation, hauling and earthmoving equipment. Visitors will also be introduced to the range of careers involved in operating and maintaining the machinery used in large-scale mining operations. Among the exhibit’s features is a CAT Mining Truck Simulator — a separate ticketed attraction that allows guests to virtually operate a haul truck in a simulated mine environment. The simulator gives participants the opportunity to navigate hauling routes and experience the coordination required to control machinery of that scale. You might also like: - Historic Sea to Sky village now open in final step of 20-year project - Britannia Mine Museum featured in latest episode of 'The Last of Us' - A giant match ball outside, soccer science inside: Science World goes all in on FIFA - New pedestrian drawbridge to be built to Downtown Squamish from highway side https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/britannia-mine-museum-cat-truck-exhibit Mon, 18 May 2026 18:57:57 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/henrik-sedin-hilarious-answer-canucks-prospects-grouse-grind Preston Hodgkinson The Sedins haven’t given up their Grouse Grind supremacy after becoming co-presidents with the Vancouver Canucks. With all their newfound responsibilities, you may think that the twins would take a step back from their athletic endeavours, but that doesn’t appear to be happening any time soon. Instead, it sounds like they are about to double down on it. Despite being 45 years old, Henrik and Daniel Sedin are in as good shape as ever. They prove that every summer by routinely beating Canucks prospects in the dreaded Grouse Grind race.  On Monday’s edition of the 32 Thoughts Podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman jokingly asked Henrik if he’d refuse to draft prospects who could not beat the twins in the race, to which he gave a hilarious, but true, answer. “Then we couldn’t draft anyone, it’s impossible,” Henrik said with a laugh. “We can’t do that.” > Henrik Sedin interview on 32 Thoughts: > > Elliotte: “Will you refuse to draft any player who cannot beat you in the Grouse Grind?” > > Henrik, without hesitation: “Then we couldn’t draft anyone. It’s impossible. We can’t do that.”#Canucks > > — Rob Williams (@RobTheHockeyGuy) May 18, 2026 While the Canucks are interested in stockpiling the prospect cupboards with the best players available, this might be too strict an expectation. If there were a Hall of Fame for Grouse Grind runners, the Sedins would be at the top of the class. Daniel Sedin, in particular, is so good at defeating the 2.9-kilometre uphill trail that he once ran the entire course a whopping 11 times in a single day. Most trained athletes have difficulty completing the trail in a single day. That is some superhuman ability from the Canucks legend, and it’s far from the only athletic accomplishment he’s managed off the ice lately. Just last year, Daniel and Henrik ran in Vancouver’s annual Sun Run, a 10-kilometre race, and they put up amazing results. Daniel finished the Sun Run with a blistering time of 36:06, while Henrik finished with a slightly slower 37:10. In the end, Daniel was just 7:57 off the winning time. The pair may have hung up the skates eight years ago, but they remain as athletic as ever. There may not be a prospect in this upcoming draft class that can truly compete with the Sedins in the Grouse Grind, but the twins don’t seem too bothered by that. You might also like: - Henrik Sedin on Elias Pettersson’s Canucks future: ‘He needs to decide’ - Ex-Canucks captain Quinn Hughes hints at future plans - 'Get rid of those guys': Chris Higgins has no time for Canucks with character issues https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/henrik-sedin-hilarious-answer-canucks-prospects-grouse-grind Mon, 18 May 2026 18:08:32 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/henrik-sedin-pettersson-canucks-future Preston Hodgkinson The ball is in Elias Pettersson’s court when it comes to his future with the Vancouver Canucks. The Swede is entering a critical offseason and will be looking to dismiss any questions about his condition once training camp rolls around in September. His tenure in Vancouver has been plagued with questions about his work ethic and commitment to the team, but his new bosses seem ready to give him another chance. Both Henrik and Daniel Sedin have taken over the club as co-presidents this summer and have not shied away from talking about Pettersson’s future with the Canucks. Henrik appeared on Monday’s edition of the 32 Thoughts Podcast with Elliotte Friedman, where he talked about Pettersson’s role. “We’re gonna be there to support him,” Henrik said. “In the end, he needs to decide; we can’t push him to do anything. He needs to decide what player he wants to be, because when he is prepared, and when he comes into the season well-prepared, I think he’s gonna surprise a lot of people. “We’ll be there to support him; he’s gonna have to make a decision.” Since being promoted to their new jobs, the Sedins haven’t explicitly said whether or not Pettersson will be back with the team next season. Trade rumours circulated around Petey last season, and they are certain to come back around this offseason. It seems that a lot of the focus from the Sedins on Pettersson revolves around him properly preparing for the season. The twins mentioned it at their introductory press conference last week as well.  A theme has definitely developed here. “We’ve been through this, as players, exactly what he’s been through,” Daniel Sedin said then. “You’re going to have some really good seasons, you’re going to have some tougher seasons. “What we found after a long career, looking back, is that the best seasons we had, we were well prepared… That is everything you can control, is how hard you work in the summer. Mentally ready to go when training camp hits. So I think that’s the one message to him, is preparation.” The Canucks are not expected to be a Stanley Cup-contending team next season. They’ve admitted that they are in a rebuild and will not be rushing things. This should take some pressure off Pettersson, but that shouldn’t absolve him of everything. When you get paid $11.6 million a year, there will be certain expectations. Henrik was asked if he believes Pettersson can get back to the 100-point player he used to be, and once again pointed back to preparation. “If he decides, and the preparation is there, he can come back,” Henrik said. “We’re not going to ask him to be anything unbelievable for us. He should come in, be a great teammate, and show that he’s done the preparation that he needs to.” The Canucks legend also mentioned that new GM Ryan Johnson will have standards for all players to perform, and it won’t change for the star players like Pettersson. If preparation is the main thing getting in the way of Pettersson rediscovering his game, how he comes out of this offseason will say a lot about who he is as a player. You might also like: - Ex-Canucks captain Quinn Hughes hints at future plans - 'Get rid of those guys': Chris Higgins has no time for Canucks with character issues - Sedins want Canucks players out in the community more: ‘We gotta bring that back’ https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/henrik-sedin-pettersson-canucks-future Mon, 18 May 2026 17:08:29 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/cobie-smulders-vancouver-bc-home Amir Ali Cobie Smulders, one of the stars of How I Met Your Mother, The Avengers, and many other TV shows and movies, has a home here in B.C., and it is stunning. Luxury Listings recently shared a post about Smulders’ massive B.C. home on Instagram. While the exact location is unknown, some speculate that it is located in Alta Lake or somewhere else near Whistler. “When she finally found the right parcel of land; expansive, remote, framed by mountains on all sides and opening to a private lake, she called the architect she had admired since childhood,” Luxury Listings wrote in its post. Smulders spoke to Architectural Digest about her home, saying that after growing up in the Vancouver suburbs, she had always dreamed of living out in the wilderness. “I had a lot of friends who had family cabins on the islands, or up in Whistler, and I would try to join their family vacations as much as possible,” she said. “Going from that initial meeting to an actual finished home required patience. Smulders, along with her husband, comedian Taran Killam, spent years hunting for the ideal plot of land until Killam came across a large, remote parcel situated on an expansive lake and framed by mountains on all sides,” Architectural Digest said. Architectural Digest says that Smulders turned to Elizabeth MacKenzie, PlaidFox Studio, and Skladan Architecture “to help design the retreat.” Another Canadian icon whose home was recently put up for sale is Sarah McLachlan. Her stunning property recently had a price drop and is now listed for $21 million. Smulders isn’t the only star who enjoys the B.C. wilderness. We recently reported that one of the stars of The Hangover lives on an island in B.C. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/cobie-smulders-vancouver-bc-home Mon, 18 May 2026 15:00:51 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-sports-hall-of-fame-nominations Daniel Chai The City of Surrey is preparing to celebrate the standout athletes and sports leaders in the community, and they’re looking for your help in recognizing them. The Surrey Sports Hall of Fame is accepting nominations for athletes, coaches, builders, and contributors who shaped sport and made a lasting impact. Nominations will help spotlight the incredible people and groups who inspire us to achieve greatness and will be accepted online until Dec. 31. “Surrey has a rich sports legacy, and it is time to bring the achievements of our amazing athletes and teams to the fore,” said Mayor Brenda Locke in a statement. “The Surrey Sports Hall of Fame is a powerful way to honour the stories, struggles, and triumphs of those who have made a lasting impact through sport. As we prepare for the Inaugural Induction Ceremony in June, I invite residents to get involved by nominating an athlete.” Nominations are open yearly for the following categories: - Athlete - Team - High Performance Athlete - Game Changer - Builder - Community Hero Award - Coach According to the City of Surrey, the Hall is a testament to the rich history of Surrey sports, helping to spotlight local, national, and international achievements. Staff will review each nomination, ensuring that they meet all category criteria, are accurate in their listed accomplishments, and have a positive standing within the community. Those wanting to learn more about the Sports Hall of Fame can visit the display now at the Museum of Surrey. The exhibit showcases the beginnings of organized sport in the city, including the first associations, teams, and leagues. You can also make plans to visit again in July, when a display featuring the Class of 2026 will be open. This year’s inductees, the inaugural lineup, will be inducted in a ceremony at Surrey City Hall on Tuesday, June 2. They include: - Prabdeep Sanghera, Athlete – Weightlifting - Terry Bailey, Athlete – Football - Harold Morioka – High Performance Athlete – Master’s track & field - John Tenta, High Performance Athlete – Wrestling - Sarah Hunter, High Performance Athlete – Wheelchair tennis - Surrey Marlins 90 – 93, Team – Soccer - Cyril William Greenwell, Builder – Baseball & basketball - Orest Springenatic, Builder – Baseball - Adam Roberts, Coach – Rugby - BC Tigers Hurricanes 2018, Game Changer – Soccer For more information about the Sports Hall of Fame and to submit a nomination by the deadline of Thursday, Dec. 31, visit them online. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-sports-hall-of-fame-nominations Mon, 18 May 2026 15:00:17 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-natural-gas-water-boiler-repeal-proposal-business-industry-support Kenneth Chan Business and industry groups are rallying behind Vancouver mayor Ken Sim’s proposal to amend some of the City of Vancouver’s natural gas restrictions in building systems, asserting that it would reduce housing and operating costs for homeowners, renters, and small businesses by scaling back some energy regulations imposed by the municipal government. The BC Coalition for Affordable Dependable Energy (BC CADE) has issued a strong endorsement of a member motion by Sim that would review the City’s housing and energy requirement policies and repeal a bylaw restricting the replacement of natural gas hot water systems. That bylaw was enacted in January 2026, and its applicable restrictions expanding the limitations of natural gas use in these building systems would begin on Jan. 1, 2027. You might also like: - Vancouver mayor submits motion to cut back on some climate bylaws for the sake of affordability - City of Vancouver to continue natural gas ban for heating new homes after all - New water heater standards for Vancouver homes approved - British Columbia will need much more electricity sooner than expected: government - 'Negligible' benefits: City of Vancouver staff against proposed garburator ban The coalition says the proposed changes would help address affordability pressures at a time when housing and living costs remain high across Metro Vancouver. “This is one of the most important motions on housing affordability and reducing costs for homeowners, renters and small businesses that Council has seen in this term of office — and it’s critical that it be passed,” says Bill Tieleman, director of the BC CADE, which represents over 300,000 people through its business, labour, and community members. According to the coalition, one of the biggest financial impacts would come from restoring consumer choice for replacement water heaters. The group argues that allowing residents to continue using natural gas systems instead of requiring electric-only replacements could save homeowners and strata buildings thousands of dollars over time. “If passed, it will save tens of thousands of homeowners and renters literally thousands of dollars per home in the years ahead simply by allowing choice when existing natural gas water heaters need to be replaced, instead of imposing electric-only water heaters,” said Tieleman. Industry groups are also supporting the motion’s proposal to pause enforcement of the City’s Energize Vancouver bylaw while staff conduct a broader affordability review. The coalition said current rules requiring strata condominium buildings to file annual energy-use reports have created added costs with little benefit. “And the other measures proposed — pausing the Energize Vancouver program and ending the expensive and ineffective imposition of regulations forcing strata condominiums to produce annual reports on their use of energy — will also save thousands of dollars for every strata condominium building across the city,” continued Tieleman. BC CADE also criticized what it described as a growing patchwork of municipal energy rules across British Columbia, arguing that different local standards increase construction costs and complicate development. “This proposed Vancouver by-law would sensibly align the city’s regulations and policies with those of the province, using an affordability lens to ensure they do not unnecessarily add to the cost of building needed housing and businesses,” said Tieleman. “Reducing costs, delays and duplication will all help reduce new construction and ongoing operational costs for homeowners and businesses alike.” The coalition linked the proposal to broader economic pressures and noted that both the federal and provincial governments recently removed carbon taxes on consumers, including residential natural gas users. “It’s a welcome recognition that the world has changed and that affordability must be the priority for every level of government,” said Tieleman. The organization represents a wide range of business and labour groups, including the BC Chamber of Commerce, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade, Canadian Federation of Independent Business, Restaurants Canada, and dozens of construction and trades organizations. Sim’s motion, which will be considered by City Council in a public meeting this week, directs City staff to review Vancouver’s building and energy regulations “through an affordability lens” and identify rules that may be increasing housing costs or slowing development. The proposal also calls for City staff to report back with recommendations to align more closely with provincial building standards and eliminate regulations that add “cost, delay, or complexity without a compelling local justification.” The City’s gradual implementation of natural gas restrictions in building systems has been highly controversial and divisive. This general direction, part of an aggressive climate action strategy, was initially made by the previous Vision Vancouver’s governing majority in City Council more than a decade ago. Since January 2022, as part of the gradual rollout of the policies, the City has also required low-emission (electric) equipment for space and hot water heating in new low-rise residential buildings. City staff were initially directed by City Council in July 2024 to draft policies that restore the ability for natural gas heating in new home construction, with City Council at the time narrowly passing a member motion by Montague in a 6-5 vote. However, in November 2024, when City staff returned with the requested policy recommendations, City Council effectively moved to continue its natural gas ban for the heating needs of new homes in the city, following a 5-5 tied vote that rejected any deviation from policies. Prior to that decision, City Council heard from about 140 public speakers. Efforts to pivot from natural gas have led to a far greater dependency on electricity. At the same time, the province’s electrical grid is increasingly under strain from escalating demand, due in large part to not only population and economic growth but also the accelerated transition from fossil fuel-powered building systems and transportation to electrical systems, including the use of water boilers and space heating based on electrical systems and battery-electric vehicles. Even though the new Site C hydroelectric dam is now operational, BC Hydro is making extraordinary short- and medium-term investments in supporting new wind power projects, as there is a growing need for even more power before the end of this decade. This is in addition to major investments in upgrading substations and transmission lines across the province. As well, this spring, there has been discussion of looking at considering other options of generating more power, including an additional dam on the Peace River — in addition to Site C. You might also like: - Vancouver mayor submits motion to cut back on some climate bylaws for the sake of affordability - City of Vancouver to continue natural gas ban for heating new homes after all - New water heater standards for Vancouver homes approved - British Columbia will need much more electricity sooner than expected: government - 'Negligible' benefits: City of Vancouver staff against proposed garburator ban https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-natural-gas-water-boiler-repeal-proposal-business-industry-support Sun, 17 May 2026 21:34:32 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/ex-canucks-hughes-signing-extension-wild Preston Hodgkinson Ex-Vancouver Canucks star Quinn Hughes could finally put questions about his long-term future to rest this summer. The 26-year-old defenceman is shifting into offseason mode after his Minnesota Wild were eliminated by the Colorado Avalanche in the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Hughes has just one more year remaining on his contract and is set to become a UFA next summer. Vancouver traded Hughes with the expectation that he wouldn’t sign with the Canucks. The Wild were willing to take a chance trading for Hughes, knowing that he wasn’t locked into a long-term deal. It was a risky bet by the Wild, but Hughes appears open to inking a new deal with Minnesota as soon as this summer. “I really like it here,” Hughes said in his end-of-season availability. “I would definitely be open to re-signing. We’ll see what [Wild GM] Billy [Guerin] wants to do. “I think I can say that I really like it here. I love the team, I love the city and the fans. Being in that locker room, it was a special group. Would definitely be open to re-signing here with the guys that we have in the room and the people we have in the room.” > A special group. > > 2025-26 Exit Interviews » https://t.co/ZjFK2duHr7 pic.twitter.com/6UXzJQoNUV > > — Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) May 15, 2026 There is no doubt that the Wild are in a much better spot than the Canucks when it comes to on-ice success. Minnesota finished seventh in the NHL this past season, while Vancouver ended their season dead last in the standings. If Hughes wants to win, Minnesota wouldn’t be a bad place to lay down some roots on his next contract. Outside of wanting to win, it appears that Hughes got along quite well with the Minnesota staff. He shouted out a few names in his end-of-season presser. “A lot of trust with Billy [Guerin] as well, and I love [head coach John Hynes], [assistant coach Jack Capuano] and the coaching staff,” Hughes said. “I just think it’s a great spot, a great situation for myself.” While it appears the Wild are in a good place with their current staff, the Canucks have embarked on a massive retooling of their hockey ops this summer. GM Patrik Allvin was fired early into the offseason, with Ryan Johnson taking his place, and the Sedin brothers have been promoted to co-presidents. The future of head coach Adam Foote is unclear after a very disappointing first season behind the Vancouver bench. It’s not a slam-dunk that Hughes will put pen to paper with the Wild this summer, but those comments seem to indicate that it’s a definite possibility. You might also like: - 'Get rid of those guys': Chris Higgins has no time for Canucks with character issues - Sedins want Canucks players out in the community more: ‘We gotta bring that back’ - Canucks draft pick from the Hughes trade is now locked in https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/ex-canucks-hughes-signing-extension-wild Sun, 17 May 2026 20:27:32 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-development-cost-charge-reductions-provincial-approval-request Kenneth Chan The City of Surrey is proposing another reduction to development cost charges (DCCs) in an effort to encourage more housing construction while continuing to fund key infrastructure and community amenities. Last week, Surrey City Council approved an updated DCC bylaw for submission to the Government of British Columbia. If approved by the provincial government, the new rates would lower residential development charges by about seven to nine per cent compared to 2024 levels. You might also like: - City of Vancouver to make it easier to build six-storey rental housing buildings, as costs threaten projects - 452 rental homes planned for City of Surrey-owned lot near Scott Road SkyTrain station - Planned condo tower in Surrey pivots to 100% rental housing after pre-sales - City of Surrey unveils citywide plan to support one million residents by 2050 - City of Surrey-owned development company and TransLink lead plan to redevelop Newton neighbourhood core for 4,000 new residents Metro Vancouver’s housing development sector is facing mounting financial pressure as construction, labour, and financing costs continue to rise, while rents and home prices have flattened or declined due to lower immigration and economic challenges. The combination has made many housing projects difficult to finance, raising concerns that fewer projects will move ahead without policy changes to reduce costs and speed up approvals. While there are currently more favourable conditions for renters and prospective homebuyers, there is a growing concern that a prolonged period of limited new housing construction activity could lead to a return of significant housing affordability challenges later this decade, when there is a resurgence in demand. City officials say the changes to DCCs are aimed at making it less expensive to build homes in Surrey as the city continues to grow rapidly. “If we want people to be able to live and buy a home in Surrey, we need to make housing more affordable to build,” said Surrey mayor Brenda Locke in a statement. “By lowering DCCs, we are supporting the delivery of more homes for current and future residents while continuing to invest in the roads, utilities, parks, and community amenities a growing city needs.” DCCs are fees collected from developers to help pay for infrastructure needed to support growth, such as roads, sewer systems, parks, and other public services. According to the City, the proposed rates would remain comparable to — and in some cases lower than — those in nearby municipalities. For example, DCCs for single and small-scale housing projects in Surrey would be $51,633, compared to $87,615 in Langley. Townhouse development charges in Surrey would range from $27.15 to $54.87 per square foot, while Burnaby charges about $38.54 per unit. City Council also endorsed two new amenity cost charge (ACC) bylaws designed to help fund community and recreation centres, libraries, parks, and cultural facilities needed to support population growth. Under the proposed framework, the City expects development contributions to generate approximately $350 million over the next 10 years for city-wide amenities. An additional $147 million is projected over 30 years to support the future project of building the new Newton Community Centre, which is expected to be Surrey’s single most expensive community and recreational facility at a cost of over $300 million. It will feature an aquatic centre with a 50-metre pool, two gymnasiums, a major public library branch, and other community and recreational spaces. When built, Newton Community Centre will anchor the future high-density, mixed-use residential neighbourhood planned by the municipal government and TransLink that will create the core of Newtown Town Centre. The updated DCC and ACC frameworks are part of a broader strategy to balance growth, housing supply, and infrastructure investment. The proposed DCC bylaw must receive provincial approval before returning to City Council for final adoption. The ACC bylaws will also go through additional City Council review alongside related planning and zoning updates. You might also like: - City of Vancouver to make it easier to build six-storey rental housing buildings, as costs threaten projects - 452 rental homes planned for City of Surrey-owned lot near Scott Road SkyTrain station - Planned condo tower in Surrey pivots to 100% rental housing after pre-sales - City of Surrey unveils citywide plan to support one million residents by 2050 - City of Surrey-owned development company and TransLink lead plan to redevelop Newton neighbourhood core for 4,000 new residents https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-development-cost-charge-reductions-provincial-approval-request Sun, 17 May 2026 20:25:57 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-rental-housing-low-rise-zoning-changes Kenneth Chan City of Vancouver staff are recommending major changes to rental housing zoning policies in an effort to keep new apartment projects financially viable as construction costs rise and the housing market cools. During a public meeting this week, Vancouver City Council is expected to approve the changes to the city’s Residential Rental (RR) zoning districts that would make it easier and faster to build six-storey rental apartment buildings across parts of the city. The changes are part of a broader strategy to fast-track rental housing and maintain construction activity during what City staff describe as a difficult economic environment for developers. You might also like: - City of Vancouver moves to rezone 2,348 properties for rental housing and hotels up to eight storeys - Vancouver City Council approves rezoning of nearly 2,600 lots in East Vancouver neighbourhood for six-storey apartments - Vancouver delivered 2,300 units of rental housing in 2025 — the highest in 40 years - Rental housing tower at Fraser Street and Kingsway corner among first major Broadway Plan projects to begin construction - Senakw 'welcome centre' for marketing rental homes to be built at Vanier Park According to a report by City staff, high construction and financing costs have continued to climb while rents and home sale prices have either stagnated or declined over the past year. City staff note that although lower rents and prices may help affordability, they also make many new housing projects harder to finance and complete. “The housing market continues to face challenging financial conditions, with increases in project costs outpacing achievable sales and rents. Industry data shows residential sale prices and rents are down over the past year, reflecting a correction that, while positive for affordability, has intensified financial strain on projects currently in the pipeline. Maintaining housing delivery through this period requires sustained policy action to reduce costs, accelerate approvals, and to restore market confidence,” reads the report. “The City’s approach continues to emphasize both early and sustained action to improve development viability and maintain the delivery of public benefits. Earlier adjustments to the Secured Rental Policy have begun to improve predictability and processing times for low-rise rental developments. However, continued softening in the housing market and escalating input costs for materials, labour and financing require further adjustments to sustain the housing pipeline.” One of the biggest proposed changes would eliminate the city’s RR-2C zoning district, which currently allows six-storey rental apartment buildings only if 20 per cent of the residential floor area is rented below market rates. Instead, City staff recommend expanding the RR-2B district to allow six-storey rental housing buildings without below-market rental housing requirements in most cases. Within the provincially-legislated Transit-Oriented Areas around SkyTrain stations and major bus exchanges, projects could go up to eight storeys if at least 20 per cent of the residential floor area is secured as below-market rental housing. Eight-storey projects made up entirely of social housing would also be allowed. City staff also propose creating a new RR-3C zoning district for mixed-use rental housing buildings. This new zoning district would allow six-storey rental housing buildings with commercial uses at street level but would not require below-market rental housing units. According to City staff, the financial testing found below-market rental housing requirements were no longer feasible for many mixed-use projects, particularly in the Vancouver Eastside areas. On the Vancouver Westside, however, City staff assert some affordable housing requirements remain workable. As a result, RR-3B projects in the Westside would still need to provide some below-market rental housing, although the requirement would be reduced from rents set at 20 per cent below Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation averages to 10 per cent below average rents. City staff shared that more than 3,000 secured purpose-built rental homes have already been approved under the RR zoning districts since 2021, including 2,395 units in RR-2 zones and 642 units in RR-3 zones. The report also recommends rezoning four existing in-stream projects to fit the updated zoning rules. Those projects are: 4708-4742 Joyce St. and 3604 Tanner St.; 4471-4485 Fraser St. and 691 East 29th Ave.; 2005-2045 West 49th Ave.; and 1401-1455 East 49th Ave.  All of these projects are between four and six storeys. Because the proposed zoning amendments align with the recent citywide Official Development Plan, deal only with residential zoning, and are intended primarily to increase housing, City Council cannot send the changes to a public hearing. Earlier this month, City Council approved the City-initiated rezoning of over 2,300 properties for rental housing and hotels up to six to eight storeys in commercial areas, which are generally found along major/arterial roads. While there are currently more favourable conditions for renters and prospective homebuyers, there is a growing concern that a prolonged period of limited new housing construction activity could lead to a return of significant housing affordability challenges later this decade, when there is a resurgence in demand. You might also like: - City of Vancouver moves to rezone 2,348 properties for rental housing and hotels up to eight storeys - Vancouver City Council approves rezoning of nearly 2,600 lots in East Vancouver neighbourhood for six-storey apartments - Vancouver delivered 2,300 units of rental housing in 2025 — the highest in 40 years - Rental housing tower at Fraser Street and Kingsway corner among first major Broadway Plan projects to begin construction - Senakw 'welcome centre' for marketing rental homes to be built at Vanier Park https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-rental-housing-low-rise-zoning-changes Sun, 17 May 2026 20:00:39 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-events-may-18-24 Daniel Chai We’re blowing through May, and there are so many things to do in Vancouver! From a celebration of David Suzuki to Vancouver Rise and so much more, here are 20 fun events to check out from May 18 to 24. Be sure to view our Listed section for more fantastic things happening around town. To stay up to date on everything happening in Metro Vancouver, B.C., and beyond, sign up for our newsletters. LEGACY: A CELEBRATION OF DAVID SUZUKI AT 90 What: An all-star lineup of performers is coming together for a benefit concert celebrating David Suzuki’s 90th birthday. The evening of music and storytelling in honour of the Canadian environmental icon features Bruce Cockburn, Jane Fonda, Al Gore, Rick Hansen, Chantal Kreviazuk, Sarah McLachlan, Sam Roberts, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Tia Wood, Danny Michel, William Prince, George Stroumboulopoulos, and Tanya Tagaq. All concert proceeds will go to support the David Suzuki Foundation. When: Friday, May 22, 2026 Time: 7 p.m. Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 630 Hamilton St., Vancouver Tickets: Various prices, purchase online You might also like: - '80s music legends added to massive PNE summer concert series - Grouse Mountain's massive new gravity coaster set to open this spring - K-pop global stars bringing new world tour to Vancouver this fall VANCOUVER FC VS. SUPRA DU QUEBEC What: Vancouver FC continue the Canadian Premier League season at Willoughby Community Park this week. Home games at the Langley Events Centre include Supra Du Quebec on Saturday, May 23. When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: 3 p.m. Where: Willoughby Community Park at the Langley Events Centre – 7782 200th St., Langley Township Tickets: Various prices, purchase online GUIDED NATURE WALKS WITH SURREY NATURE CENTRE What: Celebrate spring with the Surrey Nature Centre on their guided nature walks in Green Timbers Park. Led by an experienced guide, the event is a perfect way to discover the park, with themes changing regularly. When: May 9, May 20, June 13, and June 24, 2026 Time: Various times Where: Surrey Nature Centre – 14225 Green Timbers Way, Surrey Admission: Free THE ENDO NETWORK’S RUN TO END ENDO What: Endometriosis is a chronic, painful, whole-body condition that affects one in 10 girls, women, and gender diverse people born with a uterus. It is associated with many debilitating symptoms, diagnostic delays, insufficient management, social taboos, and a lack of awareness.  This 5k run/walk event is dedicated to bringing hope, awareness, and support to the over two million Canadians who live with endometriosis by raising funds for critical programs at The Endometriosis Network Canada. When: May 23, 2026 Time: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Where: Stanley Park – 650 Pipeline Rd., Vancouver Cost: $40, register online GRAHAM CLARK’S 24 HOURS OF STAND-UP What: Canadian Comedy Award winner and Juno nominee Graham Clark performs 24 hours of stand-up with the help of some hilarious comedians. The event will also be live-streamed, so audiences from around the world can tune in, and comics from across the country will be able to participate in the madness. In addition to supporting LMG operations, a portion of the proceeds will go to support a local charity. When: May 22 to 23, 2026 Time: 8 p.m. to 8 p.m., 24 hours Where: Little Mountain Gallery – 110 Water St., Vancouver Cost: $20 plus fees for general admission, $12 plus fees for low-cost tickets, $60 plus fees for a full-day ticket. Purchase online SOUTHLANDS TSAWWASSEN MARKET What: This Delta farmers market features local produce, sweet treats, blooms, bevies, artisans, live music, food trucks and more. There will also be themed celebrations on select dates throughout the season. When: Every other Saturday from May 23 until Nov. 7, 2026 Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Market Square, Southlands – 6313 Market Ave., Delta BC LIONS VS. EDMONTON ELKS What: BC Lions kick off the new CFL season at BC Place this spring. Roar on the home team as they welcome the Edmonton Elks for a pre-season game on May 23, When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: 2 p.m. Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Blvd., Vancouver Cost: Various; purchase online COLEMAN HELL What: Coleman Hell is coming to Vancouver’s Hollywood Theatre this month. The Juno Award-nominated artist is renowned for his hit single, “2 Heads,” which has been streamed hundreds of millions of times across different platforms and is certified five-times platinum in Canada. Now he’s celebrating the decade of song with the Ten Years of Summerland tour. When: Thursday, May 21, 2026 Time: 8 p.m. Where: Hollywood Theatre – 3123 W. Broadway, Vancouver Tickets: Various prices, purchase online HEIDELBERG MATERIALS OPEN HOUSE What: Heidelberg Materials is hosting its family-friendly annual open house on Saturday with live music, tours around the plant, and more. The community open house will invite guests to check out Heidelberg Concrete’s huge trucks and honk the air horns. All ages can then play in a giant sandbox, get their face painted, have the chance to win prizes, and more. When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Heidelberg Materials – 1415 Johnston St., Vancouver Cost: Free BIND TIGER COMEDY: STUDENT SHOWCASE What: Enjoy a night of laughs at China Cloud in Chinatown by the talented students of Blind Tiger Comedy. At 7 p.m., catch the Advanced Scenes, Long Form, and Sketch comedy students. Then at 9 p.m., settle in for laughs when the long-form students and house team members come together for a comedic Fondue Night. When: Wednesday, May 20, 2026 Time: 7 and 9 p.m. Where: The China Cloud – 524 Main St., Vancouver Tickets: $15 or free for current BTC students, purchase online VANCOUVER RISE VS. AFC TORONTO What: Vancouver Rise continue its Northern Super League season this month with a match against AFC Toronto on Saturday, May 23, at Swangard Stadium. When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: 3 p.m. Where: Swangard Stadium — 6100 Boundary Rd., Burnaby Cost: Various; purchase online GRAPES OF WRATH AND LIMBLIFTER What: Canadian rock icons Grapes of Wrath and Limblifter are teaming up for a show at the Commodore Ballroom on Saturday, May 23. Sing along to classics like “You May Be Right” and “Wake Up to the Sun” during the highly anticipated double bill. When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: 7 p.m. Where: Commodore Ballroom – 868 Granville St., Vancouver Tickets: General admission starts at $30, purchase online DR. SUN YAT-SEN CLASSICAL CHINESE GARDEN TEA FESTIVAL: TEA FOR ALL What: Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is bringing together tea professionals, tea vendors and tea lovers to celebrate the joy of tea. Learn about the traditions and cultures of tea, sample products from local makers, listen to live music from B.C. Chinese Chamber Ensemble during the festival, and more. When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden — 578 Carrall St., Vancouver Cost: $12, plus $3 for teacup add-on. Purchase online STEVESTON FARMERS AND ARTISANS MARKET What: The Steveston Farmers and Artisans Market will be operating on select Sundays in the parking lot of the Steveston Community Centre. The events will feature a mix of stalls, including food vendors, artists, and craftspeople. When: May 24, June 14 and 28, July 12 and 26, Aug. 2, 16 and 30, and Sept. 13, 2026 Time: 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Where: Garry Point Park — Southwest corner of Richmond between Chatham and Moncton Street on 7th Avenue, Richmond SURREY SPARK STAGES – THE MERRY MARCHING BAND What: Surrey SPARK Stages presents a hilarious, high-energy musical journey with The Merry Marching Band. The show is perfect for ages 5 to 12, and will also feature activities for the whole family after the performance. When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: 12:30 p.m. Where: Surrey Arts Centre — 13750 88th Ave., Surrey Tickets: Various, purchase online STAIRCASE SOUNDS: VICTORIA GUITAR TRIO What: Acclaimed ensemble Victoria Guitar Trio wraps up the season of Staircase Sounds with a live concert at the Vancouver Public Library Central Branch. Adrian Verdejo, Michael Dias, and Michael Kolk will perform original transcriptions of early music, Spanish and Latin-American guitar faves, and new works sure to delight old and new fans. When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: Noon to 1 p.m. Where: Central Library — 350 West Georgia St., Vancouver Admission: Free HYACK FESTIVAL What: The 55th annual Hyack International Parade and Festival takes place in New Westminster on Saturday, May 23. The province’s largest family-oriented parade, presented by the Hyack Festival Association, includes over 100 colourful floats and free family activities and entertainment. When: Saturday, May 23, 2026 Time: Parade at 11 a.m., Festival from 1 to 5 p.m. Where: Parade starts at 8th Avenue and 6th Street. The festival takes place at Tipperary Park in New Westminster Cost: Free STAR WARS TRIVIA What: Star Wars Trivia is coming to The Rec Room Granville on Sunday, May 24, and you’re invited to the quiz in a galaxy far, far away! Jump in the Millennium Falcon and come on down for the free trivia night celebrating the iconic franchise. The evening will test your knowledge of the Star Wars Movies, fan-favourite TV shows, and more. When: Sunday, May 24, 2026 Time: Doors 6 p.m., quiz 7 p.m. Where: The Rec Room Granville – 855 Granville St., Vancouver Cost: Free, table reservations recommended. Register online REVOLVER FESTIVAL What: The annual rEvolver Festival is a showcase of contemporary theatrical works at The Cultch. Check out the wide variety of performances from local and national artists, including new performances, reinterpretations of existing works, and more. When: May 22 to 31, 2026 Time: Various times Where: The Cultch’s Historic Theatre and Vancity Culture Lab – 1895 Venables St., Vancouver Tickets: Various, purchase online GHOST PATROL BY VANCOUVER MYSTERIES What: Vancouver Mysteries invites super sleuths to try and solve the strange hauntings happening in the downtown core. Paranormal investigators will use all of their skills to explore four different hauntings while learning about life in the city in the 1910s, 1930s and 1970s along the journey. When: Daily Time: Various times Where: Secret location to be revealed to players Cost: $38 per player plus GST. Purchase online https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-events-may-18-24 Sun, 17 May 2026 20:00:00 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-caregiving-families-affordable-housing-demand-options Guest Author Written for Daily Hive Urbanized by Lillian Chau, who is a nonprofit housing leader in British Columbia and the CEO of Entre Nous Femmes Housing Society. ---------------------------------------- Caregiving is essential to how communities function, yet too many families across British Columbia are being forced to make impossible tradeoffs: rent or groceries, staying housed, or falling behind. We cannot claim to value caregivers while so many are being priced out of a place to live. Housing insecurity does not affect everyone equally. Across British Columbia, 28 per cent of women-led households are in core housing need. Lone-parent families make up just 19 per cent of all households, yet nearly half of children in these families live in poverty. In fact, lone-parent families account for 53 per cent of children living in poverty in the province. A single parent working full-time at minimum wage still falls about $19,500 below the poverty line. You might also like: - B.C. government to slow pace of building new housing and infrastructure projects, including Burnaby Hospital redevelopment - B.C. government cancels Burnaby Hospital redevelopment, sort of - Vancouver is similar to cities like London and New York City but not in a good way - Vancouver rents keep dropping but remain the highest in Canada - Construction underway on two social housing towers and new firehall next to Cambie Street Bridge in downtown Vancouver These pressures show up in how people are forced to live. Many move between temporary arrangements, share overcrowded spaces, or remain in housing that does not meet their needs because there are no alternatives. In emergency shelters, 90 per cent of families are led by single women. This is a sign that the housing system is failing many of the people carrying the greatest responsibility at home. Non-profit housing providers are working to meet this need by addressing the gap between what families can afford and what the housing market provides. As a nonprofit housing leader myself, I’ve seen firsthand that nonprofits are central to delivering deeply affordable housing across the province, but our ability depends on sustained public investment, including through federal initiatives like Build Canada Homes that are designed to accelerate the delivery of affordable housing. At the same time, the need is growing. Findings from November 2025 show that families with children now make up 37 per cent of the BC Housing waitlist in Metro Vancouver, which has grown by 77 per cent since 2019. Demand for affordable housing continues to rise, yet development is slowing at a critical moment. Recent provincial budget decisions, including the pause of the Community Housing Fund, are delaying projects that were intended to serve women-led households, single parents, and other equity-deserving groups. For non-profit housing providers, this means projects that are already in development are now stalled or uncertain. These decisions have direct consequences. Housing that was planned, designed, and needed does not get built on time, or at all. It also strains the non-profit sector’s ability to plan long-term, retain partners, and continue delivering housing at the scale required. For families already navigating limited options, that delay means longer waitlists, fewer choices, and increased instability. Housing policy determines who can access safe and stable housing. When public investment slows, the impact is not evenly distributed. Those with the lowest incomes and the least flexibility are the first to be pushed out. The private market does not produce housing at rents that work for low- and moderate-income households. That gap is filled by non-profit and community housing providers, who deliver long-term affordability and stability, but only when supported by consistent public funding. This work also depends on coordinated investment across all orders of government, with federal funding playing a critical role alongside provinces, municipalities, and non-profits to deliver the housing communities need. Without sustained public investment, access to housing remains out of reach for many of the people who need it most. Housing inequality is also shaped by overlapping systems. Indigenous, racialized, newcomer, and gender-diverse communities face additional barriers to accessing housing, while many policies and programs continue to assume stable, higher incomes and fewer caregiving responsibilities. Current systems are not designed for the realities of single-income households or for people navigating instability, including those leaving unsafe environments. Non-profit housing providers are often the ones responding to these gaps directly, but are limited by funding constraints and policy decisions beyond their control. Housing is the foundation of a stable life. It determines whether people can remain in their communities, maintain employment, support their families, and plan beyond the immediate future. It shapes health outcomes, educational opportunities, and long-term wellbeing for children. Slowing public investment does not reduce demand. It limits the capacity of the organizations working to meet it. Addressing this requires a clear and sustained approach. Public investment in deeply affordable housing needs to continue, alongside a pathway to move forward projects that are already planned and ready to deliver. Right now, thousands of homes across B.C. are stalled due to recent funding decisions, despite significant investment and years of work by non-profit and Indigenous housing providers. These are homes that families need now, not years from now. If we are serious about supporting caregivers, children and single-income households, then the government must create a clear pathway to move forward the projects that are already planned and ready to deliver. This means restarting projects from the Community Housing Fund intake, supporting organizations that have incurred pre-development costs, and restoring stability and predictability in non-market housing programs. Caregivers and families cannot afford continued delays. Non-profit and Indigenous housing providers are ready to build. The homes are planned. Communities are waiting. What’s needed now is a clear commitment from the government to move these projects forward. You might also like: - B.C. government to slow pace of building new housing and infrastructure projects, including Burnaby Hospital redevelopment - B.C. government cancels Burnaby Hospital redevelopment, sort of - Vancouver is similar to cities like London and New York City but not in a good way - Vancouver rents keep dropping but remain the highest in Canada - Construction underway on two social housing towers and new firehall next to Cambie Street Bridge in downtown Vancouver https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-caregiving-families-affordable-housing-demand-options Sun, 17 May 2026 19:18:36 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-ferries-might-get-more-expensive Hanna Hett As B.C. Ferries gears up for one of its busiest summers to date, passengers may have to pay a little extra to board a sailing. On May 13, the ferry company warned that, if necessary, it might introduce a temporary fuel surcharge. “We’re operating in an environment with continued volatility — including fuel prices, supply chain pressures and increasing demand across the transportation network — all of which add pressure to the system during peak periods,” said Shiryn Sayani, a senior communications adviser with BC Ferries, in an email to Daily Hive Urbanized. In particular, the ferry company is closely monitoring the cost of fuel. Due to the war in Iran, global fuel prices have shot substantially in recent weeks, without a clear end in sight. Other companies like Air Canada and WestJet have announced fuel surcharges in response to rising gas prices. “BC Ferries can implement a temporary fuel surcharge to help offset those increases and ensure we can help manage significant fuel volatility while continuing to deliver safe and reliable service,” Sayani said. She added that if BC Ferries did implement a surcharge, it would be temporary and communicated publicly in advance to give their customers time to prepare. “We know any increase has an impact on customers and affordability matters, which is why these decisions are not made lightly,” she said. Daily Hive Urbanized asked BC Ferries how much this fuel surcharge might be, but they didn’t have an answer. “No decision has been made at this time, so we’re not in a position to confirm a specific amount or timing,” Sayani said. The last time BC Ferries had a fuel surcharge was in 2022, another time period when global fuel prices increased significantly due to “market volatility and geopolitical pressures, including the impacts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.” At that time, the surcharge was an additional $0.45 for adults and $2 for a vehicle and driver on the Metro Vancouver to Vancouver Island routes. RECENT PRICE INCREASE In April, BC Ferries implemented its most recent permanent price hikes, in line with the 3.2 per cent system-wide annual increase that began two years ago and is scheduled to continue until 2028. Instead of applying a uniform increase across its services, it adjusted specific fare categories, which helps it optimize capacity, spread costs equitably across the network and encourage more off-peak travel — reducing congestion and delays during the busiest periods. These fare changes started on April 8, and included: - On major routes between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island: - Standard vehicle + adult fare (drive-up or prepaid): $110 - Adult foot passenger: $21 (up $1) - Child foot passenger: $10.50 (up $0.50) - Saver fares are unchanged at $15 for adults and $7.50 for children - On minor and northern routes, fare increases will range from: - $0.95 to $2.05 for standard vehicles - $0.40 to $0.60 for adult passengers It also included an expansion of Saver fares, which are lower-priced options during time periods that often have more availability, like mid-week or early-morning. In late 2024, Daily Hive Urbanized learned that, based on BC Ferries ‘ budget forecast from 2023, they are projecting a 30 per cent price increase to manage its operations and capital costs. He suggested that the fare increase cost pressures might even be higher than 30 per cent if the budgetary forecast were updated, due to inflation. With files from Daniel Chai and Kenneth Chan You might also like: - BC Ferries braces for busiest summer yet amid fleet strain and FIFA World Cup - Fare discounts and increases coming as BC Ferries prepares for busy Summer 2026 with FIFA World Cup - BC Ferries warns of 30% fare hike in 2028 amid rising costs - What to know if you're sailing with BC Ferries on its 'fifth busiest' long weekend https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-ferries-might-get-more-expensive Sun, 17 May 2026 16:00:23 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lucia-vancouver-2026 Marco Ovies Located on Main Street, between E. 15th and E. 16th Avenue, is Lucia: an Italian restaurant that opened its doors relatively quietly in Vancouver less than a year ago — at least, as quietly as your typical restaurant opening in the city. You may recognize the address as the former home of Smitty’s Oyster House, which closed its doors in October 2024, or the short-lived Anthem Sound Lounge brought to us by local restaurateur Matt Thomson (also known for Park Drive and the now-closed Cannibal Café). However, looking at the restaurant, you wouldn’t recognize it at all. The dark, moody vibes of Anthem have since been replaced with accents of warm wood, and the space feels more open. Additionally, a revamped heated patio that has the option to be enclosed or opened adds to the space, a patio that begs to be sat at with friends, a couple of appetizers, and a cocktail or two. But the real heart and soul of Lucia comes in the form of its new chef, Marquella Uhrig, who recently took the reins at the Mount Pleasant restaurant. With her, Uhrig brings a new menu that is both warm and welcoming and anchored in house-made pastas and pizza. Fans of Italian cuisine may recognize Uhrig from her work as Sous Chef at Giusti, alongside other notable kitchens like Savio Volpe and Fred’s Ambleside. That’s all to say, she knows what she’s doing when it comes to working in Italian kitchens. “Coming to Lucia felt like a natural next step. This is a place built for people to gather and to share. That is exactly the kind of food I love to cook,” said Uhrig in a release. As part of the transition, Uhrig is focusing Lucia’s menu back on the traditions of Italian cooking in a way that feels approachable. We recently had the pleasure of stopping by for dinner with friends and are happy to say there’s plenty to enjoy. To start, we were presented with a selection of antiasti. There were no unfamiliar faces here, just simple, good-tasting food. Smoked Olives marinated with chilli, citrus, and garlic were quickly delivered to our table, followed by a plate of Burrata served with bundles of prosciutto, poached apple, and pine nuts, and Seasonal Greens served with a Caesar dressing and a generous portion of pangrattato and pecorino romano. The Meatballs were definitely the star of the show here, though, served alongside a Pomodoro sauce and dusted with Grana Padano. These homey, generously sized meatballs were quickly devoured by the table. And while we could happily pick at appetizers all day, any day — especially when paired with sips like the zesty and fresh Hugo Spritz — we were excited to move on to the carb-heavy portion of our meal. Pizza here is akin to a Neapolitan-style pie, with thin crusts that are sauced and topped with simple toppings (you won’t find any hot dog stuffed crust here). We opted for the Fennel Sausage pizza, which was served with an assortment of roasted peppers, olives, onion, provolone, and Grana Padano. We’ll be honest, the pizza was solid, but it paled in comparison to the pasta courses we were about to enjoy. Most notably, the Radiatore was an immediate favourite at the table. There’s something so enticing about the radiatore shape and the way the delicious sauce fills the crevices. Plus, it was obvious that the pasta was made fresh in-house. Here, the pasta was served with a leek and wild mushroom cream sauce and topped with pieces of smoked scamorza. We’ll definitely be back for this one. The other pasta we sampled was the Tortelli, a ricotta and greens stuffed pasta served in a brown butter sauce with sage and pine nuts. While we’ll also be proponents of sharing food when you go out with a group to make sure you can sample as much as possible, the downside was that it was a fight for who got the last tortelli. Of course, no Italian feast is complete without a few items for dessert as well, and all the classics have made an appearance on Lucia’s revamped menu. Tiramisu and the Cannoli were both very welcome sweet treats to conclude our meal. Ultimately, Lucia has accomplished what it has set out to do: offer its stretch of Main Street a haven of classic (and slightly elevated) Italian fare in a setting that is perfect for your next night out. If you’re in the area and looking for a solid bite to eat, Lucia is the place to be. LUCIA Address: 3124 Main St., Vancouver Instagram Still hungry? Discover Dished Vancouver on TikTok https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lucia-vancouver-2026 Sun, 17 May 2026 14:30:26 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/benefit-payments-june-2026 Isabelle Docto June ushers in another month of government benefit and credit payments for Canadians. Whether you’re a veteran or a family of four, Canadians from all walks of life could be eligible to receive these benefit and credit payments that aim to help with the country’s affordability crisis. Keep an eye on your bank account — here are all of the benefit and credit payments eligible Canadians could get in June. ONE-TIME GST/HST CREDIT TOP-UP In January, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit would replace the GST/HST credit in July 2026. Eligible Canadians will receive a one-time GST/HST credit top-up ahead of its transition into the new grocery rebate on June 5, 2026. The top-up will be equal to 50 per cent of the GST credit for the 2025 to 2026 benefit year. Check to see how much you could get if you’re eligible. ONTARIO TRILLIUM BENEFIT — JUNE 10, 2026 The OTB is a tax-free payment that combines the Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, the Northern Ontario Energy Credit, and the Ontario Sales Tax Credit. Ontarians could be eligible for one of the three credits. If you’re between the ages of 18 and 64, the maximum you’ll receive is $1,283, while the maximum you’ll qualify for if you’re 65 or older is $1,461. If you live on a reserve or a public long-term care home, the maximum you can receive is $285. You’ll receive $25 for the time you lived in a designated college, university, or private school residence in 2004. The amount you receive for the Northern Ontario Energy Credit depends on your marital status. If you’re single, you could receive a maximum of $185, while families could receive a maximum of $285. You can receive up to $371 for the Ontario Sales Tax Credit. However, you may be eligible for additional credit of up to $371 for your spouse or common-law partner, and each dependent child under 19 years of age on the 1st of the payment month. This credit does not affect your GST/HST credit payments. CANADA DISABILITY BENEFIT — JUNE 18, 2026 If you qualify, you’ll begin getting money from the government the month after your application is approved. “You may receive back payments for up to 24 months from when we get your application, but not for any previous months of eligibility prior to June 2025,” reads the government site. If eligible, your first payment will be on the third Thursday of the month following your approval. To learn more about the benefit, who’s eligible, and how much you can get, check out Daily Hive’s guide. CANADA CHILD BENEFIT — JUNE 19, 2026 The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment for eligible families to help with the cost of raising kids under the age of 18. Canadian families got a 2.7 per cent boost in child tax payments in 2025. Annual payments for children under six will increase from $7,787 to $7,997, or $666 monthly. For those with children aged six to 17, this means an annual payment increase from $6,570 to $6,748, or $562 per month. The CCB will increase again in July 2026. Check to see how much more money your family could receive from the government. B.C. FAMILY BENEFIT — JUNE 19, 2026 Families who qualify for the B.C. Family Benefit (BCFB) will receive this monthly tax-free payment, along with their CCB, in a single payment. The CRA states that families with children under 18 could receive $145.83 per month for the first child, $41.66 per month for the first child in a single-parent family, $91.66 per month for the second child, and $75 per month for each additional child. Families with a net income between $29,526 and $94,483 could receive $64.58 per month for the first child, $62.50 per month for the second child, and $60.41 per month for each additional child. ONTARIO CHILD BENEFIT — JUNE 19, 2026 Ontario families with low to moderate income could be eligible for the Ontario Child Benefit (OCB), a provincial tax-free benefit that’s delivered with the CCB in a single monthly payment. Families could be eligible to receive a maximum of $143.91 per month for each child under 18 years of age, and families with a family net income above $26,364 may receive a partial benefit. CANADA PENSION PLAN — JUNE 26, 2026 The CPP is a monthly, taxable benefit that replaces part of eligible Canadians’ income upon retirement and is paid for the rest of their lives. To receive money from the government, you must have made at least one valid contribution to the CPP and be at least 60 years old. You’ll receive your full pension even if you’re under 70 and still working; contributing to the CPP post-retirement benefit can increase your pension. The amount you receive will depend on when you decided to start your pension, the amount you contributed, how much you earned throughout your working life, and how long you contributed to the CPP. New beneficiaries aged 65 will receive an average monthly payment of $899.67. The maximum monthly payment you can receive at age 65 is $1,433. OLD AGE SECURITY — JUNE 26, 2026 Canadians aged 65 and older can qualify for the OAS pension regardless of their work history. Those aged 65 to 74 can receive up to $727.67 per month in 2025 if their annual net income in 2023 was less than $142,609. However, Canadians aged 75 and older can receive a maximum of $800.44 if their annual net world income in 2023 was less than $148,179. VETERAN DISABILITY PENSION — JUNE 29, 2026 The following Canadians can qualify for the Veteran Disability Pension: - A member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces - A member or former member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) - A Second World War or Korean War Veteran (includes Merchant Navy), or an eligible civilian who served in the Second World War Eligible recipients must have a diagnosed medical condition or disability and demonstrate that it was related to their service. If eligible, you can also receive a lifetime monthly benefit or lump sum for Pain and Suffering Compensation. The amount you receive depends on your disability, and payments range from $69.60 to $1,391.98. There’s also the disability pension, which depends on the number of dependents, such as your spouse, common-law partner, and/or children. You may also be eligible for benefits offered by your provincial or territorial government, rather than the federal government of Canada. Take a look at your provincial benefits page. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/benefit-payments-june-2026 Sun, 17 May 2026 11:00:35 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/science-technology-fifa-museum-science-world-vancouver-exhibit-beautiful-dome Kenneth Chan Last week, a crew of rope access technicians began installing the temporary banner panels onto the exoskeleton structure that supports the iconic geodesic dome of Science World, as the landmark undergoes a dramatic transformation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. So far, as of the time of writing, they have already completed roughly a third of the wrap-around installation. Over the coming weeks, crews will continue installing a total of 131 custom-fabricated, hexagon-shaped banner panels designed to resemble the adidas Trionda — the official FIFA World Cup match soccer ball, turning one of Vancouver’s most recognizable buildings into a tournament-sized public spectacle. You might also like: - First dedicated 2026 FIFA World Cup store opens at Vancouver International Airport - Vancouver is really starting to look like a FIFA World Cup host city - Colourful soccer ball art installation above Robson Square celebrates FIFA World Cup nations playing in Vancouver - Vancouver's FIFA World Cup spirit takes to the water with Hullo Ferries vessel livery wrap - 'What an absolute joke': FIFA takes control of BC Place Stadium and kicks out sports museum This temporary 360-degree, 40-metre-diameter public art installation — called “The Beautiful Dome” — is expected to be completed in early June, and it is part of Vancouver’s broader ramp-up in preparations for the seven FIFA World Cup matches taking place at BC Place Stadium. Once finished, the transformed dome is expected to become a major visual landmark for the steady stream of mass crowds walking through the area to reach the stadium for the matches — the only pedestrian route to reach the stadium entrance starts outside Science World on Quebec Street — and for international broadcasts. It will likely become one of the most photographed landmarks in Vancouver during the tournament. > Rope access technicians seen carefully installing hexagon-shaped banner panels onto the structure that supports Science World’s dome. > > “The Beautiful Dome,” a replica of the Adidas Trionda soccer ball, will be fully installed by early June. #FIFAWorldCuphttps://t.co/VpRJzKjX3P pic.twitter.com/bvUW2HHVn8 > > — Kenneth Chan (@iamkennethchan) May 14, 2026 Inside this temporary ginormous soccer ball, Science World has fittingly launched a new temporary feature exhibition exploring the science and technology behind the so-called “Beautiful Game” and the quadrennial tournament that is organized by the international sports federation responsible for overseeing all aspects of this particular sport globally. This exhibition, called Soccer & Technology from the FIFA Museum, opened Friday, May 15, and runs through Sept. 7, 2026. The travelling showcase, straight from FIFA’s main museum in Zurich, Switzerland, marks the exhibition’s first stop in North America. Developed in partnership with the FIFA Museum and sponsored by the Government of British Columbia, the exhibition examines the systems and innovations shaping modern soccer — from video review technology and performance analytics to stadium operations and broadcast production. The exhibition is divided into five themed sections: Broadcasting and Media, Intelligent Data, Refereeing and Fair Play, Staging the Game, and the Innovation Lab. Visitors can explore how technology is used to support athletes, coaches, referees, and fans, both on and off the pitch. Among the featured artifacts are the connected match ball designed for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a video assistant referee monitor used during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, and various decades old artifacts, such as broadcast cameras, referee uniforms, and media credentials. Some of the displays also explain FIFA’s turf and real-time match analysis technologies. There are also several items tied to Canadian soccer history. Those include the jersey worn by Canadian soccer star Christine Sinclair during Canada’s gold medal victory at the Tokyo Summer Olympics, as well as memorabilia connected to Alphonso Davies and Atiba Hutchinson from the men’s national team’s appearance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. As well, there is a display with a cross-section of a real Trionda, which explains the unique features of the high-tech match ball that will be used for this tournament, and an interactive display with a real Conext15, which is the match ball used for the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup held only in Canada — a tournament that saw Vancouver host nine matches, including the championship final. Science World notes the exhibition is intended to make science and innovation more accessible by connecting them to a globally recognized sport. “As an organization committed to making science for all, we are delighted to partner with the FIFA Museum to host an exhibition that showcases the science and technology behind the world’s most popular sport at a time when soccer fans from around the world will be visiting our city,” said Fiona Cole-Hamilton, vice president of experience and products for Science World, in a statement. “By highlighting the technology behind soccer, we hope to engage new audiences and inspire the next generation of sports technologists and innovators.” The exhibition is also expected to strengthen Vancouver’s profile among the 16 host cities of the FIFA World Cup across Canada, the United States, and Mexio. Marco Fazzone, the managing director of the FIFA Museum, said Vancouver was selected as the exhibition’s first North American stop because of both its role as a World Cup host city and its connection to innovation and technology. “We are thrilled that Vancouver will host our exhibition’s first-ever stop in North America. This exhibition offers fans a chance to see the game like never before — to discover the cutting-edge science that supports soccer for players, coaches, referees, and fans alike,” said Fazzone. “There is simply no better partner than Science World to further share this fascinating story of sport and innovation.” During the 2010 Winter Olympics, Science World made a major pivot by leasing its entire building to the organizing committee of the Sochi 2014 Winter Games, which transformed the space into Sochi House — a pavilion promoting the upcoming Olympics in Russia. SOCCER & TECHNOLOGY FROM THE FIFA MUSEUM EXHIBIT AT SCIENCE WORLD When: May 15, 2026 to Sept. 7, 2026 Time: Science World operating hours Where: Science World — 1455 Quebec St., Vancouver Admission: Science World admission fees You might also like: - First dedicated 2026 FIFA World Cup store opens at Vancouver International Airport - Vancouver is really starting to look like a FIFA World Cup host city - Colourful soccer ball art installation above Robson Square celebrates FIFA World Cup nations playing in Vancouver - Vancouver's FIFA World Cup spirit takes to the water with Hullo Ferries vessel livery wrap - 'What an absolute joke': FIFA takes control of BC Place Stadium and kicks out sports museum https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/science-technology-fifa-museum-science-world-vancouver-exhibit-beautiful-dome Sat, 16 May 2026 22:52:00 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/rennie-the-agency-real-estate-brokerage-partnership Kenneth Chan Vancouver-based real estate firm Rennie is expanding beyond its home market through a new partnership with luxury brokerage network The Agency — a move that will give the company access to thousands of agents and new development opportunities across North America. The company announced this week it has entered a strategic partnership with The Agency, whose network includes more than 3,500 agents operating in 14 countries. This deal is expected to broaden Rennie’s reach in development consulting, project marketing, and residential sales, while keeping its operations and leadership structure intact. You might also like: - Prominent Vancouver real estate firm Rennie undergoes major layoffs - Vancouver-based Rennie expands into commercial real estate - Vancouver firm Rennie becomes broker of Disney's Storyliving luxury housing project - Vancouver developer launches "try before you buy" program for prospective condo owners - Lower Mainland's presale home launches in early 2026 plunges to just 64 units or 6% of a normal month - Some developers in Metro Vancouver turning to bulk condo sales amid weak market Known primarily for its long-standing presence in Metro Vancouver’s pre-sale and new residential building development market, Rennie said the partnership reflects growing demand for broader buyer access and more data-driven sales strategies as market conditions evolve. For decades, Rennie has focused heavily on Vancouver real estate, building systems around buyer analytics, development planning, and project marketing in one of Canada’s most active and competitive housing markets. The company notes that those methods will now be applied to projects in additional North American cities through The Agency’s international distribution network. In May 2025, Rennie announced that due to the continued prolonged weakness in condominium pre-sales across Metro Vancouver, broader structural economic headwinds in British Columbia and Canada, and accelerating technological trends in real estate marketing practices, it was forced to cut its headquarters office workforce size in Vancouver from 123 to 92 staff. Then in September 2025, the company formally announced it had begun to make a real effort in diversifying its business beyond residential properties — the launch of a new dedicated commercial real estate division called Rennie Commercial. The latest agreement with The Agency comes as developers increasingly look beyond local markets to attract qualified buyers, particularly for large-scale residential projects. Rennie said the partnership will help connect local developments with a wider international audience while continuing to manage projects through its existing advisory and sales teams. The expansion will also rely heavily on rCatalyst, Rennie’s proprietary artificial intelligence-driven sales and marketing platform. Rennie says the system is built on more than 30 million data points and is designed to help developers better understand buyer behaviour, improve project positioning and make faster sales decisions. “Developers today require more than traditional sales — they need a partner who can anticipate market shifts and connect with buyers on a global scale. Our partnership with rennie brings together development expertise, marketing, and international reach to deliver a more complete approach from early strategy through to sellout,” said Mauricio Umansky, CEO and Founder of The Agency, in a statement. The companies note that work is already underway on projects in several markets, including Kaliʻu Ala Moana in Honolulu, with additional developments expected to be announced later. Rennie said the partnership is intended to expand where the company operates rather than change how it works. The firm will continue overseeing development strategy, branding, and go-to-market execution for projects. “This partnership is built on a clear foundation of experience and execution. For more than 50 years, we’ve taken a disciplined approach grounded in data, systems, and real market intelligence — including platforms like rCatalyst. That allows us to not only position and sell homes, but to actively manage risk for our partners,” said Greg Zayadi, president of Rennie. “Combined with The Agency’s global reach and distribution, it creates a powerful engine to bring developments to market with clarity and confidence,” said Greg Zayadi. The partnership marks one of the most significant expansions in Rennie’s company history and signals a broader push by Canadian real estate advisory firms to compete in larger international development markets. Some Vancouver-based developers are also increasingly expanding their reach to domestic markets outside of British Columbia and international markets, including the United States and United Kingdom. You might also like: - Prominent Vancouver real estate firm Rennie undergoes major layoffs - Vancouver-based Rennie expands into commercial real estate - Vancouver firm Rennie becomes broker of Disney's Storyliving luxury housing project - Vancouver developer launches "try before you buy" program for prospective condo owners - Lower Mainland's presale home launches in early 2026 plunges to just 64 units or 6% of a normal month - Some developers in Metro Vancouver turning to bulk condo sales amid weak market https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/rennie-the-agency-real-estate-brokerage-partnership Sat, 16 May 2026 22:47:17 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/restaurants-opening-vancovuer-may-2026 Marco Ovies One thing will always remain true for folks living in and around Vancouver: there is a never-ending amount of exciting restaurants opening each and every month. So many, in fact, that we’ve reported on 29 this month alone. Whether you’re looking to see which vendors will be joining the highly anticipated Time Out Market Vancouver, or if you’re looking for a new spot offering its take on Portuguese cuisine, these are some of the most hyped restaurants opening to keep your eyes on. MARIA CELESTE >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by Maria Celeste | Comida Portuguesa (@mariaceleste.yvr) This summer, Vancouver will soon learn what the “spirit of the tasca” means with the opening of Maria Celeste, a new restaurant brought to us by hospitality veterans and brothers Justin and Cristian Isidro, named in tribute to their mother. Joining the many loved restaurants in Vancouver’s Fraserhood, this will be an intimate, 36-seat Portuguese restaurant that will act as a tribute to Portugal’s cherished tascas, which the team said are “everyday neighbourhood gathering places, where food, wine, and conversation unfold naturally.” “Tascas were always about more than what was on the table,” said Justin. “They were about the community and being a welcoming place for everyone. Our goal with Maria Celeste is to capture the familial essence that flows through these culinary institutions scattered throughout Portugal. There’s nothing quite like it in Vancouver yet.” Address: 4181 Fraser St., Vancouver LES FAUX BOURGEOIS The team behind much-loved restaurants like Selene Aegean Bistro, AMA, and Nammos Estiatorio is gearing up to launch a new restaurant… well, sort of. Gaia House has recently shared that it will soon be the operator behind the beloved French bistro Les Faux Bourgeois, which has been in operation for nearly two decades. “Les Faux Bourgeois has always held a strong identity and our role is not to reinvent it, but to steward its legacy while still bringing something fresh and new to the table,” said Yianni Kerasiotis, who co-founded Gaia House with his brother Petro. “This is why we say Vancouver’s newest restaurant is 18 years old. We’re preserving the warmth, approachability, and unpretentious elegance, and at the same time, introducing a renewed sense of energy to the experience.” At the revamped Les Faux, the menu will continue to celebrate the classic French bistro fare that it has been known for, with a focus on hyper-local ingredients and family-style dining. Address: 663 E. 15th Ave., Vancouver EMERI MATCHA BAR >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by emeri (@enjoyemeri) You may recognize the name Emeri from its pop-ups taking place across Vancouver over the past year. Here, co-founders Josephine Au and Justin Ng offered patrons the opportunity to find the perfect tasting matcha. “We realized something obvious and yet, surprisingly overlooked: everyone’s taste buds are different. What’s a perfect cup of matcha for one person might not be for another, and that’s exactly what makes the journey so fascinating.” From there, the duo decided to start focusing on curating a collection of matcha that celebrates those differences, instead of focusing on just one. Fast forward to today, and the team is looking to bring that same dedication to finding folks’ favourite matcha to its first brick-and-mortar location, coming to Mount Pleasant in the former home of Goldilocks Bake Shop. “We’ve been looking non-stop for a home for Emeri. After countless tours, long nights and planning, we’ve finally secured a space. We are far from ready, but we promise to keep our heads down and work as hard as we can to make sure that you will be able to come and enjoy your matcha with us soon,” wrote the matcha bar on Instagram. An exact opening date has yet to be announced, but expect to visit sometime this summer. Address: 2833 Main St., Vancouver ÔNG BÀ VIETNAMESE EATERY — COQUITLAM After closing the doors to its original Vancouver location on Denman Street, Ông Bà Vietnamese Eatery is preparing to return in a big way with a larger location set to open in Coquitlam this summer. Ông Bà shared that this decision to move comes from something deeply personal for the team: the desire to create a space where more people can experience the warmth, comfort, and sense of family that has always been at the heart of the restaurant. “We wanted to build a place where people can slow down, gather around the table, and create memories together,” said Viet, co-owner and son of the restaurant’s namesakes, who operates it with his wife Quynh. “A space filled with warmth, conversation, and the feeling of being cared for. That’s what our parents taught us — food is not just about eating, it’s about bringing people together like family.” The new location will feature more tables to gather with your family, as well as a full bar and an expanded menu where more of Mẹ’s recipes can shine. It also coincides with a brand refresh for Ông Bà, which includes a new logo showing Bố and Mẹ later in life, representing the happy ending of their journey. Address: 1045-1163 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam CHOP STEAKHOUSE – SOUTH SURREY >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by Chop Steakhouse & Bar (@chopsteakhouse) Coming to Grandview Corners Shopping Mall (right by Sephora) is the latest location of Chop Steakhouse. Here, you’ll find all your favourite Chop options, including its impressive selection of steaks, all alongside a space that features an enclosed, four-season patio and a private dining room for groups of all sizes. Chop Steakhouse South Surrey is expected to open its doors on May 28. Address: 16051 24th Ave., Surrey LITTLE PISCES — VANCOUVER >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by little pisces | taiyaki & soft serve (@eatlittlepisces) Little Pisces, brought to us by co-owners Linda Dai and Jacky Tian, has taken Vancouver by storm ever since it opened its first Burnaby location in 2024 and subsequent Richmond outpost. Heck, we’ve been hard-pressed to find a time to visit when there hasn’t been a line of hungry fans at either of these locations. Now, the team has shared that plans to open its first location in Vancouver proper are well underway — and it’ll be its biggest location yet. “This store has been in the works for the past few months, and we’re very happy to finally share that we got the keys to Little Pisces numero three last week,” shared Little Pisces on Instagram. Dai and Tian also shared that this will be Little Pisces’ flagship location, offering a massive space with high ceilings, lots of natural light, and enough amperage to keep up with all the taiyaki making. The new location also features more kitchen space than its other locations, meaning potentially more menu opportunities. “Our 26 y/o selves would be over the moon — we truly couldn’t have gotten to today without our amazing team + community, we are eternally grateful for all of you, thank you,” added Little Pisces. Address: Olympic Village RAMEN DANBO — MAIN STREET >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by Ramen Danbo Canada (@ramendanbo_ca) Ramen Danbo is considered by many to be one of the best in the city, and it will now be opening in the Riley Park-Little Mountain neighbourhood. “Preparation for our new location is well underway,” shared the restaurant. Currently, it operates four other restaurants in the province: one in Kitsilano at 1833 W. 4th Ave., one in Kerrisdale at 2277 W. 41st Ave., one in downtown Vancouver at 1333 Robson St., and another at 2277 W. 41st Ave. in North Vancouver, along with its outposts in Seattle and New York. Address: 3982 Main St., Vancouver MACU TEA BURQUITLAM Macu Tea shared with Dished that it will be opening a new location in Burnaby this summer, with signs of the storefront going up yesterday. “The North Road location represents a vital chapter in our journey within British Columbia,” said the Macu Tea project team. “With signage now visible to the public, we are excited to invite the community to join us this summer for an unparalleled tea experience that celebrates freshness and craftsmanship.” Aside from a projected summer opening, an exact date for the store’s launch has yet to be announced. However, it did share that grand opening festivities will include exclusive promotions and the debut of seasonal menu items. Address: 4331 North Rd., Burnaby JINYA RAMEN BAR — LANGLEY Ramen brand Jinya is also joining the list of restaurants opening in Metro Vancouver, with its Langley location scheduled to open on May 20, marking its fourth location in B.C. and 80th total. The chain is best known for its slow-simmered broths, handcrafted noodles, and an elevated take on traditional ramen. Plus, the first 100 guests will receive a free bowl of ramen to redeem on a future visit. “We’re excited to bring Jinya to Langley and introduce our signature ramen experience to the community,” said Tomo Takahashi, founder and CEO of Jinya Holdings Inc. “We look forward to becoming part of the local dining scene and welcoming guests to enjoy our menu.” Address: 19705 Fraser Hwy., Langley ENTRECOTE RESTAURANT Details on Entrecote, the new restaurant opening in the former home of MeeT in Gastown and Dix, are sparse. However, real estate agency Restaurant Agents did share some information on its Instagram. “This new addition to the dining scene will bring a fresh culinary experience to the city, and we can’t wait for you to check it out. Stay tuned for the official opening date and get ready to show your support when they launch,” wrote Restaurant Agents. Address: 12 Water St., Vancouver EGGSLUT VANCOUVER While no concrete location and opening date have been announced, Eggslut recently announced it was eyeing Vancouver for future expansion. This news came shortly after the opening of the chain’s first Canadian location in Toronto on April 30 (with a second Toronto location scheduled to open later this year). Founded in Los Angeles in 2011, the breakfast destination quickly became popular for its elevated take on classic breakfast sandwiches. Since then, it has expanded throughout the U.S., U.K., Japan, and Australia. “Eggslut started with a simple idea: take something familiar and make it exceptional,” said Andy Lee, co-owner of Eggslut. “From a food truck in Los Angeles to a global following, we’ve stayed focused on quality, consistency, and intention.” TRUFFLE DONUT VANCOUVER >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by TRUFFLE DONUT CANADA (@truffledonut_canada) Ikoi Cha shared the news that it will be transforming into the popular Japanese chain Truffle Donut. “We have some exciting news to share! To bring you an even more elevated dessert experience, we are officially transitioning from mochi doughnuts to something truly extraordinary,” wrote the shop. “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the renowned Japanese brand — Truffle Donut! Get ready for the Japanese Nama Donut (Raw Donut) revolution,” wrote the shop on Instagram. Now you may be wondering, what exactly is a “raw donut.” Well, these sweet treats are a popular Japanese-style, high-hydration brioche doughnut that results in an extremely soft and airy texture, and is often filled with custard or whipped cream. Unlike the mochi variety, which is renowned for its chewy texture, these desserts are almost cloud-like with their delicate texture. What makes this store even more special is that it infuses its treats with truffles and uses a signature pumpkin-infused dough. An exact opening date for the brand’s Vancouver location has yet to be announced, but it shared that it expects to open sometime in June. Plus, it said that if this opening is similar to any of its other locations, customers should expect major lines on opening day. Address: 5712 Tyne St., Vancouver LEE’S DONUTS — OAKRIDGE When thinking of donuts in Vancouver, Lee’s Donuts tends to be one of the first that come to mind. It’s been slinging donuts since 1979 and is loved by many. Now, the chain is preparing to launch another location in the city in the Oakridge neighbourhood. The new location will be opening in the mixed-use development Thesis by Alabaster Homes at 113 W. 49th Ave., Vancouver, and is situated across from Langara College and steps from Langara — 49th Avenue SkyTrain station. “When we saw what Alabaster Homes was building at Thesis, we knew it was a perfect fit. It’s a beautifully designed space in a neighbourhood that’s really coming into its own — surrounded by exactly the kind of community that Lee’s has always been part of. We can’t wait to start baking and become part of the daily routine here,” said Allan B., owner and CEO of Lee’s Donuts Inc. Donuts at this location will be made fresh on-site every day, and the store will feature the full lineup of classic offerings, including Honey Dip, Raspberry Jelly, Chocolate Glaze, and rotating seasonal favourites. An exact opening date for the new location has yet to be announced, but expect to visit before the end of the year. Address: 133 W. 49th Ave., Vancouver You might also like: - Miss Matchstick? These five new Vancouver cafes could be your next favourite - Vancouver's beloved chocolate buffet is making its long-awaited return - Popular Toronto-based dessert and boba shop opens first Vancouver location TIME OUT MARKET VANCOUVER There are so many new and exciting concepts coming to Time Out Market Vancouver that it needs its own section. You’ll be able to dine at all of these spots starting May 28. FEENIE’S Chef Robert Feenie (Executive Chef and Partner of Le Crocodile, Iron Chef America winner, and four-time Iron Chef Canada winner) will launch his latest concept called Feenie’s, where he’ll be serving up gourmet burgers. Highlights from the menu include the signature Time Out Market Burger, which is served with house-ground Wagyu and gruyeré, a burger inspired by Le Crocodile’s Burger De Maison. MEE BAR >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by Time Out Market Vancouver (@timeoutmarketvancouver) If that wasn’t enough star power for one market, Top Chef Canada 2024 winner Chef Chanthy Yen will be opening Mee Bar, which will be a celebration of his Cambodian heritage. Here, he’ll be offering dishes such as Mee Kola (a take on a rice noodle bowl which will be topped with charcoal-grilled meat and seafood), Cambodian-style chicken wings (with lime and Kampot pepper), and Nom Banh Chok (a traditional Cambodian curry broth with rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and herb salad). LUNCH LADY >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by Time Out Market Vancouver (@timeoutmarketvancouver) Lunch Lady will also be opening an outpost at Time Out Market, bringing with it its much-loved Vietnamese street food. The Michelin-recommended restaurant will be serving up fan-favourite dishes, including its Steak Lúc Lắc, Garlic Fried Noodles, and more. MAKAAM Baan Lao’s Chef and Owner, Nutcha Phanthoupheng (a.k.a. the Richmond restaurant that was named the best in Canada two years in a row), will also be opening MaKaam. This eatery will feature an artisan Thai menu with dishes like pad Thai that is reinvented with the addition of aged tamarind water buffalo milk gouda. DOWNLOW CHICKEN One of Vancouver’s all-time favourite chicken shacks, DownLow Chicken, will be bringing its iconic crispy fried chicken to the market. Expect everything you’ve come to love from the brand, including the OG Sando, Signature DL Mac n Cheese, Fries on the Downlow, and more. BARNACLE Bar Bravo will be launching its new concept, Barnacle, at Time Out Market Vancouver, which will showcase the acclaimed seafood from Head Chef Jonah Joffe. Expect an assortment of raw and cooked seafood, including dishes such as Local Oysters, Signature Jonah Crab Cocktail, and a Seafood Tower. PEACOCK Leading the pack of newly announced chefs and restaurants is Chef Vikram Vij, who will be opening a new Indian concept called Peacock. Vij is famous for his Vancouver-based restaurant, Vij’s, which has been serving hungry patrons (and plenty of celebrities) since 1994. Vij himself has received global recognition during his culinary career, highlighted by both the Michelin Guide and James Beard Awards, alongside appearances on Top Chef Canada, Chopped Canada, Dragons’ Den, and many more. At Peacock, guests can expect dishes like Samosa Chaat salad with beets and candied walnuts, Jennifer’s Salt Fish Curry, and Vij’s family Chicken Korma with pickled chillies. VIA TEVERE Via Tevere has also been announced to come to Time Out Market Vancouver. The pizzeria, founded by brothers Dom and Frank Morra, who are also behind other concepts, including Straight Outta Brooklyn Pizza, Don’t Argue Pizza, Cafe Soccavoa, il Saltimbocca food truck, and the sandwich chain Dante Italian Sandwich, which has been taking Vancouver by storm. At both of its current locations, Via Tevere holds the prestigious Vera Pizza Napoletana certification due to its use ot traditional methods and ingredients. At this new outpost, Via Tevere will be serving its traditional Neapolitan pizzas from its Margherita to Vesuvio, and paninos, including its Prosciutto e Tartufo and Mortadella e Pistachio. KISHIMOTO Chef Akira Kishimoto is bringing his over three decades of industry experience to Time Out Market Vancouver. His restaurant, Kishimoto, has been a staple of Japanese cuisine in the city for over 14 years and has received accolades like securing second place at the prestigious 2023 Canada’s Great Kitchen Party contest. At its Time Out Market location, guests can expect dishes like Wagyu Broth Udon, Okonomiyaki, and Oshizushi, alongside a few vegetarian and vegan items as well. SANTO TACO Having only opened recently, Santo Taco has solidified itself as one of the top taquerias in the city. This restaurant is inspired by the street food of Mexico, and its menu is built around high-quality proteins prepared with respect for traditions. Expect plenty of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas when Time Out Market opens, with protein options such as Slow-braised Beef Birria, NY Striploin Asada, Citrus-marinated Pork Belly, and Classic Pork Al Pastor, alongside rotating chef’s specials. There will also be a selection of appetizers and shareable plates. HERITAGE ASIAN EATERY Another Vancouver favourite that currently operates three locations in the city, Heritage Asian Eatery will be bringing its Asian comfort food to Time Out Market. Expect dishes with plenty of locally sourced ingredients, from Peking duck to Heritage’s version of Chinese BBQ. Specific dishes include Premium Char Siu Pork, Signature Roast Duck, Succulent Soy Chicken, and Charcoal Roasted Lamb Skewers. MELLO DONUTS The viral donut shop Mello, known for its delicious handcrafted brioche donuts (as well as its viral part donut, park cookie creation called the Donukie that was available for a limited time), is coming to Time Out Market Vancouver. And while you’ll be able to find the brand’s much-loved donuts at this new outpost, you can also find a selection of cakes and cookies like its Strawberry Short Cake and Cereal Cookie. BOBA RUN The Korean-inspired bubble tea concept Boba Run will be bringing its popular drinks to the market as well. The spot is best known for its offerings like Strawberry Matcha Latte and Korean Banana Milk, as well as other more unique flavour combinations like Honeycomb Dalgona Latte and Jolly Pong Cereal Shake. You’ll be able to find these varieties here, including other drinks like a Brown Sugar Matcha Latte, Thai Iced Tea, and Peach Oolong Milk Tea. PASTA E BASTA BY ASK FOR LUIGI When thinking of Italian food in Vancouver, one of the first spots that comes to mind is Ask For Luigi. For over a decade, Ask for Luigi has been a much-loved Italian dining destination, receiving numerous accolades in the process. Now, in addition to the numerous sister concepts across Metro Vancouver, a new concept from the team will be debuting at Time Out Market Vancouver called Pasta e Basta by Ask for Luigi. Here, you’ll find a menu focused on pasta favourites, including Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe and Rigatoni Bolognese, alongside Italian antipasti. PIDGIN PiDGiN has been serving its signature Asian French fusion in Gastown since 2013, receiving prestigious recognitions like being Michelin-recommended. The team will be bringing that same, award-winning cuisine to Time Out Market Vancouver when it opens. Expect dishes like Foie Gras Rice Bowl, Lobster Dan Dan Noodles, and Mango Rice Pudding.  DUMPLING BAR BLND TGER The dumpling shop, which has operated a location in Chinatown since 2021, is meant to act as a nod to Shanghai alleyway dumpling shops. At its Time Out Market Vancouver location, you’ll find the same fun, elevated dumpling and dim sum you’ve grown to love from its original locations. New offerings at its Time Out Market location will include Fujian Chicken and Chive Dumplings, Shrimp Toast, and Shanghai Cold Sesame Noodles. ESPAÑA España will be bringing a slice of Spain to the market with owner Edward Perrow and team offering a selection of Spanish-inspired dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients. In the market, it will be offering a selection of pinxtos, tapas, charcuterie boards, and its iconic paellas. BEAUCOUP BAKERY CAFE AND THE CREAMERY BY BEAUCOUP Beaucoup Bakery will not only be bringing its signature cafe experience to Time Out Market Vancouver, but it will also be debuting a new, exclusive dessert bar called The Creamery by Beaucoup. At The Creamery and cafe, customers will find bold, never-before-seen flavour pairings alongside innovative seasonal items (think Butter Dip Soft Serve and Toast with a Kouign-amann flavour). This follows the recent opening of its new Britannia Village location, found in a restored 1936 bunkhouse. Still hungry? Discover Dished Vancouver on TikTok https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/restaurants-opening-vancovuer-may-2026 Sat, 16 May 2026 14:30:26 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/chris-higgins-no-time-canucks-character-issues Rob Williams Chris Higgins has a unique perspective on what has happened to the Vancouver Canucks in recent years. He first joined the Canucks as a player before their run to the Stanley Cup Final in 2011. After retiring in 2016, Higgins returned to the organization three years later, working in player development. The 42-year-old left the club two years ago, but evidently he still has his finger on the pulse of the franchise. Speaking with Jamie Dodd and Randip Janda on Sportsnet 650 on Friday, Higgins didn’t hold back sharing his opinion about some of the team’s problem areas. “That obsession to get better has been missing in this organization for a long time. It’s been one of my biggest critiques over the last number of years is our best players aren’t obsessed with getting better. “We need to reestablish that culture of obsession of getting better every day, and being challenged, and not taking it personally… I feel like that hasn’t been around here for a very long time.” Higgins put his support behind the Sedins and Ryan Johnson, who will lead the Canucks into a new era. That trio has spoken extensively about the importance of team culture. So did Higgins, though his comments were a bit more pointed. “If we’re into year four, five, six, seven, and we’re still talking about preparation and your practice habits, it’s time to get rid of those guys. Like, straight up. That’s too long. Now that’s a character issue.” Was Higgins talking about Elias Pettersson? He just finished year eight. “We’ve let this go on, hoping that next year’s going to be the year for a lot of guys.” The Pettersson dilemma is a fascinating one for the Canucks. Do they cut their losses with their most talented player, or do they see if a new environment can spark something in him? > 🗣️ If we are into year 4,5,6,7, and we're still talking about your preparation and practice habits it's time to move on. That's a character issue. > > 👉 Chris Higgins joined @jamiedodd & @randipjanda to talk about your best players having to be obsessed with getting better. pic.twitter.com/VH8wmaxYhl > > — Sportsnet 650 (@Sportsnet650) May 15, 2026 The problems run deeper than just Pettersson, of course. You don’t sink to the bottom of the NHL standings because of just one player. As the Canucks begin to rebuild their roster, it’ll be important that they find the right players. Or as Higgins puts it, they need players with “predator eyes.” “I’ve looked at players in the lights of their eyes — I didn’t see it with a lot of guys. I didn’t see the fierceness. It’s hard to describe, when you look into somebody’s eyes as a competitor, you know what those predator eyes look like… Those are hard to get, but those are the guys we need to find,” said Higgins. “I finally believe in some of the guys that are making decisions that will find those type of guys.” https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/chris-higgins-no-time-canucks-character-issues Sat, 16 May 2026 14:00:19 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lottery-winners-canada-privacy-policy Irish Mae Silvestre Lottery players in certain parts of Canada are now affected by recent changes introduced by some corporations. Two Canadian lottery corporations say they’ve added new measures this year to better protect winners’ identities. British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) was the first corporation to implement changes to how it publicly announces winners. Previously, BCLC published media releases on its website that included winners’ full names, the community where they live, recent photos, and stories about their win. However, as of Jan. 1, the corporation made a slight change, only including a winner’s first name and the initial of their last name on its website and media releases. “We decided to take this proactive step to ensure we can continue to support player trust and confidence and the integrity and security of our games while providing players with additional privacy,” said Shelly Wong, a BCLC spokesperson, in an interview with Daily Hive. In April, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) said that winner releases will only include the initial of their last names. However, unlike BCLC, OLG winners who win $1,000 or more will still have their names published on the OLG website, where they will remain for 30 days. In an email to Daily Hive, Tony Bitonti, director of media relations at OLG, stated that it’s important to find a balance between privacy and transparency. “The internet and social media were also other considerations for this change,” he stated. “The winners’ stories live on forever on the web, versus the days when we only had access to printed newspapers that had a short life span.” Bitonti stated that they’ve seen an increasing number of scammers using winners’ pictures for social media schemes promising to share a portion of their winnings with people if they send $10 or $20 for shipping. He said that OLG has been working with Meta to take down these posts on Facebook and Instagram. “This is another way to try to help protect a winner’s privacy while being transparent about who wins our lottery prizes,” he stated. A spokesperson for Loto-Québec told Daily Hive that while winners’ full names are published on its website and in press releases for transparency, only their first names are shared on social media and on the ceremonial cheques used in photos. A representative for the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC) stated in an email that it is “not making any changes at this time.” WCLC handles lottery and gaming activities in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, along with the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. “We anticipate winners will have questions about publicity, and WCLC has discussions with winners during the prize claim process to ensure they know exactly what to expect when it comes to the publicity elements,” they stated. “WCLC publicizes wins with full winner names for transparency as part of the prize claim process.” Daily Hive also reached out to Atlantic Lottery, but did not immediately receive a response. The organization operates lottery, casino, and sports betting products in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Similar to WCLC, Atlantic Lottery publishes winners’ full names, according to its website, stating that it’s “committed to openness and transparency in every aspect of our operations.” “We recognize that it is fundamental for players to know whether the prizes that we promote have been won, and who has won them. That’s why we publicize our winners: it’s a crucial component of our commitment to social responsibility and fairness,” it states. “We balance this with winners’ right to privacy, so we only publicize the personal information of our winners needed to meet the requirements outlined above.” Altogether, it points to an ongoing balancing act for Canadian lottery corporations: keeping lottery wins transparent, while taking extra steps to protect winners’ privacy. With files from Hanna Hett https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lottery-winners-canada-privacy-policy Sat, 16 May 2026 10:00:22 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lottery-winner-pastora-r Daniel Chai An everyday trip to the grocery store came with a surprise for a Canadian lottery winner, and she’s ready to spread the life-changing jackpot around. Pastora R. of North Vancouver, B.C., won a $500,000 Extra prize on the Lotto 6/49 draw held on April 18, 2026. The North Shore resident decided to check her ticket while at the grocery store, and was shocked by the result. “I was in the store and checked my numbers for the $5-million (Classic Jackpot) prize,” shared Pastora. “They weren’t my numbers, so when I checked my ticket (on the self-scanner), I was really surprised!” Pastora first told others at the grocery store about her windfall. “I made jokes with the lottery teller about being a winner,” she added. The North Vancouver resident already has plans to celebrate with her friends and wants to do something fun to commemorate the jackpot. “We’ll go out and enjoy dinner,” Pastora said. She also plans to put the funds towards buying a home and a car. When asked how it felt to win the $500,000 Extra prize on the Lotto 6/49 draw, Pastora revealed that she feels “relaxed.” “It helps me in life and I hope to be able to help others.” B.C. residents have been lucky in the jackpot lately, with several life-changing wins. A lottery winner first asked for his prize in cash before learning how much he had won in the Lotto Max jackpot. A Canadian granddad is ready for the motorcycle trip of a lifetime after scoring a big prize. And another lottery winner is preparing for the next phase of life after he recently won a huge $5-million jackpot prize. All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues, check out these resources. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lottery-winner-pastora-r Sat, 16 May 2026 10:00:15 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/brilliant-lady-virgin-voyages-canada-place-cruise-ship-vancouver Kenneth Chan Virgin Voyages’ newest ship officially arrived at the Port of Vancouver earlier this week, marking the cruise line’s first-ever visit at Downtown Vancouver’s Canada Place cruise ship terminal as it launched a new Alaska sailing itinerary from Vancouver. The cruise line’s ship, the 2025-built Brilliant Lady, arrived as part of its inaugural annual Alaska itinerary. The vessel, which carries approximately 2,700 passengers and has a gross tonnage of 108,232 GT, embarked and disembarked travellers at Canada Place before departing through the Inside Passage on its way to Alaska. You might also like: - Up to 56,000 passengers expected in Vancouver every weekend during this record-breaking cruise ship season - Record 1.4 million cruise ship passengers expected at Canada Place terminal in downtown Vancouver in 2026 - Vancouver's FIFA World Cup spirit takes to the water with Hullo Ferries vessel livery wrap - Partially built parkade at Vancouver International Airport could be demolished for future terminal building expansion - 250-room floating hotel with restaurants and public dock approved by Vancouver City Council The next time Virgin Voyages will visit Vancouver is Sept. 11, when the same vessel makes an overnight stop at Canada Place. Brilliant Lady will make a total of two calls at Canada Place this year, and she is also currently scheduled to make two calls in Vancouver in 2027. Although Brilliant Lady will have a very limited presence this year and in 2027, its arrival adds another major operator to Vancouver’s long-established Alaska cruise business, which has grown into one of the city’s largest tourism sectors. “We are delighted to welcome Virgin Voyages to the Port of Vancouver as the newest member of our thriving cruise sector,” said Jane Banham, director of trade development at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, in a statement. “Virgin’s innovative cruise experience, and strong commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism are an excellent fit with our vision for a vibrant, sustainable Vancouver cruise sector. We look forward to working closely with Virgin Voyages to showcase our unique destination, support our local business community and create memorable experiences for their Sailors.” Virgin Voyages, founded by Virgin Group founder Richard Branson, has positioned itself as a more modern and design-focused alternative in the cruise industry, emphasizing adult-only travel, upscale dining, and entertainment-driven experiences. This is a new cruise line that made its inaugural sailing with its first vessel in Fall 2020. Brilliant Lady is the cruise line’s fourth vessel. According to the company, passengers aboard Brilliant Lady can expect several new onboard concepts, including a Spanish-inspired restaurant, original live productions and spaces designed to balance social activity with relaxation. Vancouver departures also give travellers immediate access to the Pacific Northwest coastline and the Inside Passage route through British Columbia. “Vancouver is one of those rare places where city and nature come together, but what really makes it stand out is the energy of the city itself and the people who shape it,” said Natasha Salzedo, senior director of itineraries and destinations for Virgin Voyages. This year, Canada Place is also commemorating its 40th anniversary of cruise ship operations. It was built in time for its use as the Canada Pavilion for the Expo ’86 World’s Fair — serving as a hotel, office space, the city’s first and only space for Vancouver Convention Centre for decades, and a cruise ship terminal. It has served as a key homeport for Alaska cruises ever since Holland America Line made the inaugural cruise ship arrival just before the start of the World’s Fair. Nearly 360 cruise ship visits are scheduled for Canada Place this year, according to the port authority. This year’s passenger volumes are expected to reach over 1.4 million, surpassing the previous record of 1.32 million set in 2024. Moreover, it is anticipated Canada Place will see staggering volumes of 40,000 to 50,000 passengers each weekend during the peak season, reaching up to 56,000 for one weekend in mid-September. It is estimated that each ship call contributes roughly $3 million to the local economy through spending by passengers on local restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, entertainment, transportation, and other services, as well as ship resupply purchases during each homeport call and the major employment generated. However, the biggest new addition this season is the Disney Magic, which homeported at Canada Place earlier this month for the very first time — joining the local mainstay Disney Wonder, which has been serving Alaska itineraries from Vancouver each season for over a decade. Disney Magic was built in 1997 and was the very first vessel of Disney Cruise Line. Disney Magic and Disney Wonder represent the Magic-class ships in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, with Disney Wonder entering service in 1998. Disney Cruise Line debuted its seasonal Alaska cruises from Canada Place in 2011 with Disney Wonder. Although the ship temporarily relocated to Seattle in 2012, it returned to Vancouver in 2013, drawn by Canada Place’s far superior passenger ratings. With Disney Wonder and Disney Magic combined, Disney Cruise Line has effectively doubled its Vancouver capacity for the season. Disney Wonder will make 21 sailings from Canada Place this season, while Disney Magic will make 20 sailings. Disney Magic’s first-ever sailing from Vancouver will be on May 1. Both the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic have also been confirmed to return in 2027. You might also like: - Up to 56,000 passengers expected in Vancouver every weekend during this record-breaking cruise ship season - Record 1.4 million cruise ship passengers expected at Canada Place terminal in downtown Vancouver in 2026 - Vancouver's FIFA World Cup spirit takes to the water with Hullo Ferries vessel livery wrap - Partially built parkade at Vancouver International Airport could be demolished for future terminal building expansion - 250-room floating hotel with restaurants and public dock approved by Vancouver City Council https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/brilliant-lady-virgin-voyages-canada-place-cruise-ship-vancouver Sat, 16 May 2026 02:50:03 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/fifa-world-cup-2026-store-vancouver-international-airport-yvr Kenneth Chan Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has opened the host city’s first dedicated 2026 FIFA World Cup official merchandise retail store, marking another milestone in preparations just under a month before the tournament kicks off. Located post-security in the airport’s domestic departures area near the C gates, the new FIFA store offers travellers official tournament merchandise and exclusive-to-YVR items designed specifically for passengers on the move. You might also like: - Vancouver International Airport sees record-breaking passenger volumes in early 2026 - Vancouver International Airport achieves all-time historic annual record of 26.9 million passengers in 2025 - Inside Air Canada's new second, larger cafe lounge at Vancouver International Airport - Vancouver's FIFA World Cup spirit takes to the water with Hullo Ferries vessel livery wrap - BC Ferries braces for busiest summer yet amid fleet strain and FIFA World Cup - FIFA World Cup riders to hear Canadian soccer legend Christine Sinclair as the voice of SkyTrain, buses, and SeaBus - Vancouver is really starting to look like a FIFA World Cup host city The retail space is intended to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup directly into the travel experience while serving as a gathering point for fans arriving in and departing from Vancouver. The merchandise selection includes caps, scarves, hoodies, mugs and other souvenirs streamlined for portability and carry-on convenience. Additional official tournament merchandise can also be found at existing retailers throughout the terminal. YVR’s dedicated FIFA store will operate daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. through July 31, 2026. Over the coming weeks, other FIFA stores are expected to open in Downtown Vancouver — particularly in and around BC Place Stadium, where the matches will be played — and the PNE fairgrounds at Hastings Park, which will host the five-week-long FIFA Fan Festival. This YVR FIFA store uses a dedicated pop-up store space, which has seen previous short-term retail uses by brands such as Lululemon and Tentree. For the 2010 Winter Olympics, the airport terminal had a total of five dedicated Olympic Stores selling official merchandise, within domestic and international areas, before and after security. The first of those stores opened in 2008, well in advance of the Games. Additionally, YVR has begun installing official tournament-time, FIFA-branded decorations, including a multi-storey tall official FIFA-branded wrap on the glass facade of SkyTrain’s YVR Airport Station outside the terminal building. More decorations, signs, and wayfinding will be installed over the coming weeks ahead of the tournament. Today’s brick-and-mortar retail launch comes as YVR ramps up preparations for the expected influx of visitors tied to the FIFA World Cup. Airport officials note a cross-functional operational team has been assembled to maintain smooth and reliable airport operations during the tournament period. Preparations include dedicated operational roles to coordinate with FIFA volunteers and organizers, as well as a 24/7 FIFA Coordination Desk to support players, referees, media personnel and other travelling groups. YVR is also expanding multilingual support services, offering assistance in more than 170 languages through enhanced translation capabilities. In addition to the surge in travellers on commercial passenger airlines, YVR is also expecting a spike in private jets. YVR is working closely with airlines and private charter operators to maximize flight capacity and coordinate schedules during the tournament. “Looking beyond FIFA, then, you know, it’s still going to be a very busy summer. The cruise ship schedule is jam-packed as well,” said Tamara Vrooman, the president and CEO of Vancouver International Airport, during her address to the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade in April 2026. Vrooman shared that the airport authority has spent roughly $8 million in recent months on maintenance and repair work to get ready for the influx of travellers for the FIFA World Cup. Extensive staff training is also underway to optimally accommodate the surge in passengers for both the tournament and cruise ships. You might also like: - Vancouver International Airport sees record-breaking passenger volumes in early 2026 - Vancouver International Airport achieves all-time historic annual record of 26.9 million passengers in 2025 - Inside Air Canada's new second, larger cafe lounge at Vancouver International Airport - Vancouver's FIFA World Cup spirit takes to the water with Hullo Ferries vessel livery wrap - BC Ferries braces for busiest summer yet amid fleet strain and FIFA World Cup - FIFA World Cup riders to hear Canadian soccer legend Christine Sinclair as the voice of SkyTrain, buses, and SeaBus - Vancouver is really starting to look like a FIFA World Cup host city https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/fifa-world-cup-2026-store-vancouver-international-airport-yvr Sat, 16 May 2026 01:11:25 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/sedins-canucks-deal-with-media Rob Williams The Vancouver Canucks brand has taken a hit in recent years, and not just because of their putrid play on the ice. The team has left a lot to be desired off the ice as well. Infighting within their own dressing room, prickly attitudes in front of reporters, and a diminishing level of community involvement have all proven that. The Sedins and Ryan Johnson have admitted as much in the past two days, as they’ve conducted their media tours following their appointments in Canucks hockey operations. “Looking back, 26 years ago, when we flew into the city, Brian Burke told us that this was the No. 1 organization in the league when it comes to community involvement. We need to get to that point,” Daniel Sedin said during Thursday’s press conference. Undoubtedly, that commitment has slipped. Take the team’s annual visit to BC Children’s Hospital. When the Sedins played, the whole team showed up. > Where is the leadership group? > > — FireAllvin (@nucksfan79_) November 25, 2025   “We should be the No. 1 organization in the NHL when it comes to community involvement. We’re going to ask our players to do a lot. I think it’s so important for us as players when we did those things. I think it puts perspective in life. I think fans will respect that. You might have a bad game here and there, but if you’re out, you do the work in the community, I think they can certainly buy into what we are trying to be.” “We gotta bring that back,” Henrik agreed. “Just to have the people in the city and this province to be proud to be Canucks fans again. And that’s part of it.” They’re right. Vancouver can be a tough media market, but players have to stop viewing reporters as if they’re just out to get them. Easy to forget now, but the Sedins were once whipping boys in this market with both fans and media. They overcame it. Who better than them to provide advice for the next generation? “As individuals, be honest about your effort. If you’re fair to the media and you treat them with respect, I think they’re going to treat you with respect, too,” Daniel Sedin said in a Friday morning interview on Sportsnet 650. “You have to understand that when things go well, they’re going to build you up to something that you’re probably not. And when you’re playing bad, they’re going to push you down to something that you’re not. “It’s so important to stay even-keeled. That’s where I think the environment comes into it, too. You need to trust your coaches. You need to trust your teammates. If they think you’re doing ok, that’s all that matters. If the coach doesn’t like your game right now, he’s going to tell you, and that’s all that matters.” The Canucks became increasingly adversarial with the media during Jim Rutherford’s tenure as president of hockey operations. Perhaps that’ll change going forward. “As far as the media, we would like to be more transparent and accessible,” Johnson said in a television interview with Jason Pires on Global BC. “Break down a little bit of a wall that has been between the team and the media. Be more accessible, take responsibility for what we’re doing, but be ok to talk about it and own it.” > New @canucks GM Ryan Johnson on first priorities, head coaching situation, team culture, the rebuild, local media, community connection, and if he plans to join his bosses for the Grouse Grind this summer. @GlobalBC pic.twitter.com/pkqTtTsaew > > — Jason Pires (@JPiresGlobal) May 15, 2026 SOCIAL MEDIA VERSUS REALITY Social media is something Daniel and Henrik didn’t have to deal with early on in their careers, but they acknowledged the challenge it can present to today’s players. Canucks Twitter is notorious, after all. “It’s hard in this day and age with the social media. It’s such a big issue in a Canadian market especially. You’re going to read stuff on social media that a lot of times doesn’t reflect you as a person or as a player,” Daniel told hosts Mike Halford and Jason Brough. “It’s unbelievable how bad it affects people… It affects all of us, I think. It’s more about creating an environment around every player that social media becomes something on the outside, that you don’t really worry too much about.” If the players remain in a bubble, keeping themselves away from the public, they may confuse social media for reality. Because, as Daniel notes, this city isn’t really that scary a place. “I can honestly tell you, when you talk to players, former coaches, GMs — if you go around the city, coffee shops, grocery store, when you’re on playgrounds with your kids — I’ve never met a fan that’s going to criticize you. They’re so supportive. “And that’s what I think players need to realize. Face-to-face, they will never say a bad word. They will support you, one hundred per cent. So I think the more you’re out, the more you move around, the more you see people… they will respect you.” You might also like: - Sedins speak on Elias Pettersson and his future with Vancouver Canucks - Canucks draft pick from the Hughes trade is now locked in - Will Adam Foote be back? Here's what new Canucks GM Ryan Johnson said https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/sedins-canucks-deal-with-media Fri, 15 May 2026 22:59:06 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/evander-kane-throws-shade-canadian-city Colton Pankiw Evander Kane has never been afraid to say what’s on his mind. The 34-year-old, who is expected to part ways with the Vancouver Canucks after one season with the organization, has had a number of stops throughout his 1,001-game career. That has also included stints with the Atlanta Thrashers, Winnipeg Jets, Buffalo Sabres, San Jose Sharks, and Edmonton Oilers. Kane recently joined Neon, an American YouTuber and livestreamer, where he talked about the NHL and shared insights from his career. When asked by Neon what city is the worst to play in amongst all 32 teams, Kane took a few seconds before naming one he used to call home. “Worst city to play in? It’s a place I used to play: Winnipeg,” Kane answered. “It’s not that it’s bad people [or] a bad hockey town. It’s a great hockey town. It’s just there’s not that much to do. You’re kind of right in the middle of Canada where there’s not any other major city around. It’s tough.” > @thestreamingplug5 N3on was not EXPECTING Evander Kane to admit WINNIPEG is the WORST least FUN place to be in CANADA 🇨🇦😳👀 #n3on #evanderkane #canada ♬ Stuff We Did (from ‘Up’) – Piano Version – your movie soundtrack On the other side of the coin, Kane was very complimentary about Edmonton and his time spent with the organization. He made it clear that he believes Connor McDavid remains the best player in the NHL while listing his favourite teammate throughout his entire career. “Favourite teammate I’ve ever had. That’s tough. There were so many guys on Edmonton that I really liked. One guy I had a lot of fun with off the ice was Jack Campbell. He was a lot of fun. Honestly, there wasn’t really a bad guy on Edmonton.” > @thestreamingplug5 Evander Kane reveals his FAVOURITE teammate he has ever had during his CAREER in the NHL😳👀 #n3on #evanderkane #edmontonoilers ♬ stellar – .diedlonely & énouement While folks in Edmonton may like hearing Kane’s comments, those in Winnipeg will certainly be feeling a different way. In other words, don’t expect him to be signing with the Jets as a free agent this summer. You might also like: - Edmonton teen picked to play at FIFA World Cup but not for Canada https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/evander-kane-throws-shade-canadian-city Fri, 15 May 2026 22:23:55 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/fifa-bc-sports-hall-of-fame Hanna Hett FIFA has forced the BC Sports Hall of Fame to pack up and leave its usual home in BC Place Stadium. As of May 14, FIFA has full exclusivity over the stadium, according to an email from PavCo, the provincial Crown corporation that runs BC Place Stadium. “All decisions around the stadium and access are theirs until the tournament is over in July,” said PavCo in an email to Daily Hive Urbanized. Jason Beck, the hall’s curator and facility director, shared his thoughts about the move on X. “What an absolute joke. Maybe the worst day I’ve had in 23+ years working at the BC Sports Hall of Fame,” he wrote. He also shared a story about an interaction his team experienced with a FIFA employee. “A person wearing a FIFA vest approached our staff yesterday while we moved artifacts out. “Why are you still here?” this person asked us. “It’s our last day, we’re moving out,” one of our team replied. “Ok that’s good,” the FIFA rep answered. Unreal. I almost lost it.” > What an absolute joke. Maybe the worst day I’ve had in 23+ years working at the BC Sports Hall of Fame. pic.twitter.com/BCJJKB6U2U > > — Jason D Beck (@JasonBeck82) May 15, 2026 PavCo said that BC Sports Hall of Fame is a “valued partner.” “We appreciate the acknowledgement they have given to BC Place as we’ve worked closely with them to provide support where we can,” they said. The Crown corporation said they have waived rent for the museum in 2025 and 2026 to help it with ongoing financial challenges, and will provide it with several newly renovated spaces at no cost as part of the stadium upgrades. On Reddit, people shared their distaste for FIFA’s decision. “I’ve never cared about the BC Sports Hall of Fame for one second in my whole life. But suddenly I am ready to ride at dawn to fight for it,” someone wrote. “As someone who has never been to BC Sports Hall of Fame, I’m outraged at not only there not being compensation for the closure, but also the closure itself,” another person said. They continued: “There will be a lot of tourists coming into Vancouver from all over the world, who may want to experience local sports culture and history, alongside their football, of course.” “I’m not a fan of soccer and this is making me hate it now,” a third commenter said. Other groups are also dealing with ramifications from FIFA, with the City closing the Hastings Skate Park to accommodate the FIFA Fan Festival and Dragon Boat BC cancelling its long-running Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival in June. Vancouver is hosting seven soccer matches from June 13 to July 7. You might also like: - A look inside BC Place Stadium after all of its FIFA World Cup upgrades - Vancouver is really starting to look like a FIFA World Cup host city - Downsized Concord Dragon Boat Vancouver festival to be held in Summer 2026 - 'Power of FIFA': Vancouver skateboarders to lose crucial skate park this summer https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/fifa-bc-sports-hall-of-fame Fri, 15 May 2026 21:44:54 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-international-airport-yvr-q1-2026-passenger-volumes-statistics Kenneth Chan Vancouver International Airport (YVR) began 2026 with very strong passenger volumes, continuing the post-pandemic momentum and its record-breaking annual volumes last year. New statistics show that over the first quarter of 2026 — over the months of January, February, and March — YVR recorded a total of 6.368 million passengers. This was the best-ever first quarter for passenger volumes at Canada’s second busiest airport — up from the previous record of 6.103 million in the first quarter of 2025 and 6.033 million in the first quarter of 2019. The first quarter is also typically a slower period of the year, falling after the heavy Christmas season holiday travels. You might also like: - Vancouver International Airport achieves all-time historic annual record of 26.9 million passengers in 2025 - Up to 56,000 passengers expected in Vancouver every weekend during this record-breaking cruise ship season - Record 1.4 million cruise ship passengers expected at Canada Place terminal in downtown Vancouver in 2026 - Inside the global competition to bring new airlines and routes to Vancouver International Airport - Vancouver International Airport to expand new no-unpack screening machines at all security checkpoints in 2026 - Partially built parkade at Vancouver International Airport could be demolished for future terminal building expansion This year’s first quarter was driven by strong gains in passengers travelling on domestic and Asia Pacific routes, which more than offset the dip seen in the U.S. transborder market. Even so, despite the current political and economic tensions that first began in early 2025, YVR’s U.S. transborder passenger volumes remained relatively strong, recording a total of 1.304 million passengers over the first quarter of 2026 — down from 1.389 million in the first quarter of 2025, 1.477 million in the first quarter of 2024, and 1.527 million in the first quarter of 2019. To reflect the shift in demand, Canada’s airlines have already shifted some of their capacity reaching U.S. destinations to domestic and European routes. Over the past year, some of the relatively slight losses in U.S. transborder passenger volumes can be attributed to fewer Canadians choosing to travel down south, but the gains are also offset by large volumes of Americans choosing Canada as their destination — buoyed by the low Canadian dollar and B.C.’s tourism offerings, including Vancouver’s pivotal homeport for cruise ships, which is one of the largest in North America outside of Florida. Vancouver Fraser Port Authority is anticipating an all-time record of over 1.4 million cruise ship passengers at the Canada Place terminal in 2026. As well, there will be a surge in travellers in June and July, when Vancouver hosts seven matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. “Looking beyond FIFA, then, you know, it’s still going to be a very busy summer. The cruise ship schedule is jam-packed as well,” said Tamara Vrooman, the president and CEO of Vancouver International Airport, during her address to the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade in April 2026. Vrooman shared that the airport authority has spent roughly $8 million in recent months on maintenance and repair work to get ready for the influx of travellers for the FIFA World Cup. Extensive staff training is also underway to optimally accommodate the surge in passengers for both the tournament and cruise ships. She added that YVR is also expecting a significant influx of private jets for the FIFA World Cup, having effectively conducted a trial run in late 2024 when BC Place Stadium hosted the final three concerts of Taylor Swift’s global Eras Tour. But it remains to been seen how recent geopolitical events could put a damper on that passenger growth momentum, specifically the U.S. war in Iran that began on Feb. 28, with the Strait of Hormuz — a vital global corridor for oil shipments from the Middle East — largely blocked off by Iran since then. This has led to skyrocketing fuel prices worldwide, including for aviation fuels. Airlines are feeling the pinch, with fares for air travel growing substantially this spring and into the summer. Some airlines are also cutting back on the frequencies of their route due to the fuel costs, such as Air India cutting the number of flights between Deli and Vancouver from seven to five weekly beginning this month. Within the U.S., a sudden upward creep in fuel costs contributed to the final downfall of discount carrier Spirit Airlines earlier this month. Higher fares and reduced capacity from the prolonged armed conflict in the Middle East could potentially lead to slower passenger volumes as the year progresses. However, later this year, YVR is still set to see new routes reaching destinations in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Japan, which will be North America’s only direct flight route reaching Sapporo. In 2025, YVR set an all-time historic annual record of 26.9 million passengers, exceeding the tally of 26.205 million in 2024 and its previous record of 26.38 million in 2019. It remains to be seen whether 2026’s annual volumes could reach and exceed last year’s figure. YVR AIRPORT NEW FLIGHTS 2024-2026 - March 13, 2024: Tokyo, Japan (Narita; NRT) — Zipair, 5x weekly - April 3, 2024: Singapore (SIN) — Air Canada, 4x weekly - April 11, 2024: Montreal, Quebec (YUL) — Porter Airlines, daily - April 28, 2024: Detroit, Michigan (DTW) — WestJet, daily (seasonal) - June 5, 2024: Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT) — American Airlines, daily (seasonal) - Jan. 18, 2025: Hong Kong (HKG) — Hong Kong Airlines, 2x weekly - April 2, 2025: Manila, Philippines (MNL) — Air Canada, 4x weekly - May 1, 2025: Nashville, Tennessee (BNA) — Air Canada, 4x weekly (seasonal) - June 3, 2025: Tampa, Florida (TPA) — Air Canada, 2x weekly - June 4, 2025: Raleigh, North Carolina (RDU) — Air Canada, 3x weekly (seasonal) - May 11, 2025: Austin, Texas (AUS) — WestJet, 3x weekly (seasonal) - July 1, 2025: Halifax, Nova Scotia (YHZ) — WestJet, 4x weekly (seasonal) - Oct. 27, 2025: Mexico City, Mexico (MEX) — Flair Airlines, 3x weekly - Dec. 12, 2025: Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR) — WestJet, daily (seasonal) - Feb. 2, 2026: Phoenix, Arizona (PHX) — Porter Airlines, daily (seasonal) - April 15, 2026: Montreal, Quebec (YUL) – Flair Airlines, daily (seasonal) - Oct. 3, 2026: Guanajuato, Mexico (BJX) – Flair Airlines, weekly - Dec. 3, 2026: Monterrey, Mexico (MTY) – Air Canada, 3x weekly (seasonal) - Dec. 7, 2026: Puerto Escondido, Mexico (PXM) – Air Canada, 4x weekly (seasonal) - Dec. 13, 2026: Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR) – , Air Canada, 4x weekly (seasonal) - Dec. 15, 2026: Mazatlán, Mexico (MZT) – Air Canada, daily (seasonal) - Dec. 17, 2026: Sapporo, Japan (CTS) — Air Canada, 3x weekly (seasonal) You might also like: - Vancouver International Airport achieves all-time historic annual record of 26.9 million passengers in 2025 - Up to 56,000 passengers expected in Vancouver every weekend during this record-breaking cruise ship season - Record 1.4 million cruise ship passengers expected at Canada Place terminal in downtown Vancouver in 2026 - Inside the global competition to bring new airlines and routes to Vancouver International Airport - Vancouver International Airport to expand new no-unpack screening machines at all security checkpoints in 2026 - Partially built parkade at Vancouver International Airport could be demolished for future terminal building expansion https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-international-airport-yvr-q1-2026-passenger-volumes-statistics Fri, 15 May 2026 21:11:16 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/chop-steakhouse-new-happy-hour-menu Katy Brennan As summer creeps closer and post-work plans start filling the group chat again, there’s a new happy hour in Canada worth clocking out early for. Chop Steakhouse & Bar, known for its steakhouse classics, handcrafted cocktails, and modern atmosphere, is rolling out a brand new happy hour menu across its 18 locations in Canada. Guests can sip on beer, wine, highballs, and non-alcoholic options starting at just $5, while food items kick off at $11. And while you’re there, why not check out some of their all-time happy hour favourites too, like the famous Steak Bites, Chilli Garlic Shrimp, or Chop Burger. And for something sweet, the Sticky Toffee Sundae is a must on the dessert menu. Many Chop locations across the country have patio areas, the perfect spot to enjoy the new happy hour menu and soak up the sun. Whether you’re catching up with friends, escaping your inbox for an hour, or just looking for an excuse to get out this summer, drink in hand, this might be your sign. Visit the Chop Steakhouse & Bar website to find your nearest location and make a reservation or learn more. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/chop-steakhouse-new-happy-hour-menu Fri, 15 May 2026 20:43:36 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/tequila-and-agave-festival-2026 Marco Ovies It’s that time of year again: Vancouver’s popular Tequila and Agave Festival is returning, featuring over 100 agave brands, cocktails, food, live mariachi, DJs, and an educational experience. New to this year is the introduction of the Agave Celebration. This is a new closing experience where guests can continue the evening with more mariachi, cocktails, agave spirits, and the festival’s beer garden. “This is not just about tasting, it is about interaction. We design the experience so you can engage directly with the people behind the spirits, ask questions, compare profiles, and understand what you are drinking. It is a space built for conversation, discovery, and connection,” wrote the festival on its website. There are four different experiences available for guests at this year’s festivities. Folks who purchase a Grand Tasting ticket are granted general admission to the Tequila and Agave Expo (with tasting events running from 7 to 11 p.m.) where they can experience tasting from participating bands, have access to the food available on site, enjoy music from mariachi and live bands, and access the Legacy Store where guests can purchase select products they tasted at the event to take home with them. Trade Tasting tickets are also available, offering an opportunity for industry professionals to experience premium brands, connect with producers, and enjoy a variety of small bites from 4 to 5:30 p.m. However, those looking for the most premium experience can purchase VIP Tasting tickets, giving them access to a private room featuring a selection of ultra-premium tequilas and agave spirits curated for the discerning palate. There is also a special terroir workshop hosted by Darryl Lamb of Legacy Liquor Store, exploring how soil, climate, elevation, and origin influence the flavour and character of tequila. You might also like: - Black Eyed Peas member spotted at local Vancouver restaurant - Time Out Market Vancouver just revealed its final list of restaurants - Nearly decade-old Vancouver restaurant to reopen in new, larger space Tickets for the Tequila and Agave Festival are currently available online. TEQUILA AND AGAVE FESTIVAL 2026 When: May 30 Where: 3250 Commercial Dr., Vancouver Tickets: Available online Still hungry? Discover Dished Vancouver on TikTok https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/tequila-and-agave-festival-2026 Fri, 15 May 2026 20:17:41 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/canadian-bread-settlement-money-rollout Allison Stephen Canadians, it’s time to get that bread (literally), because bread price-fixing settlement payments have begun hitting bank accounts, and some are receiving nearly $50. Payments for approved claims in the Canadian Packaged Bread Class Actions Settlement began rolling out this week, with funds being issued in batches due to the high volume of claims. That means some recipients may see payments arrive sooner than others, so if your friends receive theirs first, don’t worry, because payments are expected to arrive at different times. The Superior Court of Quebec and the Ontario Superior Court of Justice approved a $500-million settlement last year in the bread price-fixing class action lawsuit against Loblaw. Open to eligible residents of Canada who purchased Packaged Bread for their personal use between 2001 and 2021, the claims period ran from Sept. 11 to Dec. 12, 2025. The lawsuit alleges the supermarket giant overcharged Canadians for bread as part of an industry-wide price-fixing scheme involving certain packaged bread products. Other major grocery retailers, including Canada Bread, Sobeys, Metro, Walmart Canada, and Giant Tiger, are also named in related class actions. You might also like: - Spending three days in Guelph made me want to buy a house there - American visiting Canada impressed by 'really affordable' Dollarama prices - Government urges Canadians to stay cautious in summer travel advisory HOW MUCH WILL I GET? The amount you receive will depend on whether or not you previously received a $25 Loblaw card from the Loblaw Card Program in 2017. If you did not participate, you’ll receive a $49.11 payment to your account. If you did, you can expect a payment of $24.11. Payments are being issued by e-transfer or by cheque, depending on the option you selected when you made a claim. If you’re expecting an e-transfer, be sure to check your junk and spam folders in addition to your inbox. You can learn more about the settlement, including ways to stay safe from scams during the payment rollout, on the Canadian Bread Settlement website. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/canadian-bread-settlement-money-rollout Fri, 15 May 2026 20:14:06 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/guelph-ontario-tourism-canada Imaan Sheikh Ontario is full of small towns and cities that are extraordinarily refreshing to visit, especially for residents of noisier, busier cities like Toronto. In my eight years living in Downtown Toronto, where condo projects seem to outnumber trees, I’ve read hundreds, if not thousands, of articles about staycation destinations and “hidden gem” towns a few hours’ drive from the city and spent short amounts of time exploring them myself. These trips have been mostly pleasant, and sometimes, despite the destinations’ beauty, they remind me of why I choose to stay in the most diverse and walkable part of the province, despite the hefty rents and impossibly high cost of living. That’s why, when I was invited by Guelph Tourism for a short trip to the city under the Gather In Guelph program, I did not expect to want to actually live there someday. I had brought along a friend, who shared the sentiment. It really did seem like a wonderful place to visit and potentially call home. Neither of us is a homeowner, and with the enduring cost-of-living crisis rattling most Canadians, I had, for the most part, willfully silenced any aspiration to become one someday. At least in this country. However, on the ride back to Toronto, I bravely fought waves of car sickness, swiping through real estate apps, looking at home prices in the areas we drove through. So far, I had broadly associated Guelph with student life before my visit, and I found it to fit the description of a university town in person. But there was much more to the city than I was giving it credit for (classic Torontonian trait). Small businesses and community initiatives play a massive role in forming the city’s pulse. From restaurants to shopping centres, to parks and places of governance, Guelph’s values and the purpose attached to them are consciously incorporated into everything. We walked through Guelph’s downtown area — one of the prettiest and most interesting downtowns I’ve seen in Ontario — where nearly everything had an interesting back story linked to some kind of community care. The small thrift shops offered curated collections of items, put together with care and thought. Almost every cafe and restaurant had a deep relationship with local suppliers and food-security-focused initiatives, which not only help keep Guelph residents fed but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and find new ways to turn waste into resources. The County of Wellington calls it a “circular food system,” where local producers and food groups are recognized and used to their best potential. We ate at Mijidaa Cafe and Bistro, where the pizzas and salads were fresh and delicious, and the Mantoulin trout, straight from Sheshegwaning First Nation, was absolutely breathtaking. I was impressed with how quickly I could move from enjoying a cocktail at a bar in a modern downtown setting to taking a walk through a vineyard, or petting cows and llamas at a farm in rural quietness. These two accessible flavours of unwinding were maybe 25 minutes apart from one another and felt like a luxury for anyone living in Guelph. Perfectly Uber-able, if you don’t drive, without emptying your wallet. I found the people were friendly and welcoming in both ends of the city. I can’t say that has been my experience in every smaller Canadian city or town, as a visible minority. Surely the diversity that having a university at the core of the city adds to its culture helps make it more tourist-friendly than others. DISTILLERIES AND EXPERIENCES Guelph is rich in distilleries, new and old. During a tour and tasting session at family-run Dixon’s Distilled Spirits, I learned closely how complicated making gin and vodka really is. The family shared some of the adventurous ingredients they’ve played with to come up with hit flavours you may have already seen on the shelves at your local booze stores, and they weren’t afraid to share the fails, either (forest bark — that did not distill well). The tasting included flights of delicious cocktails, complete with live tutorials of each, recipe cards and samples to take home. Several other distilleries offer tours that’d be perfect for small and large groups, like bachelorettes. One of my favourite parts of visiting the city was checking out the Guelph Tool Library. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a library of tools that allows members to borrow pretty much everything under the sun. A lawnmower? They got you. An ice cream maker? You can borrow that, too. There is also a recurring “Repair Cafe” event, where people can come and get their items fixed by volunteers. >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by Guelph Tool Library (@gtoollibrary) The tool library is a concept I sorely wish would inspire Downtown Toronto, where small condos leave no space for people to buy and store everyday-use appliances, let alone hobby and craft items. The library is a reflection of Guelph’s values regarding sustainability. I could end up avoiding a lot of excessive buying with something like this close to me. Another concept I fell in love with was the Guelph Urbex Haunted Pub Crawl, which is also exactly what it sounds like. You hop from bar to bar at night, picking up delicious drinks while your guide walks you through the most haunted parts of the city. You may even stop at an old hotel bar and try to communicate with ghosts or listen to a bone-chilling story from those who work there. It’s a thrilling experience for skeptics, too. Even if you don’t believe in ghosts and spirits, there’s a ton of history you hear about in a refreshing, non-boring way. I highly recommend it. You might also like: - Government urges Canadians to stay cautious in summer travel advisory - American visiting Canada impressed by 'really affordable' Dollarama prices - Canada drops $1 FIFA World Cup coins that could end up in your pocket - Flights from Canada to these cities drop in price as fuel costs soar UPCOMING EVENTS IN GUELPH With spring and summer approaching, Guelph is gearing up for many fun things. Between June 5 and 14, Summer Pride brings together several LGBTQIA organizations, community members, and supporters for a fun celebration of freedom. The event lineup is still brewing, but keep your eye on their calendar. Plus, The Good Games, which calls itself Canada’s biggest festival of sport, play and community, is coming to town from June 25 to June 28. The event website states that it brings together traditional sport, Para sport, Special Olympics moments, and Indigenous sport and cultural experiences in one place and “feels like a giant community block party under one roof.” >   > > > > > View this post on Instagram > > > > >   > > A post shared by Hillside Festival (@hillsidefestival) Then in July, there’s the historic Hillside Summer Festival, running from the 17th to the 19th. It’s been going on for more than four decades and happens on a stunning lake island, where you can enjoy music, drinking, eating, and good vibes. Oh, also, if you’re a Heated Rivalry fan, you can also visit Guelph’s Sleeman Centre, where the show’s on-ice scenes were filmed. If you’re from Ontario or visiting Toronto, I highly recommend a short but well-planned trip to Guelph. It’s an hour and ten minutes by car, and just slightly longer by Go Train. As it gets warmer and airfare gets pricier, exploring more of my province and patronizing local small businesses is a big priority for me this year. The author of this article was hosted by Gather In Guelph. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/guelph-ontario-tourism-canada Fri, 15 May 2026 19:15:07 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-parking-ticket-mail-pilot-skytrain-residential-permit-zones Kenneth Chan The City of Vancouver has launched a pilot strategy that will allow parking tickets to be issued by mail in four residential permit zones near major public transit hubs, expanding the use of licence plate recognition (LPR) technology in parking enforcement. The pilot is currently underway in the residential areas surrounding SkyTrain’s Joyce-Collingwood Station, Oakridge-41st Avenue Station, and SkyTrain’s Commercial-Broadway Station, as well as along the Commercial Drive corridor. The four pilot zones — where vehicles are required to have a residential permit in order to be able to park on the curbside — have long been used by some commuters and visitors as informal park-and-ride areas. To avoid traffic congestion and high pay parking fees in Downtown Vancouver, some drivers are known to leave vehicles parked for extended periods on nearby curbside streets before continuing their trips by SkyTrain, contributing to parking shortages and enforcement challenges in surrounding residential neighbourhoods. You might also like: - 'End of an era': City of Vancouver to cease coin payment for parking - City of Vancouver announces new parking app, touts ‘flexibility’ - Vancouver Park Board to consider a rethink of this summer's parking rate hike at Spanish Banks Beach, reaching $4.25 per hour According to the City, the neighbourhoods were selected because they have experienced low compliance with parking regulations, creating challenges for residents, local businesses and traffic flow. Under the strategy, municipal parking enforcement officers can use LPR cameras installed on City bylaw enforcement vehicles to identify parking violations and issue tickets that are mailed directly to the registered vehicle owner instead of being physically placed on the vehicle. The City states the initiative is intended to improve compliance with parking rules, increase parking availability, and support more efficient enforcement operations. The safety of parking enforcement officers is also one of the stated reasons. Parking tickets sent by mail are not entirely new in Vancouver. The City already mails tickets in certain circumstances, including when a ticket is removed from a vehicle, when a vehicle leaves before a ticket can be served, when someone other than the owner is driving, or when it is unsafe for an enforcement officer to issue the ticket in person. The municipal government notes that the pilot could be expanded to other areas of Vancouver depending on the results. You might also like: - 'End of an era': City of Vancouver to cease coin payment for parking - City of Vancouver announces new parking app, touts ‘flexibility’ - Vancouver Park Board to consider a rethink of this summer's parking rate hike at Spanish Banks Beach, reaching $4.25 per hour https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-parking-ticket-mail-pilot-skytrain-residential-permit-zones Fri, 15 May 2026 19:06:19 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/hullo-ferries-fifa-world-cup-vessel-livery Kenneth Chan With each passing day, Vancouver is increasingly looking the part of a 2026 FIFA World Cup host city, as tournament-themed decorations continue to appear across prominent public spaces, landmarks, and key public transit hubs in the region. That transformation now also includes Hullo Ferries, with one of the company’s two high-speed passenger ferry vessels pulling into the Coal Harbour terminal in Downtown Vancouver this morning to reveal its new temporary exterior livery wrap featuring official FIFA World Cup branding — part of a partnership between the company and Vancouver’s local FIFA World Cup host committee. The eye-catching wrap on the Spuhéls vessels transforms the catamaran into a floating showcase, with the tournament logo and motto stretching across the vessel’s exterior. The branding will be highly visible to passengers travelling between Downtown Vancouver and Nanaimo, as well as to onlookers along Burrard Inlet. You might also like: - BC Ferries braces for busiest summer yet amid fleet strain and FIFA World Cup - Hullo Ferries to temporarily relocate Nanaimo terminal for cruise ship visits on eight days - Vancouver is really starting to look like a FIFA World Cup host city - Colourful soccer ball art installation above Robson Square celebrates FIFA World Cup nations playing in Vancouver - FIFA World Cup riders to hear Canadian soccer legend Christine Sinclair as the voice of SkyTrain, buses, and SeaBus - Hullo Ferries partners with nearby restaurant to create a lounge for Vancouver terminal - Hullo Ferries introduces new $19.99 economy fare in major pricing overhaul To provide Vancouver Island residents with a more convenient way to enjoy the FIFA World Cup matches and festivities in Vancouver, Hullo Ferries is also providing special late-night, return-trip sailings from Downtown Vancouver to Nanaimo for six of the seven BC Place Stadium match dates — June 13 (Australia vs. Turkey), June 28 (Canada vs. Qatar), June 21 (New Zealand vs. Egypt), June 24 (Canada vs. Switzerland), June 26 (Belgium vs. New Zealand), and July 2 (knockout round of 32). BC Ferries is also expecting an exceptionally strong summer season, due in part to the FIFA World Cup, with passenger volumes expected to exceed last year’s record-setting season. The provincial ferry company has added more staff and sailings, including starting its more frequent summer season schedule two weeks earlier than usual to cover the start of the tournament period. With spectators and fans depending on Metro Vancouver’s public transit services to get around, TransLink is also joining in on the FIFA World Cup spirit by borrowing the voice of Christine Sinclair, who will be making special pre-recorded automated voice announcements on SkyTrain, buses, SeaBus, and West Coast Express. TransLink will also introduce new wayfinding signage, live performances, and special announcements to create a more connected and immersive tournament atmosphere. In recent weeks, FIFA World Cup banners, branded decorations, wayfinding signage, and other official themed public installations have been progressively installed, including 2,900 street banners affixed to light posts. Some of the largest installations to date with official FIFA World Cup branding can be found on the exterior of SkyTrain’s YVR Airport Station and the geodesic dome of Science World, which is currently in the process of being transformed into a ginormous replica of the adidas Trionda playing soccer ball for the 2026 edition of the tournament. Science World’s temporary transformation will reach completion in early June, just ahead of the start of the FIFA World Cup. For years, leading up to the 2010 Winter Olympics, BC Ferries’ then-new, Coastal-class vessels boasted large exterior livery wraps boasting the official Games logo and branding. You might also like: - BC Ferries braces for busiest summer yet amid fleet strain and FIFA World Cup - Hullo Ferries to temporarily relocate Nanaimo terminal for cruise ship visits on eight days - Vancouver is really starting to look like a FIFA World Cup host city - Colourful soccer ball art installation above Robson Square celebrates FIFA World Cup nations playing in Vancouver - FIFA World Cup riders to hear Canadian soccer legend Christine Sinclair as the voice of SkyTrain, buses, and SeaBus - Hullo Ferries partners with nearby restaurant to create a lounge for Vancouver terminal - Hullo Ferries introduces new $19.99 economy fare in major pricing overhaul https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/hullo-ferries-fifa-world-cup-vessel-livery Fri, 15 May 2026 18:27:19 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-long-weekend-weather-may-2026 Amir Ali The Victoria Day Long Weekend is upon us, and if you’re planning on doing any driving on some major B.C. highways, you might want to tread carefully. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a few special weather statements thanks to falling freezing levels that could lead to snowfall. The three statements include the Coquihalla Highway, the Okanagan Connector and Highway 3. According to ECCC, the special weather statement is in effect between now and Sunday morning. For Allison Pass, Pennask and Coquihalla Summits, ECCC says, “Falling freezing levels in combination with upper level instability and moisture will bring the possibility of snowfall accumulations to Allison Pass and the Pennask and Coquihalla Summits through this long weekend.” ECCC is warning drivers to watch their speed in the event of deteriorating conditions. “Weather in the mountains can change suddenly, resulting in hazardous driving conditions,” ECCC adds. While the conditions could look a bit slippery on B.C. highways, for Vancouver, the weather is going to be a mixed bag this long weekend. On Friday, ECCC is advising the public of a risk of thunderstorms in the Vancouver area, along with some gusty winds. There’s also a risk of thunderstorms on Friday evening. Saturday looks like much of the same, except the chance of thunderstorms is in the morning. Winds are expected to stay gusty on Saturday, too. The weather is forecast to clear up on Sunday and Victoria Day Monday, with a chance of showers on Monday night. Early into next week, temperatures are expected to rise into the low 20s. You might also like: - What to know if you're sailing with BC Ferries on its 'fifth busiest' long weekend - A surprising way Vancouver's FIFA games are different from the 1994 World Cup - Vancouver police track down unusual furry suspect near Commercial Drive https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-long-weekend-weather-may-2026 Fri, 15 May 2026 18:09:32 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lottery-winner-emidio-lotto-649 Irish Mae Silvestre An ordinary commute to work turned into a life-changing moment for one Canadian who discovered that he had won a massive lottery prize. Emidio S. of Jarvis, Ont., is kicking off the long Victoria Day weekend as a brand new multimillionaire after scoring a lottery jackpot. While at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto, he recalled how he found out about his win. “I was on my way to work listening to the radio when I heard the Lotto 6/49 Gold Ball prize was won in Ontario — but I didn’t hear the amount,” he said. “I would usually wait until I got to work to check my email because I buy my lottery tickets on OLG.ca, but something told me to stop the car and check right away.” So he quickly pulled over in front of a random house. That’s when he discovered that he had received an email stating that he had won a prize. “The email looked a little different than normal,” recalled Emidio. “I logged into my OLG.ca account and was shocked when I saw the prize amount. Was it $4,400? Or $44,000?” To his surprise, he realized he won $44-million in the Lotto 6/49 draw on March 11. “I couldn’t wrap my head around it!” he stated. “Finally, I said to myself, ‘I’d better tell my wife.'” He made a quick U-turn, headed home, and told his wife about his win, leaving her just as shocked. “She said excitedly, ‘If this is true, we won’t have to worry about the kids’ futures ever again,'” Emidio said. The winner was overcome with emotion when recalling how he and his wife both realized that it was real and that they’re now multimillionaires. He said that he has always enjoyed inviting people over, sharing a plate and some laughs; now, he can help people in his life. For Emidio, his main priority is taking care of his wife. He said he wants her to finally retire and take her on a dream vacation. “My wife works 12-hour days, sometimes seven days a week — she needs this!” he stated. He said that he wants to see her looking over the ocean without a care in the world. “I just want to see that expression of relaxation and joy on her face again,” he shared. He added that he hopes his children can find happiness and live out their ambitions rather than “simply working to pay the bills.” “I’ve always been grateful for what I had, and now I have even more to be grateful for,” he said. “I never thought this would happen to me. Now, I believe it. My heart is so full.” Emidio purchased his winning ticket on OLG.ca. All forms of gambling, including the lottery, involve risk and outcomes are based on chance. Individuals are strongly advised to gamble responsibly. If you are experiencing any signs of gambling-related issues, check out these resources. You might also like: - Government urges Canadians to stay cautious in summer travel advisory - Canadian co-workers win first big Lotto Max prize after three years playing together - Canada drops $1 FIFA World Cup coins that could end up in your pocket https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lottery-winner-emidio-lotto-649 Fri, 15 May 2026 17:59:53 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-fifa-world-cup-2026-1994 Hanna Hett With Vancouver set to host the FIFA World Cup in less than a month, there is one notable difference from the last time they were hosted in North America. The World Weather Attribution (WWA), an international scientific collaboration, recently published a report where it analyzed how much hotter the 2026 games might be than the last time they were hosted in North America — which was in 1994 in the U.S. “We were just curious to understand what’s going to happen during the World Cup, because it’s a big event,” said Joyce Kimutai, a research associate in extreme weather and climate change at Imperial College, and co-author of the report. “Normally … we would compare conditions in the climate now versus pre-industrial — or what we would call the climate when there was very little or no influence of humans in the climate system,” she told Daily Hive. “But for this one, we thought it might be interesting to compare the conditions when the U.S. last hosted a World Cup tournament, and now just to see what might have changed.” She said that people might recall the ’94 World Cup, but might not be thinking about how much climate change has heated up the planet in the time since. The WWA researchers assessed each game day in North America with a heat index called the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), which includes both temperature and humidity. Physiologists use WBGT as a measure of how effectively a body can cool itself, with a 26°C WBGT considered risky, and a 28°C WBGT or above considered unsafe for players to play, according to the global players’ union. While Vancouver games have “relatively safer conditions” compared to other stadiums (like in Miami, Kansas City, New York, and Philadelphia), the likelihood of the extreme values of 28°C WBGT has still doubled since 1994 due to climate change. Further, out of all the cities with World Cup matches, Vancouver and Seattle have seen the largest increase in event intensity ranges since 1994. Vancouver’s climate in 2026 is roughly 0.7 degrees C warmer than it was in 1994. “Climate change is certainly driving an increase in the chance of hot and sticky conditions,” said Theodore Keeping, a researcher in extreme weather at Imperial College London, in a statement sent to Daily Hive. In any given year, it might be an above-average temperature summer or a below-average temperature summer, said Kristina Dahl, Climate Central’s vice president for science, with whom Daily Hive recently spoke about Vancouver’s hotter summers. But climate change is “loading the dice” for more and more warmer-than-average summers. “It’s just more and more likely that you can experience a summer that’s hotter than the ones that you grew up with, and especially the ones that your parents or grandparents grew up with,” she said. Burning fossil fuels releases “heat-trapping gases” like carbon dioxide and methane to the atmosphere. “And then those gases add to the layer around Earth’s atmosphere that holds in heat, sort of like a blanket. So, it’s like we’re thickening the blanket and trapping more heat in our atmosphere. And that’s what’s causing temperatures to warm up,” Dahl explained. You might also like: - What will happen to Vancouver's unhoused during FIFA? Some City councillors want a plan - Real grass now installed at BC Place for FIFA World Cup - Vancouver will soon take centre stage as major FIFA meeting comes to town https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-fifa-world-cup-2026-1994 Fri, 15 May 2026 17:36:18 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-ferries-sailing-long-weekend Hanna Hett The last time B.C. had a long weekend, BC Ferries had a few hiccups. Ahead of Easter at the beginning of April, the ferry service announced that two of its vessels were compromised. One had a generator issue and needed repairs, and one was delayed in returning from its annual refit, resulting in a number of pre-emptively cancelled sailings. Over the weekend, more sailings were cancelled and passengers were even left stranded. Not only does BC Ferries have an aging fleet of vessels, but it also simply does not have enough of them. So far, ahead of Victoria Day Weekend, the situation is looking a bit better. While BC Ferries is expecting a busy few days, it has not had to preemptively cancel any sailings due to vessel issues. However, Victoria Day is still its fifth busiest long weekend of the year, according to Shiryn Sayani, a senior communications advisor with BC Ferries. Last year, during Victoria Day weekend, BC Ferries major routes carried 102,000 vehicles and 290,000 passengers. Sayani told Daily Hive that they are expecting similar demand this year. To accommodate all these extra passengers (Sayani said it is “significantly busier than a typical spring weekend”), they’ve added sailings on key routes and are offering discounted saver fares during off-peak sailings to try to distribute traffic. She added that walking on board is “often the most flexible and reliable option during busy travel periods.” She said they “strongly encourage” people travelling by vehicle on routes between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island/Sunshine Coast. People travelling from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay need to book and pay in advance for every sailing. Sayani said BC Ferries advice is for customers to plan ahead, consider travelling in off-peak hours, check current conditions before leaving home, and walk on if they can. If you’re planning on travelling via ferry in the coming weeks and months, you can also read about how BC Ferries is preparing for one of its busiest summers to date. You might also like: - BC Ferries braces for busiest summer yet amid fleet strain and FIFA World Cup - Father speaks out after frustrating pickle situation on BC Ferries sailing - Four new BC Ferries ships receive First Nations language names https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/bc-ferries-sailing-long-weekend Fri, 15 May 2026 17:15:06 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vehicle-rampage-jeep-vancouver-park Amir Ali Several people are injured, including a senior citizen who is in critical condition, after a vehicle allegedly drove through a Vancouver park, leaving a wake of destruction. According to the Vancouver Police Department, a male driver sped through a section of Nelson Park, intentionally driving along the sidewalk in the West End on Friday morning. The senior is in the hospital in critical condition, and two police officers were also injured. Police are calling it a “vehicle-borne attack” that took place on Friday in the early morning hours at around 5:30 a.m. The vehicle was observed “driving erratically” in the area of Comox and Broughton streets. Police say the driver struck numerous objects, including in a dog park. “Several witnesses in the area had to scramble to get out of the way of the suspect’s Jeep.” Unfortunately, the senior citizen, who was riding a motorized scooter during the incident, couldn’t get out of the way of the driver. The suspect was caught after intentionally ramming a police vehicle that was responding to the scene. He destroyed the cruiser, and the suspect’s Jeep flipped. “He was trapped inside his vehicle and arrested near Comox and Bute streets. Multiple ambulances responded along with Vancouver Fire Rescue Services, who were able to free the man from the wreckage,” VPD said. Two police officers were also taken to the hospital. In its statement, VPD said that mental health and drug issues are possible factors in the incident. “The Major Crimes Unit is investigating. The VPD will update the public as more information becomes available.” Comox Street, between Thurlow and Bute, is closed to the public. VPD has not stated how long it will be closed for. You might also like: - Vancouver police track down unusual furry suspect near Commercial Drive - Alberta man headed to Metro Vancouver has vehicle impounded after dangerous move - Three teens arrested and released to guardians after dangerous Port Moody crane stunt https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vehicle-rampage-jeep-vancouver-park Fri, 15 May 2026 17:08:59 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/canucks-draft-pick-hughes-trade-locked-in Rob Williams The new Vancouver Canucks management team is going to be busy on draft day this year. The Canucks have accumulated 10 picks in next month’s draft in Buffalo. The franchise hasn’t made that many picks in a single draft since 2003, when the draft contained two additional rounds. Vancouver has two first-round picks this year, thanks to the Quinn Hughes trade. And on Thursday, that pick was locked in. The Canucks now hold the 24th overall pick in the draft. This was secured following the Vegas Golden Knights booking their spot in the Western Conference Final on Thursday. That’s not the best-case scenario, but it’s not the worst-case scenario either. Had Minnesota advanced to the conference final, that pick would have slipped to 28th at best. CANUCKS LOADED WITH DRAFT PICKS IN 2026 The Canucks will make four selections in the first 41 picks of the draft, which is something they haven’t done since 1973. They own the No. 3 and 24 picks in the first round, as well as picks No. 33 and 41 in Round 2. The 41st overall selection is courtesy of the San Jose Sharks via the Kiefer Sherwood trade. Other draft picks currently in Vancouver’s possession include a third-rounder from Columbus from the Conor Garland trade, as well as a pair of sixth-rounders from Washington (David Kämpf trade) and Boston (Lukas Reichel trade). These are in addition to their native picks, which will be at the beginning of the fourth, fifth, and sixth rounds. The draft is set for June 26 and 27 in Buffalo. It’ll be Ryan Johnson’s first draft as Canucks general manager, as well as the first for Henrik and Daniel Sedin as co-presidents of hockey operations. You might also like: - Will Adam Foote be back? Here's what new Canucks GM Ryan Johnson said - Sedins speak on Elias Pettersson and his future with Canucks - Sasson reveals more details about dysfunctional Canucks dressing room https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/canucks-draft-pick-hughes-trade-locked-in Fri, 15 May 2026 17:07:23 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/popeyes-vancouver-closed Marco Ovies After a three-year run, Popeyes Chicken has closed the doors to one of its Vancouver locations at the CBC Vancouver Building. An announcement from the company has yet to be made, but signs on the door indicate that the location is permanently closed. “We would like to inform you that our restaurant at this location is now permanently closed. This decision has not been made lightly, and we sincerely regret any inconvenience this may cause. We remain committed to serving you and would be delighted to welcome you to our nearest location,” reads the posted sign. Dished reached out to Popeyes to learn more about the reasoning for the closure, as well as if there are any other planned closures in the future, but Popeyes did not respond by the publication deadline. You might also like: - Black Eyed Peas member spotted at local Vancouver restaurant - Nearly decade-old Vancouver restaurant to reopen in new, larger space - Time Out Market Vancouver just revealed its final list of restaurants The US chicken chain virtually exploded onto the BC scene in 2018, and over the last few years, it’s grown to operate over a dozen locations in Metro Vancouver, bringing with it its selection of fried chicken, chicken sandwiches, and seafood. This location at the CBC building was the first outpost for Popeyes in Vancouver, located right under CBC Vancouver in the former location of a Triple O’s, and opened its doors in 2023. Since then, Popeyes has expanded with multiple locations in the city. POPEYES LOUISIANA KITCHEN — VANCOUVER Address: 879 Granville St., Vancouver Instagram Still hungry? Discover Dished Vancouver on TikTok https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/popeyes-vancouver-closed Fri, 15 May 2026 16:39:37 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/canada-travel-advisory-warning-canadians-summer-travel Irish Mae Silvestre As Canadians get ready for the busy summer travel season, the latest travel advisory is urging caution and encouraging people to plan ahead when travelling abroad. On Tuesday, Global Affairs Canada (GAC) published a summer travel advisory warning Canadians of how the war between Iran and the United States could present challenges. “Fuel shortages may lead to flight cancellations and disrupt access to local goods and services at your destination,” warns GAC. “Your travel plans could be disrupted if you are travelling to the Middle East, going through the region or even if you are not travelling to the Middle East. You should carefully assess the risks of travelling abroad under the current circumstances and plan accordingly.” Canadians are urged to check the situation at their destination both before departure and when they return. Before your trip, make sure to check the latest travel advice and advisories for your destination or any transit points to evaluate possible risks. GAC outlines ways to protect yourself and your loved ones ahead of your trip. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE TRAVEL INSURANCE Before you even pack your bags, read over the terms of your travel insurance to verify that you’ll be covered for instances like trip cancellations and interruptions. It’s always important to check the fine print for possible limits or exclusions in your policy. For example, Manulife recently updated its policy stating that fuel shortages are now “known events.” This means that policies purchased on May 5 and after will no longer qualify for disruption benefits as a result of fuel shortages. PLAN YOUR FINANCES The travel advisory urges Canadians to prepare financially in case their trip gets unexpectedly extended or they end up stranded abroad. Canadians should bring enough money and extra medication to cover longer stays. The Canadian government doesn’t provide financial assistance, and travellers are responsible for the cost of unexpected situations. ENSURE YOU HAVE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS When planning your trip, check the entry and exit requirements for your destination, as requirements vary — you might need a visa or an electronic travel authorization. For example, Canadian citizens require an ETA to travel to the U.K. Also, ensure that your passport and other travel documents are valid for the required time, should you need to extend your stay and make sure to keep them in a safe place. Need a new passport before your trip? Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently hiked processing fees. BE AWARE OF RISKS DURING HURRICANE SEASON The weather could wreak havoc on your travel plans and even pose a serious safety risk. That’s why it’s important to keep that in mind when travelling, especially if you’re heading to areas prone to severe storms. Hurricanes and storms can be deadly and damage infrastructure, cutting off some areas for extended periods, leaving travellers stranded. It can also disrupt medical care access, transportation, power distribution, and telecommunications networks. It can also affect the supply of water, food, and fuel. Check travel advice and advisories to see if it’s safe to travel to your destination during a certain period, and ensure you have travel insurance. It’s also a good idea to leave copies of important travel documents with someone you trust at home. REGISTER ONLINE Canadians heading abroad can sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free and confidential service that notifies Canadian citizens outside the country of an emergency abroad or at home. If you need emergency consular assistance while travelling, contact the nearest Government of Canada office or reach out to Global Affairs Canada by phone, SMS, Signal, WhatsApp, or email. “Travelling is a personal choice, and Canadians must make informed decisions, particularly those that affect their safety and well-being while abroad,” reads the statement. “The Government of Canada’s ability to provide assistance may be limited.” You might also like: - Three Canadians onboard cruise ship hit with norovirus outbreak - Canada ranks high among 100 best countries in the world - These provinces reported the lowest life satisfaction in Canada https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/canada-travel-advisory-warning-canadians-summer-travel Fri, 15 May 2026 16:18:34 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/details-revealed-whitecaps-meeting Har Johal There is power in numbers and power in positivity following several meetings this week to discuss the long-term viability of the Vancouver Whitecaps in British Columbia.  Attendees remained tightlipped following the summit at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel on Wednesday. Thursday’s joint statement from the City of Vancouver, Province of British Columbia, PavCo, and three local First Nations Bands provided a united common goal.  PRIME MINISTER CARNEY ASKED ABOUT THE WHITECAPS The plight of the Whitecaps has reached the highest level of Canadian government. Prime Minister Mark Carney was asked if he has been involved in any Whitecaps negotiations.  “Look, in terms of the Whitecaps specifically, I’m not personally involved in that,” Carney told the press core in Ottawa on Thursday. “I would obviously like them to stay.” That doesn’t mean the federal government hasn’t been involved, as Gregor Robertson, an MP in Carney’s Liberal government, attended Wednesday’s meeting. > We are all working together to keep the Whitecaps here in Vancouver for generations to come. pic.twitter.com/LtTQsKwrdR > > — Gregor Robertson (@gregorrobertson) May 14, 2026 Carney did have more to say on Canada’s involvement with the FIFA World Cup, which kicks off in less than a month. “Yes, the World Cup is coming. Yes, we are looking forward to it. Yes, anyone internationally watching this, there are three hosts of the World Cup and I’ve got to say that the warmest welcome is going to be in Canada. “We look forward to you coming here.” WHAT DO WE REALLY KNOW ABOUT THE BIG MEETING? Musqueam Chief Wayne Sparrow was at Wednesday’s summit and spoke to the media at the Royal Canadian Mint commemorative World Cup coin unveiling Thursday at BC Place.  “It was good. It was positive,” Chief Sparrow said of the meeting. “We finally got everybody in the same room and talked about the short term and long term and what we can all do to help try and keep the team here.” “Everybody wants them to stay and there are a lot of financial issues that are there. We just heard from all sides. We put out a plan to have further discussions and see what we can do, turn over every rock that we can to try to keep the club here.” There’s work to be done before the next talks take place, which Chief Sparrow said would take place “as soon as possible.”  “There’s going to be some work that’s going to be done by the club, province, and the governments, and then we’ll get back after that, so there’s no timeline for it.” It does seem like there’s a glimmer of hope though. “At least you’ve got everybody there now talking about it. There’s hope there that we can now have the discussion and all the right players were in the room [Wednesday] to try and resolve [things]. Every group’s got to come in. Everybody that’s involved has to have a piece of the solution if this is going to work.” “WE ARE ENCOURAGED” The Whitecaps released their own statement on Thursday afternoon, noting that they were “encouraged” by the work being done to improve the club’s economics.  “Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Major League Soccer met with government representatives, Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations,” the statement reads. “As well as corporate partners and other key stakeholders this week as part of ongoing discussions about the club’s future in Vancouver. “All parties have committed to continuing to work actively towards improving the economics of soccer in Vancouver. We are encouraged by this shared intent. “As these discussions advance, the  next steps will be for Whitecaps FC and stakeholders to formalize proposals that will make the club more attractive for local ownership groups to come forward.” FIRST NATIONS INVOLVEMENT Is there potential for the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations to emerge as a lead in a First Nations group to purchase ownership of the Whitecaps?  “I haven’t got any details of anybody that’s looking to buy the team,” Chief Sparrow said. “We just haven’t had discussions of where that’s at. I haven’t heard that, I haven’t seen it or anything like that, so we don’t have details of that… I’ve heard that First Nations are investing in the United States in a lot of sports teams and getting heavily involved in sports teams.” Former Vancouver Canucks and Vancouver Grizzlies owner Arthur Griffiths has been mentioned as someone with potential interest in joining the next Whitecaps ownership group.  “I haven’t talked to Arthur about it, no,” Chief Sparrow said. “There’s been a lot of names and potential investors, but we haven’t met with them and I don’t know who they are, besides the group from Vegas. We’re hoping that this meeting now will put out to potential investors that we’re open for business and see if we can get some local people and resolve some issues.” https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/details-revealed-whitecaps-meeting Fri, 15 May 2026 16:03:33 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-etsy-co-too-cute-pop-up-market-2026 Daily Hive Branded Content The Vancouver Etsy Co Too Cute Pop-Up Market is back and it’s bigger, better, and cuter than ever. Now in its second year, the market is at a new location at the Maritime Labour Centre, and you don’t want to miss out on all the goodies. For those who are unfamiliar, this market hosts a wide variety of local makers showcasing and selling the cutest art, stickers, pins, plushies, apparel, home decor, stationery, and more. Whether you love handmade goods, enjoy supporting small businesses, or just can’t resist a cute little trinket, the Vancouver Etsy Co Too Cute Pop-Up Market is the place to be on May 30 and 31. WHAT TO EXPECT Along with established small businesses and vendors, the on-site vendors will include the Mini Makers – young entrepreneurs selling their own handmade creations. There will also be a Doodle Booth where you can channel your creativity into something cute, and workshops led by MAMEYO Goods, Radish Designs, Eunoia Naturale, Girls in Van, and emilysoscribbles. Tickets cost $3 and are good for both days of the market, with 50 per cent of proceeds supporting Backpack Buddies and Quest Non-Profit Grocery Markets. There will be special prize draws for every 100 tickets sold, with extra ballots given to those who come in costume. And because the early bird gets the worm, the first 50 people in line each day will receive market cash or market merch! Now the question is, where will you spend it? THE VANCOUVER ETSY CO DIFFERENCE Vancouver Etsy Co is all about quality, which is why they roll out just four spectacular markets each year with the goal of creating hit events for shoppers and vendors alike. Organizers Val and Anita are business partners, real-life besties, and passionate about elevating local makers in Vancouver. Their pop-ups are less of a weekly farmers market vibe and more of a can’t-miss event. So, be sure you don’t miss out! Swing by the Vancouver Etsy Co Too Cute Pop-Up Market on May 30 and 31 at the Maritime Labour Centre. VANCOUVER ETSY CO TOO CUTE POP-UP MARKET Where: Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St. When: Saturday, May 30, and Sunday, May 31 Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: $3 (kids 12 and under free) https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/vancouver-etsy-co-too-cute-pop-up-market-2026 Fri, 15 May 2026 16:00:26 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/fifa-world-cup-coin-canada Irish Mae Silvestre As Canada gears up to host the FIFA World Cup tournament, new commemorative coins could end up in Canadians’ change. The Royal Canadian Mint has just dropped two versions of the new $1 FIFA World Cup 2026 coin — a colourized edition and a non-colourized edition — and you could soon get your hands on the set as the coins went into circulation on Thursday. Along with the U.S. and Mexico, Canada is set to welcome soccer fans from June 11 to July 19, with Toronto and Vancouver among the 16 cities hosting the event, and the coin commemorates just that. Designed by Canadian artist Glen Green, the coin features the FIFA emblem and lists the two host cities underneath a soccer ball in motion. Along the edges are the inscriptions “FIFA World Cup 2026“ and “Coupe du Monde de la FIFA 26,” and in the centre is a maple leaf laser mark, an advanced security feature. The intricate maple leaf mosaic emblem is the standout feature of the design and is even more prominent in the colourized version in white, red, and orange. The coin’s obverse features the effigy of His Majesty King Charles III by Canadian artist Steven Rosati. “We are proud to have crafted a lasting keepsake that Canadian fans can hold onto while they unite in cheering their team during their first-ever home soil appearance in a World Cup tournament,” said Simon Kamel, interim president and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint. The mintage is limited to only three million coins in circulation, including two million colourized versions. Can’t wait until you find one in your pocket? You can buy the non-colourized or the colourized version in rolls of 25 coins online for $59.95 each, or you can buy both rolls in a special box set for $127.95. You can also purchase the five-coin set for $39.95, which includes both versions of the coin along with three other FIFA-themed coins. So make sure to keep an eye out because these cool new coins could be jingling around in your change even before the first kick-off this summer. You might also like: - Three Canadians onboard cruise ship hit with norovirus outbreak - Canada ranks high among 100 best countries in the world - American visiting Canada impressed by 'really affordable' Dollarama prices https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/fifa-world-cup-coin-canada Fri, 15 May 2026 14:39:19 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-mayor-brenda-locke-cloverdale-fairgrounds-convention-centre-proposal Kenneth Chan With just months to go before the October 2026 civic election, Surrey mayor Brenda Locke took the opportunity during her annual State of the City address today to announce a number of sweeping new initiatives. Among the largest promises is Locke’s proposal to build a convention centre with up to 200,000 sq. ft. of meeting and exhibition space at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds, providing major additional capacity to host events, conferences, and trade shows. There would also be a major hotel to help establish the vision for a year-round entertainment hub at the fairgrounds. Such a development would provide an anchor for the emerging Cloverdale Town Centre, for which the municipal government has “big plans.” You might also like: - Could there be an expansion of Vancouver Convention Centre? - 'Strong' market interest to build 10,000-seat indoor arena in Surrey City Centre, says mayor - City of Surrey sets aside $200 million for new 10,000-seat indoor arena - City of Surrey identifies four potential sites to build Canada Soccer's 40+ acre National Training Centre - Fraser Downs horse racecourse in Surrey closes for mixed-use housing redevelopment - Casino at Surrey's Cloverdale fairgrounds sold to First Nation - New interactive art museum to be built at Surrey Civic Plaza In contrast, Vancouver Convention Centre — a facility owned and operated by provincial Crown corporation PavCo — has about 470,000 sq. ft. of usable meeting and exhibition space, while the PNE fairgrounds’ two old main exhibition hall buildings, excluding the Pacific Coliseum and Agrodome, offer over 110,000 sq. ft. of space. Surrey’s mayor emphasized that the point of creating a major convention centre within her jurisdiction is to provide South of Fraser residents with the option of not having to travel to Vancouver for such events. “For too long, Surrey residents have had to drive to Vancouver for those kind of facilities, for conference and trade show facilities. But Surrey is large enough, central enough, and strong enough to host all of those events right here in Surrey,” said Locke during her speech today to Surrey’s business community. “I know we can do it. Cloverdale can honour its roots and still build boldly for the future.” This also follows last year’s decision by the municipal government to terminate the lease for horse racing at Fraser Downs, effectively bringing a permanent end to the horse racing tradition at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds. At the time, the City had already indicated it was in the process of planning a major mixed-use development for the fairgrounds. Locke made a similar major events venue announcement during her 2024 State of the City address, when she first revealed her proposal to build a new 12,000-seat indoor arena or outdoor stadium, and that a feasibility study would be conducted to examine the concept and possible locations in Surrey City Centre and the Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Since then, this effort has zeroed in on pursuing a new 10,000-seat indoor arena on the City-owned site of the BC Lions training facility in Surrey City Centre. The bid process seeking a developer, operator, and anchor sports tenant was launched early this year, and it will close later this month, with Locke noting an announcement could be made early this summer. The City is preparing to set aside up to $200 million to help fund the project, which would also include a hotel, conference space, retail/restaurant space, and possibly residential and office uses. THREE NEW ICE RINKS FOR SOUTH SURREY, AND A 15-ACRE PUBLIC SAFETY CAMPUS She also announced today her proposal to build a new complex of three ice rinks next to the existing Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre in South Surrey, which she says will help serve one of the fast-growing areas of the city, and a 15-acre public safety campus in the Anniedale-Tynehead area, which would provide a citywide consolidated hub for training more specialized police, fire, and emergency personnel. “It will support police training, fire services, emergency preparedness, search and rescue, bylaw operations, forensics, special support, specialized support, drone operations, and other public safety partnerships. That will be centrally located with access to key corridors, and it gives Surrey the space and the structure to plan for the next generation of public safety services,” said the mayor. Police, fire, and City bylaw facilities would also be improved and expanded in Surrey City Centre, South Surrey, and Cloverdale to better support local-specific demands. Locke also announced a new public safety operations plan that adds 560 police officers, firefighters, bylaw officers, and other staff over five years. This is intended to create a stronger emergency personnel presence across Surrey, reduce response times, and enable police to focus more on serious crimes, with the jurisdiction currently experiencing a wave of extortion-related crime. As well, there would be an expanded use of drones to support public safety response. “A city approaching one million people cannot rely on the old infrastructure, scattered facilities, outdated models. We must build for the city we are becoming,” she said. She also reaffirmed in-progress plans to build a new interactive art museum in Surrey City Centre, a new permanent Surrey Sports Hall of Fame in Surrey City Centre, and other cultural spaces, the partnership to achieve Surrey City Centre’s Centre Block complex anchored by Simon Fraser University’s new medical school, and the plans to construct the new Newton Community Centre, which will feature an aquatic centre with a 50-metre pool, two gymnasiums, a major public library branch, and other community and recreational spaces. At a cost of over $300 million, this will be the largest community facility investment in the City’s history, and it will anchor the future high-density, mixed-use residential neighbourhood planned by the municipal government and TransLink that will create the core of Newtown Town Centre. CITY OF SURREY STAFF “DO A LOT WITH A LITTLE” Locke also vowed to maintain what she described as a disciplined and efficient approach to municipal spending, with the goal of holding the annual property tax increase to a relatively low rate of 2.6 per cent. As part of that approach, she compared the City of Surrey’s staffing levels with those of the City of Vancouver, noting that Vancouver has roughly twice as many staff. “We do a lot with a little,” Locke said, praising her City staff as “problem solvers” who continually find ways to deliver services efficiently. She argued that the City of Surrey does not have “the luxury of being slow” or building layers of bureaucracy, adding that City Hall must move “with the speed of the city with discipline, common sense, and a business-minded approach.” Locke emphasized that every dollar spent by the City ultimately comes from local households and businesses, saying municipal leaders must remain mindful of the financial pressures residents are facing. While the City continues to invest heavily in growth and infrastructure, she said the City is also working to keep taxes “amongst the lowest in the region” — something she acknowledged is “not easy, but it’s necessary” at a time when many families are being squeezed by affordability challenges. She added that affordability is about more than just taxes, arguing that municipal governments also need to provide families with places to gather, activities to enjoy, and opportunities to connect without “constantly asking them to pay more.” Locke said that philosophy is one reason free public events have become such a central part of Surrey’s identity. You might also like: - Could there be an expansion of Vancouver Convention Centre? - 'Strong' market interest to build 10,000-seat indoor arena in Surrey City Centre, says mayor - City of Surrey sets aside $200 million for new 10,000-seat indoor arena - City of Surrey identifies four potential sites to build Canada Soccer's 40+ acre National Training Centre - Fraser Downs horse racecourse in Surrey closes for mixed-use housing redevelopment - Casino at Surrey's Cloverdale fairgrounds sold to First Nation - New interactive art museum to be built at Surrey Civic Plaza https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-mayor-brenda-locke-cloverdale-fairgrounds-convention-centre-proposal Fri, 15 May 2026 04:18:37 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-city-centre-arena-bid-process-update Kenneth Chan Surrey mayor Brenda Locke says the market response has been “strong” for the City of Surrey’s proposed new 10,000-seat indoor arena and entertainment district project in Surrey City Centre, with a major announcement expected potentially early this summer. Locke provided an update on the project during today’s State of the City address, describing it as a transformational development that could reshape perceptions of Downtown Surrey. You might also like: - Surrey mayor pitches 200,000 sq. ft. convention centre for Cloverdale Fairgrounds - City of Surrey sets aside $200 million for new 10,000-seat indoor arena - City of Surrey begins bidding process to select developer, sports tenant, and operator for new 10,000-seat City Centre Arena - New interactive art museum to be built at Surrey Civic Plaza - City of Surrey identifies four potential sites to build Canada Soccer's 40+ acre National Training Centre - A Whitecaps soccer stadium with an entertainment district — and maybe SkyTrain? What’s next for Vancouver's Hastings Park and the PNE - Major League Baseball expansion team bidding process approved by Vancouver City Council “Another iconic project is the 10,000-seat cultural event venue and entertainment district. Yeah, that is going to be so very cool. This is the kind of project people have talked about in Surrey for years — a major venue with concerts and sports and cultural events, hotels and restaurants and conference opportunities all in Surrey,” said Locke. The mayor tied the arena project to the City’s broader goal of creating more entertainment destinations within Surrey itself. “You don’t have to leave the city to have fun on the weekends. Instead, people from the other side of the river will be coming here. What a concept. It’ll be awesome. We’ll take their money. The market response has been strong, and we hope to make an announcement early this summer about that project,” she said. “This is a transformational project with serious interest and major economic benefits, and when it is built, it will help change the way people think about Downtown Surrey. It will create the kind of urban energy a city of this size deserves.” Existing condition: Future condition: Locke first revealed the concept during her 2024 State of the City address, when she announced a feasibility study examining the possibility of building a new 12,000-seat indoor arena or outdoor stadium in either Surrey City Centre or the Cloverdale Fairgrounds. During the 2025 State of the City address, she announced that preliminary work had determined the project would take the form of a 10,000-seat indoor arena located north of City Hall in Surrey City Centre. In Fall 2025, the City-owned BC Lions practice facility was identified as the preferred location for the project, which would also include a hotel, conference space, retail/restaurant space, and possibly some residential and office uses. Earlier this year, the municipal government launched the bidding process seeking a developer, operator, and sports tenant for the mixed-use complex anchored by the arena. The deadline for shortlisted proponents to submit detailed Request For Proposals (RFP) submissions is next week, with the City targeting a contract award by August 2026. Construction could begin in 2027. The City has also set aside a contribution of up to $200 million for the project. Over the past year, opposition city councillors raised some concerns that the City could face significant costs to support the project, with some suggesting the arena component alone could cost $600 million. The City has yet to release a cost estimate for the project. During today’s address, Locke also highlighted a wide range of other initiatives, such as a new convention centre with up to 200,000 sq. ft. of exhibition and meeting space and a hotel at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds, as well a major new interactive art museum in Surrey City Centre and three new ice rinks for South Surrey. These promises come just months before the October 2026 civic election. You might also like: - Surrey mayor pitches 200,000 sq. ft. convention centre for Cloverdale Fairgrounds - City of Surrey sets aside $200 million for new 10,000-seat indoor arena - City of Surrey begins bidding process to select developer, sports tenant, and operator for new 10,000-seat City Centre Arena - New interactive art museum to be built at Surrey Civic Plaza - City of Surrey identifies four potential sites to build Canada Soccer's 40+ acre National Training Centre - A Whitecaps soccer stadium with an entertainment district — and maybe SkyTrain? What’s next for Vancouver's Hastings Park and the PNE - Major League Baseball expansion team bidding process approved by Vancouver City Council https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-city-centre-arena-bid-process-update Fri, 15 May 2026 04:14:37 GMT https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/new-interactive-art-museum-iam-surrey-civic-plaza Kenneth Chan The City of Surrey is rebooting its plan to build a long-envisioned, purpose-built new Interactive Art Museum (IAM), and it has now selected a highly central location for the attraction. During Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke’s annual State of the City address today, she announced that the municipal government is going ahead with its plan to build the IAM and that it will be built at Surrey Civic Plaza in the core of Surrey City Centre. “We’re also moving forward with an interactive art museum at Civic Plaza. That is a place where people can see art, make art, gather, learn, and experience culture in a way Surrey has never seen before. Big things are happening,” said Locke. You might also like: - Construction site of new Vancouver Art Gallery reverts to parking lot - Surrey mayor pitches 200,000 sq. ft. convention centre for Cloverdale Fairgrounds - 'Strong' market interest to build 10,000-seat indoor arena in Surrey City Centre, says mayor - City of Surrey sets aside $200 million for new 10,000-seat indoor arena - New purpose-built facility for SFU Surrey medical school to cost $520 million - City of Surrey identifies four potential sites to build Canada Soccer's 40+ acre National Training Centre - Surrey Civic Plaza's temporary free covered outdoor ice rink attracts 43,000 skaters, set to return next winter A new conceptual artistic rendering shown during the address shows that the IAM will be a brand-new, five-storey building constructed at the northeast corner of the plaza — at the southwest corner of the intersection of 104 Avenue and City Parkway. The small City-owned vacant lot is framed by City Hall to the west and the 3 Civic Plaza tower and SkyTrain’s Surrey Central station to the south. Existing condition: Future condition: Few new updated details have been provided at this time. However, this has been a project in the works for quite a while. In 2021, after years of preliminary planning, the City launched a bidding process seeking a development partner willing to build the IAM within a larger mixed-use development, with proponents required to offer a location within 400 metres of Surrey Central Station — a key requirement to help grow the emerging Surrey City Centre. At the time, the City had not established a precise location for the museum in this area. The museum space would span 60,000 sq. ft. of total floor area, be located within a “highly visible” mixed-use building, and have a significant ground-level area with a visual presence that attracts attention on the street. It would contain exhibition halls, classrooms, labs, maker spaces, studios, an event theatre, media library, collections vault, shop, atrium, and a significant public gathering space, as well as potentially concession areas, a cafe or restaurant, and other commercial leasable spaces. In return, the City would contribute up to $60 million to the cost of building the mixed-use development, with this approach selected at the time because of the possibility that it could accelerate the new museum’s implementation. The developer would not be responsible for any of the ongoing operations and maintenance costs of the museum. However, this procurement process was later cancelled. Prior to that decision, the City was aiming to have the museum completed and opened in 2025. It would replace the existing Surrey Art Gallery in Bear Creek Park. “The IAM Facility will be a leading institution for contemporary and interactive art in Canada, bringing together local creators with artists from around the world,” reads the 2021 procurement materials. “The IAM Facility builds on Surrey Art Gallery’s almost 50 years as a Class A museum that is committed to education and exhibitions in contemporary art and which has won national awards and international recognition for its specialization in digital art. The IAM Facility will facilitate creativity, participation, and learning within a digital context, as well as other forms of media.” Conversely, based on the new conceptual artistic rendering of the IAM at Surrey Civic Plaza, the municipal government now appears to be proceeding with a standalone museum building approach. During her address today, Locke also shared a new conceptual artistic rendering of the first building of Surrey City Development Corporation’s (SCDC) Centre Block project, redeveloping the former North Surrey Recreation Centre site immediately south of Surrey Civic Plaza. It shows a drastically revised architectural design concept for the new office/institutional building that will contain Simon Fraser University’s (SFU) new medical school. Previous design for the SFU medical school building at Centre Block: New design for the SFU medical school building at Centre Block: This 13-storey vertical campus building features stepped layers filled with outdoor terraces and greenery. The light-coloured exterior and large glass areas give it a clean, calm, and welcoming look, while the landscaped setbacks make the large structure feel more human-scaled and connected to nature, rather than like a typical bulky city tower. Construction on this medical school building is expected to begin later in 2026, with completion and opening anticipated in 2030. The Government of British Columbia and SFU will cover the $520-million cost of the project. A conceptual artistic rendering was also shown of the future South Westminster waterfront area on the Fraser River — directly below SkyTrain’s SkyBridge and the new Pattullo Bridge (stal̓əw̓asəm/Riverview Bridge), and across the river from Downtown New Westminster. Currently an area that sees heavy industrial uses, the rendering shows a vibrant area with a riverfront boardwalk, improved green spaces, and retail and restaurant uses. During today’s address, just months before the October 2026 civic election, Locke also announced her proposal to build a new 200,000 sq. ft. convention centre and major hotel on the Cloverdale Fairgrounds, and provided an update on the City’s plan to build a 10,000-seat indoor arena attached to an entertainment complex with a hotel on the City-owned site of the BC Lions training facility — just north of City Hall in Surrey City Centre. She said a key announcement on the arena project could be made this summer, with the bid process seeking a developer, operator, and sports tenant winding down next week after attracting a “strong” market response. You might also like: - Construction site of new Vancouver Art Gallery reverts to parking lot - Surrey mayor pitches 200,000 sq. ft. convention centre for Cloverdale Fairgrounds - 'Strong' market interest to build 10,000-seat indoor arena in Surrey City Centre, says mayor - City of Surrey sets aside $200 million for new 10,000-seat indoor arena - New purpose-built facility for SFU Surrey medical school to cost $520 million - City of Surrey identifies four potential sites to build Canada Soccer's 40+ acre National Training Centre - Surrey Civic Plaza's temporary free covered outdoor ice rink attracts 43,000 skaters, set to return next winter https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/new-interactive-art-museum-iam-surrey-civic-plaza Fri, 15 May 2026 04:10:27 GMT