27 things to do in Vancouver this weekend: April 5 to 7

Power up your weekend with our picks of 27 fun things to do in Vancouver on Friday, April 5, Saturday, April 6, and Sunday, April 7! P!nk, BC Distilled Festival, and more!

And for more things happening around town be sure to check out our events section.

See also

• Céline Dion will be performing in Vancouver next year
• There's an Autism Job Fair happening in Richmond next week
• The world's largest indoor Christmas festival is coming to Vancouver in 2019

Friday, April 5

P!NK Beautiful Trauma World Tour

What: Pop superstar P!NK brings her Beautiful Trauma World Tour back to Vancouver with special guest Julia Michaels

When: Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: Show 8 pm
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Burrard Arts Foundation Opening: Holly Schmidt, Charlene Vickers, Alex Achtem

What: Join Burrard Arts Foundation to celebrate the opening of BAF Gallery’s new Spring Exhibitions: ‘Quiescence’, from Holly Schmidt, and ‘Chrysalis’, from Charlene Vickers. They will also be unveiling a new installation in The Garage: ‘Painting a Room Blue’, by Alex Achtem.

When: Friday, April 5, 2019. Exhibition runs April 5 to May 25, 2019
Time: Opening Night Party from 7 to 11 pm. Exhibition is open 12 to 5 pm, Tuesday to Saturday
Where: Burrard Arts Foundation – 258 East 1st Avenue, Vancouver
Admission: Free

Darts Hill Spring Opening

What: Explore Darts Hill Garden during its first public opening of the year. Darts Hill Garden Park awakens in April with an explosion of colour. The large collection of bulbs, perennials, shrubs, and trees provides blooms from early spring to late summer in an ever-changing palette, worthy of several visits.

When: Friday, April 5, 2019
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Darts Hill Garden Park – 1633 170 St, Surrey
Admission: By donation

Vancouver International Burlesque Festival 2019

What: Showcasing the finest local and international talent since 2006, the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival brings global talent and local superstars to downtown Vancouver every spring. This year’s event features The Showpony Soiree on Friday night and The Glamorama Gala on Saturday night.

When: Now to April 6, 2019
Time: 8 pm
Where: Vancouver Playhouse – 600 Hamilton Street
Tickets: Online

Vancouver Whitecaps vs LA Galaxy

What: Vancouver Whitecaps take on the LA Galaxy at BC Place.

When: Friday, April 5, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

‘Paulée’-Style Dinner At Origo Club

What: Origo Club is giving wine lovers the opportunity to showcase prized French vintages from their own cellars at this ultra-exclusive ‘Paulée’-styled Grand Cru Burgundy Dinner.

When: Friday, April 5, 2019
Time: 6:30 pm
Where: Origo Club – 6888 River Rd #110, Richmond
Price: $300; buy online

WHL Playoffs – Vancouver Giants vs Victoria Royals

What: Vancouver Giants take on the Victoria Royals in Game 1, Round 2 of WHL Playoff action at Langley Events Centre.

When: Friday, April 5, 2019
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Langley Events Centre – 7888 200 Street, Langley
Tickets: Online

Saturday, April 6

International Pillow Fight Day

What: On April 6, massive pillow fights will be taking place around the world as part of International Pillow Fight Day. Vancouver will be taking part in the swinging and whacking again this year and is hosting its own brawl at the Vancouver Art Gallery at 3 pm. In past years, hundreds of Vancouverites have flocked to Vancouver’s downtown core, armed with goose-down and ready to take on fellow pillow-wielding assailants. For everyone’s safety, make sure to use soft pillows only, and swing them lightly. As with any pillow fight, PJs are welcome.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 3 pm
Where: Vancouver Art Gallery – 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver
Admission: Free

BC Distilled Festival 2019

What: Canada’s biggest artisan and micro-distillery event, BC Distilled Festival brings together 40 distilleries from across the province – veterans and newbies alike – to give attendees the chance to interact and taste samples from each and every one of them if they are up for it. BC Distilled has several unique features to look forward to in addition to the tasting, such as The Legacy Liquor pop-up shop, which will offer the best selection of BC spirits anywhere in the province. Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS) will be offering tickets to a 50/50 draw as well.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: Main tasting at 6 pm
Where: Croatian Cultural Centre – 3250 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
Tickets: buy online

Bridal Fashion Week in Vancouver

What: The Vancouver extravaganza at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel brings together leading fashion designers and high-end vendors all under the same roof, making it a one-stop shop for inspiration and planning. Opening night on April 6 features a grand VIP dinner gala hosted at the luxury hotel near Canada Place.

This is one wedding event you do not want to miss. BFWC will feature leading bridal designers and jewellers from Canada, USA, UK, UAE, India and Pakistan — showcasing their unique collections. Brides who register online also get a chance to win giveaways worth more than $30,000.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Where: Fairmont Waterfront, 900 Canada Place, Vancouver
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Tickets: $10-15, available online

Luminescence IV Closing Event

What: Mind-bending optical illusions are just part of the story, the professional jam of the artists exhibiting is another. The evening event features one last chance to see the fire-breathing dragon by local icon Rom Simmer and live music from two amazing musicians: Eddie Lam & Leonard Pallerstein! The Berzerkatroid Dragon will be breathing fire on-site during the Luminescence IV closing event.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 7 to 9 pm
Where: Deer Lake Gallery – 6584 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Tickets: Online, Free

Comedy Night at Elements Casino Surrey featuring Jane Stanton

What: Elements Casino Surrey welcomes the hilarious Jane Stanton to headline Fraser Valley Comedy’s monthly comedy night.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 7 to 9:30 pm
Where: Elements Casino Surrey – 17755 60 Avenue, Surrey
Tickets: Online, $10

Vancouver Digital Entertainment Career Fair 2019

What: The Vancouver Economic Commission’s (VEC) annual Digital Entertainment Career Fair returns to downtown Vancouver on April 6, 2019. Over 50 companies and schools are expected to be present at the free one-day job fair, which is billed by organizers as the largest hiring event for the digital entertainment industry in North America. This event was attended by over 3,000 people in 2018. This year, employers present at the job fair are looking to fill over 400 positions, with attendees being provided with an opportunity to meet face-to-face with people who will be handling applications.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Vancouver Convention Centre East (Canada Place) — 999 Canada Place Way, Vancouver
Cost: Register online for free or on-site upon arrival

KidPreneur Market Day Expo

What: Build a Biz Kids students show off their businesses as they launch them for the 1st time. There will be lots of tasty treats, fun gift ideas and crazy inventions plus activities & inspiration for the whole family.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 12 to 4 pm
Where: The City of Lougheed (Lougheed Town Centre) – Austin Avenue & North Road, Burnaby. Top Floor between Wal-Mart and the Food Court.
Admission: Free

Seedy Saturday

What: Spring is in full bloom at Seedy Saturday. Whether you’re a budding green thumb or expert seed saver, there’s something for everyone at Stewart Farm House’s annual seed and plant sale. Purchase heirloom seeds and plants from local vendors, swap and exchange seeds, and chat with gardening experts.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Stewart Farm House – 13723 Crescent Rd, Surrey
Admission: Free

Gerry Dee

What: Gerry Dee celebrates 20 years of stand-up Canadian comedy at The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts with special guest Ivan Decker.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts – 777 Homer Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

New West Farmers Winter Market

What: The market features farm-fresh produce, plants, quality crafts from local artists and artisans, gourmet prepared foods, community information, live entertainment, and more.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Belmont Street between 6th Street and 7th Street, New Westminster
Admission: Free

BC Uncorked Wine & Food Festival

What: Try over 55 BC Wineries at the 12th Annual BC Uncorked. Attendees can also expect food from over 12 local restaurants, caterers, and food vendors.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 7 to 10 pm
Where: Anvil Centre – 777 Columbia Street, New Westminster
Price: $75; buy online

Mine & Yours x Maggie May

What: Are you wanting to customize your favourite jacket for summer?! Mine & Yours have invited Maggie May to join us for an evening in store to make that magic happen. Enjoy good tunes, some rosé, and one free small Maggie May design with a purchase of $75 or more. Use it on an item purchased in-store or bring in one of your favourite pieces from home.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 4 to 7 pm
Where: Mine & Yours – 1025 Howe St, Vancouver
More Info: Online

WHL Playoffs – Vancouver Giants vs Victoria Royals

What: Vancouver Giants take on the Victoria Royals in Game 2, Round 2 of WHL Playoff action at Langley Events Centre.

When: Saturday, April 6, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Langley Events Centre – 7888 200 Street, Langley
Tickets: Online

Sunday, April 7

3rd Annual Richmond Cherry Blossom Festival

What: In its third year running, the festival celebrates the arrival of spring and the blooming of cherry blossoms. The festival, situated right beside the Fraser River, includes a day full of Japanese music, as well as traditional Japanese food and activities. Attendees can also expect traditional Japanese dance, Taiko drumming, and a number of talented musicians.

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 11 am to 4 pm
Where: Garry Point Park – 12011 Seventh Avenue, Richmond
Admission: Free

Weezer & Pixies

What: Weezer and Pixies are teaming up for a North American spring tour. They perform at Rogers Arena on April 7 with special guests BASEMENT.

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Birding for Beginners

What: Learn bird-watching basics and strategies for identifying birds. Enjoy an outdoor walk to get to know the birds at the park. Ages 13+. Registration is required.

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 9 am to 11 am
Where: Colony Farm Regional Park, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free, register online

KaurVotes: Sikh Women in Politics Panel

What: In time for the 2019 federal election, the World Sikh Organization is launching KaursVote, a new initiative to encourage and promote Sikh women engagement in the political and democratic arena. Sikh Women in Politics is a cross-country panel series exploring the challenges faced by, and successes achieved by, female Sikh political organizers from campaign war rooms to government.

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 2 to 4 pm
Where: Strawberry Hill Library — 7399 122 Street, Surrey
RSVP: Online

Bardia’s Dinner Series

What: Head chef of Farmer’s Apprentice Bardia Ilbeiggi invites folks to a Persian spring food feast, which he’ll be making with his mom and dad. Expect family-style eats like salad, herbed rice, grilled fish, pickles, charcoal grilled bread, Persian lime tarts and more.

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 6:30 pm
Where: Grapes & Soda – 1541 W 6th Avenue, Vancouver
Price: $58; buy online

Eastside Flea

What: Eastside Flea is a modern-day flea market that takes place bi-weekly in Vancouver, BC. Each event hosts over 50 local vendors selling diverse goods from handmade independent maker wares to vintage clothing, collectibles, plants, artisan eats and more. You’ll also find food trucks, live vinyl deejays, pinball, an outdoor courtyard, and more.

When: Saturday, April 6 and Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Location: The Ellis Building – 1024 Main Street, Vancouver
Admission: $3

Reel 2 Real Film Festival

What: Through public screenings, hands-on workshops, interactive panel discussions, and public forums, Reel 2 Real is dedicated to showing the best in culturally diverse, authentic programming for youth. Highlights this year include the Canadian premiere of Mia and the White Lion (France), the Canadian premiere of A First Farewell (China), and the North American premiere of Makuko (Japan).

When: Sunday, April 7 to Saturday, April 13, 2019
Time: Various times
Location: Vancity Theatre – 1181 Seymour St., and Roundhouse Community Centre – 181 Roundhouse Mews
Tickets: Online

Paella Dinner at Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar

What: Boulevard’s popular Paella Dinner is back this month. Guests will enjoy the traditional Spanish dish during a three-course dinner, served with a glass of sangria.

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 6 pm
Where: Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar – 845 Burrard Street, Vancouver
Price: $68; buy online

Capture Photography Festival 2019

What: Each April, photography and lens-based art is exhibited at dozens of galleries and other venues throughout Metro Vancouver as part of the Exhibition Program, alongside an extensive Public Art Program, a youth-oriented Learning Program, and an Events Program that spans tours, films, artist talks, and community events. Launched in 2013, the annual not-for-profit Capture Photography Festival is Western Canada’s largest lens-based art festival.

When: Now to April 30, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations throughout Metro Vancouver
Admission: Free

Book Launch: Duty, Honour and Izzat

What: Steven Purewal’s debut graphic novel, presented as a historical scrapbook with beautifully realised, photo-realistic artwork, frames a history linking a young boy’s past and heritage to his life in present-day Surrey. A teenage boy, caught up in drug gangs, is forces to rethink his choices after his 95 year old great grandfather comes to visit the family in Canada for the first time. His grandfather’s stories of the family’s past, sacrifices and heroism inspire the desire to head down a different path.

When:  Sunday, April 7, 2019
Time: 1:30 to 2:30 pm
Where: Ross Street Gurdwara Sahib — 8000 Ross Street, Vancouver
More Info: Online