27 things to do in Vancouver this weekend: February 8 to 10

Feb 7 2019, 9:40 am

Another fun weekend full of exciting events! Here are 27 fun things to do in Vancouver on Friday, February 8, Saturday, February 9, and Sunday, February 10. Lunarfest, Wiz Khalifa and Curren$y, and more.

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

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Friday, February 8

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra: Inside the Symphony

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO)

What: The evening begins with Happy Hour at the Orpheum at 5:30 pm, highlighted with pre-concert music and specials on Kir Royale, a French aperitif. The concert then begins at 6:30 and lasts for an hour, with the conductor taking listeners inside the music with a casual analysis before the piece is played. The concert ends just at 7:30 pm, but the evening doesn’t end there. After a mix and mingle with VSO musicians in the lobby, guests are invited to join in a shopping party at John Fluevog Shoes, where 50% of sales are donated back to the VSO. After all that, listeners will still have enough time for an after-concert dinner and drink. This week’s event features guest conductor Brett Mitchell and two highly-popular Czech pieces – Smetana’s The Moldau and Dvořák’s Symphony no. 8.

When: Friday, February 8, 2019
Time: 5:30 to 8:30 pm
Where: The Orpheum Theatre – 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver
Admission: Tickets available online from $13 to $42

Chinese New Year Celebration at International Village Mall

What: International Village Mall’s celebration will bring traditional Chinese Spring festivities and rituals to the community of Vancouver, with exhibition and sales booths on both the Main and Upper Mall Levels. Come out for Chinese New Year festive items, souvenirs, culinary delights, giftware, multicultural live performances on stage, a lucky draw and more. This three-day event includes an opening celebration with a ceremonial lion dance.

When: Friday, February 8 to Sunday, February 10, 2018
Time: Various times
Where: International Village Mall – 88 W Pender St, Vancouver
Admission: Free

James & Jamesy: 2 For Tea

What: James & Jamesy sip tea, and lure you into their delightfully bizarre world with their innocence and endearing chemistry. Their idiosyncrasies bring vitality to the mundane, turning an ordinary tea party into a fantastic wonderland of stimulation and play. This show has won awards in countless theatre festivals, including Best Physical Theatre (Victoria), Best of Fest (Winnipeg), Best of Fest (Ottawa), Patrons’ Pick (London), Patrons’ Pick (Toronto), Pick of Fringe (Saskatoon), Most Memorable Performance (Montreal), Best of Fest (Orlando Sentinel), Just for Laughs Best Comedy finalist (Montreal).

When: Now to Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Evergreen Cultural Centre – 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
Tickets: Online

Robson Square Ice Rink

Robson Square

Image: Robson Square

What: The provincial government’s Robson Square Ice Rink is open for the 2018 and 2019 season. As per tradition, skating is free for all ages for those who bring their own skates. Those without skates can rent a pair on-site for a fee. An on-site concession stand will also serve warm drinks and snacks.

When: Now to February 28, 2019
Time: Sunday to Thursday from 9 am to 9 pm; Friday and Saturday from 9 am to 11 pm – Holiday hours vary
Where: 800 Robson Street, Vancouver (Robson Street and Howe Street)
Cost: Free for all ages, if you bring your own skates (Skate rentals are $5, and rentals end 30 minutes before closing time)
Note: Helmets are mandatory for children 12 years and under. Robson Square Ice Rink accepts cash only

A Prayer for Owen Meany

What: Owen Meany believes he is an instrument of the divine. As he and his best friend John navigate the turbulent America of the 1960’s, Owen pulls the strings of a plan invisible to everyone but him and – perhaps – God. An epic tale of faith, absurdity, and the power of a single voice. Can one person change the world?

When: Now to Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Pacific Theatre – 1440 W 12th Ave, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Nach’l’im Studio Gallery Opening

What: Skwetsimeltxw Willard ‘Buddy’ Joseph and Chepximiya Siyam’ Chief Janice George will be showcasing their Squamish culture through an extensive art display, the “L’hen Awtxw, Weaving House” Exhibit and hands-on cultural workshops at the Nach’i’m Pop Up Gallery on Granville Island.

When: Friday, February 8, 2019. Exhibition runs until February 28, 2019
Time: Gallery Opening from 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Where: 1359 Cartwright Street, Vancouver
Admission: Free

Much Ado About Nothing

What: Set in a mesmerizing theatrical world, this deadly serious and sublimely ridiculous story — of soldiers in love and women confined by tradition — is a bold and playful romp through the extremes of desire and ambition, loyalty and redemption. Presented by Classic Chic Productions and part of the Femme Series: highlighting the strength and power of female-identifying voices and experiences.

When: Now to Saturday, February 16, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: The Cultch – 1895 Venables Street, Vancouver,
Tickets: Online

Saturday, February 9

LunarFest Celebrations

What:Start your Lunar New Year celebration with a “gong” and take a money bath. LunarFest brings cultures and traditions outdoor in downtown Vancouver. Win a prize in the Universe of Piggy Banks and learn about cultures and currencies around the world. Be sure to meet the Pig Heroes, DIY a lantern and take home lots of crafts. Presented by TELUS.

When: Saturday, February 9 to Sunday, February 10, 2018
Time: Various times
Where: Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza – 750 Hornby St, Vancouver
Admission: Free

Wiz Khalifa and Curren$y

Wiz Khalifa

Wiz Khalifa/Facebook

What: Billboard chart-topping rapper Wiz Khalifa and Jet Life Recordings founder Curren$y team-up for a show at the Commodore Ballroom.

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: Doors 8 pm, show 9:30 pm
Where: Commodore Ballroom – 868 Granville Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Five Women Wearing the Same Dress by Alan Ball

What: During an ostentatious wedding reception at a Knoxville, Tennessee, estate, five reluctant, identically clad bridesmaids hide out in an upstairs bedroom, each with their own reason to avoid the proceedings below. These five very different women joyously discover a common bond in this wickedly funny, irreverent, and touching celebration of the women’s spirit.

When: Now to Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Blake Snyder Theatre at Go Studios – 112 E. 3rd Ave. Vancouver
Tickets: Online, $10 online, $15 at the door

Lunar New Year 2019

What: Join the Heights Merchants Association for their annual Lunar New Year celebration of the multiculturalism in our community. Spot the lion dancers on Hastings Street (between Boundary Road and Gamma Avenue) from 12 to 4 pm and receive a fortune cookie, a lucky red envelope and a chance to win prizes.

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: 12 to 4 pm
Where: Burnaby Heights
Admission: Free

Fred Penner

What: Many of today’s parents grew up with Fred Penner, watching him on CBC TV (Fred Penner’s Place, 1985-1997), and singing along to “The Cat Came Back” and “Sandwiches.” Fred’s career as a musician and television personality has endeared him in the hearts of Canadians of all ages, and he continues to write catchy, thought-provoking tunes that kids and their parents can share and enjoy.

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Main Stage at Surrey Arts Centre – 13750 88 Avenue, Surrey
Tickets: Online

Sneaker Con Vancouver

What: Sneaker Con, affectionately dubbed as “the greatest sneaker show on earth,” will be coming to Vancouver for the first time ever this February. The event is a widescale collection and collaboration for fanatics to browse, talk and learn more about their favourite brands and shoes. To help attendees buy, sell, and trade with confidence, the event will also include a Sneaker Con authentication team, who will tag shoes and ensure they’re 100% legit. There will also be a wide selection of streetwear and unique merchandise available on site.

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: 12 to 7 pm
Where: Vancouver Convention Centre – 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Tickets: Available online or at the door for $28.55 (incl. fees)

Art on the Loose

What: Bring your detective hat and track down clues at Surrey Art Gallery’s first art scavenger hunt. Given a list of clues, you’ll use your senses and detective skills to complete the challenge. Through the process, you’ll discover a variety of artwork in the Gallery and around the Surrey Arts Centre, such as a responsive sound piece and a spinning artwork. Attendees are welcome to dress like a detective.

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: 12 to 3 pm
Where: Surrey Art Gallery – 13750 88 Avenue, Surrey
Admission: Free

Vancouver Canucks vs Calgary Flames

horvat boeser canucks

Image: Vancouver Canucks / Twitter

What: The Vancouver Canucks face off with the Calgary Flames at Rogers Arena on February 9.

When: Friday, February 9, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

In Fiction

What: In Fiction is a new work from Action at a Distance that blurs the lines between the real and the imagined. This visceral solo strikes a balance between cognitive understanding and phantasmal imagination with engaging, highly physical results. Created and performed by Vanessa Goodman in collaboration with lighting designer James Proudfoot.

When: Now to Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: 8 pm
Where: Shadbolt Centre for the Arts – 6450 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Tickets: Online, $15-$36

Vancouver: The Wizard’s Brunch & Dinner

What: You can still buy tickets to the February 9 brunch (12:30 to 3:30 pm) and the 18+ only dinner (7 to 10:30 pm), as well as to the 19+ After Dinner Wizards’ Disco from 10:30 pm to 1 am.

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019
Time: Various seatings
Where: Vancouver Convention Centre West Building – 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Price: $185 – $215; buy online

Sunday, February 10

Mission: Possible — Surrey Escape Room 2019

election fraud

Surrey City Hall. (City of Surrey)

What: The City of Surrey and City of Vancouver’s Smart Cities partnership will be hosting a free escape room experience in Surrey Civic Plaza, just outside Surrey City Hall. Over the span of a 60-minute session on Saturday, February 9 and Sunday, February 10, participants will have to strategize, solve riddles, and collaborate through a series of puzzles and riddles to help create a smarter city. This experience is suitable for all ages given its varying difficulties, but parents must accompany elementary-aged children on challenges.

When: Saturday, February 9 and Sunday, February 10, 2019
When: 10 am to 4 pm (Saturday), 10 am to 2 pm (Sunday)
Where: Surrey Civic Plaza — 13450 104th Avenue, Surrey
Cost: Free. Online registration required.

Rogue Folk Club – Ashley MacIsaac

What: The Driven Bow: 2nd Annual Fiddle Festival presents Cape Breton fiddling sensation Ashley MacIsaac. The talented duo of Qristina and Quinn Bachand will open the show.

When: Sunday, February 10, 2019
Time: 8 pm
Where: St. James Hall – 3214 West 10th Ave, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Lion Dance Centre at Richmond Centre

What: Celebrate the Year of the Pig and welcome the Lunar New Year at Richmond Centre. Marvel at large-scale and eye-catching lantern displays suspended from the ceilings, and enjoy exciting cultural experiences including a traditional Lion Dance. Enjoy visits with the God of Fortune who will be handing out Lucky Red Pockets with a chocolate coin.

When: Sunday, February 10, 2019
Time: 11 am
Where: Main Galleria, Richmond Centre – 6551 No. 3 Rd., Richmond
Admission: Free

Anne Dublin reading at Vancouver Jewish Book Festival

What: As part of the Vancouver Jewish Book Festival award-winning author Anne Dublin will be reading from her new book A Cage Without Bars at the Burquest Jewish Community Centre. No ticket purchase is necessary to attend.

When: Sunday, February 10
Time: 5 to 6 pm
Where: Burquest Jewish Community Centre – 2860 Dewdney Trunk Road, Coquitlam
Admission: Free

Vancouver Giants vs Prince George Cougars

What: Vancouver Giants face off with the Prince George in WHL action at Langley Events Centre.

When: Sunday, February 10, 2019
Time: 2 pm
Where: Langley Events Centre – 7888 200 Street, Langley
Tickets: Online

Driverless Vehicle Demonstration Surrey 2019

What: An autonomous shuttle vehicle will be making loops in and around Surrey Civic Plaza over the span of more than two weeks in February 2019 to provide Metro Vancouver residents with an opportunity to experience the future of driving. This free public demonstration is a part of the joint partnership between the City of Surrey and the City of Vancouver for their Infrastructure Canada Smart Cities Challenge bid of creating Canada’s first two collision-free multimodal corridors with driverless vehicles.

When: Wednesdays to Sundays from now to February 18, 2019
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Surrey Civic Plaza — 13450 104 Avenue, Surrey
Cost: Free. Book online to avoid lines

Coastal Lunar Lanterns

What: The Asian-Canadian Special Events Association has created an iconic installation for Lunar New year. From now to February 18, eight gigantic lanterns will be set up and illuminated every night at the Jack Poole Plaza, using the mountains and water as a backdrop. The lanterns were designed by three artists from Coast Salish Nations, as well as an indigenous artist from Taiwan, and celebrate an important aspect of Lunar New Year tradition.

When: Now to February 18, 2019
Where: Jack Poole Plaza – 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Admission: Free

Hastings Park Farmers’ Market

farmers’ markets

Maram/Shutterstock

What: Find a great selection of local produce, fish, meat, dairy, artisan prepared foods, baked goods, local crafts, craft alcohol producers, and food trucks. There is free parking for market shoppers at Gate 2 off of Renfrew St.

When: Every Sunday to April 28
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Hastings Park Centre grounds – 2901 East Hastings Street
Admission: Free

Vancouver Taboo 2019

What: Enjoy entertainment, provocative and educational seminars, unique shopping, fashion shows and live demonstrations at Vancouver Taboo 2019.

When: Friday, February 8 to Sunday, February 10, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Vancouver Convention Centre – East Building – 999 Canada Place, Vancouver
Admission: Online, $15

Year of the Pig Temple Fair

What: Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden’s annual Temple Fair celebration returns in 2019 to usher in the Year of the Pig. Enjoy storytelling and arts & crafts, live music, vendors, a Lion Dance performance, and more.

When: Sunday, February 10, 2019,
Time: Various times
Where: Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden – 578 Carrall Street, Vancouver
Admission: $5 suggested donation

Daniel ChaiDaniel Chai

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