5 Things to Do in Vancouver This Week (May 29-June 4)

Your weekly roundup of the top events in the city, including art exhibitions, local theatre, restaurant openings, concerts, film, markets and other to-dos we think you’ll love. If you have a Vancouver event you’d like to submit for consideration, send an email to kdonaldson@canadawide.com.

1. Whisky Fans: Get Ready for the Big Day This Saturday

June 3

For lovers of peaty Scotch, June 2nd is like Christmas and New Year’s rolled into one. That’s because it’s Ardbeg Day, the annual worldwide celebration of all things smoky and the day a privileged few get to sample the new limited release from the Islay distillery before anyone else. This year it’s called Heavy Vapours, a malt that gladly wears its pungency on its tartan sleeve. Festivities take place from 2-6 pm at our official Ardbeg “embassy” (The Irish Heather) and tickets include food, prizes and the coveted Heavy Vapours sample.

 

2. DesignThinkers: Put on Your Thinking Caps

May 30-31

DesignThinkers invites you to deep dive into the mad, mad world of design. AI-generated content? Check. Youngsters envisioning a brave new world? Double check. Afraid of the future? Triple check! But hey, that’s progress for you! Gear up for two days of mind-bending presentations, intense discussions, and socials (because we all need a breather). So, come with questions and leave with even more. Or, as they say at DesignThinkers, “Question Tomorrow.”

When: May 30-31
Where: Vancouver Playhouse
Cost: From $115
More Info: designthinkers.com

3. Experience Hellenic Culture at the Vancouver Greek Film Festival

June 1-4

Opa! The Vancouver Greek Film Festival is back for its second year, promising four days of awesome movies. Presented by the Hellenic Canadian Congress of BC, this cinematic event celebrates the art of Greek cinema with an eclectic offering of contemporary and classic films. The festival kicks off with a 35mm presentation of Elia Kazan’s epic “America America,” and features a newly restored 1970 film “Reconstruction” by Greek auteur Theo Angelopoulos. Plus, this year’s lineup boasts three dramatic features and three shorts directed by women. There’s even a closing night tribute to the late, beloved Olympia Dukakis, featuring a documentary that explores her life and legacy. But wait, there’s more! Don’t miss “Holy Emy,” a film following a young Filipina woman’s quest to unravel her strange condition and her mother’s healing powers.

When: June 1-4
Where: The Cinematheque
Cost: From $10
More Info: thecinematheque.ca

 

4. See a Cover Band That Plays All Your Favourite Hits

June 2

Time-travel through the greatest hits of all time with Dwayne Gretzky, a 10+ piece band that’s got more charm than a 90’s rom-com. They’re rolling out the red carpet of nostalgia at the Biltmore Cabaret, and you’re invited. Fleetwood Mac to Fatboy Slim, they’ve got it covered. Literally. And, hey, any band that’s jammed with the Rolling Stones is A-OK in our book. So, grab your tickets ($20-$22 plus fees), put on your dancing shoes and prepare to shake them to songs you forgot you loved. Doors open at 7 PM. Be there or be a square!​

When: June 2
Where: The Biltmore Cabaret
Cost: From $20
More Info: admitone.com

5. Dine with Distinction at the Sheringham Distillery Dinner

May 31

Are you a foodie with a penchant for artisanal cocktails and award-winning spirits? Then you’ll want to reserve your seat at the Sheringham Distillery dinner. This unique event, hosted by Acre Through the Seasons, combines the culinary talents of their seasonally obsessed chefs with the distilling mastery of Sheringham Distillery’s co-founder, Jason MacIsaac. What’s on the menu? Think savoury donuts topped with trout caviar and cardamom cream, paired with a Sheringham Seaside Gin, lime, cucumber, and Green Chartreuse cocktail. This is your chance to experience the finest of BC’s regional cuisine and mixology in a single sitting. So, book your tickets, which are a steal at $98 per person (including tax and gratuity) and get ready for a feast of the senses!

When: May 31
Where: Acre Through the Seasons
Cost: $98
More Info: ​vancouver.foodgressing.com