Arts and Culture

5 Things to Do in Vancouver This Week (October 7-13)

Get into the fall spirit with a mushroom show, an aurora-inspired art exhibit, an outsider art fest and more.

By Kerri Donaldson /

Here’s 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, add it to our ongoing Vancouver events calendar here!

1. Experience a World of Pure Imagination at the Opening of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

October 12

Whether you love Roald Dahl’s original novel, the iconic 1971 film, or any of its many (many) modern adaptations, this vibrant CTORA production has it all—chocolate waterfalls, mischievous Oompa-Loompas and a grandpa who only gets out of bed for candy. It ends October 27th, so don’t miss this treat (unless you’re that lazy grandpa!).

When: October 12
Where: Norman & Annette Rothstein Theatre
Cost: From $38
More info: ctora.ca

 

Sheri Bakes, Swooning the Sky. Oil on canvas, 48 x 48 inches.

2. Experience the Northern Lights Like Never Before at Sheri Bakes’ New Solo Exhibition Aurora

October 5-17

Add a dose of inspo to your life with Sheri Bakes’ ethereal, atmospheric paintings at the Bau-Xi Gallery. Her work draws on elements of the science behind the Northern Lights, which she observed from her Vancouver Island home, and captures the feelings and emotions these lights evoke—way more magical than that Instagram post.

When: October 5-17
Where: Bau-Xi Gallery
Cost: Free
More info: bau-xi.com

Vancouver Outsider Arts Festival 2023, Oct. 12–17, 2023. All photos by Jamie Poh

3. Celebrate the Art of Being an Outsider at the 8th Annual Vancouver Outsider Arts Festival (VOAF)

October 11-13

Embrace your inner outsider at the 8th Annual Vancouver Outsider Arts Festival (VOAF), October 11-13! This free, all-inclusive event celebrates the diverse voices of marginalized artists with over 400 pieces on display. Dive into hands-on workshops (urban sketching, anyone?), and don’t miss the opening night party with live performances by Terreane Derrick and M’Girl Music. Step outside your usual and enjoy art sans boundaries.

When: October 11-13
Where: Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre
Cost: Free
More info: voaf.ca

 

4. Catch the Quirky Comedy of Sexy Laundry

October 8-9

Embrace the hilarity and heart of Sexy Laundry, Michele Riml’s comedic play about a couple trying to rekindle the spark in their marriage during a cheeky hotel retreat. If you’re up for a mix of laughs and possible relatability—this show is a must-see (Bonus: it’s cheaper than couple’s therapy).

When: October 8-9
Where: Newmont Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre
Cost: From $29
More info: artsclub.com

5. Experience Fungal Joy at the Vancouver Mycological Society’s Mushroom Show

October 12

Join your fellow mushy lovers and fun-guys for a full day of spore-related displays, hunts and activities. There’s also a raffle and costume contest for the best themed outfit—I’m already going as Toad from Super Mario so don’t even think about it!

When: October 12
Where: VanDusen Botanical Garden
Cost: $5
More info: facebook.com

Kerri Donaldson

Kerri Donaldson

Kerri Donaldson is an assistant editor for Vancouver magazine (and sister mag Western Living) and covers arts and culture, including VanMag’s So Fun City. She’s also a comedian and will proudly overthink almost everything for your benefit. Send her pitches or riff bits at [email protected]