5 Things to Do in Vancouver This Week (August 8-14)

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 dwright@canadawide.com.

Read on for this week’s lineup.

1. Mural Fest

August 4-14

Mural Fest is officially here! The beloved ten-day celebration of street art encompasses tons of live and interactive events—from live painters, DJs and dance exhibitions to kids activities, licensed bars and food trucks. Of course you can also take a mural tour to check out the 30-plus new murals across the city.

When: August 4-14
Where: Various Locations
Cost: Some events are free, others vary in price
More Info: vanmuralfest.ca

2. Vancouver Queer Film Festival

August 11-21

VQFF is back for its 34^th edition with their new theme of “Make It Yours”—intended to bring audiences back to the political grassroots with impactful films that raise awareness about the struggles, joys, and journeys of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This year’s fest is leaning into experiential and experimental filmmaking and highlighting community building and self-actualization by focusing on autobiographical stories.

When: August 11-21
Where: Online and at Out On Screen
Cost: Festival Pass: $175; Individual tickets from $5
More Info: outonscreen.com

3. Fruit Beer Festival

August 13

This year’s Fruit Beer Fest is a celebration of all things summer with suds from your favourite local breweries, bites from the best food trucks, groovy beach music and burlesque troupes. Bring along a picnic blanket and post up for a day of entertainment.

When: August 13
Where: Swanguard Stadium
Cost: From $69.99
More Info: fruitbeer.ca

4. Vancouver International Polo Festival

August 13

Grab your fascinator and coolest ‘fit, Vancouver’s Polo Fest is here to get you excited for the ‘sport of kings’. The day is Argentinian-themed and will feature polo matches, a roaming band and tango dancers, DJs, creative cuisine and custom polo-themed art installations. There’s a bunch of fancy libations for you to partake in as well, includine a Veuve Cliquot Champagne tent, a complimentary Argentinian wine tasting and a specialty curated cocktail program by renowned bartender Jacob Sweetapple.

When: August 13
Where: Southlands Riding Club
Cost: $25
More Info: vancouverpolofest.com

5. Ambleside Music Festival

August 12-14

Ambleside Music Fest has curated a three-day lineup of top music acts including headliners The Offspring, Mother Mother, Marianas Trench and Walk Off the Earth. In addition to music, this West Van fest is hosting a bunch of food trucks, and allows for in-and-out privileges so you can hit up one of the nearby local haunts if you’re craving something specific.

When: August 12-14
Where: Ambleside Park
Cost: Adult weekend passes $245; single day $99
More Info: amblesidefestival.com