1. Potluck Hawker Eatery

Opens July 15

This new spot for Southeast Asian street food is opening with COVID-19 in mind, of course, and owner Justin Cheung has crafted some eats especially for those ordering takeout. Think fried chicken sandwiches, wings, noodles and roti canai (a pan-fried Malaysian flatbread). Potluck Hawker Eatery’s food is designed for sharing, but you don’t have to.

When: Opens Wednesday, July 15
Where: Potluck Hawker Eatery
More Info: potluckyvr.ca

2. The Queer Arts Festival

July 16 to 26

Local artists have this digital performance thing down. The Queer Arts Festival kicks off this week and features dance, drag, burlesque, visual art and more. We’re pumped for Virago Nation’s Too Spirited Indigenous burlesque this Friday (read more about them here) and The Darlings’ wicked drag show on the 24th.

When: Thursday July 16 to Sunday July 26
Where: Online
Cost: By donation, reserve tickets here
More Info: queerartsfestival.com

3. To Speak With a Golden Voice

Opens July 16

The Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art is reopening this week with To Speak With a Golden Voice, an exhibition that honours Haida artist Bill Reid’s life and legacy. It’s divided into four parts: “Voice” covers his radio career, “Process” examines his creative journey, “Lineage” follows those he inspired, and “Legacy” features video insights from those who knew him personally. Get the whole picture.

When: Opens Thursday July 16, on until April 11 2021
Where: Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art
Cost: Adults $13, free for Indigenous peoples
More Info: billreidgallery.ca

4. Formation’s Pride Fundraiser

July 17

100 percent of proceeds from this online dance class go to Rainbow Refugee, a local community group that supports refugees seeking protection in Canada because of persecution based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or HIV status. Dancing always makes you feel good, but this strength and endurance class has a little extra power.

When: Friday July 17 at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Online
More Info: theformationstudio.com

5. The African Descent Festival

July 18 and 19

The virtual African Descent Festival is coming in hot this weekend with a full lineup of live music, dance, a fashion show and a drum circle. Included in the list is Jully Black (pictured above), who’s known as Canada’s Queen of R&B Soul. Catch her and local favourites (like Sadé Awele) online.

When: Saturday July 18 and Sunday July 19
Where: Online
More Info: africandescentfestival.com