Vancouver Adventures: Our Picks for June 22 to 28

Ride a merry-go-round, try a smørrebrød, watch a dragon boat race + more

1. Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival — Friday, June 21 to Sunday, June 23

Some of North America’s best dragon boat racing happens right in Vancouver, and this year more than 200 teams will compete for 25 medals in the weekend long event. Take in some tunes from local and international musicians, learn about the ancient Chinese traditions behind dragon boat racing, and grab some food from local food trucks.
Concord Pacific Place, Creekside Park, Vancouver; Times vary; Free; Details online

2. TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival — Friday, June 21 to Monday, July 1

This international jazz fest is held in various locations in Vancouver, giving you the chance to explore new places while experiencing some of the best jazz music in the world. With 1,800 artists, 300 performances, 35 venues and more than 150 free shows, you can easily find something you’ll enjoy. 
Locations, times, and prices vary; Details online

3. Point Grey Fiesta — Friday, June 21 to Sunday, June 24

Name a better way to kick off your weekend than eating cotton candy and going ’round on a Ferris wheel—we’ll wait. This is the fiesta’s 33rd year, and it’s only gotten better. Catch the parade on Saturday morning, or check out the carnival rides and midway all weekend long. There will also be arts and crafts stations, and plenty of live entertainment.
Trimble Park, Vancouver; Times vary; Details online

4. Nosh Foodie Fest — Saturday, June 22

Cannoli and hot dogs and fish and chips, oh my! In case you missed this tasty event earlier in the month, you still have a few more chances. The event features a range of local food trucks and live entertainment.Capilano Mall, 935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Details online

5. Strathcona Street Party — Saturday, June 22

The same team that brings us the Vancouver Mural Festival is throwing an epic one day street party to kick off the first official week of summer. Its goal is to showcase everything that the Strathcona `hood has to offer, including community groups, businesses and artists. Added bonus: the event is free and family friendly!
882 East Cordova Street, Vancouver; Noon to 9 p.m.; Free; Details online

6. Scandinavian Midsummer Festival — Saturday, June 22 and Sunday, June 23

If you’ve never tried the famous Danish open-faced sandwich, smørrebrød, here’s your chance. This festival will showcase plenty of Scandinavian food, tons of traditional live music and performances (including the Nordic Singers from the Royal Opera of Copenhagen), and lots of games and activities. 
Scandinavian Community Centre, 6540 Thomas Street, Burnaby; Times vary; Admission $10; Details online

7. Greek Day on Broadway — Sunday, June 23

Experience Greek heritage in person… without the 14 hour flight. From delicious food and drink to traditional music and performances, Vancouver Greek Day is a fun event showcasing a lively culture that the whole family will enjoy. 
West Broadway, from MacDonald to Blenheim Streets, Vancouver; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Free; Details online

8. PechaKucha Vancouver — Thursday, June 27

Since launching in Tokyo in 2003, PechaKucha has grown into a global event hosted in over a thousand cities worldwide. At the Vancouver event, you can expect the opportunity to meet, network and get inspired by young designers who will offer a series of unique, funny, and personal presentations.
Vancouver Playhouse, 600 Hamilton Street, Vancouver; 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Tickets $23 online

9. Michelin on the Road Dinner at Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar — Thursday, June 27

The award-winning Vancouver restaurant will be the host of an exclusive dinner which sees Boulevard executive chef Roger Ma team up with Melissa Rodriguez, chef and partner of New York City’s Michelin-starred Del Posto restaurant. Expect a cocktail reception, six course menu, and, of course, incredible wine pairings. 
Boulevard Kitchen and Oyster Bar, 845 Burrard Street, Vancouver; Tickets online $225

10. Tacofino X Strange Fellows Brewing Dinner at Tacofino Hastings — Thursday, June 27

Tacofino has been pairing up with local breweries in their summer Beer Dinner Series, this time with Strange Fellows Brewing. Offering two seatings, the five-course dinner will feature Tacofino’s classic Baja-by-way-of-West-Coast cuisine and Strange Fellows’ unique brews.
Tacofino Commissary, 2327 East Hastings Street, Vancouver; 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Tickets $55