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This week: Shop up a storm when Forever 21 reopens in Metrotown, enjoy the new brunch menu at West Oak, spend Mother's Day at YYoga and more
Bird watchers really have something to crow about this weekend. On May 9, Vancouver Central Library hosts the 2nd annual Crow Night, an evening dedicated to bringing the so-called thugs of the bird world out of the shadows. Dr. Rob Butler shares stories from his four decades of studying birds, and award-winning director Mike McKinlay screens his film Crows.
Planning to beat the crowds at Metrotown this Saturday with a little early-morning shopping? Two words: forget it. Crowds are guaranteed to be crazy thanks to the grand reopening of Forever 21, every mall maven’s favourite fashion mecca. And if the boutique’s many bargains aren’t enough to get customers beelining in from all over Burnaby, this just might: the first 100 shoppers in line for the 10 a.m. opening will pocket a $21 gift card.
Looking to add a little luxe to your brunch? Check out the new menu at West Oak, where options like Mimosas, Dungeness Crab and Lobster Salad Sandwiches are the norm. Created by executive chef Tim Cuff, the diverse menu has an array of delicious options (check the hearty Beef Short Rib Hash if you’re looking to replenish after a night of partying). And on sunny mornings, eat and drink in the comfort of their Yaletown patio. A must-try for brunch fans… so pretty much everyone.
With drop-in yoga classes priced at about $18 bucks a pop, enlightenment doesn’t come cheap. That all changes this weekend, when YYoga and Semperviva offer free classes for Lower Mainland moms on Mother’s Day. Just drop by any YYoga on May 11 and say “mamaste” to receive a free class, and if you’re feeling generous, drop a dollar or two into the karma jar at the front desk, with proceeds benefiting BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.
What’s BC’s oldest profession? Nope, it’s not what you think. It’s actually mining, and to honour our age-old heritage, Britannia Mine Museum is hosting a special Family Fun Day on May 10. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can enjoy activities like a Lego scavenger hunt, chocolate chip cookie mining, blacksmith demos, gold panning, Japanese taiko drumming, face painting, and rides on an underground mine train.
With a name like Totem, you’re right if you’re thinking that the latest Cirque du Soleil show to hit Vancouver boasts native roots. (See our behind-the-scenes preview here). Running from May 15 to July 6 at Concord Pacific Place, TOTEM uses First Nation myths (and a whole lot of Native hoop dancing!) to track the fascinating journey of humankind’s evolution. A lofty goal, to be sure, but not as lofty as some of the gravity-defying acrobatics!
It won’t just be birdwatchers heading to the South Okanagan Meadowlark Festival from May 15 to 19. After all, this 17th annual fest has been repeatedly been voted the “Best Annual Community Event in the South Okanagan” thanks to a packed program of fun and informative ecological events ranging from horseback riding and cycling tours to canoe trips and astronomy talks.
Fans of the Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair already know why it’s been voted the best show in its class across North America for eight straight years. But first-time visitors will have to take it on faith that this annual exposition boasts all the wonders of the Wild West, including bull riding and barrel racing by the world’s top cowfolk, along with family-friendly fun like a parade, kids’ zone, rides and more at Cloverdale Fairgrounds (6050 176th St) from May 16 to 19.
It won’t be too tough to track down the Highland Games and Celtic Festival, happening next weekend in Victoria. Just follow the sound of bagpipes to Topaz Park (Finlayson and Blanshard streets) to enjoy a full slate of Scottish-inspired activities ranging from whisky tastings and Highland dancing to a tartan parade and even a kilted 100-yard dash. Not a Scot? No worries. Everyone’s welcome to attend this fun fete on May 17 and 18, held from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
As B.C.’s former capitol, New Westminster may have been eclipsed by Victoria, but the demotion hasn’t dampened its civic pride. On May 17, the Hyack Festival kicks off with an eight-day community carnival featuring over 60 events, including a multicultural street fair, live entertainment, rides and an antique show at various venues around town. Plus, check out the international parade at Westminster Quay on May 24, with all the details coming soon.
