Dancers Ziyian Kwan and James Gnam perform “a slow awkward” on stage at Dancing on the Edge. | Photo by Chris Randle.n
With kids beginning their weeks off from school, there is no better way to enjoy the sunshine than by attending events and festivals all over the Lower Mainland. Bring the whole family to enjoy the much anticipated annual Canada Day events at Canada Place or try something different with Salsa dancing in Robson Square. There is no shortage of events, so find something that interests you, grab a few friends and enjoy the weather!
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Tasting Plates – Latin American Flavours
June 25, 6 p.m.–10:30 p.m.
A.G.R.O. Roasters
550 Clark Dr., Vancouver
Brought to you by Vancouver Foodster, this night of Latin American cuisine brings together food lovers from all around the Lower Mainland. With multiple restaurants participating, the event is full of variety and Latin flavours. Guests will pick up their Tasting Plates Cards at the registration centre at A.G.R.O. Roasters and then they can enjoy a summer night by visiting participating restaurants. Visit the website for ticket prices and more information.
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Lucie Chan and Marigold Santos: Attachments
June 27–Aug. 17
Richmond Art Gallery
7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond
Artist Lucie Chan and Marigold Santos come together to create an exhibition based on their foreign backgrounds. Santos draws heavily from her Filipino background and her immigrant experience. Chan finds inspiration through her Guyanese background and thus shares her experience through her artwork. Together, the two artists create an exhibition that focuses on the concept of attachment and separation.
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Multicultural Heritage festival
June 28–June 29
Richmond Cultural Centre
7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond
604.764.8181
After a successful first year, the Multicultural Heritage Festival of Richmond is back with more events and festivities! With an additional day, the Festival contains more performances from around the world, including multiple dance groups, puppet theatres and interactive activities. The festival has many cultural events that the whole family will enjoy. Free admission.
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Sunday Afternoon Salsa at Robson Square
Dancers perform at the annual Sunday Afternoon Salsa. | Photocourtesy of SalsaVancouver and Sunday Afternoon Salsa.
Every Sunday from June 29–Aug. 24
Robson Square
800 Robson St., Vancouver
Sunday Afternoon Salsa has returned to Robson Square! With professional Salsa dance instructors, learn the forbidden dance for free. Dance classes are held at 3 p.m., and performances from dance groups are held at 5 p.m. Multiple forms of dance are demonstrated for the performances, such as Belly Dancing, Filipino Tinikling and Flamenco. Visit the website for the full schedule and more information.
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Canada Day at Canada Place
July 1, 10 a.m–6 p.m.
Canada Place
999 Canada Pl, Vancouver
Canada is turning 147 this year, and the annual Canada Place celebration has returned. This day is filled with Canada-themed fun for the whole family. With fireworks, parades, food vendors and more, there will never be a dull moment. Learn more about Canada and celebrate with other families on July 1.
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Indian Summer
July 3–12
Various Locations
Celebrate and learn more about the rich South Asian heritage at the Indian Summer Festival. The event is held all over the Lower Mainland, with performances, folk stories and other events that are family friendly! Some events require payment at the door. Visit the website for more information and the full schedule.
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Dancing on the Edge
July 3–12
Various Locations
Dancing on the Edge is also known as the Festival of Contemporary Dance. Watch professionals show their graceful moves on various stages around the Lower Mainland. With an array of dancers, spectators are sure to be impressed by the stories that are told through dance. Visit the website for ticket prices and more information.
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Carnaval del Sol
July 5–6
Between Nelson St. and Dunsmuir St., Vancouver
604.566.0999
The Carnaval del Sol celebrates Latin American culture in a two day event. Packed with food, fiestas and soccer, this event is guaranteed to get you in the summer mood. Learn more about Latin American culture while engaging with locals and vendors alike. The traditional multi-national soccer tournament is always a highlight of the festival. Free admission.
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MAIN STREAT Food Party
July 5, 5 p.m.–11 p.m.
Hawkers Market
221 East 10th Ave.
Celebrate local food culture in Vancouver by attending the MAIN STREAT Food Party. With multiple restaurants participating, this event is guaranteed to have a variety of local foods. Enjoy the atmosphere with local food enthusiasts while munching down on local market and restaurant food. Guaranteed to have a “wild line-up of food”!
