5 Things to Do In Vancouver This Week Instead of Crying that Summer is Over (Aug. 27- Sept. 2)

Wipe up your tears – there’s burgers to eat, bracelets to buy, and bees to keep.

Photo: Bard on the Beach

Challenge (Literal) Gender Roles

August 27

Shakespeare’s work has always subverted traditional gender roles (gotta love the ol’ male-actor-playing-a-female-character-who-disguises-herself-as-a-male-character trope). But how do those roles and stereotypes translate into modern-day productions? At Bard on the Beach’s forum, Gender and Shakespeare in 2018, theatre professionals and academics discuss gender beyond Romeo and Juliet. Topics will include the pros and cons of gender-blind casting as well as traditional versus modern interpretations of characters.When: Monday, August 27, 7:30 p.m.Where: Howard Family StageCost: $13More Info: bardonthebeach.org Photo: Il Fioraio Floral Design

Try Wine and Wildflowers

August 29

Charcuterie, chocolate, macaroni and cheese – is there nothing that wine can’t be paired with? Apparently not. The Bottles and Blooms workshop, facilitated by Vin Van and Il Fioraio Floral Design, might be your new fave fusion: flower arranging and wine tasting. Participants will get a tutored tasting of 6 southern hemisphere wines as well as a crash-course in floral design. Now’s your chance to show your mother-in-law just how freakin’ fancy you are.When: Wednesday, August 29, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.Where: Propaganda CoffeeCost: $80More Info: eventbrite.ca Photo: Hives for Humanity

Pitch in for Pollinators

August 30

Hives for Humanity is hosting a Hands-On Beekeeping Workshop worth buzzing about (yes, we went there). During this workshop, the bee-keen will have the chance to try beekeeping with the help of an expert, sample fresh honey, and learn some bee biology. Beekeeping equipment is provided, but make sure you wear close-toed shoes and light-coloured clothing – getting stung is pretty bad news for the both of you. Bee careful (yes, we went there again).When: Thursday, August 30, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.Where: Cathedral SquareCost: By donationMore Info: hivesforhumanity.com Photo: Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre

Shop the East Side

September 1

This weekend is your last chance to check out the 2018 Downtown Eastside Women’s Market. At the tail end of its third year, this market has all-women vendors and all-awesome finds. In addition to displaying a huge selection of arts and crafts, jewelry, recycled goods and secondhand treasures, this market is a conflict-free and safe space to celebrate women living in the DTES. Market-goers can enjoy live music, performances and workshops while supporting this underserved and vibrant community.When: Saturday, September 1, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.Where: Downtown Eastside Women’s CentreCost: FreeMore Info: dewc.ca Photo: Bells and Whistles

Have a Burger Feast

September 1-7

If you’re a loyal burger-eater of a particular local restaurant, now’s your chance to give your favourite joint some love. Le Burger Week is a nationwide burger contest held on the first week of September each year – participants can vote on the best handheld and earn their fave spot the ultimate burger bragging rights. It’s also a great excuse to eat a burger every day of the week. This year’s participating Vancouver restaurants include Rosemary Rocksalt, Bells and Whistles, and Fable Diner.When: Saturday, September 1 – Friday, September 7Where: various locationsCost: FreeMore Info: leburgerweek.com