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5 Things to Do in Vancouver This Week (July 15-21)

Behind-the-Scenes Musical Theatre, Creative Coffee Meet-Up, Shakespeare with Fireworks and More.

By Kerri Donaldson /

Here’s your weekly roundup of the top events in the city, including art exhibitions, local theatre, restaurant openings, concerts, film, markets and other to-dos we think you’ll love. If you have a Vancouver event you’d like to submit for consideration, add it to our ongoing Vancouver events calendar here!

(Pictured) Julia. Photo credit: Mike Southworth via Music on Main

1. Go Behind the Scenes at the Vancouver Playhouse for a Unique Musical Theatre Experience

July 17-21

Experience The Tempest Project at the Playhouse—where the action unfolds backstage. Get your literal backstage pass—lobbies, halls and backstage area, specifically—to this world premiere, featuring Shakespeare-inspired vignettes beyond the usual seats.

When: July 21
Where: The Vancouver Playhouse
Cost: From $30
More info: musiconmain.ca

 

2. Kickstart Your Day with Fellow Creatives at Likemind Vancouver’s Morning Coffee Meet-Up

July 19

For early risers who dislike networking but crave creative company—join this 8 a.m. coffee meet-up. No tickets, speakers or agenda, just good ol’ fashioned coffee and convo. It’s like Friends at Central Perk, but everyone’s a Phoebe.

When: July 19
Where: Aperture Coffee Bar on Main
Cost: Free
More info: facebook.com

3. Enjoy a Picnic and Fireworks at Bard on the Beach

July 20

Enjoy Shakespeare the way he intended: with a donut, on the beach and fireworks. Whether or not that’s true (it could be!) experience Twelfth Night or The Comedy of Errors at Bard on the Beach‘s special fireworks night. Get prime seats for the Celebration of Light, and indulge in a dessert buffet with a cookie sandwich bar and DIY donut station. New this year: bring your own picnic, preorder a catered picnic (from $35), or snack the night away—your choice!

When: July 20
Where: Vancouver’s Sen̓ákw/Vanier Park
Cost: From $30
More info: bardonthebeach.org

4. Catch Māmā Mihirangi & the Māreikura and Others at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival

July 19

This Friday, it’s TGIF (Thank God It’s Folk) at Jericho Beach with Māmā Mihirangi, an Indigenous artist and traditional Māori Priestess, and the Māreikura, who are bringing good vibes and fierce femininity to the Main Stage with their traditional Māori chants and modern beats to close out the first night of the Vancouver Folk Music Festival (happening July 19-21). Happy Folk Festin’ to all those who celebrate!

When: July 19
Where: Jericho Beach Park
Cost: From $60
More info: thefestival.bc.ca

5. Explore Arthur Erickson’s Life and Designs Before the Exhibition Ends on July 20

July 15-20

Sure, this event is technically in West Van, but it’s ending soon (July 20). Don’t miss your last chance to explore Refuge: Arthur Erickson at the West Vancouver Art Museum. Experience the renowned architect’s life with photos of his Point Grey home, a mix of “architectural horror” and “botanical haven.” Note: The museum closes at 3 p.m. on July 13 for a private event so maybe don’t go that day.

When: July 15-20
Where: West Vancouver Art Museum
Cost: By donation
More info: westvancouverartmuseum.ca/exhibitions/refuge-arthur-erickson