10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (Jan. 12-16)

The second week of the year has arrived, and so has yet more rain. But don’t let that discourage you from getting out and about! Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (Jan. 12-16).

Timbre Concerts presents the City of the Sun North American Tour, which is bringing the band and guest artist Portair to Vancouver’s Fox Cabaret this week.

When: Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: 2321 Main St.
Cost: $25

True Story is The Improv Centre’s newest show, taking place on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. from Jan. 7 to 21, 2026. The show urges audience members to share their true stories without any reservations about oversharing. In the show’s second half, the performers will share their own stories in an Armando-style comedic format.

When: Wednesdays from Jan. 7 to 21, 2026
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Where: 1502 Duranleau St. 
Cost: $15 to $25 per person

East Van Brewing is hosting another Paint and Sip night this week, complete with all the materials you’ll need to create your own masterpiece. Plus, drinks and snacks will be available for purchase at the brewery.

When: Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026
Time: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: 2321 Main St.
Cost: $21.03 for two

Destination Downtown Vancouver brightens up the city centre this winter with festive contests that highlight the best of Vancouver! Find the sparkling lit animals around Canada Place, use your smartphone to scan a code to collect a digital stamp, and enter for your chance to win awesome Vancouver-themed Grand and Weekly prizes. The more stamps you collect, the better your chances of winning.

When: Now until Feb. 28, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Locations around Canada Place
Cost: Free

This week, the Warriors are up against the San Diego Seals at Rogers Arena, with tickets starting at $32 a pop.

When: Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: 800 Griffiths Way 
Cost: $32

Head to UBC to cheer on the Thunderbirds as they face off against the MacEwan Griffins this Friday, Jan. 16, 2026.

When: Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
Time: 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: 6081 University Blvd.
Cost: $18 per adult

It’s not too late to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge while it’s still decorated for Canyon Lights. The holidays might be over, but there’s no law that says you can’t still enjoy the millions of glowing lights.

When: Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, to Jan. 18, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 3735 Capilano Rd., North Vancouver
Cost: $78 per adult

Artemis Space Adventure is an immersive exhibition at Science World exploring space through fun, interactive LEGO® challenges hosted by Vancouver’s Community for Adult Fans of LEGO®. Build your own LEGO creations with guided prompts and code a micro:bit robot to navigate space.

When: Until April 6, 2026
Time: 6 p.m.
Where: 1455 Quebec St. 
Cost: $39.95

Metro Vancouver’s largest free outdoor winter lights display is in Coquitlam, and it features a 1.6 km lit pathway lined with adorable holiday displays. Running until Feb. 16, 2026, you’ve got plenty of time to check it out.

The City of Coquitlam recommends visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours, between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., for the best viewing experience.

When: Open daily until Friday, Feb. 16, 2026
Time: 4 to 11 p.m.
Where: 1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
Cost: Free

Harry Potter fans of all ages can visit the “Forbidden Forest” at Stanley Park, even on New Year’s Day. Visitors follow an illuminated path filled with magical creatures like unicorns and hippogriffs to a themed village, where they’ll find nostalgic bites and sips, souvenirs, and bespoke Harry Potter merch.

When: Until Feb. 1, 2026
Time: Slots available between 5:30 and 10:15 p.m.
Where: 690 Pipeline Rd. 
Cost: $43+

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