Welcome back to the Vancouver Group Chat, and to an exceptionally toasty week in the city. No matter the worsening air quality, we’re here to make the most of the sunshine and prove that Vancouver doesn’t have to be a “no fun” city just because the World Cup is over. There are exciting new restaurant openings to bookmark, a picnic-inspired patio to visit, and so much more.
Here’s what to send your group chats this week (July 21).
What’s new, Vancouver?
Volcano or wildfire?
You may have noticed that the city is getting a little hazy with wildfire smoke, with 105 active fires as of July 20, according to The Weather Network. However, people on Reddit have captured an interesting cluster of clouds and smoke around Mount Baker that some have puzzled over whether it’s a wildfire or a once dormant volcano erupting.
Of course, Reddit being Reddit, people are going to town in the replies.
“Maybe someone did the vinegar and baking soda science experiment, and it got a bit out of hand,” reads one comment.
“I’d like to add a third option: whipped cream,” reads another.
Vancouver’s picnic-inspired rooftop patio
If you’re of the opinion that Vancouver deserves more rooftop functions, we hear you. The summer sunsets, the city, mountain, and ocean views, and the milder temperatures of the West Coast all point to a demand for rooftop patios. And Veuve Clicquot has given the people what they want!
Le Picnic by Veuve Clicquot is back at JW Marriott Parq Vancouver for another round of bubbly and French Riviera-inspired dining. The rooftop has transformed with picnic-inspired tablescapes, blossoming plants in every corner, and champagne-forward sips in addition to the newly released Veuve Clicquot 2018 La Grande Dame. You’ll also find a curated menu of bites created by Executive Chef Colin Burslem and his culinary team.
Catch some rays and some photo-worthy views of the Vancouver skyline and False Creek waterfront, while you’re at it.
A free night of music in Yaletown
On July 28, the Yaletown BIA will host an evening of magical choir music by Chor Leoni, marking the neighbourhood’s first-ever urban outdoor performance at Helmcken Plaza.
With the Plaza newly licensed, guests will be able to enjoy the free concert with food and drinks from surrounding restaurants, starting at 8 p.m.
New restaurant openings
Vancouver’s culinary scene is getting some new stars, and we can’t wait to see how they develop. For one, the team behind ¿CóMO? Taperia is opening a new sister restaurant this winter that’s seafood-focused, following in the family tradition: ¿CóMO? Ultramar.
Set to open this fall in Yaletown, Rosalia Osteria is a new Italian eatery inspired by Sunday dinners at Nonna’s table. The concept comes from the team behind other Italian culinary giants, including Via Tevere Pizza, Dante’s Sandwiches, Don’t Argue Pizza, and Straight Brooklyn Pizza.
Your sign to do something random
It might be a scorcher, but that’s no reason not to try something new this week.
- Check out the newest exhibit (“She’s So Kikay!“) at Slice of Life Gallery and attend the opening reception on Thursday, July 23.
- Sip a cold beer at Vancouver’s free beer and music festival at Dude Chillin’ Park on Saturday, July 25.
- Enjoy an afternoon of drag, music, and free iced coffee at A Spoonful of Drag at the new Kamloops Plaza on Saturday, July 25.
- Take a free acting workshop at Studio For Actors on Sunday, July 26.
- Make your own felted garland at this workshop on Sunday, July 26.
- Peruse a series of pop-ups at the 11th and Main Block Party this Sunday, July 26.
- Learn the ins and outs of linocut printmaking and make your own landscape print at Superflux on Friday, July 24.
That’s a wrap on this week. Go make the most of it!
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