Not so hot take: Vancouver beaches are gross. I love this city, but having to constantly check the level of “particulates” in the water is an insane reality we all accept. That’s one reason I’m excited to escape to the island for the weekend. Fresh water, sandy beaches, and a little forest bathing.

Wish me luck while I brave the ferries and in the meantime let’s plan a little escape for you too!

Did you know you could double your chances of winning Bass Coast tickets by entering to win on our sister site Do250.com? You might just want to enter contests for Phillips Backyard Music Festival, Funk ‘N Soul in the Township or something else that peaks your interest while you’re there. The island is calling.*

JUST ANNOUNCED

• Melbourne's indie-folk unit The Paper Kites bring their lush harmonies and ciematic songs to The Centre in Vancouver on 5/20 with special guest Donovan Woods. You've got a chance to win a pair tickets - enter now!*

• Is anyone else still thinking about Bilal’s gorgeous D’Angelo cover at the Grammy’s? I am! Experience him live this September at The Pearl with Yaya Bey.

• $10 Shoe & Clothing Warehouse Sale? This one might actually be worth the lineups. Head to the Vancouver Convention from 5/20-25 for mega sales.

• Huge congrats to JIMI who signed with Headerwater Music Group/ADA Canada and has her single Leather Jacket as the new featured song for the Toronto Blue Jays! You can see her tonight at The Fox Cabaret!

• Did you miss any of the just announced concerts this week? Here’s just a few: Cherry Pick, Post Sex Nachos, Blue October, José González and many more!

PRIDE IN VANCOUVER

We’re gearing up for pride, HBU?! There are so many ways to celebrate and support from festivals, parades, art galleries, parties, live music and much more. Vancouver Pride Society hasn’t even released their lineup yet so check back regularly, we’ll be adding events weekly! Here’s a little taste:

• EAST SIDE PRIDE - 6/27-28 @ Grandview Park

• VANCOUVER PRIDE FESTIVAL - 7/25-8/2 @ Various Locations

• VANCOUVER PRIDE RUN & WALK - 7/26 @ Ceperley Park Playground

• CUM TOGETHER PRESENTS: ROI PEREZ - 8/1 @ Villages Studios

• PRIDE DRAG BRUNCH - 8/1 @ The Lamplighter

• PUBLIC DISCO PRIDE BLOCK PARTY - 8/1 @ 4th & Ontario St

THIS WEEK

THE LOCAL LIST

This week Brass Camel's front man Daniel Sveinson shares all his favourite musician friendly place to eat around the city. Beyond his prog-rock adventures Daniel is also a vinyl collector, wine connoisseur, and a lover of everything Italian - so we're leaning in close for these food recs.

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