I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Chopping Spree are one of the most exciting bands coming out of Vancouver right now. Every time I see them I can’t help but head bang along to their epic riffs. Pro tip: stretch before and after shows - or maybe I’m just getting old?

Join the horn-fuelled, genre-hopping spectacle as Chop Fest takes over the Hollywood Theatre on 9/3 with guests Lost Duendes, Deaf Dogs and Tiger Really. Psst - you could win your way in!*

JUST ANNOUNCED

• East Van becomes one giant gallery as the 30th Eastside Culture Crawl returns from 11/9-22, with 500+ artists opening their studios. Previews start 11/5!

• Vancouver isn’t the only place that getting a Fringe injection, Victoria Fringe Festival is back from 8/26-9/6 celebrating 40 years of fearless with over 150+ opportunities to join in. Enter to win the Fringe Fest prize pack!*

• Nothing says peak summer like cheering on the Vancouver Whitecaps! Catch them take on Juárez tonight, or see a match later this season.

• All aboard! Port Day takes over the Vancouver Convention Centre on 8/29 for a day of live music, marine demos, vessel simulators and interactive exhibits and more. Oh yeah, it’s free!*

• Join the first edition of the Vancouver Japanese Film Festival at VIFF from 9/11-13 with historical jidaigeki and samurai films, dramas, action and more!

LABOUR DAY WEEKEND

I’ve been avoiding Labour Day weekend because it means back-to-school season is coming… and I’m firmly in denial. But at least we can summer out with a bang with a Summer Night Concert at the PNE, Bard on the Beach, Commercial Drive Car Free Day, JFL Vancouver Is Funny or even a triathlon. Here’s a few ways to make some memories:

• BARD ON THE BEACH - Until 9/19 @ Bard on the Beach

• SLAYYYTER - 9/3 @ Commodore Ballroom

• WEIRD AL YANKOVIC - 9/3 @ Freedom Mobile Amphitheatre

• VANCOUVER IS FUNNY - 9/4-26 @ Various Locations

• EARTH, WIND & FIRE - 9/4 @ Freedom Mobile Amphitheatre

• CAR FREE DAY - 9/5 Commercial Drive (FREE)

• TAME IMPALA - 9/5 @ Rogers Arena

THIS WEEKEND

THE LOCAL LIST

Vancouverites are always escaping to the mountains and beaches for a little peace and quiet but the city’s gardens deserve their main-character moment, too. Beryl Matthew, Vice President of Hycroft Manor, has called Vancouver home since the ’70s - and she knows its gardens inside and out. From hidden oases to seriously dreamy views, these five spots are your excuse to slow down, wander around, and literally stop and smell the roses.

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