December 28 edition: Our absolute favourites from 2023

Hi there! Is it just me or does every new year sound more and more futuristic? Like, what even is 2024?

Anyway, we’re closing out 2023 with another reader survey, because your feedback is really important to us. It only takes a few minutes, and you’ll automatically be entered to win $150 from Bar Susu as well as two tickets to an upcoming Tightrope Theatre show.

Fill out the survey here. Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts with us.

—Sara
Editor-in-chief

FEATURE

2023 in review

It wasn’t all bad! From timeless TV to awe-inspiring albums, we count down some of our straight-up favourites that have brought joy to our lives this year.

CITY & CULTURE

Outdoor ice skating rinks to check out this season

Looking for an affordable, wholesome winter activity? Metro Vancouver has some great outdoor skating rinks that offer unbridled fun—no matter how old you are.

• FYI: Free transit is back in Metro Vancouver for NYE.

• Ring in the new year with reliable internet without hidden fees. Affordable plans from $40 at oxio. Use code GEORGIASTRAIGHT for your first month free.*

• Here’s where to catch NYE fireworks around Metro Vancouver.

*sponsored listing

ARTS

Choreographer Rakesh Sukesh takes a multi-layered look at racism

In “i love the diversity”, Rakesh Sukesh combines dance, speech, text, and music to ask tough questions about identity and bias.

• In case you’re not quite over Christmas yet: the best Hallmark holiday movies filmed in BC.

• PuSh International Performing Arts Festival returns to Vancouver from January 18 to February 4, 2024 with 17 new radical, innovative, contemporary works of live art by acclaimed local, national, and international artists.*

*sponsored listing

MUSIC

Why is mainstream music suddenly so sad?

Gen Z loves sad music—really, deeply loves it. Our resident 20-something representative Angela Vannatter explores why.

• You Nearly Missed: electronic duo Thievery Corporation at Harbour Event Centre.

• Ring in NYE at The Pearl with club legends Carlos Souffront, PLO Man + more! With video installations and 2 rooms at max volume, don't miss out!*

*sponsored listing

SPONSORED BY SAINT JAMES MUSIC ACADEMY

Happy New Year from the Saint James Music Academy!

The Saint James Music Academy is a free after school music program for children in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. We make music lessons accessible to families who otherwise wouldn't have access to it. Please consider making a year end gift and giving a student music education in 2024. Happy New Year!

FOOD & DRINK

BC beer and wine for your New Year’s Eve celebration

Why not ring in 2024 by sipping (and supporting) local? Here are some ideas.

• Recipe: Dahlia’s excellent seared tuna nicoise.

• Check out our picks for the 2024 Vancouver Wine Fest.

THINGS TO DO THIS WEEKEND

Cool Fun Holiday Break Show @ ANZA Club | Dec 30 | 8:30pm

Cool Fun’s Pro Stand-up Comedy Showcase features headliner Damonde Tschritter. [$15] 

Alaska @ Vogue Theatre | Dec 29 | 7pm

The American drag queen and recording artist brings wintery, campy magic to our fair city. [$35+]

FLØVER / Weak Knees / Isobel / Twinn @ The Pearl | Dec 30 | 8pm

A night of independent rock and pop to send off 2023 in style. [$20]

2023 & Me @ The Improv Centre | To Dec 30 | 7:30pm

Share what made this year unique, fantastic, or a total bust and watch The Improv Centre recreate your experiences. [$28+]

Gigantic! The 90s NYE Party @ Heritage Hall | Dec 31 | 8pm

Dance to the best hits of the ‘90s with themed drinks, DJs, and snacks. [$40+]

Keep Fit, Have Fun: NYE Celebration & Drag Party @ The American | Dec 31 | 8pm

The evening will feature drag performances from some fabulous local talent, hosted by Vancouver’s own Dislexia. [$15]

New Year’s Eve Skate Party @ Rolla Skate Club | Dec 31 | 9pm

Expect great music, a lively atmosphere, and a chance to show off your skating skills.

Want to know what else is happening in Vancouver? Check out our Events Listings.

That’s it!

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