December 5 edition: the holliest jolliest bars and restaurants in town

Good morning, Vancouver!

It’s winter. You know what that means? Atmospheric river time.

Stay safe, stay dry, and do your best to keep going strong even as the long nights and lack of sunshine absolutely wrecks your mood. Have a hot drink and check out what the city has in store.

FEATURE

L’Rain on the transformative power of repetition

You might think an album titled I Killed Your Dog is capital-s Serious. But L’Rain shares the humour and joy in her experimental, enchanting third record.

Catch her surreal soundscapes live at The Pearl this Thursday!

CITY & CULTURE

Commentary: Decrim training for BC police highlights big gaps in our drug policy

Long-time outreach workers Tyson Singh Kelsall and Liam Michaud explain how BC’s decriminalization has been set up to fail.

• Vancouver firefighters launch their 2024 fundraiser calendar with an in-person signing

• And Vancouver is home to Canada’s first electric fire engine

• The lobby at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver has transformed into the Festival of Trees in support of BC Children's Hospital and presented by Scotiabank. Join in the festive fun by donating to vote for your favourite tree. Learn more.*

  *sponsored listing

ARTS

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra is putting on a free concert

Take in the majesty of the VSO for free at the Orpheum this January.

• Goh Ballet continues its Nutcracker holiday tradition 

• THIS Gallery celebrates new space with open house and art market

• Ballet BC presents Nutcracker December 7-10 at the Centre in Vancouver. Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet returns with their magical, uniquely Canadian version of the timeless classic. Tickets selling fast!*

• Fans of Python and Bean… Rejoice! 3x London Impresario Winners James & Jamesy present their wildly popular O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy on stages this holiday season.*

*sponsored listing

MUSIC

Coast City Country festival announces inaugural lineup

Yee-haw: there’s a new country festival coming to town in April, headlined by megastar Luke Bryan.

• Black Flag announces intimate show for Fortune Sound Club’s 15th anniversary

• Come on out for an evening of wonder and excitement on Friday December 8 for the Saint James Music Academy's annual Christmas Concert!*

• Get into the Christmas spirit, as the Vancouver Welsh Men's Choir present “A Ringing, Swinging Christmas”. Saturday, December 9th 2:30pm Christ Church Cathedral.*

*sponsored listing

SPONSORED BY KETTLE SOCIETY

Help provide housing, food and community for vulnerable people in Vancouver

Living on the streets is an isolating experience – and finding community can play a big role in helping someone get back on their feet. That is why for nearly 50 years The Kettle has worked hard to give people experiencing homelessness in Vancouver a sense of community as well as provide them with housing, support and employment opportunities. However, the need in Vancouver is now higher than ever. As an individual, it can be hard to know how to help – but you can make a difference. 

For as little as $5 a month, you can help a person experiencing homelessness, mental illness or substance use challenges in Vancouver find community.

FOOD & DRINK

Vancouver’s most festive bars and restaurants

Our round-up of the best superfestive spots in the city.

• The Storm Crow team introduce Arcana Spirit Lounge

• Recipe: Mulled white wine

SPONSORED BY DAVE NICHOLSON

Independent Investment Advice - The way to your future

Free weekly email newsletter full of investment suggestions along with estate and retirement planning ideas published by Dave Nicholson. Regulated by CIRO and a member of CIPF.

"Solid work Dave! For anyone who doesn't know Dave is a honest guy. If you're anything like me you care about that" - Ben Sarma

THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK

Food is My Teacher screening and panel at Food Stash Foundation | December 5 | 6:30pm 

Food Stash Foundation and Vancouver Food Runners host this documentary about the healing power of food. [$22.63]

AMPS II at Centennial Theatre | December 5 | 7pm 

The second Aspiring Musicians Performance Series at Centennial Theatre features alt-pop duo Velavox and jazz-rock singer Michelle Creber. [$20] 

VSA Student Christmas Art Show at VSA Studio | December 6 to 23 | 1pm-4pm 

A showcase of artwork from the youth art foundation’s young students, available to peruse or purchase. [$20]

Tales for Late Night Bonfires book launch at Massy Arts Society | December 6 | 6pm 

Author G.A. Grisenthwaite and host Molly Cross-Blanchard celebrate the new book.  [Free]

Writer in residence finale at Vancouver Public Library Central Branch | December 6 | 6:30pm 

Say farewell to 2023’s writer in residence Aren X. Tulchinsky with literature and drag. [Free] 

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

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