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February 19, 2026: One Vancouverite’s guide to saving money

February 19, 2026: One Vancouverite’s guide to saving money

Plus: Emily Carr, ceviche, and Lunar New Year

February 19, 2026

Hey there. How are you holding up with all that snow we had yesterday—a whole dusting of the stuff?

I have given myself a challenge today: make it to 9 p.m. without finding out who wins the Olympic women’s hockey final, as I’m watching the game late with some friends. Will I manage it? Maybe if I delete all social media for the next 24 hours, there’s a chance. No spoilers.

— V.
Senior editor

— FEATURE —

Could a Vancouver progressive primary really unite the left?

OneCity has had a busy week: officially nominating William Azaroff for the party’s mayoral candidate and then putting out a statement calling for a “progressive primary” between the left-leaning municipal parties. But what would such a vote look like? Nathan Caddell dives into the practicalities.

This week’s Straight Insider perks 🎟️

We’ve got free tickets (first come, first served) to a couple of live shows at The Hollywood Theatre.

What’s up for grabs:

Not a Wicked Drag Show (Feb 19)
Dr. Ozi (Feb 21)

If you’re an Insider, jump on it—once tickets are gone, they’re gone.

The answer to homelessness is housing

Some people need more than a helping hand — they need support to survive.

In Canada, social and supportive housing provide different levels of care. While social housing and rent supplements are part of the province’s affordability strategy, supportive housing serves people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

Supportive housing combines a safe home with on‑site services. It brings people indoors, restores dignity, and helps stabilize lives through regular sleep, nutritious meals, and routine.

Housing isn’t a reward — it’s the basic building block of community.

For over 30 years, PHS Community Services Society has provided low‑barrier supportive housing for thousands of people in crisis, including 1600 units of supportive housing with round-the-clock supports in Vancouver.

With your support, we can do even more – Please donate to PHS.

— LIVING —

Cheapskate in Lotusland makes the case for frugal Vancouver living

In his new book, writer Steve Burgess examines how he’s managed to survive Vancouver on a shoestring budget for decades. “It’s more an examination of frugality as a philosophy,” he tells us. “What’s good about it? What can go wrong about it?”

The Straight’s February 2026 crossword
Ready to find your ideal workspace? For businesses of all sizes—from startups to enterprises—discover the coworking space that fits your needs. Connect with a WeWork professional today.*

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Need a hand? We’ve got your back

Everyone needs a helping hand sometimes, and when they do, Family Services of Greater Vancouver is there. As one client said, “thank you for the short learning period, which will benefit me for a lifetime.” Through counselling, education, mediation, and more, FSGV is building brighter tomorrows with local families.

— ARTS —

Comedian and UVic grad Laura Ramoso keeps up the social climbing

Laura Ramoso’s Italian father and German mother were the inspiration behind her character-driven online videos, which have helped her rack up a loyal following that translates to big real-world success. “It snowballed in that way,” reflects the Toronto-based comic ahead of her huge show at Just For Laughs Vancouver, “and it completely changed my life.”

A life danced: a tribute to the late Peter Bingham
Q&A: Vancouver Art Gallery curator Richard Hill on Emily Carr’s enduring appeal
Arts Umbrella Dance Company returns to the Vancouver Playhouse February 26–27 with Tempus Fugit: A Midseason Performance, featuring world-class repertoire and bold choreography.*
Comedy icon Jim Jefferies adds second Vancouver show to his Son of a Carpenter Tour at Queen Elizabeth Theatre on June 12. ON SALE NOW!*

*sponsored listing

— MUSIC —

On Our Radar: Floorplan is the hottest band you’ve never heard of

Look, let’s get one thing straight: Floorplan is a fictional band that you’ll discover in Elevation Pictures’ Sweetness. But it’s also an actual music project, with a debut EP set to drop on 604 Records next month and a fascinating video for its first single, “Payback”.

EarthBall’s John Brennan on his latest creative collaboration
Review: Ghost took Rogers Arena to goth church

Fast or chill. Solo or social.

Calling all bike lovers! 🚴‍♀️ The BC Bike Show, is back! Find cutting-edge gear, tech & everything to fuel your passion. Whether you're looking for new bikes, accessories, or expert advice, it’s all there.

Feb 28 & Mar 1 at Vancouver Convention Centre. Bring your crew, and let's ride!

— ICYMI —

Broadway businesses are struggling to stay afloat
A former ABC politician joins the Vancouver Liberals
William Azaroff clinches the OneCity mayoral nomination
Gigpit wants to make local concert tickets better

— THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK —

LIVING: The Vancouver Career Fair might have new opportunities in store. (February 19 @ Pan Pacific Hotel)

THEATRE: Art pushes three friends to the limit. (February 19 to March 7 @ Deep Cove Shaw Theatre, North Vancouver)

VISUAL ART: KopiJam showcases the beauty of Southeast Asian culture with art and an opening party. (February 20-28 @ VS. Creative Lab)

LIVING: The Chinese Canadian Museum hosts two days of workshops, events, and activities for Lunar New Year. (February 21-22 @ Chinese Canadian Museum)

MARKETS: Japan Market Spring heralds the arrival of plum blossoms and brighter days. (February 21-22 @ UBC Robson Square)

BOOKS: The 41st annual JCC Jewish Book Festival kicks off. (February 21-26 @ Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver)

MUSIC ARTS: Burnaby Lyric Opera presents Rossini’s classic The Barber of Seville. (February 21-28 @ Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, Burnaby)

Want to know what else is happening in Vancouver? Check out our events listings.

That’s it!

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