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July 1 2025: Don’t wanna be a Canadian idiot

July 1 2025: Don’t wanna be a Canadian idiot

Plus: What famous face did we spot at the Pixies concert?

July 01, 2025

Hey there. Today is Canada Day, in case that fact somehow eluded you. What better day to celebrate our nation’s newfound patriotism than waving a little flag and watching Mark Carney cave to U.S. pressure to ditch the digital services tax? Elbows up, unless it hurts the fascists’ feelings!

Every year, there’s a free concert at Canada Place to mark the occasion. This year, you can look forward to seeing Blue Rivera, Ramen Fog, Hotel Mira, and headliners Dear Rouge rocking out downtown. Bring your kids, your parents, and your ear protectors.

— V.
Associate editor

— FEATURE —

Where to dine on Canada Day

You know what the best thing about stat holidays is? Themed menus! Eateries around the city have decided to embrace the maple for the special day. Check out what restaurants are offering specials for one day only, and ponder how much poutine you can put away before the clock strikes midnight.

— LIVING —

Sex//Work: Queer women hire sex workers, too

In this month’s Sex//Work, Lexci Lust talks about what it’s like when women hire her. “Women clients bring something unique to the table,” she writes. “They aren’t typically driven by an urgent physical ‘need’, but rather a deeper desire for genuine emotional connection.”

Canucks stuff: Braden Cootes is a pretty safe pick. Is that a good thing?
AetherHaus launches a new thermal journey downtown

See how the workplace is changing

Whether you're an established enterprise or a scaling startup, find a coworking space that's right for you. Flexible workspaces can unlock value for both employees and your bottom line—regardless of your company size. Wework is designed to enhance the employee experience and help people do their best work. Connect with a WeWork expert today.

— MUSIC —

Review: The Pixies and Kurt Vile share fans at a crowded Orpheum

Strange as it was to see Kurt Vile opening a show, stranger still was the extra-tall fellow Nathan Caddell spotted at the merch stand.

What are the Straight staff listening to this month?

— FOOD & DRINK —

The Jungle Room unveils new bar and culinary program

A West End favourite has revamped its offerings into something cheeky, boozy, and delicious.

Brass Fish and Barbet team up for a dry happy hour
Chef’s Picks: AnnaLena owner and executive chef Mike Robbins
Mateina’s low to no-sugar Yerba Mate beverages offer steady energy without the unwanted crash or jitters. Get 15% off Mateina's Energy Brews while supplies last.*

*sponsored listing

— ICYMI —

What’s next for Kits Pool?
Why did the Canucks want Evander Kane?
A new wine bar has Grape Vibes
Ugly Potato Day eyes up a world record
Boots & BBQ Fest promises meat and music

— THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK —

THEATRE: Theatre Under the Stars has a double dose of family-friendly musicals to choose from. (To August 16 @ Malkin Bowl)

LIVING: Granville Island has a whole slate of events planned for Canada Day. (July 1 @ Granville Island)

COMEDY: The Canada ‘Eh Show riffs on the quirks of the country. (July 1 @ The Improv Centre)

LIVING: Stevenston’s 78th annual Salmon Festival is a big party with small-town charm. (July 1 @ Steveston Community Centre, Richmond)

MUSIC: Neo-folk anti-hero Amigo the Devil saunters into town. (July 2 @ Rickshaw Theatre)

FOOD & DRINK: Point Grey Village BIA puts on a free wine tasting on Wednesday afternoons. (July 2-16 @ 10th Avenue and Sasamat Street)

MUSIC: CBC’s free Musical Nooners return for the first time since 2019. (July 2 to August 20 @ CBC Vancouver Plaza)

—

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

That’s it!

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