October 30 edition: The real horror story is the housing crisis

It’s the third year of Halloween fireworks being illegal in Vancouver. But that doesn’t seem to have stopped anyone, judging by the mysterious popping noises that have been ricocheting around Fairview this weekend.

These days, only permitted fireworks technicians can let off sky sparkles. And only on certain occasions. It makes sense to limit fireworks—they freak out animals, have the potential to cause physical harm and property damage, and disturb the nearest thing we have to peace. But they’re still legal in most of the surrounding municipalities, so it’s not like it’s impossible for teens to get their hands on some flash-bang-ooh-ahhs. 

Philosophically, illegal fireworks are incredible. It’s literally a signal flare to where you’re doing a crime. Vandalism, but for the sky. Anyways, happy Halloween!

FEATURE

The real horror is the housing crisis

East Vancouver Halloween display guru Laryssa Gervan focuses on what’s really scary. This year, it’s the housing crisis.

CITY & CULTURE

Commentary: Zombie trees live among us

Trees harbouring hidden damage can cause big problems. Here’s what zombie trees are—and how to deal with them.

• Helen Knott takes the hot-seat in our new literary Q&A series, Well Read

• Calling Japanese and Korean speakers! Exciting job opportunities await in Burnaby. Work in your native language while enjoying the benefits of a global company. Join us!*

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SPONSORED BY ARTS CLUB

Only 2 more sleeps until Elf: The Musical!

Join Buddy the Elf on his expedition from the North Pole to New York City, where he’s determined to win over his new family with Christmas cheer, syrupy spaghetti, and heartfelt songs. But what’s an elf to do when his dad’s on the naughty list and his half-brother doesn’t even believe in the man in red? Audiences of all ages can frolic in this romp that's part family reunion, part rom-com, and full of heart and humour.

November 2­–December 31, 2023, at the Arts Club’s Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage. Tickets start at just $39!

ARTS

Review: Assembly Hall ruminates on purpose and belonging

The world premiere of Kidd Pivot’s Assembly Hall left a lasting impression on the assembled masses.

• Two Vancouver playwrights won big at the 2023 Tom Hendry Awards

• Strength Through Art Network Diversity Festival kicks off later this week

• The 27th annual Eastside Culture Crawl Visual Arts, Design & Crafts Festival runs November 16 to 19, 2023 and features open-studios, exhibits and artist talks.*

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MUSIC

Madeline Merlo is on the verge of country greatness

Maple Ridge’s own Madeline Merlo tells us about her new single “Tim + Faith”, inspired by two country greats.

• To get you in the mood, here are five spooky Halloween albums better than Thriller

• Review: Kim Petras brought sexy, spooky fun to the PNE Forum

• There’s a new (well, previously unreleased) Beatles song coming out this week

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

FOOD & DRINK

Eight chefs serve at eighth annual Joy of Feeding

The Chefs’ Table Society of BC is hosting its eighth annual Joy of Feeding event this week, so you can eat great food while raising money for a good cause.

• Delta’s Barnside Brewing has been named BC’s best brewing experience

THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK

Groovy Boo-gie Bash and Trick-or-Treating at Capilano Mall | October 31 | 3:30pm

Bring your little ones to Capilano Mall for an afternoon of disco trick-or-treating. [Free]

Trick or Treat at Willowbrook Shopping Centre | October 31 | 4pm 

The first 1,000 kids in costume will receive a free loot bag at this mall trick-or-treat. [Free]

Spooky Skele-Bration at South Arm Community Centre | October 31 | 6pm

Halloween-themed crafts, games, and entertainment abound at this kid-focused event, which also wins the award for best spooky pun. [Free]

Tempers at Rickshaw Theatre | October 31 | 7:30pm 

Synthpop duo Tempers play a special scary show, with support from locals Devours and Wire Spine. [$27.50]

Opening Reception for Healing Journey: Art of Patricia June Vickers at Dal Schindell Gallery | November 1 | 4pm 

Tsm’syen artist Patricia June Vickers opens a solo exhibition at Dal Schindell Gallery in UBC’s Regent College. [Free]

Kalush Orchestra at Biltmore Cabaret | November 1 | 7pm 

Winners of Eurovision 2022, Ukrainian folk hip-hop group Kalush Orchestra kick off their North American tour in Vancouver. [$65+]

Metro Vancouver Croissant Crawl at various locations | November 1 to 14 | Various times

Check out the two-dozen exclusive croissants on offer at bakeries across the Lower Mainland. [$Croissant]

Don Broco and the Home Team at Rickshaw Theatre | November 1 | 7pm 

Our British associate editor used to do tech and sell merch for alt rockers Don Broco as a teen in 2010, so this is a throwback. [$32.50]

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

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