Thank my mother-in-law for this beach-worthy weather we’re having. She’s visiting this week from just-defrosted muddy Maine, US. Having regularly traveled to Vancouver over the last decade or so, she has never seen a drop of rain fall from our skies. Honestly.
She leaves on Friday, thus our usual weather will commence afterwards. So here are some ideas for what to do this May Long Weekend, with an umbrella in hand.
Fun Activities to Try This May Long Weekend
1. Cook up some local crustaceans
If you missed the Spot Prawn Festival last weekend, make up for it this weekend and head down to the False Creek Fisherman’s Wharf by Granville Island. You can pick up your own pandalus platyceros fresh off the boat here for about $17/pound. The spot prawn is known for its sweet, delicate flavour and firm texture, plus it’s considered an Ocean Wise option. Act quick as the season for these peachy beauties will end next month.
2. Stop and smell the roses
Take a leisurely stroll through the VanDusen Botanical Garden‘s 22 hectares of elegant landscapes. With plant species representing ecosystems ranging from the Himalayas to the Mediterranean, from Louisiana swamps to the Pacific Northwest, you can’t help but be inspired for your own little garden. The rhododendrons are in full bloom right now, and you may not have seen the new Visitor Centre yet – with its orchid-like design, it is one of the city’s most iconic buildings, and a true model of sustainability. VanDusen also houses a significant sculpture collection, featuring artists such as Bill Reid and David Marshall. And, if you go this Saturday, be sure to check out the All British Classic Car Show on the Great Lawn from 10am-4pm. This event includes a brass band, food & gift vendors, and over 400 gleaming classic cars to peruse.
3. SeaBus it over to the North Shore
Located at the newly developed Shipyards Plaza, the North Vancouver Night Market is now open Fridays from 5pm to 10pm and runs until the end of September. Expect over 15 food trucks, live music, a beer & wine garden, and more than 100 vendors eager to sell their wares. This market focusses on local products, showcasing BC’s artisans, bakers, and farmers. Products include jewellery, clothing, kids stuff, baked goods, fresh produce, preserves, soaps, organic meats, honey, plants, chocolates, and handcrafted trinkets. And don’t forget to enjoy the view of Downtown Vancouver from here!
Last modified: May 15, 2014
