With Reading Break around the corner, it means not only a well-deserved break, but also plenty of time to explore what Vancouver has to offer. Here are some local events and activities to check out to make the most of your time off.
1. Ice Skating at Robson Square
Celebrate the winter in style with the Vancouver tradition of skating in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Skating is free with your own skates otherwise skate rentals are $5 per pair.
- When: Now until Feb 28
- Cost: Free
- Where: The Robson Square (beside entrance to downtown campus)
2. Vancouver Art Gallery
Peruse through some of the Vancouver Art Gallery’s current exhibitions such as The Metamorphosis as well as soon-to-be added additions as of February 16, French Moderns: Monet to Matisse and Affinities: Canadian Artists and France.
- When: Now
- Cost: By donation on Tuesdays from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m
- Where: Vancouver Art Gallery
3. Museum of Anthropology
With a Canadian renown museum at your doorstep, it’s never not a good time to check out past and current exhibitions alike. Currently, the Marking the Infinite exhibition is on until March 31 displaying the contemporary Aboriginal art scene redrawn by Aboriginal Australian women.
- When: Now
- Cost: Free
- Where: Museum of Anthropology
4. JFL NorthWest Vancouver’s Just for Laugh Festival
JFL NorthWest has 10 hilarious days of stand-up, podcast and improv sketches from comedians including Howie Mandel, Ken Jeong and local star, Seth Rogen. There will also be a free 3 day block party in the heart of downtown for all comedy fans to enjoy.
- When: Feb 14 – Feb 23
- Cost: varying prices
- Where: varying locations in Downtown Vancouver
5. Whistler Day Trip
The Residence Hall Association (RHA) Whistler Shuttle is back by popular demand to provide students with an affordable option to head up to the beautiful mountains. For $20, you get a round trip ride to and from campus to the Whistler Village where you can choose from a range of activities including skiing, tubing, or relaxing at the Scandinave Spa which is only a short ride away.
- When: Feb 19 & Feb 23 | 6:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Cost: $20
- Where: UBC Campus and Whistler Village
6. Talking Stick Festival 2019
Participate in North America’s premier multi-disciplinary Indigenous arts festival as they showcase and celebrate the diversity of visual arts, dance, theatre and more in traditional and contemporary formats.
- When: Feb 19 – Mar 2
- Cost: varying prices
- Where: various locations in Downtown Vancouver
7. Vancouver TheatreSports League: Vancouver Improv Comedy
This internationally renowned improv company based at the Improv Centre on Granville Island has a lineup of shows during the break that are sure to get you crying tears of laughter.
8. Vancouver Canucks Game
If you are looking for the true Canadian experience, it doesn’t get more authentic than this. The Canucks will be playing at home against the Arizona Coyotes on Feb 21 and then the New York Islanders on Feb 23.
- When: Feb 21 & Feb 23 | 7:00 p.m.
- Cost: varying prices
- Where: Rogers Arena
9. Ocean Wise Chowder Chowdown
In support of the Oceanwise sustainable seafood program, top chefs contend in a competition complete with original chowders and local craft beer for the title of Ocean Wise Chowder Chowdown Champion.
- When: Feb 21 | 7:00 p.m.
- Cost: $75
- Where: Vancouver Aquarium
10. Snowshoe Grind Mountain Run
This event is great for snowshoers of all abilities to support the charity jack.org while enjoying the famous Snowshoe Grind trail. The race will include Skyride admission and a live DJ music. Snowshoes are required and can be rented for $10.
- When: Feb 24 | 8:00 a.m.
- Cost: varying prices
- Where: Grouse Mountain
There’s more to check out at UBC in February. To stay up-to-date with all the campus events, follow @UBCevents.