By Angela Espinoza, Arts Editor
For some, summer is halfway through. For others, the season is just beginning. While the July weather might not be ideal (let’s be honest, it’s down right crummy), Vancouver’s still the place to be when it comes to summer events. Take the time to enjoy our vibrant and exciting city by checking out any one of these fantastic festivals.
Fresh Air Cinema (July 3–August 28) (http://www.freshaircinema.ca/chevron/movies.html)
Moviegoers and cinemaphiles, it is time once again for Fresh Air Cinema’s free outdoor summer movie events! These screenings happen once a week throughout the summer in Stanley Park. This year’s schedule includes cult classics such as Zoolander (2001) and Labyrinth (1986), so expect to sing-a-long at some point—especially at the Grease (1978) screening on July 31!
Vancouver Folk Music Festival (July 13–15) (http://thefestival.bc.ca/)
The 35th annual Vancouver Folk Music Festival is happening once again at Jericho Beach Park. Three days of sun, sand, and some fantastic music—this year’s festival features an epic lineup. This year’s artist’s include Hey Rosetta!, Good for Grapes, Dan Mangan, and K’NAAN—to name only a few. Tickets can be purchased online through the festival’s website or in person at a number of locations throughout BC. (check the website for locations).
Khatsahlano! Music and Art Festival (July 21) (http://shopwest4th.com/khatsahlano.aspx)
Folk music not in your budget? Well have no fear! Khatsahlano! returns this year with an immense six-stage lineup of artists stretching in and around Burrard Street. Free to the public, this huge and expectedly fun event features musicians such as The Zolas, Ladyhawk, Oh No! Yoko, and Siskiyou, with even more soon to be announced. This is without a doubt going to be one of the best (free) music events of the summer; you won’t want to miss out on this one!
Caribbean Days Festival (July 28–29) (http://www.caribbeandays.ca)
Yearning for an exotic break from the big city, but can’t afford a cruise? Well the 25th Caribbean Days Festival taking place in North Vancouver’s Waterfront Park should put a smile on your face. For one whole weekend, free to the public, you can flaunt the streets in Hawaiian shirts and bright colours as you please. This event celebrates the exuberant culture of the Caribbean lifestyle with music, dance, food, and activities for everyone!
Honda Celebration of Light (July 28/August 1/August 4) (http://hondacelebrationoflight.com)
Last but not least, we have the ever-popular Celebration of Light. Every summer at sunset on various beaches throughout Vancouver, bright and beautiful fireworks light up the sky for our viewing pleasure. This year’s firework shows are themed on Vietnam, Brazil, and Italy, each of which should be a fantastic show. Be sure to bring your cameras (or smartphones), the Celebration of Light is often one of the most fun events of the summer—just be sure to have a safe way to get home after (the crowds are crazy!).
