By Angela Espinoza, Arts Editor
It’s summertime! Time to head out and take a load off, soak up some sun, maybe even tackle some good reads. That is, if you weren’t stuck on campus for the next few months, right? Well, disregarding the lousy on-campus air conditioning, don’t sweat it! I’m here to give you some ideas on how you can still have an eventful summer—school or no school—right in Vancouver, starting with May.
DOXA: Documentary Film Festival
(May 4–13) (website: www.doxafestival.ca)
DOXA returns once again to demonstrate some of the most in-depth, heart wrenching, and awe inspiring works of film around. This year’s festival features a wide variety of films, ranging from documentaries on sports, crime, sex, and, last but not least, the environment. Screenings will be taking place at various theatres around Vancouver, and tickets can be purchased online or in person. Be sure to check out a film or two; if you’re lucky, you may even catch a Q&A session with a director!
Artists in Our Midst
(May 16, 19–21) (website: www.artistsinourmidst.com)
Going 20 years strong, Artists in Our Midst is an annual event that honours some of the most unique talents in BC. More than 50 artists will be represented in this year’s showcase, displaying works ranging from paintings to photography to even original jewelry. The main event will be held on May 16, but opportunities to speak with any of the artists themselves will be open from May 19 to 21. What better chance to get a first hand understanding of art in some of its ultimate forms?
Vancouver Craft Beer Week
(May 18–26) (website: www.vancouvercraftbeerweek.com)
Not the artsy fartsy type? Well then why not slam a few back at the third annual Vancouver Craft Beer Week? For 9 days straight, the VCBW plans on delivering only the finest in original brews and rock music, boasting “60+ breweries” and “60+ venues.” Each day, travel on down to a number of different bars and venues and take on one of the most epic drinking marathons of your life. Tickets can be purchased via the VCBW’s website (see link above), and remember: drinking and driving never mix.
European Festival
(May 26) (website: www.eurofestbcsociety.com)
Okay, so what if Swangard Stadium is technically in Burnaby? That shouldn’t stop you from heading out to the 15th annual European Festival, put on each year by the non-profit EuroFest BC Society. Each year, the European Festival runs all-day on the last Saturday of May. This year’s festival features a number of dancing and musical routines, as well as, of course, cultural food fairs and markets to satisfy all our shopping needs. For those looking for a bit more of an educational experience, the festival also offers Educational Cultural Tents for attendees to explore. Whatever your tastes, the European Festival is sure to have something for everyone!
