MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Here’s What’s Happening In Your
West End - Coal Harbour Community In …

October, 2025

(Click any image to enlarge)

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following are highlights from the many programs available at the West End and Coal Harbour community hubs. Check the websites listed at the end of this calendar for complete listings of events and activities.

WHEN MEMBERSHIPS AND/OR RSVPS ARE REQUIRED

Some events require a membership in the presenting organization
and/or an RSVP. Here’s how to find out more …

• West End Seniors Network (WESN) membership information can be found here. Members can RSVP to 604.669.5051 or info@wesn.ca.

• Gordon Neighbourhood House (GNH) membership information can be found here and program and other information here.

• West End and Coal Harbour Community Centre (WECCA) programming and event information can be found here.

AND NOW, THIS MONTH’S CALENDAR …

Community Calendar / Arts & Entertainment / Families, Kids, & Teens / Senior Moments / LGBT+ / Venue Directory

Community Calendar

CELEBRATION STATION AT BENTALL CENTRE
Go By Bike Week Event

GO BY BIKE WEEK CELEBRATION STATIONs

When: Thurs., October 2, from 12 to 2 p.m.
Where: Bentall Centre.
Cost: Free.
Details: Ride on over to the Celebration Station, part of Go By Bike Week, at the Bentall Centre. Cyclists can get a free bike check, cycling resources, including bike lights, City of Vancouver and Translink maps, along with snacks and prizes. Go By Bike Week promotes bike-friendly fun for all ages and abilities, to learn more visit Hub Cycling here. 

MYSTIC MARKET
Roedde House Museum

When: Thurs., Oct. 2, 5 to 10 p.m. and Fri. Oct. 3, 4 to 10 p.m.
Where: Roedde House Museum.
Cost: $5, tickets available at the door.
Details: Don’t miss the Mystic Market at Roedde House featuring a plethora of spooky crafts & curios from local artists and vendors. Shop artisanal teas, soaps, gothic artisan crafts, jewelry, taxidermy, photography and art, along with tarot card readings. For more information visit Roedde House website here.

RIDE FOR REFUGE
Davie Plaza at English Bay

When: Sat., October 4, at 2 p.m.
Where: Davie Plaza at English Bay.
Cost: Fundraiser, to donate and participate visit here.
Details: Ride for Refuge is a charity cycling event organized by Blue Sea Philanthropy in partnership with Inner Hope Youth Ministries. The West End Business Improvement Association (WEBIA) will be hosting a rest stop for riders at the Davie Plaza where they will be serving pre-packaged snacks, water bottles, and fruit to participants. For more information visit the website here.

HOT ONES WING NIGHT
Lucifer's House of Heat

When: Fri., October 10 and 24, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: Lucifer's House of Heat.
Cost: $25 per person, purchase your tickets here.
Details: Put your spice tolerance to the test with Lucifer's House of Heat, Hot Ones Wing Night Challenge, featuring a rotating selection of hot sauces from the hit YouTube series Hot Ones. A $25 ticket gets you 10 wings from mild to super-hot (chicken or meatless option) and a canned beverage or tap beer of your choice.

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT
Stanley Park Ecology Event

When: Wed., October 15, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Nature House at Lost Lagoon.
Cost: $12-$18. Pre-registration required, tickets can be purchased here.
Details: Join the Stanley Park Ecology team for a stroll around Lost Lagoon and learn what happens in the Park after dark with nocturnal animals of the waters, skies, and forest and how they adapt to thrive after the sun has set. Bring a friend, a flashlight, and a curious mind and come explore the critters who reign during the night shift in Stanley Park. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.

FUNGI & FALL LEAVES: WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP
Stanley Park Ecology Event

When: Sat., October 18, from 12:30 to 3 p.m.
Where: Stanley Park Ecology Office, Pipeline Road.
Cost: $25-$30. Pre-registration required, tickets can be purchased here.
Details: Join instructor, Jenna Leith, for a beginner-friendly watercolour workshop to learn some basic techniques and use them to bring fungi, leaves, and autumnal elements to life on paper. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.

DIWALI COMMUNITY EVENT
Gordon Neighbourhood House

diwali festival of lights community event

When: Sat., October 18, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House.
Cost: $10-$15, purchase tickets in advance here.
Details: Celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, at Gordon Neighbourhood House community gathering. This annual event honours the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance through a community celebration that brings this spirit to life through music, dancing, and a delicious vegetarian meal. Celebrate under glowing lights, colourful decorations, a dance performance and the uplifting sounds of kirtan chanting—a meditative and joyful musical tradition that invites reflection and unity. This is an all ages event where everyone is welcome to come light up the night. To attend this special event, please purchase tickets in advance here.

SPIRITS OF THE PAST: GHOSTLY TOUR
Roedde House Museum

When: Sat., October, 18, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Where: Roedde House Museum.
Cost: $30 per person. Book your tour time slot and purchase tickets here.
Details: Take a 1-hour tour with paranormal investigators & mediums in an 1893 historical house. For more information visit Roedde House Museum website here.

BIRDS OF A FEATHER: AUTUMN FLUTTERS
Stanley Park Ecology Event

When: Sun., October 26, from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
Where: Nature House at Lost Lagoon.
Cost: $12-$18. Pre-registration required, tickets can be purchased here.
Details: Join the Stanley Park Ecology team to learn about the birds who migrate here from their summer breeding grounds to take advantage of relatively mild winter conditions and nutrient-rich shorelines. Discover the incredible variety and lives of local birds in this monthly birding program. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.

TRICK OR TREAT ON DENMAN
Hosted by WEBIA

When: Fri., October 31, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Where:  Denman Street at participating businesses.
Cost: Free.
Details: Come trick or treating along Denman Street at participating businesses and stop by Davie Plaza at English Bay for a spooktacular Halloween photo.

WEST END HALLOWEEN PARTY & PET COSTUME CONTEST
Gordon Neighbourhood House

When: Fri., October 31, starting at 5 p.m.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House.
Cost: Free / By Donation.
Details: The West End Halloween Party is a family (and pet friendly) community event. Bring your kids for some trick-or-treating, and your fur babies to join a fun pet costume contest. Come join this all ages community event and enjoy live music, Halloween movies, popcorn, hot apple cider and hot dogs (by cash donation while they last!).

HAUNTED HOUSE AT BARCLAY MANOR

When: Fri., October 31 and Sat. November 1, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: $5 per person, $15 for Family of 4 (cash only tickets at Barclay Manor).
Details: Barclay Manor is once again transforming into a spine-chilling haunted house for the bold and fearless! Step inside...if you dare... and prepare for a frightfully fun experience. This event is recommended for Ages 8+ (Parental Discretion Advised). To pay by debit or credit card, visit the West End Community Centre or Coal Harbour Community Centre.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.

• COMMUNITY LUNCH: Mondays and Fridays at 12 noon at Gordon Neighbourhood House. Cost is $7.50 with a GNH membership, $8 without. Children 1 and up are half-price. Join other members of our community for a delicious, three course, home-cooked lunch.

• ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE: Tuesdays, 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the West End Community Centre’s Meeting Room 2. Free. Join a weekly conversation and drop in where you can to practice English in a relaxed circle of friendly people. Conversations are guided by experienced facilitators who strive to talk about things that interest you.

• TOASTMASTERS: Tuesdays, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the West End Community Centre’s Denman Room. Free. Learn and practice public speaking, impromptu speeches, and leadership skills at this weekly meeting.

• WEST END WRITERS: Wednesdays, from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. at the West End Community Centre’s Meeting Room. Free. Writers of all ages and experience are invited to join in reading works-in-progress and receiving feedback.

• SOCIAL LOUNGE: Wednesdays, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Meet your neighbours at the weekly Social Lounge at the West End Community Centre. Free and open to everyone to come enjoy coffee and tea and meet with old and new friends.

• BALLROOM DANCING FOR BEGINNERS: Thursdays from 6:45-7:45 p.m. in the West End Community Centre, Dance Studio. Free trial on Thurs. Sept. 4 and $180 for 10 sessions from Thurs. Sept. 18 to Nov. 20. Learn the basic skills to dance the Foxtrot, Swing, Waltz and Rumba. For more information and registration visit WECC here.

• CRIBBAGE: Fridays, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. in the West End Community Centre’s Bidwell Room. Free. A friendly social card group sharing a fun game. Beginners and newcomers welcome.

• WEST END FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays through October 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. Held on Saturdays in Vancouver’s West End (Comox between Thurlow and Bute) next to Nelson Park, the West End Farmers’ Market features fresh fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry, baked goods, artisan food and crafts, fresh fish, and even local craft beer, wine, and spirits, food trucks, coffee, and live entertainment.

• WATERFRONT WALKERS: Saturdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. A casual group of walking enthusiasts who meet weekly to enjoy a variety of scenic walks. Routes are regularly around 6km and last about three hours, with a stop along the way for coffee. Meet up at Coal Harbour Community Centre.

• MAHJONG: Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the West End Community Centre Meeting Room 2. Free. Dive into the captivating world of Mahjong, a strategic tile game. With every tile played, a new adventure unfolds. Whether you’re an experienced player, a newcomer, or a drop-in, all are welcome.

• THE DARK SECRETS OF STANLEY PARK: Saturdays from 4 to 5:30/6 p.m. $32 for adults and $29 for youth and seniors. Information and tickets here. Discover the jaw-dropping beauty – and sinister stories – of Stanley Park. Behind those majestic forests, picturesque gardens, and stunning beaches lies a history of forced evictions, buried treasure, shocking crime scenes, and the macabre tale of Deadman’s Island. When you buy a ticket for this walking tour, two per cent of the ticket cost goes to support the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.

• LABYRINTH - A WALKING MEDITATION: Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at St. Paul’s Anglican Church Hall. Free. The Labyrinth is a full 13-metre replica of the medieval labyrinth laid in the stone floor of the 13th-century Cathédrale de Notre-Dame de Chartres. The Labyrinth at St. Paul’s is open for silent walking, prayer and meditation to people of all faiths and spiritual disciplines as a resource for meditation, reflection, and prayer.

• DRUM CIRCLE WITH DRUM SOUL: Sundays 2-3 p.m., drumming lessons and drum circle, 3-5 p.m. at 1655 Barclay Street (side door by the gazebo). By donation. Join the drumming workshop, unleash your inner percussionist, learn exciting beats, and discover the joy of drumming. No experience needed, pre-register here.

Arts & Entertainment

HAVE A SENIOR MOMENT FESTIVAL 2025
PAL Studio Theatre

When: October 3-11, various show times
Where: PAL Studio Theatre.
Cost: Tickets range from $10-$40
Details: A multi-disciplinary series of events and gatherings showcasing the performing arts that provides a gathering place for young, old, and those in between. The festival includes theatre, works in development, music, creative workshops, artist salons and more. For more information, festival highlights and tickets visit here.

HOME, BY MELODY ANDERSON
Have a Senior Moment Festival

When: October 3-5, showtimes are 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Where: PAL Studio Theatre.
Cost:  $40, purchase tickets here.
Details: This broad, farcical revenge comedy features an elderly woman who seeks justice after the death of her husband and a subsequent home invasion. Equal parts hilarious and compassionate. For tickets visit here.

FISH + SIPS: OCTOBERFISH
Vancouver Aquarium

When: Sat., Oct. 4 and Fri., Oct. 10, at 7 p.m.
Where: Vancouver Aquarium.
Cost: $35. Purchase tickets here.
Details: Put on your finest lederhosen and head to the Vancouver Aquarium for Octoberfish, an adults-only night of unforgettable animal meet-and-greets, eel-ectrifying live music, and Oktoberfest classics like bratwurst and pretzels.

FRONT PAGE CHALLENGE
Have a Senior Moment Festival

When: Tues., October 7, at 4 p.m.
Where: PAL Studio Theatre.
Cost:  $20, purchase tickets here.
Details:  Hang out with, Kevin Dale McKeown, Lin Bennett, Ellie O’Day, and Joy Metcalfe and eavesdrop on those who have had their ear to the ground and put pen to the paper as they have advocated for the arts over the past 60 years. Hear about late night high jinx as they wrestle with typewriters, deadlines, and promoting really, really bad plays.

Not to mention navigating disgruntled artists! It’s the history of Vancouver theatre through the eyes of those who valiantly battled to put the arts front and centre. For more information, festival highlights and tickets visit here.

CLASSIC SILENT FILMS
Roedde House

When: Thurs., October 16 and 23, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: Roedde House.
Cost: $18 ($16 for students/seniors/members)
Details: The Roedde House Museum is screening two classic silent films this month, The Doll a film from 1919, on October 16 and the original Dr Jekyll & Mr. Hyde from 1920, on October 23. Free popcorn included with price of admission. Tickets are $18 ($16 for students/seniors/members) and can be purchased here.

WEST END POP-UP MARKETS AT JIM DEVA PLAZA
Presented by WEBIA

When: Sat., October 18, starting at 12 p.m.
Where: Jim Deva Plaza.
Cost: Free
Details: Come to the Jim Deva Plaza in the heart of the Davie Village and shop for unique items at the RainCity Local Market, and show your support for local vendors and artists.

LIVE AT THE SYLVIA

The Dog Ears

When: Every Wed., Thurs., and Sun. from 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: The Sylvia Hotel Restaurant & Lounge.
Admission: Free
Details: Three evenings a week enjoy live music at the lounge with a great view of English Bay. The October lineup includes: Wed. Oct. 1 - Tropical lounge with Rio Trio; Thurs. Oct. 2 - Jazz, Soft Rock, Pop with Weaver & Werth Band; Sun. Oct. 5- Jazz with Anna Navarro; Wed. Oct. 8 - Jazz with The Dog Ears; Thurs. Oct. 9 - Jazz with JD Rich; Sun. Oct. 12 – Jazz, Soft Rock, Pop with Weaver & Werth Band; Wed. Oct. 15- Jazz with The Dog Ears; Thurs. Oct. 16 – Roots and Blues with Harris & Debray; Sun. Oct. 19 - Jazz with Bonnie Northgraves; Wed. Oct. 22 - Indie Folk Singer/Songwriter Sean from the Yukon; Thurs. Oct. 23- Tropical lounge with Rio Trio; 11; Sun. Oct. 26 - Jazz with Anna Navarro; Wed. Oct. 29 -Acoustic Pop with Zach Saunders; Thurs. Oct. 30 - Jazz with The Dog Ears.

LIVE AT THE SHAMROCK

When: Every Tues., and Thurs. through Sun. Times vary … see below.
Where: The Shamrock Pub.
Cost: No cover charge.
Details: What’s an Irish pub (especially one with a great food and beverage menu) without live music? We wouldn’t know, ‘cause the West End’s Irish pub features live music four nights a week. This month’s lineup to be confirmed.

JAZZ VESPERS MINISTRY AT ST. ANDREWS’S-WESLEY UNITED

When: Sundays at 4 p.m.
Where: St. Andrew’s Wesley United.
Cost: Free.
Details: Enjoy live music every Sunday at 4 p.m. at St. Andrew’s-Wesley United. The October lineup includes: Sun. Oct. 5 - Michael Dunn Quintet; Sun. Oct. 12 - Clara Lin; Sun. Oct. 19 - St. Andrew's-Wesley Jazz Suite; Sun. Oct. 26 - Bill Costin and Tim Porter.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.

• HOT MIX BINGO: Mondays at 8 p.m. at The Shamrock Pub at 1184 Denman. Fun and games, music and bingo at this popular West End Irish pub.

• KARAOKE TUESDAYS: At The Park Pub from 9 p.m. to late.

• TRIVIA WEDNESDAYS: At The Park Pub from 8 to 10:00 p.m.

• IMPROV THURSDAYS: From 8 to 9:30 p.m. at The Park Pub. Admission $25. Theatre Sports alumni Denise Jones and David Milchard bring their new improv comedy troupe of award-winning actors and improv veterans to the West End.

• FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE: At the Park Pub every Friday from 8:30 p.m. to late, enjoy great live music.

• SATURDAY NIGHT LAUGHS: Two laugh-a-minute shows every Saturday, at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. at The Show Cellar.

• BIG SHINY SATURDAYS: At the Park Pub every Saturday, 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Enjoy tunes from the 90’s and 00’s with Live DJs.

• SING-ALONG SUNDAYS: At the Park Pub every Sunday at 3:00 p.m. A wide range of favourites, good vibes, and plenty of sing-along moments.

• MUSIC BINGO SUNDAY: At the Park Pub every Sunday at 8:30 p.m. Great prizes including pitchers of beer, gift cards and more.

• JAZZ VESPERS: Sundays at 4 p.m. at St. Andrews Wesley United Church. By donation. An afternoon featuring some of Vancouver’s finest musicians, and meditations on faith and life.

Families, Kids, & Teens

HALLOWEEN CRAFT TIME
West End Community Centre

When: Tues., October 21, from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Where: West End Community Centre.
Cost: $3/per child
Details: Join us to celebrate Halloween and take home beautiful Halloween-themed crafts. Parent participation required. Please pre-register here.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL & GHOSTLY GRAVEYARD
Coal Harbour Community Centre

When: Sat., October 25, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Where: Coal Harbour Community Centre.
Cost: $9/per child and $10/per child day-of event
Details: Join us for this fun, hair-raising event and get into the spooky spirit with creepy crafts, terrifying treats, eerie entertainment and much more! Don’t forget to wear your costume and visit the ghostly graveyard. This activity is for children ages 2-7 year old, parent participation is required. Please pre-register here.

PINT SIZE PUMPKIN CARVING
Coal Harbour Community Centre

When: Wed., October 29, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Coal Harbour Community Centre.
Cost: $8/per pumpkin and $9/pumpkin day-of event
Details: Get into the spooky spirit as you carve your own jack-o-lantern. Pumpkins, carving tools provided along with ghoulish music and don’t forget to wear your Halloween costume. Parent participation is required. Please pre-register here.

BABY PLAYTIME

When: Mon. / 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Tues. / 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Wed. / 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Thurs. / 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Fri. / 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Where: The West End Community Centre.
Cost: $3.50 drop-in.
Details: Fun with toys, balls, and more. Parents are required to help set up and clean up the equipment each day and parent participation is required.

TODDLER PLAYTIME

When: Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri. from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House (GNH).
Cost: By donation (suggested $2.50 per child for GNH members)
Details: Toddler Playtime is a family drop-in program that features a variety of activities that promote healthy child development such as free play with lots of toys available, arts and crafts, mini circle time with songs and stories at the end of the playtime. This program is for Parents, family members and caregivers with children 0-5 years old. Parenting resources and special events are offered monthly. For more information call 604-683-2554 or email familyplace@gordonhouse.org.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.

• KIDS CLOTHING EXCHANGE: Tuesdays through Fridays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. A free program for parents to participate in this unique community clothing exchange and drop off or pick up (or both) up to five pieces of children’s’ clothing.

• BABYTIME: Tuesdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 am at Joe Fortes Library. Free. Rhymes, songs, fingerplays and stories for parents and caregivers and their babies. Recommended for newborns to approximately 18 months. Baby time takes place in the English Bay Room on the 2nd floor of the West End Community Centre.

• TEEN OPEN GYM: Tuesday and Wednesday from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Coal Harbour Community Centre Gymnasium. A free program for youth in grades 8 to 12 (ages 12 to 18) with badminton and volleyball on Tuesdays and badminton and basketball on Wednesdays. Non-instructional, with in-out privileges.

• FAMILY STORY TIME: Thursdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. at Joe Fortes Library in the Children’s Area. Free. This program for parents and caregivers with young children shares songs, rhymes and stories. Suitable for children of all ages and abilities to enjoy and learn together.

• YOUTH LEADERSHIP CLUB: Thursdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the West End Community Centre Meeting Stanley Court Room. This program is designed for youth who are looking to gain leadership and mentoring experience while learning how to organize, plan, and implement programs in the community centre.

• KIDSZONE: Fridays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Free. At Joe Fortes Library. A time for kids to meet kids and share books, crafts, and fun activities at the library. For Grades K to 7.

• PRE-TEEN NIGHT: Fridays 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. A free drop-in at the West End Community Centre for youth ages nine to twelve. Drop by and participate in a variety of games, crafts, and activities including dodge-ball, capture the flag, button and bracelet making, movie nights, and more. Registration is required, with room for a maximum of 30 youths.

• TEEN NIGHT: Fridays from 6:15 to 9 p.m. at Coal Harbour Community Centre Gymnasium. A free drop-in for Grades 8 to 12 (ages 13 to 18). Come by and shoot hoops, play board games upstairs, or get creative with some art supplies. Teen Night has in-out privileges.

Senior Moments

NOTE: Some programs and events require pre-registration, RSVPs, and/or membership. Find contact information for each organization at the top of this list, or the venue list below.

FOOD SAFETY AND PRESERVATION INFO TALK
West End Seniors Network

When: Wed., October 1, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to West End Seniors Network members. Pre-registration required.
Details: In this informative and fun safety talk, you’ll learn how to reduce the risk of food poisoning and other food-related illnesses with hosts Serena Chu and Chef T.J. from Ono Vancouver. Learn how to store your food, safe food handling, preservation and more. Please RSVP at info@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051.

SENIORS’ BINGO
Gordon Neighbourhood House

When: Wed, October 1, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House.
Cost: Free with Gordon House Membership.
Details: Come celebrate National Seniors' Day at Gordon House on Wednesday, Oct 1, from 3 to 4:30pm for a lively game of BINGO. No pre-registration required, email welcome@gordonhouse.org for more information.

NIDUS PRESENTATION
West End Seniors Network

When: Fri., October 3, from 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to West End Seniors Network members. Pre-registration required.
Details: Come learn what are the essential legal documents in BC for those who want to plan for incapacity, end-of-life, and for after death and how personal planning is different from estate planning along with how to make your documents and where to register them. Please RSVP at info@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051. 

GORDON HOUSE BOOK CLUB

Minique, by Anna Maxymiw

When: Thurs., October 9, from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House.
Cost: Free with Gordon House Membership.
Detail: Each month the Gordon House Book Club select and read a title and come together to discuss as group. This month’s title is Minique, a novel by Anna Maxymiw that depicts a fierce outsider narrative about the so-called “witch in the woods,” a feminist fable, a haunting survival story, and a turbulent romance. This a drop-in program, free with Gordon House membership.

OKTOBERFEST
West End Seniors Network  

When: Thurs., October 9, from 3-4:30 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to West End Seniors Network members. Pre-registration required.
Details: Come celebrate the season with a cozy and festive Oktoberfest at WESN with a great lineup of fall-themed snacks, non-alcoholic beer and cider to sip on, along with music and some pumpkin painting. Please RSVP at info@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051.

FALL PREVENTION WORKSHOP
West End Seniors Network

When: Fri., October 17, from 1-2 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to West End Seniors Network members. Pre-registration required.
Details: Falls are the leading cause of injury in seniors — but many are preventable. come learn about practical tips, risk factors, and home safety strategies to stay independent and safe. Please RSVP at info@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051.

INDIGENOUS READS BOOK CLUB
Settler-to-Settler Conversations

Son of a Trickster by Eden Robinson

When: Thurs., October 23, at 2 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to WESN members. Please RSVP.
Details: The West End Seniors’ Network and Vancouver Public Library are teaming up to host a series of settler to settler conversations exploring works by Indigenous authors. This month features, Son of a Trickster by Eden Robinson—a gripping coming-of-age novel blending contemporary life with Haisla mythology. This event is open to all 55+ community members. Pre-registration is required for up to 12 participants. Please RSVP at info@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051.

VANCOUVER CLASSICAL GUITAR SOCIETY (VCGS) CONCERT
West End Seniors Network

When: Fri., October 24, at 11 a.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to WESN members. Please RSVP.
Details: Join Alec Pearson, performer, composer and UBC instructor for a solo concert of beautiful classical guitar. Presented by the Vancouver Classic Guitar Society. Please RSVP at info@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051.

SPOOKY SING-A-LONG
West End Seniors Network 

When: Wed., October 29, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to WESN members. Please RSVP.
Details: Get into the spirit of Halloween with the Barclay Bards where they’ll sing some classic tunes like the Monster Mash and Purple People Eater. Come dressed in your favourite costume for a chance to win a prize. Please RSVP at info@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.

• NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS: Mondays at 11 a.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. Start your week on a positive note and catch up on local happenings at Neighbourhood News. Each week neighbours share local news and events in the West End and around town. Drop-in program, free with Gordon House annual membership.

• QMUNITY GATHERS: Mondays at 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. A low-key social gathering for 55+ 2SLGBTQIA Older Adults to meet new people, check in and enjoy the company of others in a safe space. This is a drop-in program hosted by QMUNITY, no pre-registration required.

• BALLROOM DANCING & SOCIAL: Mondays from 1 to 3 p.m. in the West End Community Centre Auditorium. Join a friendly group of ballroom dances and learn, practice, and meet new friends. Singles and those with partners both welcome. Drop-in $1.50 / Eight sessions for $7.60.

• YOGA FOR SENIORS: Mondays at 12:15 p.m. at the West End Community Centre Dance Studio. A class for older men and women at all fitness levels, including those with some physical challenges. Each class provides a balanced full body workout, adapted to safely meet your needs. $11 drop-in.

• CREATIVE QUEST: Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at Barclay Manor. The Barclay Manor Artists’ Collective meets for open studio time. Bring your project and supplies to paint with others in a studio setting. No teaching or supplies are given. For information contact Graham at creativequest2022@gmail.com.

• CRAFTY NEIGHBOURS: Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. A weekly social gathering that connects knitting, crocheting, and sewing community members and other creative folks to share their talents. Donations of yarn to support projects are gratefully appreciated and all proceeds from items sold go towards Gordon House programming. This is a drop-in program, free with Gordon House annual membership.

• NORDIC POLE WAKING & LESSONS: Thursdays 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free. Come join the weekly Nordic Pole Walking Group. If you’re new to pole walking, group lessons are held the third Thursday of each month, where you can learn how to use Nordic poles to enhance your stride and get more out of every step. Meet outside Barclay Manor at 1447 Barclay Street.

• ZUMBA GOLD FOR SENIORS: Thursdays from 11:45 a.m. -12:45 p.m. in the West End Community Centre, Auditorium. Free trial on Mon. Sept. 8 and $82 for 6 sessions from Mon. Sept. 15 to Oct. 27. Low-impact dance-fitness class that uses zesty Latin music, Salsa, Cha Cha, Cumbia Merengue, Twist and Charleston with easy to follow moves. For more information and registration visit WECC here.

• CYCLING WITHOUT AGE: Every Thursday and Friday until October, from 2 to 3 p.m. $5 per ride. Please RSVP with WESN by calling 604-669-5051. Discover the magic and joy of a trishaw ride, where seniors can embrace nature, connect with others, and relive the simple pleasure of the wind in your hair. Meet at Barclay Manor or Gordon Neighbourhood House.

• ESL KARAOKE: Thursdays from 2 to 3 p.m. at Barclay Manor. Practice pronunciation, build confidence, and enjoy singing along to popular tunes. No singing experience needed - just bring your enthusiasm. Please RSVP to 604.669.5051 or info@wesn.ca.

• SENIORS KARAOKE: Friday from 1 to 3 p.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. Bring out your inner singer at Seniors' Karaoke and choose from a variety of songs from classic hits to modern chart-toppers or choose to sing in your native language. Microphones and snacks provided. This is a drop-in program, free with Gordon House annual membership.

• CRIBBAGE: Fridays from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the West End Community Centre / Bidwell Room. Free. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, with every card played and point pegged the charm and thrill never fades. Join in for good company, laughter, and the joy of a well-played hand. Beginners and drop-ins welcome.

• MAHJONG: Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the West End Community Centre / Meeting Room 2. Free. Dive into the captivating world of Mahjong, a strategic tile game. with every play a new adventure unfolds! Beginners and drop-ins welcome. No session March 15.

LGBT+

BROADWAY BABES
The Junction

When Sun., October, 5 at 7 p.m.
Where: The Junction.
Admission: $15.
Details: Vancouver’s only all Broadway monthly drag show, starring Genesis & Weebees, along with monthly special guests.

DINNER & A DRAG SHOW!

When Every Tuesday and Thursday from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Bonta Italian Restaurant.
Admission: Free.
Details: On Tuesdays it’s Carlotta Gurl and Thursdays it’s the unstoppable Conni Smudge entertaining at this popular Davie Street restaurant while diners enjoy a generous portion of Italian specialties.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info for all venues and organizations is at the end of this calendar.

• QMUNITY GATHERS: Mondays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. A low-key social gathering for 55+ 2SLGBTQIA Older Adults to meet new people, check in and enjoy the company of others in a safe space. This is a drop-in program hosted by QMUNITY at Gordon Neighbourhood House, no pre-registration required.

• ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLUB: Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m. at HIM on Davie’s Lounge Space. Join a conversation night for GBQ men and gender diverse people whose first language is not English, to practice speaking in a safe, non-judgmental and fun space. The program is fully inclusive for all folks regardless of refugee, visa, or citizenship status.

• IQ 2000 TRIVIA: Mondays at 8:00 p.m. at The Junction Pub at 11:38 Davie. Free.
  Welcome IQ 2000 Trivia as our host for the evening! Come join every week for prizes, fun and all day happy hour.

• BINGO FOR LIFE: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at The Junction Pub at 11:38 Davie. Free. Drag diva Kamelle Toe presides over a weekly fundraiser for The Vancouver Friends for Life Society. Free admission. $10 per bingo card.

• TUESDAY NIGHT TRIVIA: At the Fountainhead Pub at 7 p.m. No cover. An evening of trivia and fun hosted by Richard Romano-Carlsen.

• QUEERPROV: Wednesdays at 8 p.m. at The Junction. Pay What You Can. A weekly celebration of improv comedy.

• DRAG ME TO HELL! Thursdays at 11:30 p.m. An evening of killer drag hosted by Miss Understood and featuring a revolving cast of special guest performers and music by DJ Amy Grindhouse. Admission $12 in advance (here) and $15 at the door.

• GOLDEN GUYS GROUP: Friday afternoons from 3 to 4:45 p.m. at Barclay Manor. A group open to older gay, bi and trans men to share experiences of life in Vancouver. Drop-in for socializing and conversation. 

• UNITY FRIDAY: At The Junction. Showtime 11 p.m. Service until 4 a.m. Hosted each week by a variety of queer community members. $15 cover. Music by DJ Dennis Kindel.

• THE REALLY GAY HISTORY TOUR: Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. It’s time for Vancouver’s secrets to come out of the closet. Tour guide Glenn Tkach tells the stories of drag kings and two spirit warriors, queer church ministers ,and transgender crime fighters. This two-hour walking tour is a celebration of the unsung heroes who forever changed the social fabric of our city. $32 for adults and $29 for youth and seniors. Information and tickets here.

FOR MORE LGBTQ+ EVENTS …

Find a current calendar of community events here, and subscribe to their weekly newsletter.

Venue Directory

WHERE THEY’RE AT AND HOW TO CONNECT …

If we’ve missed a venue please let us know at editor@thewestendjournal.ca

• 1181 Lounge / 1181 Davie / 236.513.1181  / Website

• Art@Bentall Gallery / 595 Burrard St - Concourse #05 / 604.682.3701 / Website

• Barclay Manor / 1447 Barclay / 604.669.5051 / Website

• Bonta Italian Ristorante / 1047 Davie / 604.687.0055 / Website

• Chef Ron Restaurant / 1037 Denman / 604.336.9994 / Website

• Coal Harbour Community Centre / 480 Broughton / 604-718-8222 / Website

• Coal Harbour Park / 323 Jervis.

• Gordon Neighbourhood House / 1019 Broughton / 604.683.2554 / Website

• Health Initiative For Men (HIM) / 300 - 1033 Davie / 604 488 1001 / Website

• HI Hostel Vancouver / 1114 Burnaby / 604.684.4565 / Website

• Joe Fortes Library / 870 Denman / 604-665-3972 / Website

• Kay’s Place / 118 - 1030 Denman (Denman Mall) / 604.669.5051 / Website

• Mole Gallery / 1157 Pendrell Street, access from Jepson-Young Lane / Website

• PAL Studio Theatre / 581 Cardero / 604.255.4313 / Website

• Robert Lee YMCA / 955 Burrard / 604.939.9622 / Website

• Shamrock Pub / 1184 Denman / 604.428.4414 / Website

• St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church / 1022 Nelson / 604.683.4574 / Website

• St. Paul’s Anglican Church / 1130 Jervis / 604.685.6832 / Website

• Stanley Park Ecology Society / 610 Pipeline Road / 604.257.6908 / Website

• Stanley Park Nature House / 712 Lost Lagoon Path / 604.257.8544 / Website

• The Fountainhead Pub / 1025 Davie / 604.687.2222 / Website

• The Park Pub / 1755 Davie / 604.682.1831 / Website

• The Pumpjack Pub / 1167 Davie / 604.685.3417 / Website

• The Show Cellar (at the Park Pub) / 1755 Davie / 604.682.1831 / Website

• The Pumpjack Pub / 1167 Davie / 604.685.3417 / Website

• West End Community Centre / 870 Denman / 604.257.8333 / Website

If we’ve missed a venue please let us know at editor@thewestendjournal.ca

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Thank you!
Kevin Dale McKeown
Editor & Publisher
editor@thewestendjournal.ca