MARK YOUR CALENDAR
/Here’s What’s Happening In Your
West End - Coal Harbour Community In …
May 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
WEST END GARDEN CLUB
When: Sun., May 25 from 1 to 2;30 p.m.
Where: West End Community Centre Barclay Room.
Cost: Free.
Details: Join the Village Vancouver and West End Food Network Urban Garden Club monthly family-friendly meeting. Each momnth there is a short presentation or discussion on a different food and/or gardening related topic. Feel free to bring some snacks or food to share (no obligation). Children of all ages are welcome, and must be accompanied by an adult. There will be a community seed library present so you can pick up some free seeds, swap or donate.
find unique art and jewelry such as this silver bookmark by Wyld Sage Co at Roedde House Museum’s Magic In the moonlight market.
MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT
When: Fri. May 9 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Roedde House Museum
Cost: Free.
Details: A unique two-day market of local vendors in the West End’s 893 Victorian House Museum, featuring art, antiques, jewelry, artisian blend teas, artisan crafted hats and accessories, and much more!
A tarot reader will also be on site offering readings on both days!
COMMUNITY LUNCH
When: Mondays and Fridays at 12 noon.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House (GNH)
Cost: $7.50 with a GNH membership, $8 without. Children 1 and up are half-price.
Details: Join other members of our community for a delicious home-cooked lunch. This is one of GNH’s many “Food Justice” programs that you can learn more about here. To reserve a spot call 604.683.2554 or email welcome@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.
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.
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.
TABLE TENNIS: Tuesdays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Coal Harbour Community Centre. Drop-in $5 / $63 for 12 sessions. All skill levels are welcome. Two or three tables will be set up for recreational play, and participants are encouraged top register for the non-instructional session. No partner necessary.
WEST END WRITERS: Wednesdays April 9 through June 25 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: Welcome to the Social Lounge at the West End Community Centre, Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., April 9 through June 25. Free. this space will be open to everyone come enjoy coffee and rtea and meet with old and new friends.
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.
MAHJONG: Saturdays, April 12 through June 28 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, qa new adventure unfolds. Whether you’re an experienced player, a newcomer, or a drop-in, all are welcome. No sessions April 19, May 3, 17, and 31.
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.
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.
Arts & Entertainment
THE DOCTOR PETER CENTRE ART SHOW
When: Opening Reception Fr. May 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. Every Fri. and Sat. in May from 12 noon to 4 p.m.
Where: Mole Gallery
Cost: Free
Details: Celebrate the creativity, resilience, and spirit of the Dr. Peter Centre community through this vibrant group art show. Featuring artwork by participants of the Centre’s therapeutic art programs, the exhibition offers a powerful glimpse into personal expression, healing, and connection.
Each piece tells a story—of lived experience, courage, and the transformative power of art. Showing your art is an act of bravery—especially when it carries pieces of who you are. The DPC Art Show is led by participants, each choosing how and whether to share their work. Some offer pieces for sale. Others choose to remain anonymous. Every choice is honoured. Now in its second year, this show is about more than art—it’s about courage, connection, and community. Together participants create a space where vulnerability becomes strength, and creativity brings us closer—not just to each other, but to the wider world.
ART IN THE CITY
The Annual Exhibition &Sale
When: Verrnissage Fri. May 2 from 5;30 TO 7:30 p.m. Market Sat. May 3 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m & Sun. May 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: West End Community Centre.
Cost: Free.
Details: The West End’s largest annual exhibition and sale of the works of local artists. Find that special piece of art that will complete your home, chat with the artists about their inspirations and work, and enjoy a wide variety of paintings, drawings, watercolours, and photography.
HERE WE GO
A Western Gold Theatre Presentation
“HERE WE GO cast” L-R: Peihwen J Tai, Kate Robbins, Bernard Cuffling
David Bloom, Rosy Frier-Dryden, Richard Newman.
When: Thurs. May 8 to Sun. May 25.
Wed. through Sat. at 7:30 p.m. Thurs., Sat., and Sun. matinees at 2 p.m.
Where: PAL Studio Theatre.
Cost: Tickets from $30 to $40 here.
Details: A funeral party for a man with an adventurous past and a ginger cat that needs a home. Written by Caryl Churchill, one of the world’s premier living female playwrights and directed by Kathryn Bracht, Here We Go is a humourous, moving contemplation of our own mortality. Rotating ensemble cast changes nightly and is subject to change.
LIVE AT THE SYLVIA
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 May lineup includes: Thurs. May 1 - Classic Rock covers with Chapter 11; Sun. May 4 - Jazz with Anna Navarro; Wed. May 7 - Tropical Lounce with Rio Trio; Thurs. May 8 - Jazz, Soft Rock & Pop with Weaver & Werth; Sun.l May 11 - Jazz with The Dog Ears; Wed. May 14 - Roots, Blues and Originals with Harris & DeBray; Thurs. May 15 - Acoustic Pop with Zach Saunders; Sun. May 18 - Jazz with Colin Sankey & Seb Chamney; Wed. May 21 - Acousit Pop & Folk with Jana Seale; Thur. May 22 - Acoustic Folk, Rock & Country with Jenny Farrell; Sun. May 25 - Jazz with Bonnie Northgraves; Wed. May 28 - Folk & Pop with Jada Leroux; Thurs. May 29 - Indie Singer, Songwriter Jake Hammond.
LIVE AT THE SHAMROCK
When: Every Thursday through Sunday. 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 TBA.
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.
COMEDY TONIGHT! Thursdays at 8 p.m. at The Park Pub (1755 Davie). Admission $25. TheatreSports alumni hosts Denise Jones and David Milchard hold an improv comedy night featuring a rotating cast of up to eight of Vancouver’s top improv artists, plus special guests.
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: 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.
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. The April lineup TBA.
Families, Kids, & Teens
BABY PLAYTIME
When: Monday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Tuesday / 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Wednesday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Thursday / 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Friday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Where: The West End Community Centre.
Cost: $3.50 drop-in.
Details: Fun with toys, alls, and more. Parents are required to help set up and clean up the equipment each day and parent participation is required. No Playtime on April 18, 21 and May 19.
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.
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 9 to 12 (ages 12 to 18) with badminton and volleyball on Tuesdays and badminton and basketball on Wednesdays. Non-instructional, with in-out privileges.
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.
BABYTIME: Thursdays 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.
FAMILY STORY TIME: Thursdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. at Joe Fortes Library. 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.
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.
SINGLE MOTHERS CONNECTION GROUP: Fridays at Gordon Neighbourhood House from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Free to GNH members — annual membership is $5 and can be purchased at the front counter upon arrival. This program is dedicated to expanding a support system for single mothers in the West End through peer support and building meaningful relationships. As a part of the group, toddler playtimes are aimed at promoting healthy socialization and development of kids ages 0-5. The group also holds monthly workshops, employment support sessions, and community events. To register email familyplace@gordonhouse.org.
PRE-TEEN NIGHT: Fridays (April 4 to June 27) 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. (no session April 18). 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.
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.
Senior Moments
LATIN GUITAR CONCERT
When: Monday, May 5 from 3:30 to 4;30 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free
Details: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style with the vibrant rhythms of Latin music by the talented Cuneyt Tirmandi. RSVP to 604.669.5051 or info@wesn.ca.
WEST END LIVING LIBRARY
When: Friday, May 9 and 23 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free. Admission with RSVP only and no latecomers.
Details: Hear facinating stories from the folks who lived them. on the 9th Jami Greenberg shares stories of life in Gimli, a small town on the west side of Lake Winnipeg in spoken word and music. On the 23rd Barclay Macdonald shares amazing encounters on the iconic 800-kilometer pilgrimage/hike from France over the Pyrenees Mountains into Spain. RSVP to 604.669.5051 or info@wesn.ca.
THE MAY BIRTHDAY PARTY
When: Friday, May 23 from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to West End Seniors Network members. Information here.
Details: A celebration for folks whose birthdays are in May (you’re an Taurus or a Gemeni) with tea, coffee, cake, and good times.
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.
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.
TED TALKS & DISCUSSION: Thursdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Barclay Manor. A lively gathering for informative talks and ensuing discussions. This month’s topics TBA.
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.
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 10:30 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 play a new adventure unfolds! Beginners and drop-ins welcome. No session March 15.
LGBT+
There’s nothing hotta than dinner with carlotta - at bonta italian restaurant.
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.
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.
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.
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: Thursdays at 8 p.m. at The Junction. Pay What You Can. A weekly celebration of improv comedy. The November lineup includes: Nov. 1 - Halloween Hangover; Nov. 8 - Queerprov Challenge; Nov. 15 - Coming Out Stories; Nov. 22 - Perfect Catch; Nov. 29 - Fruitbowl …. followed by —
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.
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
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 Loft Lounge / 1184 Denman / 604.602.1000 / 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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Kevin Dale McKeown
Editor & Publisher
editor@thewestendjournal.ca
