The Week Ahead In Your West End

February 23 - Sunday, March 1

Your West End / Coal Harbour neighbourhood is a busy place.
The following are highlights from the many programs available at the
West End and Coal Harbours community hubs.
Check the community organization websites listed at the end of this section for complete
listings of events and activities and contact details for events requiring pre-registration.
Click on any image to enlarge.

Tell Us What You’re Up To !

Submit your upcoming events and photos to editor@thewestendjournal.ca

Check Out The Full February Calendar

You’ll find more events and activities in the February issue of
The West End Journal’s “Mark Your Calendar” section, here.

And our March issue will be out February 26, with a whole new calendar of events.

Click On the Section You’re Looking For

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

OWL PROWL

When: Wed., February 25, from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Where: Stanley Park Nature House. 
Cost:  $12 to $18.  Tickets can be purchased here.
Details: Experience an evening in the woods with earthly soundscape from the calls of courting owls. From the charismatic great horned owl, to the ubiquitous barred owl, to the elusive and petite northern saw-whet owl, there are many nocturnal hunters to learn about in their peak activity. Join the Stanley Park Ecology team for this popular nighttime walk, by reserving a space here.

WINTER TO SPRING
WATERCOLOUR WORKSHOP

When: Sat., February 28, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: Stanley Park Ecology Office at 610 Pipeline Road. 
Cost:  $25 to $30.  Tickets can be purchased here
Details: In this watercolour workshop, you’ll learn foundational techniques while creating two nature-inspired pieces: a sunset over water and delicate cherry blossoms. No prior experience is needed—just curiosity and a love for creativity. All materials are provided, and you’ll leave with finished paintings and skills to continue your watercolour journey at home. For more information and tickets, visit here.

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.

Note: Some organizations may be closed for Family Day on Monday, February 16.

• COMMUNITY LUNCH: Mondays 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. No lunch, Monday, February 16.

• 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.

• COMMUNITY FLOW YOGA: Thursdays, from 6 to 7 p.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. Free. In this slow-paced yoga class, gentle movements are combined with elements of strength building and deep breathing techniques to create a calming flow. Pre-registration required, sign up 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.

• 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.

• 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.

VIOLA, CELLO AND ELECTRONICS CONCERT
With Ryan Davis & Song Hee Lee

When: Tues., February 24, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: St. Andrew’s-Wesley United.
Cost:  $22.63, ticket can be purchased here.
Details: International performers and partners in crime Ryan Davis (viola) and Song Hee Lee (cello) bring their uniquely innovative music to St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church. Together, they blend classical virtuosity with live electronics, and inspired by folk, classical, and hip-hop music. For more information and tickets, visit here.

ART FROM THE HEART PAINT NIGHTS

When: Wed., February 25, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: 305-595 Burrard Street. 
Cost:  $100, to register, visit here.
Details: This two-hour guided paint night is a perfect way to explore a new hobby and dive into creativity through learning basic painting techniques to create art projects you will be proud of. Art From the Heart specializes in creative events for beginner and intermediate painters, with all materials provided. To register, visit here.

JAZZ IN THE PARLOUR
The Ben MacRae Trio

When: Thurs., February 26, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: Roedde House Museum. 
Cost:  $25.95, tickets can be purchased here.
Details: Enjoy an evening of live jazz in the Roedde House Victorian parlour with the Ben MacRae Trio featuring Ben MacRae (Tuba, Clarinet, Saxophone, & Voice), Strauss Whiteside (Piano), and Kayden Gorden (Trumpet).  More information and tickets available here.

LIVE AT THE SYLVIA

When: Every Wed., Thurs., and Sun., from 8 to 10 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. This week’s lineup includes: Wed. Feb. 25 – Acoustic vintage folk & pop with Jana Seale; Thurs. Feb. 26 - Indie - Folk Singer/Songwriter with Sean From The Yukon.

LIVE AT THE SHAMROCK

When: Every Friday 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 three nights a week. This week’s lineup includes: Fri., Feb. 27 – Niamh O’Gorman at 8 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 28 - Ciaran & Oisin at 9 p.m.

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.

• BINGO: At Lucifer’s House of Heat from 5 to 7 p.m.

• 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.

BABY JELLYFISH PLAYTIME

When: Mon. to Fri. from 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Where: Coal Harbour Community Centre.
Cost: $3.50 drop-in.
Details: Fun with toys, balls, and more for pre-school ages. Parents are required to help set up and clean up the equipment each day and parent participation is required.

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.
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
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.

JUMBO PLAYTIME

When: Saturdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
Where: The West End Community Centre.
Cost: $3.50 drop-in.
Details: Playtime with the cars, trikes and toys and even a Bouncy Castle for pre-school ages. Parents are required to help set up and clean up the equipment each day and parent participation is required.

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.

• WEST END YOUTH COUNCIL: 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 (grades 8-12) 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 Coal Harbour 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 20 youths.

• FRIDAY NIGHT OPEN GYM: Fridays from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. at Coal Harbour Community Centre Gymnasium. A free drop-in for Grades 8 to 12 (ages 13 to 18). Everyone is welcome, drop in, shoot hoops, bump balls or swing a racquet. Come hang out, make memories, and be part of the fun!

PLEASE NOTE: Some events require a membership in the presenting organization. Contact information for all is at the bottom of these listings.

HAPPY HOUR HOPPERS

When: Wed., February 25, at 4 p.m.
Where: The Bayside Lounge.
Cost: Pay your own drinks/food.
Details: Join your community for a drink, laughs, and great conversation at the Bayside Lounge! RSVP at info@wesn.ca or 604-669-5051.

FEBRUARY BIRTHDAY PARTY

When: Fri., February 27, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to WESN members.
Details: Members whose birthday are in February are cordially invited to a celebration with tea, coffee, cake, and a good time. 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.

• 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.

• JUST US GUYS: Fridays from 2 to 4 p.m. at HI Hotel. Come hang out, shoot some pool, or play cards and enjoy some good vibes and good company at this weekly drop-in program.  No pre-registration required, for more information email info@wesn.ca or call 604-669-5051.

• 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.

DOLL-LUSIONS  

When Tues., February 24, at 10 p.m.
Where: The Junction Pub.
Cost: $10.
Details: ​Doll-Lusions is a one-of-a-kind drag show that celebrates the art of transformation through the lens of trans identity and experiences. It’s a bold, glamorous, and unapologetic journey where illusion meets reality, showcasing a diverse array of drag.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

• 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. QMUNITY Gathers returns January 5.

• 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.

• DINNER & A DRAG SHOW! Tuesdays from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Carlotta Gurl entertains at this popular Davie Street restaurant while diners enjoy a generous portion of Italian specialties.

• 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.

• 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.

WHERE THEY’RE AT & 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 From The Heart / 305 - 505 Burrard / Website

• Barclay Manor / 1447 Barclay / 60.-669.5051 / Website (West End Seniors’ Network)

• 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

• Fountainhead Pub / 1025 Davie / 604.687.2222 / 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 / At the rear of 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