The Vancouver Retro Gaming Expo (VRGE) will be at the Anvil Centre in New Westminster on June 22nd for its biggest show ever, featuring an amazing selection of games, music, and experiences for attendees of all ages.
Vancouver Retro Gaming Expo
Dates: Saturday, June 22 2024 from 11:00am to 7:00pm
VRGE will have a lineup of music acts this year, who will transport attendees back to the golden age of gaming. Expect to hear chiptunes, classic video game soundtracks, and other retro-inspired music presented by Bonus Stage, including missingNo, Freaky DNA, The Wavebirds, The Koopa Troopas, ROM-hack, Pongball, Lena Raine, and dannyBstyle.
Event Highlights
Play classic games from all eras.
Shop a variety of vendors with games, art, and collectibles.
Learn about retro computing and gaming history.
Enjoy video game musical acts on our main stage.
Attend panels with Brad Hodge (Tech Time Traveller), John Hancock, The Fictionals, and more.
Experience tournaments and e-sports gaming from Tetris to Smash Bros.
Photo ops with mascots.
The Chilliwack Retro Computing Club will be on site showcasing their collections of vintage computers and consoles. Members will share their passion for retro computing, answer questions, and host panels on the TRS-80 and NABU Computers.
Downtown New Westminster’s free street party series, Fridays on Front, returns this summer in July and August with food vendors, beer garden, and free family programming. Located in the heart of Downtown New West, within walking distance of both SkyTrain Stations, this vibrant event series is set to light up Front Street, facing Pier Park.
Fridays on Front in New Westminster
Dates: July 12, 19, 26 and August 9, 16, 23 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm
Location: Front Street Mews, Downtown New Westminster
Admission: Free
Fridays on Front – Downtown New West Photo
Each night will have entertainment, food, and a unique theme like Pride, Latin night, Retro 80s & 90s, and more, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Fridays on Front is fully licensed so they’re teaming up with Steel & Oak for some libations, and come hungry as you check out local eateries and food vendors.
For families, there will be a variety of free activities to keep the little ones entertained while you soak up the summer vibes. Follow Downtown New West on Facebook for the latest news and updates.
Presented by Downtown New West BIA and presented by Douglas College, in partnership with the City of New Westminster, Tourism New West, and the Port of Vancouver.
Italian Day on the Drive hosts the ultimate community celebration of Italian culture and heritage in Vancouver this Sunday. Seven intersections, as well as Grandview Park, will be transformed into Piazza-style cultural attractions with live music, DJs, fashion and street dancing.
Italian Day on the Drive – Photo Submitted
Italian Day on the Drive
When: Sunday June 9, 2024 from 12:00pm to 8:00pm
Where: Commercial Drive, Vancouver from Venables to East 7th Ave (view map here)
Admission: FREE!
From a vendor-filled street to fashion shows, feel transported while you take in the many sights and displays that are synonymous with Italy. Take part in pasta-eating contests, interactive games, or human foosball, and kids can have a ball in the children’s zone. And don’t forget to eat! Taste the best of the ‘fest from local merchants, vendors, food trucks, and dine on al fresco patios.
The theme of the 2024 event is STORIA meaning History or Story in Italian. “History creates memories, generating emotional connections with the ability to transcend generations via storytelling, keeping traditions and important values alive while bridging the past with the present,” say organizers. “We are drawn to history because its story is our story, where we can learn from the past to create a better future together.”
Attraction Highlights
The Drive Main Stage at 2nd will have opening ceremonies 12:00pm-12:45pm followed by live entertainment, then there are six more stages filled with a line up free performances. Catch DJ Storm at the Grant St Piazza, Duelling Pianos w/ Mark Olexson & Aaron Grant at Parker St Piazza, Fashion Shows at Piazza Moda Stage at 3rd, Langley Ukulele Ensemble at Grandview Park and much, much more.
There’s also a big raffle happening this year with prizes valued over $14,000 plus a 50/50 jackpot. Follow the event on Facebook for more info.
This weekend in Vancouver you can enjoy events such as the Musqueam Canoe Races, the Greek Food Festival in Surrey, Doors Open Richmond, Italian Day on the Drive, and much more! Burnaby Village Museum is open for the season with free admission as well. Find these events and more things to do around Metro Vancouver listed below:
This month the Vancouver Canadians are hosting two homestands, a Father’s Day event at the Nat, promotional giveaways, and more!
Father’s Day with the Vancouver Canadians
Celebrate Father’s Day at the Nat! Fans are encouraged to get to the ballpark early to enjoy a White Spot Family Fun Sunday with travel mugs for the first 500 dads through the gates. Gates open at noon in advance of a 1:05pm First Pitch.
