Once again this year you can send a CandyGram to a special someone while supporting a great local cause. A Loving Spoonful CandyGrams are now available to order for Valentine’s Day, with proceeds going directly to assisting those living with HIV/AIDS in Vancouver.
Send a CandyGram with A Loving Spoonful
All CandyGrams include: A special edition card with a unique message, two Purdy’s Chocolates, postage, and exciting gifts. 
Order online now, they’ll mail it for you anywhere in Canada:
For Eastern Canada order by February 5, 2018
For Western Canada order by February 6, 2018
For Metro Vancouver order by February 8, 2018
A Loving Spoonful is a volunteer-driven, non-partisan society that provides free, nutritious meals to people living with HIV/AIDS in Greater Vancouver. Each year, A Loving Spoonful’s volunteers deliver over 100,000 meals to those in need, and with very little government funding, they rely on the generosity of the community.
Follow A Loving Spoonful on Facebook and Twitter (tag: #candygram) for more information.
In honour of its 10th anniversary, Zee Zee Theatre proudly presents the remount of its heartrending masterwork My Funny Valentine at The Dance Centre. Hailed as “exceptionally beautiful” (Vancouver Courier), this three-time Jessie-nominated one-man show was created in response to the tragic 2008 murder of Lawrence King, a 15-year-old shot by his male classmate after asking him to be his valentine. In a series of profoundly moving monologues, Vancouver actor Conor Wylie will take audiences through the minds of those caught in the aftermath of an unspeakable hate crime.
Conor Wylie. Photo by Dahlia Katz.
Zee Zee Theatre Presents My Funny Valentine
Where: The Dance Centre (677 Davie Street, Vancouver)
When: February 7 to 18, 2018
Tickets: Available online now for $27 to $32. 2-for-1 Preview on February 7th at 8:00pm. Contains Coarse Language.
The murder of Lawrence King is widely acknowledged as one of the most prominent gay hate crimes since the 1998 killing of Matthew Shepard. Brandon McInerney was just 14 years old when he shot and killed King in their Oxnard, California junior high school on February 12, 2008. King reportedly asked McInerney to be his Valentine in the days leading up to the incident. King passed away two days later – on Valentine’s Day.
Penned by award-winning Vancouver playwright Dave Deveau, My Funny Valentine was written in the form of several monologues to be heard in the voices of teachers, students, parents, and community members who find themselves caught in the orbit of King’s death. Each one offers poignant and probing reflections on the hate crime, collectively forming a nuanced and diverse tapestry of a community in mourning.
Following its 2011 premiere, My Funny Valentine was honoured with the Sydney Risk Prize for Outstanding Original Script by an Emerging Playwright. Its European debut garnered it a nomination for Ireland’s prestigious Oscar Wilde Award for ‘Best Writing.
Win Tickets
I have a pair of tickets to give away for opening night of My Funny Valentine on February 8th. Here’s how you can enter to win:
- Leave a comment on this post (1 entry)
- Click below to post an entry on Twitter
[clickToTweet tweet=”RT to enter to win tickets to @zeezeetheatre’s My Funny Valentine at the @DanceCentre http://ow.ly/EM2R30hQCIV” quote=” Click to enter via Twitter” theme=”style6″]
I will draw one winner at random from all entries at 5:00pm on Wednesday, January 24, 2018. Follow Zee Zee Theatre on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Update The winner is Fanny!
‘Tis the season for wedding shows in Vancouver and the Fraser Valley! A friend of mine got married last year and she, and her lucky groom, enjoyed going to wedding shows so much that she joked that they were planning another wedding right after they tied the knot. If you’re looking for inspiration, vendors, photographers, prize opportunities, and much more, check out this lineup of events over the next few months that will all make your special day that much more personalized and magical.
Wedding Shows in Vancouver and the Fraser Valley
Biggest Little Bridal Show
Website | Registration | Facebook | Twitter
Where: Pitt Meadows Golf Club (13615 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows)
When: Sunday, January 21, 2018 from 11:00am to 3:00pm
Details: This high end show will be showcasing multiple different vendors. Including photo/video, decor/floral, cake, hair & makeup, DJ, limo, favours, jewelry, stationary. Limiting the amount of each type of vendor so you will be able to see, meet, and experience different styles and variety without being overwhelmed. Showcasing reception set ups to help you visualize your wedding day. Talk to our feature decorator to discover your wedding style.
FLEUR Luxury Wedding Show & Forum
Website | Registration
Where: JW Marriott Parq Vancouver (39 Smithe St, Vancouver)
When: Sunday, January 21, 2018 from 10:00am to 5:00pm
Details: FLEUR is a luxury wedding show and forum produced by Aly Armstrong Event Planning & Design, and hosted by the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver Hotel. FLEUR is the city’s first wedding show to bring together elite industry professionals and celebrity influencers, offering guests hands-on workshops, a panel discussion and fashion presentation. A luxury décor walk will take guests on a sensory journey to five different cities around the world. Guests will peruse through luxury details and trends in a fully immersive setting that boasts a French flare.
Wedding Show at the Plaza
Website | Registration | Facebook | Twitter
Where: Executive Plaza Hotel Metro Vancouver (405 North Road, Coquitlam)
When: Sunday, March 4, 2018 from 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Details: A day of nuptial fun with over 40 vendors from around the Lower Mainland. There will be scrumptious appetizers floating around, wine samples from local vineyards, some of the best vendors in the industry and of course, prizes! Tickets are FREE, but required for entry. RSVP via Facebook “Get Ticket” button. Show your Ticket at the Wild Fig Lounge on March 4th between 10:30am and 2:30pm to enjoy the Plaza’s Signature Brunch Buffet 2 for 1.
A Wedding Affair
Website | Registration | Facebook
Where: River Rock Casino Resort (8811 River Road, Richmond)
When: Sunday, February 25, 2018 from 12:30pm to 4:30pm
Details: Exciting prizes will be given out from each exhibitor, expert knowledge from a wide selection of local wedding suppliers, and great visual ideas will be given to the brides to help them envision the wedding of their dreams. In addition, guests will get to taste and enjoy the fine cuisine of the River Rock and a glass of wine.
All Dressed in White
Website| Facebook | Twitter | Tickets
Where: Sheraton Vancouver Guildford (15269 104th Ave, Surrey)
When: Sunday, January 28, 2018 from 10:00am to 2:30pm
Details: From spectacular fashion parades to leading wedding suppliers, give-aways and prizes. Brides and grooms can visit our bridal showcase in sourcing the most affordable and reputable wedding industry suppliers in the BC Lower Mainland. First 100 Brides receive a Lucky Bridal Bag. 12:00pm Fashion Show with Everything but the Groom; 2:00pm Prize Giveaways.
Fraser Valley Wedding Festival
Facebook
Where: Cascades Casino Resort (20393 Fraser Hwy, Langley)
When: Sunday, April 8, 2018 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Details: Brides and Grooms enter free, and all other adults are just $10. Tickets are limited for this always-popular event, so be sure to secure yours in advance. Kids 12 and under are free. Show Highlights include: Industry wedding specialists, complimentary gift bags, door prizes, cake-off decorating contest, and fashion show.
Swank Wedding Show
Website | Registration | Facebook
Where: Pan Pacific Hotel Vancouver (300 – 999 Canada Place, Vancouver)
When: Saturday, February 10, 2018 from 10:00am to 4:00pm
Details: The Swank Wedding Show & The Groom Show with beloved wedding planner – the I Do Planner (formerly, the “Best Day Ever Planner”) – who will be available for grabs for all the lovely couples attending. Tickets include a complimentary glass of wine and a goodie bag valued at more than $50 for the first 250 couples/brides registered.
Spring Wedding and Honeymoon Show
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Tickets
Where: Delta Hotels by Marriott Burnaby (4331 Dominion St, Burnaby)
When: Sunday, March 25, 2018 from 11:00am to 4:00pm
Details: Top wedding and honeymoon professionals showcase the very best in the Lower Mainlands’s wedding industry. In celebration of BC’s multicultural flair, the Spring Wedding & Honeymoon Show has also invited some of the best Wedding specialists to lend their expertise and inspire your creative spirit. Fabulous grand prizes, luxurious dresses, culinary creations, delicious décor, and inspiration a plenty.
BeYOUitful Bridal Wedding Show
Website | Registration
Where: Guildford Golf & Country Club (7929 152 Street, Surrey)
When: Wednesday, February 21, 2018 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm
Details: 20+ vendors, free parking, and door prizes. Enjoy this the romantic setting and meeting boutique brand partners. There will be appetizers and light beverages also served. Entry is Free for Brides & Grooms that PRE-Register. Guest tickets are $5. Door Tickets are $10.
2018 Vancouver Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Expo
Website | Registration | Facebook
Where: Executive Airport Plaza Hotel (7311 Westminster Highway, Richmond)
When: Tuesday, February 27, 2018 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Details: Free destination wedding consultations 5:30pm, doors open at 6:00pm, food and trade show 6:00pm to 7:00pm, presentations 7:30 to 8:30pm, prizes and Q&A 8:30 to 9:00pm. Attendees can obtain a parking pass for $8 from the front desk or feel free to take the Sky Train – Canada Line Station. Free admission.
The Original Bridal Swap
Website | Registration
Where: Croatian Cultural Centre (3250 Commercial Drive, Vancouver)
When: Sunday, March 11, 2018 from 11:30am to 2:30pm
Details: The original bridal swap will feature gently used wedding decor, wedding dresses, craft artisans & a few select wedding vendors. Free parking.
Have more events to add? Submit them here.
The 8th Annual Scotiabank Vancouver Canadians Hot Stove Luncheon is coming up January 26th. Hosted by the Vancouver Canadians in partnership with Scotiabank, this amazing event helps to raise funds for the Vancouver Canadians Foundation, which supports local charities, teams and organizations all across the Lower Mainland, including Challenger Baseball and Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast BC.
Vancouver Canadians Hot Stove Luncheon
Where: Hotel Vancouver (900 West Georgia Street)
When: Friday, January 26, 2018 12:00pm to 2:00pm
Tickets: Call (604) 872-5232, visit the Nat Bailey Stadium Box Office at 4601 Ontario Street, or book online.
This year’s event will feature a handful of special guests that will surely bring out the true baseball fans in each and every one as this event over the years has brought everyone from Marcus Stroman, Aaron Sanchezand and Russell Martinto to Hall of Famers Tim Raines and Roberto Alomar. The 8th annual event will feature a pair of baseball greats that will not disappoint.
Guests include: Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins, President Emeritus Paul Beeston, Former Blue Jays OF Lloyd Moseby.
The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation brings fans together to celebrate their efforts from within their Foundation. Their goal remains to not only to raise funding for their many programs, but also bring awareness to the many local children from their own neighbourhoods that need their commitment and support.
Thanks to the generosity of donors and partners, the Canadians have been able to welcome more than 1,000 children between the ages of 8 and 13 out to historic Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium and provide them with the opportunity to play organized baseball, cost-free which includes their equipment, transportation and meals.
They also see more than 100 local volunteers donate their time to this project allowing children to feel safe, build confidence and learn the game of baseball on the same diamond that the Vancouver Canadians play on each summer. Follow the team on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for more information.
Dine Out Vancouver is an annual tradition, where you get to attend culinary events, snack at a food truck pod, taste delicacies from world-class chefs, and of course enjoy the classic prix-fixe tasting menus at over 200 restaurants. Now, you can Dine Out and stay close to home with options in Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford and beyond.
Dine Out in the Fraser Valley
The Keg Steakhouse and Bar locations in Langley and Surrey (on Scott Road and in Morgan Creek) are all participating. Can you say Prime Rib and Billy Miner Pie?
Charcoal & Woodz at the Holiday Inn Surrey, Cloverdale has a Dine Out menu with Lamb Osso Bucco, Grilled BC Sockeye Salmon, or Bourbon BBQ Baby Back Ribs House Smoked.
White Rock’s iconic Boathouse is participating, with lunch and dinner menu options. Chowder with Coconut Pacific Cod and Sea Salted Fries is just the ticket on these dreary January days.
Afghan Kitchen on 24th Ave in Surrey has a Vegetarian Dine Out Menu as well as a regular Dine Out Dinner Menu. Fresh Restaurant at the Sheraton in Guildford has a Dine Out Dinner Menu with optional wine pairing flight.
Neptune Seafood Restaurant (on King George Blvd) is a member of Commanderie des Cordons Bleu de France and their Dine Out Menu features dishes like Braised Whole Fresh Abalone with Vegetable or Cream Whole Lobster with E-Fu Noodle, or Pan Fried Rack of Lamb with Black Pepper or Stir Fried Jumbo Fresh Scallops with XO Sauce.
Pat Quinn’s Restaurant at Tsawwassen Springs has a Dine Out Lunch Menu and Dine Out Dinner Menu as well.
Moxie’s Restaurants in Langley and Abbotsford have a Dine Out Dinner Menu to enjoy, with options ranging from Spicy Tuna Rolls, to Guacamole, Red Thai Curry, and a Mini Sticky Toffee Pudding to round out your meal.
Reservations are highly encouraged and recommended. Click the links on each restaurant to view their full menus online and to book your tables during Dine Out Vancouver, January 19 to February 4, 2018.
Bonus: JRG Dine Out
The Joseph Richard Group’s 13 public houses (Abbotsford, Coquitlam, Langley, Maple Ridge, Richmond, Surrey and White Rock) and S+L Kitchen & Bar (Abbotsford, Langley, Surrey) locations will participate in their own JRG Dine Out, January 19 to February 4, 2018.
JRG’s culinary team, led by JRG Director of Culinary Operations Matthew Stowe (Top Chef Canada winner), has created a $20 menu for its public houses and a $40 menu for its three S+L Kitchen & Bar locations. Reservations are recommended.
