The Vancouver Festival of Ocean Films returns for its 8th year on June 4th, presenting a selection of short- and feature-length documentaries that focus on the ocean and the important role that this resource has in supporting healthy and prosperous communities and economies.
Vancouver Festival of Ocean Films
Where: Vancity Theatre (1181 Seymour St, Vancouver)
When: Sunday, June 4, 2017 3:00pm-9:30pm
Tickets: Tickets are $15 for a single screening, or $25 for the double header.
There are two screenings: 3:00pm and 7:30pm, with Q&As at 5:30pm and 9:30pm. The panel discussion on coastal waters begins at 6:30pm.
This year, marine experts and filmmakers will lead Q&As after each screening, and there will be a panel discussion (starting at 6:30pm) on cross-border marine protection, with experts from Canada and the United States.
The festival is also highlighting the Pacific Northwest’s Orca Awareness Month in June by presenting Sonic Sea, a feature film that investigates the impact that human-made noise is having on whales.
Net profits will be donated to Georgia Strait Alliance to assist with the organization’s mission to protect and restore the marine environment, and promote the sustainability of the Strait of Georgia, its adjoining waters and communities.
Win Tickets
I have a pair of tickets to give way to the full day of documentaries, Q&As with filmmakers, and a cross-border panel discussion with US and Indigenous input on marine management! 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 @VanOceanFilms http://owl.li/TcyO30c45nK” quote=” Click to enter via Twitter” theme=”style6″]
I will draw one winner at random from all entries at 12:00pm on Tuesday, May 30, 2017.
The Vancouver Festival of Ocean Films is dedicated to the issues, personalities and sports of the world’s oceans. The goal is to increase awareness about relationships with oceans, while educating and motivating audiences.
Update The winner is Jazzy!
The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd! The Vancouver Canadians start their season on June 15th with their first game at Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium on June 20th. Fans can expect a post-game fireworks extravaganza presented by Whistler Brewing. The first 2,500 fans to the ballpark will also receive a magnetic schedule giveaway also presented by Whistler Brewing.
This year, on top of affordable family fun cheering on our hometown boys, fans can enjoy 8 Fireworks Extravaganzas, 7 A&W Family Fun Sundays, 6 Scotiabank ‘Nooner at the Nat days, 3 Superstar Series Appearances and much more!
Here is the full promotional calendar for the Vancouver Canadians.
June 2017
- Tuesday, June 20, 2017 HOME OPENER: Fireworks Extravaganza/Magnetic Schedule Giveaway (first 2,500 fans) Presented by Whistler Brewing.
- Wednesday, June 21, 2017 Fireworks Extravaganza Presented by Rogers.
- Thursday, June 22, 2017 Scotiabank ‘Nooner at the Nat in support of Pacific Autism Family Network.
- Friday, June 23, 2017 Presented by Waste Management.
- Saturday, June 24, 2017 Fireworks Extravaganza/Seat Cushion Giveaway (first 500 fans). Presented by Cloverdale Paint.
- Sunday, June 25, 2017 A&W Family Fun Sunday/Pennant Giveaway (first 1,000 kids 12 and under).
- Thursday, June 29, 2017 Cooler Bag Giveaway (first 500 fans). Presented by Developmental Disabilities Association.
- Friday, June 30, 2017 Scotiabank ‘Nooner at the Nat. in support of Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver.
Get tickets online today »
July 2017
- Saturday, July 1, 2017 Canada Day Fireworks Extravaganza Presented by Scotiabank.
- Sunday, July 2, 2017 A&W Family Fun Sunday/Adjustable Cap Giveaway (first 500 kids 12 and under).
- Monday, July 3, 2017 Autographs – Fergie Jenkins & Gaylord Perry/Card Giveaway (first 1,000 fans). Presented by VIA Rail.
- Wednesday, July 12, 2017 Presented by Vancouver Coastal Health.
- Thursday, July 13, 2017 Dog Day Of Summer Presented by Petcurean Pet Nutrition.
- Friday, July 14, 2017 Scotiabank ‘Nooner at the Nat in support of Variety – the Children’s Charity.
- Saturday, July 15, 2017 Fireworks Extravaganza/hey y’all! Cowboy Boot Koozie Giveaway (first 1,500 fans, 19+) Presented by hey y’all! Southern Style Hard Iced Tea.
- Sunday, July 16, 2017 A&W Family Fun Sunday/Youth Jersey Giveaway (first 500 kids 12 and under).
- Monday, July 17, 2017 Presented by The Yale Saloon.
- Tuesday, July 18, 2017 Superstar Appearance by David Justice/Card Giveaway (first 1,000 fans) Presented by BC Sports Hall of Fame/Blakes.
- Wednesday, July 19, 2017 Scotiabank ‘Nooner at the Nat. in support of Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland.
- Friday, July 28, 2017 Presented by The Salvation Army.
- Saturday, July 29, 2017 Fireworks Extravaganza Presented by Scotiabank.
- Sunday, July 30, 2017 A&W Family Fun Sunday/Photoball Giveaway (first 1,000 kids 12 and under).
Get tickets online today »
August 2017
- Tuesday, August 8, 2017 Superstar Appearance by Corey Koskie/Card Giveaway (first 1,000 fans). Presented by BC Sports Hall of Fame/Blakes.
- Wednesday, August 9, 2017 Kevin Pillar Bobblehead Giveaway (first 1,000 fans). Presented by Scotiabank.
- Thursday, August 10, 2017 Scotiabank ‘Nooner at the Nat in support of Easter Seals BC
- Friday, August 11, 2017 Superstar Appearance by Fred McGriff/Card Giveaway (first 1,000 fans). Presented by BC Sports Hall of Fame/Blakes.
- Saturday, August 12, 2017 Fireworks Extravaganza Presented by Carter Honda.
- Sunday, August 13, 2017 A&W Family Fun Sunday/Batting Helmet Giveaway (first 1,000 kids 12 and under).
- Monday, August 14, 2017 Noah Syndergaard Bobblehead Giveaway (first 1,000 fans). Presented by The Keg Steakhouse + Bar.
- Tuesday, August 15, 2017 Presented by Vancouver Board of Parks and Rec.
- Sunday, August 20, 2017 A&W Family Fun Sunday/Kevin Pillar Superhero Cape Giveaway (first 500 kids 12 and under).
- Monday, August 21, 2017 Coors Snapback Cap Giveaway (first 500 fans, 19+).
- Saturday, August 26, 2017 Presented by Coors Light Fireworks Extravaganza Presented by Holborn.
- Sunday, August 27, 2017 A&W Family Fun Sunday/Umbrella Giveaway (first 500 fans).
- Monday, August 28, 2017 Team Photo Giveaway (First 2,500 fans). Presented by Van Houtte Coffee Services.
- Wednesday, August 30, 2017 Scotiabank’ Nooner at the Nat in support of Heart& Stroke Foundation
Tickets are on sale now starting at just $14! Follow the team on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram and use the tag #AtTheNat.
Guest post contributed and written by Jen Murtagh
I have often joked with fellow moms that there is no such thing as “vacation” when you have young children. The sheer amount of work it takes to pack, travel, plan and unpack with little ones isn’t really my idea of relaxation. However, this past weekend in Parksville, I felt like I was winning at parenthood.
Parksville is a short drive from Departure Bay or Duke Point in Nanaimo, about half-hour and the traffic actually moves quickly off the ferry. I have always enjoyed taking BC Ferries and my kids love it too. We often sit up on the top deck when I can tear them away from the kids play area and watch for whales and dolphins. They love grabbing a traditional White Spot lunch, followed by some Uno and colouring. My happy place is being on the water and even traveling on my own with the kids, I found some moments to relax this weekend.
Top 5 Things To Do in Parksville with Kids
1. Beach it up!
Parksville has the most amazing beaches. The beach in front of the Beach Club Resort reminded me of California where the tide goes out for miles and the sand is a dream for sandcastle creations. We spent about three hours building, playing, collecting sand dollars and picnicking out on the sand bars. Each summer, Parksville is home to the incredible Canadian Open Sand Sculpting competition and exhibition.
2. Park and Play
The community park is the jewel of Parksville including a beautiful waterfront boardwalk, skate park, water park and playground. My children spent hours here, moving from the water park to the playground. The playground is surrounded by a fantastic picnic area with benches, a grassy area and delicious food trucks in case you forgot to pack a picnic. My kids loved the mini waterslide, tire swing and zipline.
3. Mini Golf
Parksville boasts two mini golf courses – Paradise Fun Park and Riptide Lagoon. We tried out the courses at Riptide Lagoon and stayed for Island Farms ice cream after. I even managed to get a few hole in ones and the kids loved all the different obstacles.
4. Little Qualicum Cheeseworks and Morningstar Farms
Where can you go and sample about twenty different types of delectable cheeses and your kids can go on a scavenger hunt around a farm spotting (and allowed to pet) donkeys, rabbits, horses, cows and goats? Look no further than this quaint farm and local, ethical and sustainable farmstead cheese. We also spent some time in the “Calfe” for a hot chocolate and their famous Mars Bar rice krispie squares. Only about 10 minutes drive out of downtown Parksville.
5. Goats on the Roof
Coombs Old Country Market is a must when staying in Parksville. It is a quick 12 minute drive and worth at least an hour of your time (with kids) and likely more if you have more patient people in your party. I loved spending time in the market looking at all the amazing local food including some delicious local candied wild salmon and the kids quickly found some great little trinkets to remember their weekend.
Where to Stay & Eat
Photo courtesy Beach Club Resort
The Beach Club Resort has perfect positioning in Parksville, just a five minute walk to the playground along the waterfront boardwalk. The property itself is beautiful and has all the amenities you need when travelling with children. The kids couldn’t get enough of the indoor pool and hot tub! But when they did and we were all starving, they squealed with delight over room service.
Our server brought up the kids menus and crayons and colouring sheets so they could get the whole experience. The rooms, service and entire experience was outstanding. They also offer babysitting services if you want to enjoy a kid free dinner overlooking the sunset at Pacific Prime Restaurant on site. We are rebooking another trip for the summer soon before they sell out!
Also, give Cuckoo Italian Restaurant at Coombs Market a try for traditional Italian. My kids loved their wood-fired pizzas and I had a heavenly dinner including the best Caprese salad I have ever had and mouth watering pasta dish with seafood. We all enjoyed sharing the famous “Peanut Butter Stack” for dessert. Very kid friendly and the Italian music, patio lights and water features make this my most peaceful dining experience with kids yet.
Tips for Traveling BC Ferries
- Make reservations – I don’t know about you but standing by for multiple ferries over the long weekend with children, isn’t my preferred way to travel. We booked two weeks out with no problem.
- Take advantage of the kid friendly activities – Tsawwassen terminal has an awesome kids play park. I practically had to drag my children into the car when our departure was announced.
- Pack some extra jackets – on sunny days, we always hit the decks but it can be a lot cooler so to avoid meltdowns, pack some layers.
- If all else fails – kids zone. All the ferries I have travelled on to Nanaimo have the kids areas and I make it a habit to provide my kids with a 30 minute max so we can have some downtime of games and White Spot.
Plan your own Parksville getaway with resources from Destination BC and find more Vancouver Island articles here »
Are you looking for live music, dancing, family fun, and a ticket price of zero dollars? You are in luck! There is a handful of festivals around Metro Vancouver this summer and you won’t have to pay a thing to get in.
Burnaby Heights Hats Off Day
When: Saturday, June 3, 2017
Where: Hastings between Boundary & Gamma
Highlights: Hats Off Day is a huge, one-day extravaganza featuring a colourful main-street style parade followed by a big street party. The street is packed with nearly 100,000 families, friends, neighbours, and merchants each year!
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Unite! A Celebration of Canadian Multiculturalism
When: Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Where: North Point & West Promenade, Canada Place
Highlights: Engage with artisans and roaming performers, participate in a variety of interactive experiences, workshops, and creation stations as you make your way to the North Point for the main event. Popular performers including musicians, dancers and drummers. The day will finish off with a free concert on the stage at the North Point, featuring Alex Cuba and headliners Delhi 2 Dublin.
More Info: Website | Facebook
Italian Day on The Drive
When: Sunday, June 11, 2017
Where: Commercial Drive
Highlights: E Italian Day on The Drive represents the largest one day cultural street festival in the city – and perhaps in Canada – drawing over 350,000 enthusiastic attendees of all cultures and ages. It is a multi-cultural and community embrace under the Italian Day umbrella offering over 200 street participants comprised of: sponsors, merchants, retail booths, food vendors and restaurant patios, as well as stages with live music and theatre, street performers, classic cars, activities and displays, children’s amusement zones and more.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Point Grey Fiesta
When: Saturday, June 17, 2017 (Carnival June 16-18)
Where: Trimble Park (2250 Trimble St, Vancouver)
Highlights: The Point Grey Fiesta is the community’s annual start-of-summer event for families and friends. Starting with a Saturday parade on West 10th avenue, the Saturday celebration continues in Trimble Park with stage performances, activities and exhibitors. Carnival rides in Trimble Park operate from Friday to Sunday. With the exception of the carnival rides and midway games, Fiesta entertainment and children’s activities are free of charge.
More Info: Website | Facebook
Lynn Valley Days
When: Friday, June 16 to Sunday, June 18, 2017
Where: Lynn Valley field
Highlights: Friday night is a gala under the big top tent; Saturday there is a family fair with carnival rides, and a dance; Sunday is a Father’s Day pancake breakfast.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Car Free Day in Vancouver
When: June 17 & June 18, 2017 and July 9, 2017
Where: Main Street, West End, Kitsilano, and Commercial Drive
Highlights: 4 festivals, 3 days, 2 weekends of community block parties, live music, and more. Main Street spans 21 blocks and will have 15 stages; West End will be all along Denman from Robson to Davie, and there will be block parties all throughout Kitsilano.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Khatsahlano Street Part
When: Saturday, July 8, 2017
Where: Along West 4th Ave in Kitsilano
Highlights: Khatsahlano, features multiple stages showcasing more than 50 of Vancouver’s top musical performers as well as the eclectic work of local artisans and street performers. This 10-block street fair, spanning from Burrard to MacDonald Street also features a wide variety of food options, bustling patios, giveaways, special activities, and licensed beer gardens. Catch The Zolas, DOA, Louise Burns, War Baby, Roots Roundup, Malcolm Jack, and more on stage.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Carnaval del Sol
When: Saturday, July 8 & Sunday, July 9 2017
Where: 88 Pacific Blvd, North False Creek
Highlights: The largest latin carnaval in the Pacific Northwest. Live music, dancing, art, a beer plaza, a travel plaza with cooking demos, family plaza with fashion shows, kids plaza, food plaza and more.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Honeybee Festival
When: Saturday July 15 & Sunday July 16, 2017
Where: Honeybee Centre (7480 176 St at Fraser Hwy, Surrey)
Highlights: Family fun, face painting, Beestro food, and live musical entertainment with Bee Beard Showcase and beekeeping demos to awe happy crowds.
More Info: Website | Facebook
Surrey Fusion Festival
When: Saturday, July 22 & Sunday, July 23, 2017
Where: Holland Park, Surrey
Highlights: Nelly Furtado will be headlining this year’s festival and the full lineup will be announced soon. Enjoy activities, crafts, food, and demos from dozens of vendors and over 40 cultural pavilions. Over 70 performances will be scheduled on 4 stages throughout the two-day festival.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Columbia StrEAT Food Truck Festival
When: Saturday, July 29, 2017
Where: Downtown New Westminster
Highlights: The largest one day food truck festival in Canada! Join 120,000 other attendees for this street festival, admission is free. Then, purchase snacks and meals from Vij’s Railway Express, Tacofino Vancouver, JAPADOG, Flying Fish N Chipper, Feastro Taco Truck & Catering, and many more.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Celebration of Light & Park Stage at Second Beach
When: Saturday, July 29; Wednesday, August 2; Saturday, August 5
Where: Second Beach, Stanley Park
Highlights: New this year! The Celebration of Music at Second Beach in Stanley Park taking place all 3 days of the Celebration of Light. The Park Stage at Second Beach will host areas to view the fireworks at English Bay and an array of performers along with food and drinks. Programming announcements coming soon.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Harmony Arts Festival
When: August 4-13, 2017
Where: West Vancouver’s waterfront, between 14th & 17th St on Argyle Ave
Highlights: Details coming soon for the 27th annual event. All but two events are FREE. Enjoy visual art exhibit, art market (two weekends), outdoor concerts on two stages, licensed beachside restaurant spaces in the heart of the action, variety of food vendors and delicious treats, drop-in art activities for both kids and adults.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Kaleidoscope Arts Festival
When: Saturday, August 12, 2017
Where: Town Centre Park, Coquitlam
Highlights: Featuring Bif Naked, The Matinee, and more live entertainment. Savour the flavours of the local food truck and craft brew scene, enjoy the very best of mucic and dance, and check out the handiworks at the artisan fair.
More Info: Website | Facebook | Twitter
Have more to add? Send in your event and festival info for a free listing in Miss604’s monthly event roundup or to be included in this post.
