Even though it feels like university is all there is right now, don’t forget the world-class city that’s just beyond Blanca Street.
I’ve had the privilege of living in Vancouver for over 17 years now, and I can tell you first hand - there’s a reason that people (my family included!) continue to move here. Whether you're into art, history, sports, or even just being part of the community beyond UBC, there’s something for you. So, put down those textbooks you’ve been poring over, and start exploring.
Here are 5 events happening in Vancouver that are all just a bus ride away from UBC:
Community
Nat Bailey Stadium Winter Farmers Market
Every Saturday from November to April, head to Nat Bailey Stadium and spend your morning perusing the stalls of this farmers market. There will be food trucks, musicians, locally grown produce, and handmade artisanal crafts (hello Christmas presents!). It’s a quaint market you’ll love to explore.
Bus: 25
Sports/Entertainment
Canada's Women’s Soccer Team vs. USA
This game between arch rivals on Thursday, November 9 at 7 pm at BC Stadium will have you cheering from the edge of your seat. If you haven’t experienced a proper soccer match in Canada yet, this is the one to attend. Tickets are a decent price for students, and you’ll get to support our fantastic women’s soccer team. Even if you can’t attend in person, grab some friends and watch the game on TV together.
Bus: 4
History
Over the long weekend, spend the morning on Saturday, November 11 honouring veterans alongside Vancouver locals. Ceremonies are happening all over the city, but the one downtown by the Cenotaph is very accessible to students. Afterwards you can take some time to explore downtown and Stanley Park.
Bus: 84
Arts
Take some time November 16 to 19 to discover Vancouver’s Eastside through an artist’s lens at this festival that has been happening for over 20 years. Explore 88 artist studios and meet up to 500+ artists at this 4-day festival. I hear you can even get your hands dirty in a sculpting workshop (maybe we can build mock diplomas?).
Bus: 44
Tradition
Lights of Hope Community Celebration
Christmas season does not start in Vancouver until the lights outside St. Paul’s Hospital shine bright. It’s part of the fundraising effort for St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation. Join this special evening on November 16 for the official lighting of over 100,000 bulbs that were all put up by volunteers. There will be fireworks, food trucks, and live music to enjoy. It’s a mandatory Vancouverite experience, but even if you miss it, don’t worry - the lights will be shining bright until January 8.
Bus: 44
Well, there you have it, 5 events that showcase a bit of what Vancouver has to offer. Hop on those buses and take the time to see why this city is one of the best in the world.
