by Gregory Adams
September's one of those brilliant transitional months, a time where you can get in those last licks of summer swimming at Third Beach before zipping up your jacket and walking through the freshly fallen leaves. From catching the hottest sounds at a brand new music fest, to seeing a far-out Fringe play, to getting an authentic taste of Mexico, these are a few events to keep the rest of your September interesting. [Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver/Dannielle Hayes]
Wild out at Westward Fest
Fans of music of all flavours can gorge on a ton of out of town and local talent during this year's downtown-centric Westward Festival, which will be spread out across top-notch clubs like the Vogue Theatre, Imperial Theatre, Fox Cabaret, Biltmore Cabaret and the outdoor stage at Red Truck Beer Company. Running September 14-17, the inaugural edition of the genre-blurring event brings out electronic “powwow-step” players A Tribe Called Red, Toronto pop-punks Pup, Cali rapper Vince Staples and local mood-pop explorer Hannah Georgas, among many others.
See something fabulously freaky at Fringe
Sure to be full of unorthodox shocks and belly laughs, the always far-out Vancouver Fringe Festival is bringing 100 shows through the local theatre scene from September 7-17. From adult-only shadow puppet shows, to a musical version of John Waters' Cry-Baby, to intimate one-person performances, the celebrated Fringe is ready to once again deliver "theatre for everyone."
Jump into a bold world of cinema during VIFF
Following another summer of super hero blockbusters, the Vancouver International Film Festival arrives as a breath of fresh air for cinema fans. While the jam-packed screening schedule is set to show off flicks from around the globe, you may also check out a local indie film or two. Buy a pass and some popcorn and dive in – the annual event is bringing hundreds of movies to local screens across town, from experimental horror to pensive documentaries and so much more.
Enjoy a taste of Mexico
Organized by the same team that brought together YVR Food Fest, the debut Market Mexico event at Robson Square on September 16th is a homage to Mexico's many outdoor markets. On the food front, Market Mexico will be serving plenty of tacos, tortas and creamy horchatas, with participating vendors including Fayuca and La Mezcaleria. You can also pick up an assortment of artisanal items and dried goods, while also enjoying a program of music and film.
Have a celebratory meal (for a cause) at The Lion's Den
All-day breakfast café The Lion's Den is celebrating its 18th anniversary on September 9th. The family-run favourite on Kingsway has already teased that they'll be serving jambalaya, Southern fried chicken, and their list of Caribbean specialties all day long. The birthday party will also be raising funds for restaurant renovations and co-owner Ken Brooks’ recovery from a stroke.
Raise money for cancer research at the Terry Fox Run
It's been 37 years since legendary hero Terry Fox attempted to run across Canada for cancer awareness. Each year people across the country honour his Marathon of Hope, running to raise funds for cancer research around the globe. There will be a number of events held nationwide, but Vancouverites can sign up for either a three or 10 km run around Stanley Park. The route is also open to cyclists, rollerbladers and wheelchairs.
Lounge with the Indie Kids on Labour Day Weekend
Co-sponsored by UBC's CiTR radio station and the Music Waste festival, the tunes-heavy Victory Square Block Party on September 3rd is one of the Vancouver's longest-running treasures. Lay a blanket across the grass hill by Cambie and Pender this Labour Day weekend and close out the summer with a free outdoor concert in the DTES. This year's wide range of acts includes slacker rock crew Dumb, R&B trio Laydy Jams and punk quartet Needles//Pins.
