Things to Do in Vancouver: April 2021
Wendy Underwood
Technically, spring starts in March, but April is when it really hits its stride here in Vancouver. And now that we’re able to get together outside in small groups, we can start to enjoy that sunshine, those cherry blossoms, and maybe even start taking our exercise routine outdoors with a sea wall run and weekend bike rides. We’ve put together a list of our top picks for things to do in Vancouver this month, and while some can be done right from your own home, there are some that roll easily into a little downtown Vancouver staycation. As long as you’re not venturing outside of your own BC health region, spending a night or two in a hotel (with strict health protocols in place) is a safe way of boosting your mental health and giving you a getaway close to home.
Imagine Van Gogh
March 19 – August 29
Most of us are familiar with Vincent van Gogh’s most famous works: The Starry Night, Irises and Sunflowers, and this immersive experience gives us new ways to appreciate the Dutch painter’s works. Presented in the spacious facilities at the Vancouver Convention Centre, Imagine Van Gogh brings together 200 works from the last two years of van Gogh’s life, projecting them with “Image Totale” technology, and accompanied by music by some of era’s most important composers.
Capture Photography Festival
April 2 – 30
As Western Canada’s largest lens-based art festival, Capture Photography Festival brings together gallery-based exhibitions, a public art program, youth-oriented art education, and events throughout the Metro Vancouver area. This year’s festival ranges from Pictures and Promises at Vancouver Art Gallery and Feast for the Eyes at The Polygon Gallery, through to a virtual speaker series, and public pieces like Jordan Bennett’s al’taqiaq: it spirals on the BC Hydro Dal Grauer Substation—a couple of blocks past The Burrard.
Vancouver Sun Run Virtual Race
April 18 – 30
This year, Canada’s largest 10K run is going virtual, which means you can take part no matter where you are. Whether you decide to participate in the Vancouver Sun Run Virtual Race as an individual or as part of a team, you can clock your kilometres, support a charity, and even get a commemorative medal. Register online up until April 13, collect your runner’s swag bag (or have it shipped to you), plot your race route and hit the road any time from April 18 to 30.
Poutine with Purpose
April 23 – May 1
We don’t need an excuse to enjoy the classically Canadian combo of fries, cheese curds and gravy, but if you do, then the annual Poutine with Purpose event has your back! For every poutine purchased at a participating restaurant, one healthy Mealshare meal will be provided to a youth in need. Check the event’s website or Instagram account for Vancouver restaurants taking part.
Planning an April visit to Vancouver? Search our site for some great rates!
Photo Credits:
Feature Image – running on the seawall: Tourism Vancouver / Tanya Goehring
Imagine Van Gogh: Imagine Van Gogh website
Capture Photography Festival – Jordan Bennett, al’taqiaq: it spirals: Capture website
Vancouver Sun Run Virtual Race: Sporlab via Unsplash
Poutine with Purpose: Francisca Alvarez on Unsplash
