The Top Things to Do in Vancouver August 31 - September 6, 2009

Monday, August 31, 2009 – Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival - Richard II

On until September 18, Richard II is at Vanier Park for the annual Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival. The story revolves around Richard II, who has claimed control from former counsellors, but made a series of bad decisions that could threaten his crown. It's a series of challenges for all involved in this medieval drama. Get more info at Bard on the Beach or call  604-739-0559.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009 – Lee Maracle

Acclaimed Aboriginal author Lee Maracle reads from her latest novel Will's Garden, a story about a young Sto:loh man coming of age and the ceremonial traditions of Sto: loh boys becoming men. The reading is free, and goes from 7:30 to 9 pm in the Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye Rooms, located in the Lower Level of the Central Library (350 West Georgia Street).

Wednesday, September 2, 2009 –  Community Quilt Project

The Downtown Eastside Centre for the Arts is offering these free drop-in workshops on Mondays and Thursdays from 1-4 at the Interurban Gallery (1 E Hastings). Everyone is invited to come and create a fabric art square for the community quilt, and all supplies and instruction are provided. The quilt squares will be merged together in a collaborative quilt that celebrates diversity and community spirit. The project culminates with an exhibition and silent auction in October. Get more info here or email lisa@decentreforthearts.com.

Thursday, September 3, 2009 –  Hockey Canada Cup Women's Hockey

National women's teams from Canada, the US, Finland and Sweden compete in the Hockey Canada Cup tournament at GM Place (800 Griffiths Way). Get your tickets at Vancouver.com.

Friday, September 4,  2009 – Band of Horses

Seattle duo Band of Horses is at the Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville Street) tonight to play songs from their latest album SubPop. Doors open at 8 pm, and the show starts at 9:30. Find tickets here.

Saturday, September 5, 2009 –   Singles Intro Night to Bartending, Mixing & Tasting

Mix up some cocktails and meet other singles at Meet Market Adventures' night at the Fine Art Bartending School (432 W. Pender, Vancouver). Mix, mingle and sample various drinks  in small groups, where you will have a chance to learn to pour like a true bartender. The evening starts at 6:30 pm, and the cost is $39.99. You can reserve a spot through the Meet Market website, call  1-800-239-0542, or email info@meetmarketadventures.com.

Sunday, September 6, 2009 –   Artful Sundays

It's the last Sunday of Artful Sundays, an outdoor market featuring work and demonstrations by local artists, musicians and community groups, hosted by the Britannia Community Centre. The event is located in Napier Square at Commercial Drive from noon until 5 pm. Find out more at the Brittania Centre site, or call 604-718-5800.