Top Things to do in Vancouver this January

Vancouver has no shortage of entertainment and activities on offer this January.  With the PuSh Festival and the 2010 Cultural Olympiad, the city is rich with arts and culture events this month. Use this guide to help fill up your calendar!

Vancouver Polar Bear Swim

January 1, 2010 (2:30 pm)

Looking for something to do on New Year’s Day? Why not check out a 90 year Vancouver tradition. Last year 1,588 swimmers participated in the annual Vancouver Polar Bear Swim, which takes place at English Bay Beach, every New Year’s Day at 2:30pm.  Come as a spectator or register to be a club member and participate yourself.  Registration happens in front of English Bay Boathouse starting at 12:30pm.  For more information click here.

Vancouver Giants Games

Various Dates

The Vancouver Giants were on winning streak in late December and are looking to carry their momentum forward into the New Year.  Get a sneak peak of tomorrow’s NHL stars in the making and enjoy a night at the game with family or friends.  Tickets are available for under $20. 

Science World After Dark

January 15, 2010 (7-10 pm)

An adult-only evening at Science World.  Explore the galleries, enjoy a beverage (cash bar) and be entertained by local comedians.  Tickets are $19.75 per person. 

PuSh International Performing Arts Festival

Photo: White Cabin at the Push Festival
Credit: Ken Reinolds

January 20, 2010- February 6, 2010

PuSh International Performing Arts Festival is Vancouver’s mid-winter performing arts festival, presenting acclaimed local, national and international artists and their work. The 6th annual PuSh Festival takes place January 20 - February 6, 2010 at venues in and around Vancouver and offers work from Canada, the United States, France, Russia, Australia, Germany and the Netherlands. The 2010 PuSh Festival boasts 14 shows in 11 venues. Tickets and PuSh Passes on sale now. See pushfestival.ca, or pick up a Program Guide at any JJ Bean location.  

2010 Cultural Olympiad

January 22, 2010 to March 21, 2010

Leading up to and during the Olympic Games, some of the world’s top artists will be in Vancouver showcasing their talents and making Vancouver a hub for arts and entertainment.  The Cultural Olympiad offers genre-bending theatre, dance, music and visual and digital art displays.   Keep on top of the events in your area by visiting the website.

Lunar Fest

January 22, 2010- February 28, 2010

Visit the 700 Block of Granville Street, Vancouver (between Georgia and Robson) and feast your eyes on a beautiful array of lanterns decorated by school children, Aboriginal creators and professional artists from Canada and Taiwan.  The event is free to the public. Click here for details.

Skating at Robson Square

Open daily noon to 9pm

Take advantage of the opportunity to go skating in the heart of downtown Vancouver! The outdoor skating rink at Robson Square has been reopened for the first time in almost 10 years.  Skating is free and ice skate rentals are $3 for those over 12. 

Photo:White Cabin (at the PuSh Festival this January)

Credit: Ken Reinolds courtesy of PuSh Festival