Things to Do This Week, July 12 to July 18

Monday, July 12, 2010 – The Photographs of Ishimoto Yasuhiro

Yasuhiro is known as one of the most influential postwar Japanese photographers. An exhibition of 50 of his contemporary black and white photographs is on display at the National Nikkei Museum & Heritage Centre  daily from 11-5 pm until August 7.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010 – The Lion King

The spectacular and long-running Lion King show is nearing its finale. See Simba and company on the stage of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre (600 Hamilton St.) tonight at 7:30 pm. Get tickets for tonight, or if you can’t make this performance, grab tickets for another night this week.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010 – Dinner and a Movie: The Goonies

Do the Truffle Shuffle! This week’s free movie is the Goonies, a hilarious 80’s movie about a group of teen friends who attempt to save their families’ homes from foreclosure, which leads them on a wild adventure. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy this family film on the giant inflatable screen. The “Dinner and a Movie” series is at Ceperley Meadow (near Second Beach in Stanley Park) throughout July. See the complete lineup of films here.

Thursday, July 15, 2010 – Treasure!

Come explore incredible discoveries at Treasure! at the TELUS World of Science (1455 Quebec Street). Learn all about underwater treasure, buried treasure, gold rushes, pirates and more as you attempt to crack a safe,  try geocaching and see displays of amazing artifacts. Treasure! is on until September 6, 2010.

Friday, July 16, 2010 – 2010 Vancouver Folk Music Festival

Let's hope the weather stays warm and sunny for the 2010 Vancouver Folk Music Festival at Jericho Beach until Sunday. Enjoy an eclectic lineup of artists and groups like Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, Naomi Shelton & the Gospel Queens, Sarah Harmer and 60 other performers from around the world. There will also be food, shopping and kids’ activities. Kids get in for free (must be accompanied by an adult). There are a number of different ticket options available, depending on how many days you want to attend. Find ticket prices and info at the Festival site.

Saturday, July 17, 2010 – BC Renaissance Festival

Go back in time to the 16th century for the exciting BC Renaissance Festival, on until July 18 at M&M Connemaras Farm (24680 80th Ave, Langley). Bring the family out to see King James’ Court return to land after an attack by pirates at sea. Meet the characters of Steller’s Grove, watch jousts, musical performances and more! Admission: Adults $15, Children/Seniors $10; family rates available.

Sunday, July 18, 2010 – The Cat Empire

Alternative Australian band the Cat Empire is in Vancouver tonight at the Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville Street) at 8:00 pm. Their latest album, CINEMA, is receiving reviews like this one from Scene Magazine:  “With a collective sigh of relief the world is once again supplied with the goodness that is The Cat Empire…Ten stars to this one.” After seeing the show, you’ll agree. Find tickets and show info here.