Have things gotten better?? Yes.

Has the world gotten better?? No.

Will we get through this chapter? I know we will and I have the utmost hope as long as we keep working together as a team. Focus on adding value to each others lives vs. constantly taking from one another. Focusing on having short uncomfortable conversations is better than overthinking, worrying and harbouring resentments.

Will that be all I will say on the matter? Yes.

Going forward I wont be placing myself on the back burner, I will be putting myself first cause I deserve it. That isn’t selfish, that is just taking care of myself whereas before all I did was pour into everyone else around me while I burned up from the inside out.

So this is a new me, a new place in my life and a new future that I hope will make me happier and the ones I love most happier.

Now… after all that you can expect to see things getting back to normal around here. I will be posting regularly again, attending events once more and showing you who Eschelle really is. For the last few years I have been a shell of myself. Most of you who know me, don’t. I am so excited to be myself again, to reconnect to myself after years of being just “mom” and “wife”.

I am solely Eschelle now and I have missed her light so much, nothing will take it from me again. May my glow up continue and my spirit soar.

For parents, film lovers, and Vancouverites looking for a cultural adventure this fall, here’s everything you need to know about VIFF 2025—and why it’s shaping up to be the most ambitious festival in its 44-year history.

Opening and Closing Nights: Bookending the Festival with Legends

VIFF will open with Richard Linklater’s Nouvelle Vague, a lively dramatization of the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s Breathless—a film that changed cinema forever. Starring Guillaume Marbeck, Zoey Deutch, and Aubry Dullin, the film dives into the chaotic and exhilarating spirit of the French New Wave.

The festival closes with Ido Fluk’s Köln 75, which follows 16-year-old music promoter Vera Brandes (Mala Emde) as she struggles to stage the now-iconic 1975 concert that became Keith Jarrett’s The Köln Concert. The closing gala includes a special live solo performance by Vancouver pianist Chris Gestrin, bringing Jarrett’s music to life in real time.

Global Highlights: From Cannes to Canadian Premieres

This year’s program is loaded with some of the most buzzed-about films of the year. Expect Canadian premieres of Jim Jarmusch’s Father Mother Sister Brother, Noah Baumbach’s Jay Kelly, and Paolo Sorrentino’s La Grazia. VIFF is also bringing every major Cannes award-winner to Vancouver, including Jafar Panahi’s It Was Just an Accident (Palme d’Or winner) and the North American premiere of Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne’s Young Mothers.

Film lovers will also get a chance to see an extraordinary Spotlight on Korea, featuring new films from Park Chan-wook (No Other Choice), Hong Sangsoo (What Does That Nature Say to You), and seven emerging Korean directors presenting three world premieres.

Celebrating Canadian Talent

For local families, one of the most exciting parts of VIFF is how it elevates British Columbia’s own filmmakers. This year’s BC-produced highlights include:

• Akashi by Mayumi Yoshida (World Premiere)
• Clan of the Painted Lady by Jennifer Chiu (World Premiere)
• Treasure of the Rice Terraces by Kent Donguines (World Premiere)
• The Painted Life of E.J. Hughes by Jenn Strom (World Premiere)
• Thanks to the Hard Work of the Elephants by Bryce Hodgson (World Premiere)

This strong local lineup makes VIFF a great place to introduce teens to the creativity flourishing in their own backyard.

Beyond the Screen: VIFF Talks, VIFF Live & Signals

VIFF is more than just a film festival—it’s an entire cultural playground.

• VIFF Talks bring audiences face-to-face with cinematic innovators. This year’s highlights include conversations with writer Jenny Lumet (Rachel Getting Married, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds), Janicza Bravo (Zola), and iconic Inuk filmmaker Zacharias Kunuk (Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner).
• VIFF Live delivers one-of-a-kind events where music and film intersect. Don’t miss Mad Professor’s live dub performance, claire rousay’s live score for The Bloody Lady, and an ambient collaboration between Julianna Barwick and loscil.
• Signals Creative Tech Expo explores how technology is transforming storytelling, from XR installations to AI-driven art. This year’s theme, Lightening Stories and Collective Dreams, prioritizes healing, human connection, and imagination—an incredible family outing for older teens interested in tech, art, and gaming.

Artist & Industry Programming

For filmmakers, creators, and storytellers, VIFF offers Industry Days and Artist & Industry programming designed to build careers and foster collaboration. Panels cover everything from co-producing Canadian and Korean stories to rethinking animation as auteur cinema, and even exploring AI’s impact on acting and post-production.

Music creators will love VIFF Amp, the Music in Media Summit, which connects composers and producers with industry leaders—including workshops with Riot Games, Pixar’s Danna brothers, and a composer-filmmaker accelerator featuring the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

Tickets, Passes & Accessibility

Tickets for VIFF 2025 are designed to be as flexible as possible, with single tickets starting at $21 and discounted packs available. The free U25 membership is perfect for students and young adults, offering further discounts. Passes for dedicated festival-goers and industry professionals are also available, including Platinum Passes for those planning to see everything.

Why VIFF 2025 Matters

As VIFF Executive Director Kyle Fostner puts it, “In a world grappling with tension and austerity, it’s a privilege to be at VIFF during a period of optimism and ascendence.” With 20% more screenings than last year, a record-breaking number of premieres, and an expanded presence across Vancouver, VIFF 2025 feels like a true celebration—not just of cinema, but of community, creativity, and connection.

Whether you’re a film buff, a music lover, a tech enthusiast, or just a parent looking for an inspiring night out, VIFF 2025 offers a program worth marking on your calendar.

Learn more and grab tickets at viff.org

Date: August 14, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM–late
Tickets: Early Bird $34.95 | Regular $39.95 (19+ only)

For the first time ever, Science World’s wildly popular After Dark series is heading outdoors for a summer party that blends chill vibes with electrifying experiences. From glowing dance shows to bottle rocket launches, this is your chance to unleash your inner kid while sipping wine under the stars.

What’s Happening Outside?

The Ken Spencer Science Park—a lush, 35,000 square foot outdoor gallery—will transform into a summer playground for the senses. Enjoy live sets from talented BC musicians, chat with local outdoor enthusiasts, and make your very own magnet detector (yes, that’s a thing—and yes, it’s super cool).

Watch bottle rockets blast off from the outdoor stage and grab some sunshine-friendly snacks or a limited edition milkshake from Triple O’s. Whether you’re a science geek or just in it for the summer vibes, this park party promises to spark joy.

And Then… The Sparks Fly Indoors

As the sun sets, the party moves inside—but the energy ramps up.

Expect dramatic electricity shows that will literally send sparks flying and an unforgettable performance by the Sliver Sisterz, a mesmerizing LED light dance troupe that brings glowing, futuristic fantasy to life. And don’t miss the musical Tesla coil—because yes, we made singing lightning a thing.

With access to all of Science World’s exhibits—and not a child in sight—you’re free to geek out, chill out, and play the night away.

Good Stuff to Know:

• Doors open at 6PM—come early, stay late!
• Indoor and outdoor fun (the party moves indoors at 9PM).
• Food and drinks available for purchase, including beer, wine, burgers, shakes, popcorn, and more.
• Tickets are limited and WILL sell out. Grab yours before they’re gone.
• 19+ only—bring your government ID.
• All sales final, and security checks are in place for everyone’s safety.

Don’t wait—this one-night-only summer bash is going to be legendary.
Grab your tickets now and #TreatYoSelf to After Dark.

You’ve probably already seen BuzzPatch mosquito repellent stickers pop up on your feed (yes, even Kim K gave them a nod), but NATPAT is more than just a bug solution — it’s a whole lineup of wellness patches powered by essential oils and science, designed for kids and grownups.

What Makes NATPAT Different?

These aren’t your typical sprays or sugary supplements. NATPAT products are:

Backed by science — Formulated with the input of pediatricians and aromatherapists
Compostable & kid-approved — No goopy mess, no fuss, and designs your kids will actually want to wear
TSA-safe & travel-ready — Perfect for plane rides, road trips, or just a walk through the park

And let me tell you: they work.

A Patch for Everything

• BuzzPatch: These mosquito repellent stickers are our new camping and park-day must-haves. No sticky spray, no chemical smell — just a fun, wearable solution that actually keeps the bugs away.
• SleepyPatch: Infused with calming essential oils, these are perfect for winding down before bed (especially helpful in unfamiliar hotel rooms or over-exciting summer sleepovers).
• FocusPatch & ZenPatch: Whether it’s for helping your kid through a long car ride or easing screen-time comedown, these stickers offer a gentle sensory cue to help bring the calm back.

Why We Love Them

What stood out most to me — beyond the effectiveness — was how easy NATPAT makes wellness feel. No pills to remember, no messy balms, no negotiating with a stubborn preschooler. Just peel, stick, and go.

The designs are also a huge hit in our house. Bright, cheerful, and playful enough that even my sticker-snob six-year-old was excited to wear them. And as a parent? I love knowing I’m using a natural, Aussie-made solution that aligns with my crunchy mom goals without sacrificing convenience.

Whether you’re heading out on a road trip, tackling backyard bugs, or just trying to get your kids to wind down after a popsicle-fueled day in the sun — The Natural Patch delivers real results in a way that’s gentle, safe, and seriously cute. These are now a permanent fixture in our travel bag and home wellness kit, and I truly can’t recommend them enough. These are perfect for adding to your parenting arsenal and other precautions for sure.

This isn’t your typical mall event. This is a cosmic-level dance parade, complete with a mobile DJ, high-energy dance performers, and an invitation for everyone to join in. Whether your little ones love to break out their best moves or they’re just starting to find their rhythm, this event promises an unforgettable afternoon of music, movement, and pure joy.

What to Expect

The dance party kicks off on the Upper Level, right in front of the Central Boulevard entrance (across from Basha). From there, the celebration becomes mobile—led by a professional DJ spinning crowd-pleasing summer tracks and vibrant dance performers who will guide the energy throughout the mall.

You can follow the rhythm and dance alongside the performers, or just soak up the fun as the parade passes by. This event is designed for all ages, so whether you’re attending with toddlers, teens, or just in need of a grown-up groove session, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s Free: No need to register or buy tickets—just show up and enjoy.
• It’s Active: A perfect way to keep kids engaged and burn off some summer energy.
• It’s Social: Join other families, connect with your community, and make some dance floor memories.
• It’s Indoors: Beat the summer heat in air-conditioned comfort without sacrificing summer vibes.

Plus, after the party wraps, you can stick around and explore Metrotown’s many family-friendly dining spots, do a little shopping, or even treat the kids to a sweet snack as a post-dance reward.

Event Details Recap:

What: Galaxy Dance Party
When: Saturday, July 19, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: Upper Level – In front of the Central Blvd Entrance (across from Basha), Metropolis at Metrotown
Cost: Free and open to all ages

Whether your kids are tiny dance machines or you’re just looking for a lighthearted way to spend a summer afternoon, the Galaxy Dance Party is a perfect excuse to get out of the house, enjoy great music, and make a few memories together. It’s one of those events that proves you don’t need a big trip or a huge budget to have a lot of fun.

So mark your calendar, grab your dancing shoes (or sandals), and get ready to groove your way through Metrotown this Saturday.

We’ll see you on the dance floor.

Running now through April 6, 2026, this interactive exhibit combines space exploration, engineering challenges, and—everyone’s favourite building block—LEGO bricks. And with just a little bit of prep (or none at all!), this can easily become the highlight of your homeschool week.

Learning Goals: What This Exhibition Teaches

The Artemis exhibit is designed with STEAM learning in mind, so you’re covering more than just space facts. Key concepts include:

• Engineering design principles (build, test, redesign)
• Problem-solving and logic
• Geometry and spatial awareness
• History of space exploration
• International cooperation through the Artemis Program
• Hands-on application of theoretical learning

It’s a dream for both visual learners and kinetic thinkers. Best of all? You don’t need a textbook—just curiosity and a LEGO-loving attitude.

Homeschooling Tips: How to Prep for Your Visit

Younger Kids (Ages 4–8)

Before you go:

• Read “The Darkest Dark” by Chris Hadfield or “There’s No Place Like Space” from the Cat in the Hat Learning Library.
• Practice shape recognition using space-themed objects (e.g., “How many rectangles are in a rocket ship?”).
• Introduce vocabulary like “astronaut,” “rover,” “gravity,” and “mission.”

On-site:

• Shape Hunt: How many circles, triangles, and squares can they spot in the LEGO builds?
• Storytime Extension: Encourage them to create a story about the Moon or Mars using the free-build LEGO stations.
• Visit the Neil Armstrong model and ask: “What would you pack if you were landing on the Moon?”

Older Kids (Ages 9–14)

Before you go:

• Watch NASA’s Artemis I: Mission to the Moon mini-documentary (great for pre-visit context).
• Discuss basic physics: What forces act on a rocket during takeoff?
• Have them research which countries are involved in the Artemis Program and why international collaboration is so vital.

On-site:

• Investigative Questions: Which model used the most LEGO pieces? Which model likely took the most time to build?
• Space Math: Use the worksheet (below) to apply real-world math to what they see.
• Flag Spotting Challenge: Can they identify the country flags on the International Space Station LEGO model? How many can they find?

Optional Extension Activities at Home

• Creative Writing Prompt: Write a journal entry as if you’re an Artemis astronaut landing on the Moon for the first time.
• Build Your Own: Try to recreate a real spacecraft using LEGO at home.
• Research Challenge: Pick one of the countries whose flag you saw and learn about their space program.

Of course I have also prepared a printable worksheet you can also bring along with you if you wish!

Why It’s Worth It

Homeschoolers, this exhibit is more than just a field trip—it’s an immersive unit study rolled into a day of family fun. You can tailor your visit to your child’s interests and educational needs, while still enjoying the wonder, imagination, and excitement that only LEGO and outer space can deliver together.

Plus, it’s all happening at Science World, which means you can wrap your day with a visit to the Eureka! Gallery, take a stroll along the seawall, or pop into White Spot for a post-launch burger.

Admission and full exhibit details can be found at scienceworld.ca. Don’t forget to bring your camera—there are lots of opportunities for those scrapbook-worthy astronaut poses!

From intergalactic art installations to a massive multicultural food market and hands-on educational experiences, this summer activation is designed with every member of the family in mind.

Summer Market at the Met: A Stellar Culinary Voyage (July 3–6)

The flagship event of the season is undoubtedly the Summer Market at the Met, which returns bigger and bolder than ever. This four-day market transforms Metropolis at Metrotown’s Grand Court into a bustling galaxy of more than 15 food vendors, each offering globally inspired, locally loved eats.

Foodie families can indulge in:

• Authentic Taiwanese comfort from Typhoon BBT Café
• Juicy Japanese-style burgers from Wakwakburger
• Street-style Mexican tacos from Ponchos Tacos
• Filipino sweet treats at Cake It Easy
• Asian-inspired ice creams from Crema Ice Cream
• Traditional Indian chai and mango shakes from Chaiwagon

But the market is more than just a feast. It’s a full-blown festival. Live music and atmospheric performances — including jaw-dropping fire shows, juggling acts, and dancing aliens — bring the venue to life. Families can enjoy interactive kid-friendly activities like balloon twisting, face painting, and caricature sketching. Don’t forget your camera: there will be selfie-ready characters like astronauts, aliens, and robots roaming the space, as well as a Roaming Selfie Ring Photo Booth to capture your galactic memories.

A standout highlight of this year’s programming is SMASH!, an electrifying performance that fuses rhythm, theatre, and street percussion using unexpected objects like trash cans and water bottles. This immersive show delivers high-impact energy sure to mesmerize kids and adults alike.

Galactic Displays: Walk Among the Stars (June 16 – September 1)

Metropolis at Metrotown is transforming into an interactive galaxy thanks to Lazy Wizard Design’s larger-than-life displays. Throughout the mall, visitors will find immersive floor decals that mimic cracking planetary surfaces and mysterious terrain. Families can scan QR codes for space-related trivia and educational facts that will entertain budding young astronauts and curious parents alike.

Photo opportunities abound: pose with UFOs, aliens, and astronauts, or take a gravity-defying stroll through the solar system-themed flooring near Zara on the Upper Level. In the Grand Court, the galaxy really comes alive with monumental planetary installations — the largest stretching an impressive 4.5 metres wide.

Summer Passport Challenge: Win Big While You Explore (June 16 – September 1)

To add an extra layer of fun, guests can pick up a free Summer Passport from Guest Services. Families can collect stamps by exploring different Summer at the Met activations. After collecting seven stamps, guests receive a mystery gift, and if you hit ten stamps, you’ll be entered into a draw for a $100 prize. It’s a clever way to encourage mall-wide engagement — and a great incentive to explore every corner of the event.

Space-Themed Summer Dance Party (July 19, 12pm–2pm)

For families who love to move, the Summer Dance Party brings high-energy excitement to the shopping centre. Picture this: a mobile DJ cruising through the mall with a parade of astronauts and aliens dancing along and handing out fun prizes. This is your chance to join a spontaneous space party that’s equal parts quirky and delightful.

Starlab Planetarium Experience (July 26–27, 12pm–3pm)

In partnership with the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, Metropolis at Metrotown will host Starlab, a pop-up planetarium offering 10-minute immersive space sessions. Ideal for curious kids and science-loving parents, this unique activity offers the chance to sit back and stargaze indoors while learning fascinating facts about the cosmos.

Why “Summer at the Met” Belongs on Every Parent’s Radar

According to Amanda Chung, Marketing Manager at Metropolis at Metrotown, this year’s expanded lineup builds on the success of last summer’s inaugural event.

“Our ‘Explore the Galaxy’ theme is integrated into every offering, from the decor and dance party to interactive education, while the market has been expanded to include more diverse food vendors and enhanced entertainment programming — and it’s all completely free to the community.”

For local families looking for a fun-filled summer itinerary that won’t break the bank, Metropolis at Metrotown’s summer celebration is a no-brainer. With free admission, indoor comfort (hello, air conditioning), and enough variety to entertain toddlers, tweens, and teens alike, it’s a must-visit destination this summer.

Event Details at a Glance

Summer at the Met
Metropolis at Metrotown, Burnaby, BC
June 16 – September 1, 2025
Free admission

Summer Market at the Met Hours

• July 3–5: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• July 6: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM

For full event listings and updates, visit www.metropolisatmetrotown.com

Looking for more local summer fun that’s family-approved and budget-friendly? Be sure to explore our full Metro Vancouver Summer Family Guide coming soon to Mumfection.com.

What’s the Buzz?

• Transit Passport programme: Grab a printed or digital passport and collect stamps at tour‑stop vendors by showing your Compass Card or proof-of‑fare. It’s a fun keepsake and unlocks special offers at select stops.
• Big summer contest: With at least three stamps, you’ll be entered to win:
  • Grand Prize: One-year Compass Pass + $200 TransLink Store gift card
  • Second Prize: One-month Compass Pass + $100 gift card
  • Third Prize: One-month Compass Pass + $50 gift card
• How to enter: Get your passport at Waterfront Station or community events, complete three stops, upload your stamped passport or photo proof, and submit by September 30, 2025.

Touring Made Worry‑Free

Pick a route and let fun lead the way—with TransLink helping you get there:

Featured Transit Tours

1. Streetcar & Flights (North Vancouver): Lonsdale Quay → Museum of North Vancouver* → Streetcar Brewing*
2. Heritage & Lakeside (Burnaby): Burnaby Village Museum* → Hart House Restaurant → Deer Lake Park → Dageraad Brewing* → Burnaby Lake
3. Lattes to Landscapes (Maple Ridge): Bean Around Books* → ACT Arts Centre Gallery → Malcolm Knapp Research Forest
4. From Fort to Flowers (Langley): Fort Langley core → Omni Kitchen + Bar* → Fort‑to‑Fort Trail → Floralista*
5. Epic Brews & Ice Cream (Port Moody): Brewers Row → Moody Ales & Co* → Rocky Point Park
6. Stroll, Sizzle & Splash (Surrey): Green Timbers Urban Forest → Zugba Flame Grilled Chicken* → Hawthorne Rotary Spray Park
   *Stops marked with * offer passport stamps and exclusive local perks.

More Hidden Gems

Discover even more curated routes including:

• Art, Lake & Cupcake in Coquitlam
• Foodie Stroll along Richmond’s Alexandra Road
• SkyTrain Art Tour through Vancouver’s Expo Line
• Picnic & Paddle in White Rock
• And dozens of accessible excursions across Richmond, New Westminster, North Shore, Burnaby, Bowen Island, Kitsilano, and more.

Summer Transit Boosts

To support these adventures, TransLink is rolling out seasonal service increases:

• Re‑launch of the 900 Bike Bus from June 27 to September 1—an expanded bus with room for up to 10 bikes, linking cyclists to the ferries.
• Boosted service on 13 popular routes to connect to parks, beaches, and cultural hubs.

Why Transit Users Will Love It

• Perfect for family outings: With kid‑friendly sites, splash parks, and forest trails, many tours are ideal for active parents and children.
• Affordable adventures: All tours are accessible using existing fare media—just tap, ride, stamp, and go!
• Stay engaged all summer: The contest and passport make each trip an interactive hunt, with new stops and offers added regularly.

Ready to Explore?

1. Download or pick up your Transit Passport (available July 3 at Waterfront Station or select events).
2. Choose your adventure from the featured or additional tours.
3. Collect at least three stamps, upload your passport online, and you could be heading towards a year of free transit!
4. Share your summer: Follow TransLink on socials and tag your journey with #TakeTransitTo

TransLink’s Next Stop: Summer initiative is a brilliant, family‑friendly way to rediscover Metro Vancouver. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, sipping local brews, or wandering through art‑filled streets, the transit passport adds whimsy and reward to every ride. Mumfection families—this is your sign to skip the car and set a course for local summer magic!

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the sport or just looking for something unforgettable to do with the kids, this is the kind of event that brings the entire city together in a colourful, energetic swirl of community pride and international competition.

What’s Happening This Year

This year’s festival is taking things up a notch—and moving locations! Due to seawall closures, all programming will take place at Concord Pacific Place beside False Creek, near Carrall & Pacific. So plan ahead and leave the car at home if possible (SkyTrain, bike, or walking are your best bets).

Here’s what to expect:

100+ Dragon Boat Races

From early morning into the afternoon, cheer on teams from across 11 different countries as they battle it out in thrilling heats on the water. Dragon boat racing is more than just a sport—it’s a spectacle of synchronized strength, strategy, and spirit. Grab a spot near the water and let the kids bang on drums and shout along!

TD Main Stage Concerts (1:00 PM–Late)

As the races start winding down, the party really ramps up. The TD Main Stage lineup features an exciting range of live performances all afternoon and evening, topped off by two incredible headliners:

• Lights at 7:15 PM – Expect her signature blend of synth-pop and high-energy vocals.
• Felix Cartal at 8:30 PM – Get ready to dance as the JUNO-nominated DJ lights up the waterfront.

Looking for full schedule details? Check out the full TD Main Stage lineup here: Main Stage Lineup

Ricecake Summer Solstice Dance Party (9:00 PM)

As the sun goes down, the energy levels go way up thanks to the Ricecake Summer Solstice Dance Party. This vibrant event celebrates queer Asian culture with music, drag, dance, and community vibes. Expect incredible DJ sets, surprise performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.

More Than Just Boats and Beats

The Dragon Boat Festival is a full-on cultural experience. You’ll find family-friendly activities throughout the festival grounds, including:

• Cultural showcases highlighting local and international traditions
• Hands-on activities and play areas for the little ones
• Interactive art installations and vendors

And of course… the food. Dozens of Metro Vancouver’s top food trucks will be on-site, serving up everything from dumplings and bao to burgers, tacos, and cold treats. It’s a great opportunity to turn your outing into an all-day family adventure without spending a dime on admission.

Explore more about what to expect when you visit: Visitor Info

Tips for Parents

• Bring sunscreen and hats—there’s not a ton of shade, and you’ll be outside for much of the day.
• Pack water bottles (reusable preferred!)—there are refill stations available on-site.
• Stroller-friendly areas are accessible, though it might get a bit crowded near the stage later in the day.
• Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot for races or just to beat the afternoon crowd.
• Noise-cancelling headphones are a smart idea for toddlers, especially during the concert and dance party.

Quick Details

• When: Saturday, June 21, 2025 | 10:00 AM until late
• Where: Concord Pacific Place (beside False Creek near Carrall & Pacific)
• Cost: FREE! All races, concerts, and cultural events are open to the public.

Follow the fun on social media:
@dragonboatbc
@concordpacific
@tdcanada
Hashtag it up: #ConcordDragonBoatFestival #DragonboatBC

Whether you’re a foodie, music fan, cultural explorer, or just looking for a magical day with the kids, the Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival delivers. It’s everything we love about summer in Vancouver—vibrant, diverse, joyful, and free. See you at the races!

What to Expect at the 2025 EMV Summer Festival

This year’s theme embraces the natural world and our collective quest for transcendence. The program features the revered works of Johann Sebastian Bach and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart alongside modern pieces by Canadian composers Dorothy Chang, Edward Top, Lan Tung, Gregory Borton, and Grégoire Jeay.

EMV’s Artistic and Executive Director Suzie LeBlanc, C.M., explains:
“Just as trees reach for the sky, we, as part of nature’s ecosystem, reach towards the highest expression of ourselves, and music—the language of the heart and the emotions—helps us up on our journey.”

Highlights of BACH & MOZART: In Endless Ascent

Audiences can look forward to a wide range of performances, from the grandeur of Mozart’s Requiem to the meditative fusion of Chinese and Baroque instruments in Silk Strings. Several concerts feature prominent artists and ensembles, including:

• Alexander Weimann, renowned keyboardist and Pacific Baroque Orchestra director, performing his inventive True North Variations: O Canada Reimagined.
• Chloe Kim, the acclaimed Vancouver-based violinist, joining forces with Montreal musicians for Bach’s Musical Offering.
• Les Jardins Chorégraphiques, a Montréal-based Baroque dance company, presenting The Enchanted Forest in collaboration with the PBO and Indigenous artists.

The festival also continues its dedication to developing emerging talent through EMV: The Next Generation, spotlighting the Gallo Chamber Players in Bach and the Heavens.

Magali Simard-Galdès Named 2025 Artist-in-Residence

This year’s Artist-in-Residence is Canadian soprano Magali Simard-Galdès, a versatile performer and advocate for sustainability in the arts. In addition to several key performances, Simard-Galdès will moderate a special roundtable discussion on Sustainability and the Arts, bridging her expertise in environmental issues and culture.

Full 2025 Festival Schedule at a Glance

• July 26: Baroque in Motion on Granville Island – Free outdoor performances
• July 27: True North Variations: O Canada Reimagined – The Annex
• July 29: Silk Strings: A Chinese-Baroque Musical Dialogue – Christ Church Cathedral
• July 30: Sustainability in the Arts Roundtable – Vancouver Civic Theatre Salons
• July 31: The Enchanted Forest – Vancouver Playhouse
• August 1: Bach and the Heavens (1pm) and Forgotten Harmonies: Schubert & Friends (7:30pm) – Christ Church Cathedral
• August 2: De Juer et de Baler / To Play and Dance – Christ Church Cathedral
• August 5: Bach Cantatas: The Ascent – Christ Church Cathedral
• August 7: Figments and Fragments: Marenzio to Mozart (1pm) and Bach’s Musical Offering (7:30pm) – Christ Church Cathedral
• August 8: Mozart’s Requiem – Chan Centre for the Performing Arts

Family-Friendly, Accessible & Affordable

EMV is committed to making its concerts accessible to everyone. Tickets start at just $25, with free admission for Indigenous persons and youth ages 7–17, and $15 student tickets. Outdoor concerts like Baroque in Motion on Granville Island are completely free to attend, making this a wonderful opportunity for families to enjoy classical music in a welcoming environment.

Festival Venues

Concerts take place at some of Vancouver’s most iconic and acoustically stunning venues, including:

• Christ Church Cathedral (690 Burrard St.)
• Chan Centre for the Performing Arts (6265 Crescent Rd.)
• Vancouver Playhouse (600 Hamilton St.)
• The Annex (823 Seymour St.)
• Chain & Forge Plaza on Granville Island

Why You Should Experience EMV This Summer

Whether you’re a classical music enthusiast, an advocate for sustainability in the arts, or a parent looking for meaningful cultural experiences to share with your family, BACH & MOZART: In Endless Ascent offers something profound. This is more than a concert series—it’s a journey through history, harmony, and humanity.

To explore the full lineup and secure tickets for this unmissable musical journey, visit: earlymusic.bc.ca