On Sunday, December 21, 2025, Vancouver will once again celebrate the 32nd Annual Winter Solstice Lantern Festival, a cherished tradition that marks the longest night of the year with a vibrant display of light, art, and community spirit. Organized by the Secret Lantern Society, this free, all-ages event invites participants to embrace the darkness and welcome the return of the sun through lantern-making workshops, mesmerizing processions, and immersive performances across the city.

The Winter Solstice Lantern Festival is more than just a seasonal event; it is a celebration of the human spirit and the cycles of nature. The winter solstice has held significance in various cultures throughout history, symbolizing the rebirth of the sun and the triumph of light over darkness. In Vancouver, this festival brings together diverse communities to honor these universal themes through artistic expression and collective participation. 

Leading up to the event, the Secret Lantern Society hosts workshops where participants can create their own lanterns, using materials like paper, sticks, glue, and natural elements such as dried flowers and leaves. These workshops are designed to be accessible to all ages and skill levels, fostering a sense of creativity and community among attendees.

On the evening of the solstice, participants gather at various locations to join lantern-lit processions that wind through the streets, culminating in central gathering points. These processions are accompanied by live music, fire performances, and traditional dances, creating a festive and reflective atmosphere. Notable performances include the Vancouver Morris Men and The Carnival Band, who add rhythm and movement to the celebrations.

 A standout feature of the festival is the Labyrinth of Light, a candlelit maze designed for meditation and reflection. Participants walk through the labyrinth, contemplating the past year and setting intentions for the future. The labyrinths are set up at venues like the Roundhouse Community Centre in Yaletown and Performance Works on Granville Island. Tickets are required for entry, and children under 12 typically enter for free. 

The festival emphasizes inclusivity and community involvement. Activities are designed to be family-friendly, with many events offered at no cost. The Secret Lantern Society encourages donations to support the continuation of the festival and its educational programs. Volunteers play a crucial role in the event’s success, assisting with lantern-making, guiding processions, and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all attendees.

The Winter Solstice Lantern Festival serves as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding. By incorporating elements from various traditions, the festival fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation for diversity. It also provides an opportunity for local artists to showcase their talents, contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural landscape.

In addition to its artistic offerings, the festival promotes environmental consciousness. The use of beeswax candles in the labyrinths and the emphasis on natural materials in lantern-making workshops highlight the importance of sustainability and respect for nature.

As Vancouver continues to grow and evolve, the Winter Solstice Lantern Festival remains a testament to the city’s commitment to cultural enrichment and community engagement. The 2025 edition promises to be a memorable celebration, inviting individuals and families to come together, reflect on the past, and look forward to the future with hope and light.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) Light Fair is a captivating winter event that transforms Vancouver’s Hastings Park into a luminous wonderland, offering a unique blend of entertainment, culture, and community engagement. Scheduled to run from December 19, 2025, to January 5, 2026, the PNE Light Fair invites visitors to experience the magic of the holiday season through a series of dazzling light displays, interactive installations, and festive activities. 

One of the standout features of the PNE Light Fair is its commitment to showcasing Vancouver’s rich cultural diversity. The event features a Cultural Showcase at Festival Park, where dynamic dancers and exhilarating musical performers celebrate British Columbia’s diverse cultural landscape. This daily celebration allows fairgoers to experience a mosaic of cultural expressions, fostering a deeper appreciation for the city’s multicultural heritage.

The PNE Light Fair also emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility. The event is designed to be family-friendly, with activities and displays suitable for all ages. This commitment ensures that the festival is accessible to a broad audience, allowing everyone to partake in the festivities and cultural experiences.

In addition to its cultural offerings, the PNE Light Fair contributes to Vancouver’s cultural landscape by providing a platform for local artists and performers. The event’s diverse programming supports the local arts community, offering artists an opportunity to showcase their talents to a wide audience. This not only enriches the cultural fabric of the city but also supports the growth and development of Vancouver’s artistic scene. 

Attending the PNE Light Fair is more than just a holiday outing; it is a cultural experience that strengthens community bonds and celebrates artistic expression. Visitors are invited to wander through illuminated pathways, engage with performers, and explore diverse artistic installations, all while reflecting on the multicultural richness and creative spirit that define Vancouver. By creating a space where artistry, tradition, and community intersect, the fair cultivates the city’s cultural landscape and enhances its winter festivities. 

The PNE Light Fair is more than just a holiday attraction; it is a celebration of Vancouver’s cultural diversity, community spirit, and artistic vibrancy. By blending festive cheer with cultural expression, the event fosters a sense of unity and belonging among residents and visitors alike. As the city continues to grow and evolve, events like the PNE Light Fair play a crucial role in cultivating a rich and inclusive cultural landscape.

For those planning to attend, the PNE Light Fair offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Vancouver’s holiday spirit and cultural diversity. Mark your calendars for December 19, 2025, to January 5, 2026, and immerse yourself in the festive magic of the PNE Light Fair.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Each winter, Vancouver’s VanDusen Botanical Garden transforms into a dazzling spectacle of over one million twinkling lights, captivating visitors with its enchanting displays. The 41st annual VanDusen Festival of Lights is scheduled to run from November 28, 2025, to January 4, 2026, offering a magical experience for all ages. With its vibrant light displays, interactive installations, and festive performances, the festival has become a highlight of Vancouver’s holiday season, drawing locals and tourists alike to experience the wonder of winter illuminated. 

Set against the serene backdrop of the botanical garden, the festival features 15 acres of illuminated pathways, themed light areas, and immersive displays. Guests can stroll through shimmering tunnels, admire dancing lights over Livingstone Lake, and explore installations inspired by the Great Bear Rainforest, celebrating the beauty of British Columbia’s natural landscapes. A new interactive mycelium installation invites visitors to engage with the display, adding a contemporary artistic element to the traditional holiday lighting. The festival also incorporates sound and music, creating a fully immersive sensory experience that blends visual artistry with festive melodies.

Beyond its visual allure, the VanDusen Festival of Lights plays a crucial role in cultivating Vancouver’s cultural landscape. It serves as a gathering place for families, friends, and tourists, fostering a sense of community and shared celebration. Seasonal events such as live performances by local choirs and musicians provide a platform for artists to showcase their talents, enhancing the city’s vibrant performing arts scene. The festival also contributes to the local economy by attracting visitors who explore nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions, creating a ripple effect that supports Vancouver’s cultural and commercial vitality.

The festival’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in initiatives like the sensory-friendly evening on December 3, 2025, which provides a welcoming environment for neurodiverse individuals and their families. This reflects Vancouver’s broader dedication to accessibility and ensuring that cultural experiences are open to all. Additionally, the festival emphasizes sustainability, highlighting the city’s focus on environmental stewardship. By celebrating nature through illuminated installations that draw inspiration from the surrounding flora and fauna, the festival encourages reflection on the importance of protecting the natural world while enjoying its beauty.

 Another notable aspect of the VanDusen Festival of Lights is its ability to blend tradition with innovation. While it captures the classic holiday spirit with sparkling lights, festive music, and seasonal décor, the festival also embraces contemporary artistic expression. The interactive and themed installations encourage exploration and curiosity, making the event appealing to multiple generations. Children, in particular, delight in the whimsical displays, while adults can appreciate the artistry and technical mastery behind each illuminated scene. 

Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, as tickets often sell out quickly due to the festival’s popularity. The event operates daily from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with the exception of December 25, when it is closed. Tickets are available online through the official VanDusen Botanical Garden website, including options for family passes, group bookings, and early entry, allowing attendees to tailor their experience. 

In summary, the VanDusen Festival of Lights is more than a holiday attraction; it is a celebration of Vancouver’s cultural diversity, community spirit, and environmental consciousness. By bringing together art, nature, and performance in a festive setting, the festival creates shared experiences that strengthen the city’s cultural identity. Its return in 2025 promises to continue enchanting visitors, offering a luminous celebration that embodies the joy, creativity, and communal spirit that define Vancouver.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Each year, Vancouver comes alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of the Vancouver Christmas Market, a cherished tradition that transforms Jack Poole Plaza into a festive European-inspired wonderland. In 2025, the market will run from November 13 to December 24, offering six weeks of holiday magic for residents and visitors alike. Beyond being a seasonal attraction, the market has become an important cultural touchstone, bringing together the city’s diverse communities and celebrating Vancouver’s unique blend of local and international influences.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the waterfront and the Vancouver Convention Centre, the market immerses guests in a festive atmosphere reminiscent of traditional German Christmas markets. Over 90 charming huts line the plaza, offering an array of handcrafted ornaments, artisanal gifts, and seasonal treats. Visitors can indulge in sizzling bratwurst, warm pretzels, roasted nuts, and an assortment of sweets, all while enjoying the twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the joyful sounds of holiday music. A towering Christmas Pyramid and a classic holiday carousel enhance the charm, creating a truly immersive experience. 

The Vancouver Christmas Market cultivates the city’s culture in multiple ways. Firstly, it fosters community engagement by providing a space where families, friends, and tourists can gather and celebrate the holiday season together. It encourages interaction between local artisans and visitors, supporting small businesses and promoting craft traditions that might otherwise be overlooked. Secondly, the market highlights Vancouver’s global outlook. By featuring authentic German culinary traditions, decorations, and music, it connects the city to international cultures, broadening the cultural horizons of attendees and showcasing Vancouver as a hub of multicultural celebration. 

Furthermore, the market plays a role in enriching Vancouver’s cultural calendar. Running from mid-November through Christmas Eve, it marks the beginning of the holiday season, offering a platform for performances, music, and festive entertainment that complements the city’s theaters, galleries, and public spaces. Special events such as holiday-themed workshops, performances by local choirs, and family-oriented activities contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the city, encouraging residents to participate in shared cultural experiences. 

Accessibility is another way the Vancouver Christmas Market strengthens community culture. Located at 1055 Canada Place, it is easily reached by public transit and accommodates visitors of all ages. Children aged six and under can enter for free, ensuring that the festive tradition is inclusive and family-friendly. Ticketing options, including early bird season passes, allow repeat visits, encouraging ongoing engagement and making the market a recurring cultural touchstone throughout the holiday period.

Ultimately, the Vancouver Christmas Market is more than a seasonal shopping or dining destination. It embodies the city’s values of inclusivity, multicultural celebration, and community engagement. By blending traditional European holiday customs with Vancouver’s local flavor, it cultivates a shared cultural experience that resonates with both residents and visitors. From the aromas of holiday treats to the music and festive displays, the market encapsulates the spirit of Vancouver during the holiday season, making it a beloved and culturally significant annual event. Mark your calendars for November 13 to December 24, 2025, and immerse yourself in this vibrant celebration of culture, community, and holiday cheer.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Cirque du Soleil’s OVO is a breathtaking spectacle that brings the hidden world of insects to life through acrobatics, theater, and imaginative storytelling. The name “OVO,” meaning “egg” in Portuguese, reflects themes of birth, transformation, and the delicate balance of life. While specific dates for the 2025 Vancouver performances have not yet been announced, the show has previously toured Canadian cities including Kelowna, Victoria, and Toronto, making it highly anticipated for Vancouver audiences this holiday season. Fans can expect the usual blend of wonder, precision, and high-energy performance that has become synonymous with Cirque du Soleil productions. 

The performance unfolds in a vibrant ecosystem where insects go about their daily lives, engaging in work, play, and courtship. Through an extraordinary series of acrobatic acts, aerial stunts, and coordinated choreography, the performers transform into ants, butterflies, spiders, and other creatures. Each movement and costume design is meticulously crafted to replicate the fluidity, agility, and beauty of insects, while also conveying human emotion and narrative. Audiences are drawn into this living world, where the arrival of a mysterious egg sparks curiosity, adventure, and a celebration of interconnected life. 

Beyond its visual spectacle, OVO contributes meaningfully to Vancouver’s cultural landscape. The city is renowned for embracing diverse artistic expressions, from contemporary dance and theater to music festivals and visual arts. By hosting an internationally acclaimed production, Vancouver reinforces its status as a hub for world-class arts while exposing local audiences to innovative storytelling. The performance also encourages reflection on nature and ecology, highlighting the often-overlooked complexity and beauty of the natural world. In a city that values sustainability and environmental consciousness, OVO resonates as both entertainment and inspiration. 

Cirque du Soleil productions like OVO cultivate community engagement by appealing to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Families, students, and tourists alike share the immersive experience, creating a collective appreciation for the performing arts. The production also supports the local economy through theater rentals, hospitality, and tourism, while inspiring aspiring dancers, acrobats, and visual artists in Vancouver to explore creative careers. Moreover, the show’s innovative use of music, movement, and stagecraft demonstrates the fusion of global artistry with local cultural appreciation, offering Vancouverites a lens into both international and universal forms of storytelling. 

Attending OVO also fosters dialogue and education around themes of cooperation, resilience, and the interconnectedness of life. The insects’ community on stage mirrors human societies, showing how collaboration, empathy, and adaptability are essential for thriving together. For students and young audiences, these lessons are embedded in a visually engaging and unforgettable performance, making the ballet not just entertainment, but also a vehicle for experiential learning.

While the precise 2025 Vancouver dates will be announced via official Cirque du Soleil channels, audiences can anticipate a series of shows likely scheduled for the holiday season, providing a perfect seasonal outing for families, art enthusiasts, and visitors. The experience offers more than just thrills and spectacle; it reflects the city’s dedication to nurturing a rich cultural environment where creativity, diversity, and artistic excellence are celebrated.

Cirque du Soleil’s OVO is a transformative cultural event that combines artistry, acrobatics, and storytelling to highlight both the beauty of nature and the power of human creativity. Its arrival in Vancouver would continue to enrich the local arts scene, cultivate cultural appreciation, and offer audiences of all ages a mesmerizing experience that resonates long after the curtain falls. By blending global performance excellence with locally appreciated values of sustainability, community, and artistic innovation, OVO exemplifies how world-class entertainment can inspire and strengthen Vancouver’s cultural identity.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

As the holiday season approaches, Vancouver theaters come alive with the magic of The Nutcracker Ballet, a performance that has captivated audiences for over a century. This enchanting story of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and a journey through the Land of Sweets is much more than a festive spectacle. It is a celebration of artistry, imagination, and cultural tradition that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov in 1892 with music composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker has become one of the most widely performed ballets in the world. Vancouver’s production continues this legacy, blending classical technique with modern stagecraft, bringing the tale to life with dazzling sets, intricate costumes, and elegant choreography. For many local families, attending the ballet has become a holiday ritual, a shared experience that bridges generations and inspires young dancers and art lovers alike. 

The story begins at a holiday party, where young Clara receives a Nutcracker doll from her mysterious godfather, Drosselmeyer. That night, her dreams transport her to a fantastical world of battling mice, magical transformations, and a heroic journey alongside the Nutcracker Prince. The second act, set in the Land of Sweets, features a series of dazzling dances representing treats from around the world, from the Spanish chocolate to Arabian coffee and Russian candy cane variations. Vancouver’s production often emphasizes storytelling through expressive performances and choreography that highlights both the grace and athleticism of the dancers. 

Beyond its narrative charm, The Nutcracker offers an educational glimpse into the artistry of ballet. From pointe work and leaps to partnering and ensemble coordination, the performance showcases the years of dedication and skill that professional dancers bring to the stage. For younger audience members, it provides a visual introduction to the vocabulary of classical ballet, while adult viewers can appreciate the precision, timing, and nuance that make each performance unique. Many productions also include behind-the-scenes glimpses or pre-show talks, helping audiences understand the complexity of staging such an elaborate show. 

In Vancouver, The Nutcracker has become more than a ballet; it is a cultural touchstone. It brings together local dance companies, musicians, set designers, and costume artisans, reflecting the city’s rich arts scene and collaborative spirit. Each performance is a testament to the city’s dedication to supporting the performing arts, while also offering a joyous, family-friendly experience that embodies the festive spirit. 

This holiday season, Vancouver audiences have several enchanting opportunities to experience The Nutcracker Ballet. One of the most anticipated productions is Goh Ballet’s annual performance, running from December 18 to 21, 2025, at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Known for blending aspiring dancers with principal artists from renowned companies, this production emphasizes mentorship, allowing emerging talent to perform alongside seasoned professionals. It provides audiences with a unique chance to witness both youthful energy and refined artistry on stage, creating a magical experience for ballet enthusiasts and newcomers alike. 

Earlier in December, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet will bring its iconic production of The Nutcracker to Vancouver, performing from December 12 to 14, 2025, also at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Under the artistic direction of Christopher Stowell, this rendition showcases the company’s rich history and technical excellence. With elaborate costumes, traditional choreography, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, the performance captures the essence of the classic holiday tale while maintaining the distinct style and reputation of Canada’s premier ballet company.

At the same time, Ballet BC will present its own contemporary version of The Nutcracker from December 12 to 14, 2025. Also hosted at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Ballet BC’s production reimagines the story with modern choreography and fresh creative interpretations. By combining classical elements with innovative movement and design, this version offers a new perspective on Clara’s journey and the magical world of the Land of Sweets. It is an exciting option for audiences seeking a blend of tradition and contemporary artistry during the holiday season. 

For those planning to attend, tickets are available through each company’s official website and authorized ticket vendors. Whether attending a classical interpretation, a contemporary retelling, or a mentorship-driven performance, Vancouver’s Nutcracker offerings this year promise to enchant, delight, and inspire audiences of all ages, continuing a beloved holiday tradition that has resonated across generations.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

Vancouver-based artist Christos Dikeakos offers a rare glimpse into the intimate world of art collectors with his latest exhibition, The Collectors, presented at Griffin Art Projects from September 20 to December 14, 2025. As part of the gallery’s 10th anniversary celebrations, the exhibition explores the personal relationships between collectors and their artworks, providing a nuanced portrait of those who shape the art landscape locally and internationally. 

Over the past decade, Dikeakos has meticulously documented the lives of collectors, capturing both their public and private interactions with art. Working closely with photographer Barrie Jones, he has created over forty portraits that transcend simple documentation, revealing the passion, dedication, and stories behind each collection. From seasoned curators to private patrons and passionate art lovers, The Collectors showcases a diverse spectrum of individuals whose collections span a wide variety of media, styles, and historical periods.

Dikeakos approaches portraiture with a level of intimacy and familiarity that distinguishes his work. He emphasizes that he personally knows most of the collectors he photographed, which allows him to capture subtle gestures and expressions that reflect the deep bond between collector and collection. This personal connection brings each portrait to life, offering viewers an authentic sense of the collector’s personality and their unique approach to art. The exhibition highlights the various ways collectors engage with their acquisitions, from meticulously curated private galleries to eclectic personal arrangements, prompting reflection on how private collecting shapes public art narratives and contributes to cultural heritage.

The exhibition extends beyond static portraits, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the stories and experiences behind the collections. Through Dikeakos’s lens, the focus shifts from the artworks themselves to the people who preserve, promote, and live with them. This perspective challenges traditional narratives in the art world, encouraging a broader understanding of the ecosystem in which collectors play a pivotal role. Each image not only documents an individual but also illuminates the emotional and intellectual labor involved in curating a personal collection.

The Collectors also engages the public through a series of complementary events, including panel discussions, artist-led tours, and film screenings that delve deeper into themes of collecting and cultural legacy. These programs offer audiences the opportunity to explore the motivations, philosophies, and cultural impact of art collectors in a more interactive and immersive way.

Visitors leave the exhibition not only with an appreciation of the aesthetic value of the works but also with insight into the personal connections and narratives that make collecting an art form in itself.

Ultimately, Dikeakos’s exhibition is a thoughtful meditation on the intersection of art, identity, and ownership. It celebrates the individuals whose passion and vision shape the art world while inviting viewers to consider the role of collectors in preserving cultural history. The Collectors offers an enriching experience that goes beyond the canvas, encouraging reflection on the human stories that animate the art we admire. For anyone curious about the hidden layers of the art world, this exhibition provides a compelling and intimate lens into a fascinating community of art enthusiasts. 

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

As the crisp autumn air settles over Vancouver Island, Cumberland’s historic streets come alive with the warmth of community spirit and the glow of artistic expression. From November 7 to 9, 2025, the Woodstove Music & Arts Festival invites attendees to cozy up in the heart of this charming village for a weekend filled with music, stories, comedy, workshops, dance, and more. Presented by the Cumberland Culture & Arts Society, this non-profit community arts festival takes place in a variety of unique venues downtown, all situated on the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation.

The festival’s charm lies in its intimate setting and diverse programming. Over the course of three days, attendees can enjoy performances and activities in venues such as the Masonic Hall, the Waverley Hotel, and the Abbey Studio. These spaces, each with their own character and history, provide the perfect backdrop for a range of artistic expressions. Whether it’s a folk singer-songwriter strumming a guitar in a cozy barbershop or a high-energy dance performance lighting up the Masonic Hall, the festival offers something for everyone. 

One of the highlights of the Woodstove Festival is its emphasis on community involvement. The event is powered by volunteers who contribute their time and energy to ensure the festival’s success. From assisting with ticket sales to helping set up venues, volunteers play a crucial role in creating the welcoming atmosphere that defines the festival. In return, they gain the opportunity to experience the festival from behind the scenes and connect with fellow art enthusiasts.

For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the festival experience, billet options are available. Locals open their homes to artists and attendees, fostering a sense of community and providing a unique opportunity for cultural exchange. This practice not only supports the festival but also strengthens the bonds within the community.

Tickets for the Woodstove Music & Arts Festival are available through the official website. While adult weekend passes have sold out, youth and kids passes are still available, ensuring that the festival remains accessible to all ages. It’s advisable to secure tickets early, as the intimate venues can reach capacity quickly. 

Cumberland’s Woodstove Music & Arts Festival is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of shared experiences. As the village streets fill with the sounds of music and laughter, the festival reminds us of the power of art to bring people together and warm the soul during the cold winter months.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

As the harvest moon rises over Vancouver this fall, the Renfrew Ravine will glow with the magic of lanterns, live music, and community celebration. From September 12 to October 4, 2025, the Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival, presented by the Still Moon Arts Society, transforms the Renfrew-Collingwood neighbourhood into a vibrant canvas where art, nature, and culture intertwine.

For more than two decades, the festival has offered Vancouverites a unique way to celebrate the changing seasons while honoring the Still Creek watershed and the rich cultural traditions of the local community. Walking through the ravine during the festival, visitors encounter a harmonious mix of illuminated art installations, giant lanterns swaying gently in the breeze, and the sounds of live music drifting through the trees. The festival is a rare opportunity to experience both the beauty of the natural environment and the creative energy of Vancouver’s artists in one immersive experience.

Leading up to the main festival day, a series of workshops and events give participants a chance to engage directly with art and nature. Lantern-making workshops allow families and friends to craft their own glowing creations, while guided nature and history walks invite attendees to explore the stories of the land and water that make the ravine so special. Mural projects and art panels offer insights into the creative process and give local artists a platform to share their vision with the wider community. These pre-festival events set the stage for the crescendo of color and light that awaits. 

The highlight of the festival takes place on October 4, when Slocan Park and Renfrew Community Park come alive with celebration. The day begins in the afternoon with a harvest fair featuring live performances, food vendors, artisan booths, and hands-on activities. As the sun sets, the lantern procession winds through the ravine, creating a mesmerizing parade of light that reflects off the waters of Still Creek. Along the route, attendees encounter illuminated sculptures and site-specific performances that explore themes of nature, community, and creativity. The evening culminates with a large-scale community performance called Consciousness of Streams, an evocative piece that highlights the interconnectedness of people, water, and the environment. 

The Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival is more than just a seasonal celebration. It is a testament to Vancouver’s community spirit, the power of art to inspire connection, and the importance of preserving natural spaces. Volunteers, artists, and participants all play a role in bringing the festival to life, creating a shared experience that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who attends. It is a reminder that culture is not confined to galleries or theatres; it can be found in the glow of a lantern, the rhythm of live drums, and the laughter of a neighborhood coming together. 

Whether you are a longtime Vancouver resident or visiting the city for the first time, the Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival offers a magical opportunity to connect with art, nature, and community. As the lanterns light up the night, they illuminate not only the ravine but the collective spirit of a city that celebrates creativity, culture, and togetherness. This is one Vancouver tradition that truly shines.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca

If you’re a student in Vancouver with a love for storytelling, literature, or just looking for some inspiration, the 2025 Vancouver Writers Fest is an event you won’t want to miss. Taking place from October 20 to 26 on Granville Island, this festival brings together over 130 authors from around the world for a full week of engaging readings, discussions, and workshops. It’s not just about hearing stories—it’s about experiencing the world through different perspectives and voices.

This year, the festival features more than 85 events, including panel discussions, interactive sessions, and live readings. The lineup is impressively diverse, showcasing both well-established literary figures and emerging voices. Students have the chance to see authors share their creative process, talk about their latest works, and discuss contemporary issues reflected in literature. It’s the kind of exposure that can inspire you, spark new ideas, and expand your understanding of the world.

One of the best parts about attending as a student is that it’s designed to be accessible. Ticket prices are kept affordable, and many events even offer discounts for students. There are also options for pay-what-you-can digital events, meaning that anyone can join in and enjoy the festival without worrying about cost. This makes it a perfect opportunity for students to explore the literary world without stretching their budgets.

The Vancouver Writers Fest isn’t just about listening—it’s about participating. Workshops and youth programs allow students to develop their own writing skills and connect with others who share their interests. You can meet fellow literature enthusiasts, engage in conversations with writers, and even learn tips and techniques from professionals in the field. These experiences can be inspiring for anyone thinking about pursuing writing, media, or creative studies.

For younger students, there are special programs designed just for them, offering interactive sessions, readings, and creative workshops. These events help students connect with literature in a fun and engaging way while encouraging critical thinking and self-expression. Even if you’re not planning to be a writer, attending the festival can help you see the power of storytelling and how literature can shape culture and ideas.

Overall, the Vancouver Writers Fest is an incredible opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the literary world. It’s a space to discover new voices, explore diverse perspectives, and get inspired by creativity and innovation. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a literature enthusiast, or just someone curious about ideas and storytelling, this festival offers experiences that are enriching, thought-provoking, and unforgettable. So mark your calendar, gather some friends, and dive into a week of stories that might just change the way you see the world.

Dan Baltag

dbaltag@my.bcit.ca