MARK YOUR CALENDAR

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Here’s What’s Happening In Your
West End - Coal Harbour Community In …

April 2025

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EDITOR’S NOTE: After a three-month hiatus due to some health issues, Mark Your Calendar is back. We are reaching out to event organizers to confirm that all ongoing events are still current and will be adding to and correcting these listings and adding images as new information comes in. Thank you for your patience while we catch up with ourselves!
Kevin Dale McKeown / Editor & Publisher

The following are highlights from the many programs available at the West End and Coal Harbour community hubs. Check the websites listed at the end of this section for complete listings of events and activities.

PLEASE NOTE: Some free events require a membership in the presenting organization. Contact information for all is at the bottom of these listings.

Community Calendar / Arts & Entertainment / Families, Kids, & Teens / Senior Moments / LGBT+ / Venue Directory

Community Calendar

COMMUNITY GARDENING INFORMATION

When: Sunday, April 6 from 12 noon to 1 p.m.
Where: West End Community Centre English Bay Room.
Cost: Free
Details: An information session to learn about collaborative and community gardening opportunities in our community. Applications will be availa le for anyone interested in taking part in community gardening, such as the garden boxes at the Robson Community Garden. All levels of experience are welcome. There will be a community seed library present for you to pick up some free seeds and swap, or donate seeds.

BEGINNERS BALLROOM DANCING
A Free Introductory Class

When: Thursday, April 10 from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.
Where: West End Community Centre Dance Studio.
Cost: Free.
Details: Social interaction, poise, confidence, and excercise are some of the benefits of ballroom dancing. For new students this is an opportunity to learn the basic skills, concentrating on four dances: foxtrot, swing, waltz, and rumba. This free class is a no-obligation introduction to a ten session course starting April 17 for $180.

LATIN DANCE
An Introductory Classes

When: Monday, April 14 and Wednesday, April 16 from 8:15 to 9:15 p.m.
Where: Coal Harbour Community Centre Dance Studio.
Cost: Free.
Details: Learn Latin dance styles, including cha-cha, samba, jive, and paso double. Suitable for singles and pairs — no experience or partner required. These are introductory classes to two ten-session courses starting April 23 and 28 for $180. Drop-ins at the regular classes are $20, space permitting.

BEGINNER & INTERMEDIATE BELLYDANCE
An Introductory Class

When: Monday, April 14 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Where: West End Community Centre Dance Studio.
Cost: $9.
Details: Enjoy the sensuous melodies and dynamic rhythms of the Middle East. Belly dance is an excellent way to get fit, have fun, and connect with your body. Class begins with a slow stretch warm-up. Wear exercise clothes, bare feet or dance shoes, and bring a scarf or shawl to tie around your hips. Finger cymbals are needed, and can be purchased online or borrowed from the instructor. this is a no-obliigation one-session introductory class to an eighjt session scourse starting April 28 for $128.

COMMUNITY LUNCH

When: Mondays and Fridays at 12 noon.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House (GNH)
Cost: $7.50 with a GNH membership, $8 without. Children 1 and up are half-price.
Details: Join other members of our community for a delicious home-cooked lunch. This is one of GNH’s many “Food Justice” programs that you can learn more about here. To reserve a spot call 604.683.2554 or email welcome@gordonhouse.org.

ADULT OPEN HOUSE
Share Your Thoughts & Ideas

When: Thursday, April 24 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: West End Community Centre Bidwell Room.
Cost: Free.
Details: Your community centre would like to hear your thoughts and ideas about the centre’s adult programs. Join a circle style discussion exploring the current successes and challenges and future opportunities. Light refreshmoent will be provided. Please register.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.

  • TOASTMASTERS: Tuesdays, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the West End Community Centre’s Denman Room. Free. Learn and practice public speaking, impromptu speeches, and leadership skills at this weekly meeting.

  • ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE: Tuesdays, 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the West End Community Centre’s Meeting Room 2. Free. Join a weekly conversation and drop in where you can to practice English in a relaxed circle of friendly people. Conversations are guided by experienced facilitators who strive to talk about things that interest you.

  • TABLE TENNIS: Tuesdays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Coal Harbour Community Centre. Drop-in $5 / $63 for 12 sessions. All skill levels are welcome. Two or three tables will be set up for recreational play, and participants are encouraged top register for the non-instructional session. No partner necessary.

  • WEST END WRITERS: Wednesdays April 9 through June 25 from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. at the West End Community Centre’s Meeting Room. Free. Writers of all ages and experience are invited to join in reading works-in-progress and receiving feedback.

  • SOCIAL LOUNGE: Welcome to the Social Lounge at the West End Community Centre, Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., April 9 through June 25. Free. this space will be open to everyone come enjoy coffee and rtea and meet with old and new friends.

  • CRIBBAGE: Fridays, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. in the West End Community Centre’s Bidwell Room. Free. A friendly social card group sharing a fun game. Beginners and newcomers welcome.

  • MAHJONG: Saturdays, April 12 through June 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the West End Community Centre Meeting Room 2. Free. Dive into the captivating world of Mahjong, a strategic tile game. With every tile played, qa new adventure unfolds. Whether you’re an experienced player, a newcomer, or a drop-in, all are welcome. No sessions April 19, May 3, 17, and 31.

  • WATERFRONT WALKERS: Saturdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. A casual group of walking enthusiasts who meet weekly to enjoy a variety of scenic walks. Routes are regularly around 6km and last about three hours, with a stop along the way for coffee. Meet up at Coal Harbour Community Centre.

  • THE DARK SECRETS OF STANLEY PARK: Saturdays from 4 to 5:30/6 p.m. $32 for adults and $29 for youth and seniors. Information and tickets here. Discover the jaw-dropping beauty – and sinister stories – of Stanley Park. Behind those majestic forests, picturesque gardens, and stunning beaches lies a history of forced evictions, buried treasure, shocking crime scenes, and the macabre tale of Deadman’s Island. When you buy a ticket for this walking tour, two per cent of the ticket cost goes to support the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.

  • LABYRINTH - A WALKING MEDITATION: Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at St. Paul’s Anglican Church Hall. Free. The Labyrinth is a full 13-metre replica of the medieval labyrinth laid in the stone floor of the 13th-century Cathédrale de Notre-Dame de Chartres. The Labyrinth at St. Paul’s is open for silent walking, prayer and meditation to people of all faiths and spiritual disciplines as a resource for meditation, reflection, and prayer.

Arts & Entertainment

LIVE AT THE SYLVIA

When: Every Wed., Thurs., and Sun. from 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: The Sylvia Hotel Restaurant & Lounge
Admission: Free
Details: Three evenings a week enjoy live music at the lounge with a great view of English Bay. The April lineup includes: Wed. April 2 - Classic covers with Chapter 11; Thurs. Apri. 3 - Indie folks singer-songwriter Stephen Spender; Sun. April 6 - Jazz with The Dog Ears; Wed. April 9 - Jazz, soft rock and pop with Weaver & Werth; Thurs. April 10 - I(ndie folk singer-songwriter Sean from the Yukon; Sun. April 13 - Jazz with Anna Navarro; Wed. April 16 - Tropical lounge with Rio Trio; Thurs. April 17 - Acoustic pop with Zach Saunders; Sun. April 20 - Jazz with Bonnie Northgraves; Wed. April 23 - Acoustic pop & folk with Jana Seale; Thurs. April 24 - Funk, jazz, and rock covers with Colin Sankey & Julia Skye; Sun. April 27 - Jazz with Lucy Lambert; Wed. April 30 - Folk & pop with Jada Leroux.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.

  • HOT MIX BINGO: Mondays at 8 p.m. at The Shamrock Pub at 1184 Denman. Fun and games, music and bingo at this popular West End Irish pub.

  • KARAOKE TUESDAYS: At The Park Pub from 9 p.m. to late.

  • COMEDY TONIGHT! Thursdays at 8 p.m. at The Park Pub (1755 Davie). Admission $25. TheatreSports alumni hosts Denise Jones and David Milchard hold an improv comedy night featuring a rotating cast of up to eight of Vancouver’s top improv artists, plus special guests.

  • IMPROV THURSDAYS: From 8 to 9:30 p.m. at The Park Pub. Admission $25. Theatre Sports alumni Denise Jones and David Milchard bring their new improv comedy troupe of award-winning actors and improv veterans to the West End.

  • FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE AT THE PARK PUB: From 8:30 p.m. to late enjoy great live music.

  • SATURDAY NIGHT LAUGHS: Two laugh-a-minute shows every Saturday, at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. at The Show Cellar.

  • JAZZ VESPERS: Sundays at 4 p.m. at St. Andrews Wesley United Church. By donation. An afternoon featuring some of Vancouver’s finest musicians, and meditations on faith and life. The April lineup TBA.

Families, Kids, & Teens

BABY PLAYTIME

When: Monday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Tuesday / 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Wednesday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Thursday / 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Friday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Where: The West End Community Centre.
Cost: $3.50 drop-in.
Details: Fun with toys, alls, and more. Parents are required to help set up and clean up the equipment each day and parent participation is required. No Playtime on April 18, 21 and May 19.

PRO D-DAY CAMP
For 5 to 12 year-olds

When: Monday, April 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: West End Community Centre Denman Room
Cost: $45
Details: An action-packed day of activities, crafts, games and fun while your youngster’s teachers are taking a professional development break from the classroom. Parents must complete a waiver. Refunds for all day camps must be requested a minimum of five business days (Monday through Friday) prior to the first day of each camp. There will be a refund administration fee of $5.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.

  • TEEN OPEN GYM: Tuesday and Wednesday from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Coal Harbour Community Centre Gymnasium. A free program for youth in grades 9 to 12 (ages 12 to 18) with badminton and volleyball on Tuesdays and badminton and basketball on Wednesdays. Non-instructional, with in-out privileges.

  • YOUTH LEADERSHIP CLUB: Thursdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the West End Community Centre Meeting Stanley Court Room. This program is designed for youth who are looking to gain leadership and mentoring experience while learning how to organize, plan, and implement programs in the community centre.

  • BABYTIME: Thursdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 am at Joe Fortes Library. Free. Rhymes, songs, fingerplays and stories for parents and caregivers and their babies. Recommended for newborns to approximately 18 months.

  • FAMILY STORY TIME: Thursdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. at Joe Fortes Library. Free. This program for parents and caregivers with young children shares songs, rhymes and stories. Suitable for children of all ages and abilities to enjoy and learn together.

  • TEEN NIGHT: Fridays from 6:15 to 9 p.m. at Coal Harbour Community Centre Gymnasium. A free drop-in for Grades 8 to 12 (ages 13 to 18). Come by and shoot hoops, play board games upstairs, or get creative with some art supplies. Teen Night has in-out privileges.

  • SINGLE MOTHERS CONNECTION GROUP: Fridays at Gordon Neighbourhood House from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Free to GNH members — annual membership is $5 and can be purchased at the front counter upon arrival. This program is dedicated to expanding a support system for single mothers in the West End through peer support and building meaningful relationships. As a part of the group, toddler playtimes are aimed at promoting healthy socialization and development of kids ages 0-5. The group also holds monthly workshops, employment support sessions, and community events. To register email familyplace@gordonhouse.org.

  • PRE-TEEN NIGHT: Fridays (April 4 to June 27) 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. (no session April 18). A free drop-in at the West End Community Centre for youth ages nine to twelve. Drop by and participate in a variety of games, crafts, and activities including dodge-ball, capture the flag, button and bracelet making, movie nights, and more. Registration is required, with room for a maximum of 30 youths.

  • KIDSZONE: Fridays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Free. At Joe Fortes Library. A time for kids to meet kids and share books, crafts, and fun activities at the library. For Grades K to 7.

Senior Moments

PLEASE NOTE: Some events require a membership in the presenting organization. Contact information for all is at the bottom of these listings.

FREE TAX CLINIC

When: Saturdays through April from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Kay’s Place in Denman Mall.
Cost: Free.
Details: If you are a senior (55+) with an individual income of $35,000 or less or a household income of $45,000 a year or less, drop in for help with your tax filing. Bring your photo ID, 2023 Notice of Assessment or income tax return summary, all you 2024 tax slips and relevant receipts. The clinic is not able to assist anyone who is self-employed or has anyt international income source. Drop-in only, no appointments. For further information contact Anand Iyer at taxclinic@wesn.ca.

WEST END LIVING LIBRARY

When: Friday, April 11 and 25 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free.
Details: Hear facinating stories from the folks who lived them. on the 11th meet Ellie O’Day, a pioneer radio broadcaster, and on the 25th Deb Strulow sharing a vivid tale of her family’s Métis heritage. RSVP to 604.669.5051 or info@wesn.ca.

CLASSICAL GUITAR CONCERT

When: Friday, April 11 from 2 to 3 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor Multipurpose Room.
Cost: Free
Details: The Vancouver Classic Guitar Society presents Denys Panchenko, a concert guitarist, composer, and winneer of several international competitions. RSVP to 604.669.5051 or info@wesn.ca.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.

  • BALLROOM DANCING & SOCIAL: Mondays from 1 to 3 p.m. in the West End Community Centre Auditorium. Join a friendly group of ballroom dances and learn, practice, and meet new friends. Singles and those with partners both welcome. Drop-in $1.50 / Eight sessions for $7.60.

  • YOGA FOR SENIORS: Mondays at 12:15 p.m. at the West End Community Centre Dance Studio. A class for older men and women at all fitness levels, including those with some physical challenges. Each class provides a balanced full body workout, adapted to safely meet your needs. $11 drop-in.

  • CREATIVE QUEST: Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at Barclay Manor. The Barclay Manor Artists’ Collective meets for open studio time. Bring your project and supplies to paint with others in a studio setting. No teaching or supplies are given. For information contact Graham at creativequest2022@gmail.com.

  • TED TALKS & DISCUSSION: Thursdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Barclay Manor. A lively gathering for informative talks and ensuing discussions.

  • ESL KARAOKE: Thursdays from 2 to 3 p.m. at Barclay Manor. Practice pronunciation, build confidence, and enjoy singing along to popular tunes. No singing experience needed - just bring your enthusiasm. Please RSVP to 604.669.5051 or info@wesn.ca.

  • CRIBBAGE: Fridays from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the West End Community Centre / Bidwell Room. Free. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, with every card played and point pegged the charm and thrill never fades. Join in for good company, laughter, and the joy of a well-played hand. Beginners and drop-ins welcome.

  • MAHJONG: Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the West End Community Centre / Meeting Room 2. Free. Dive into the captivating world of Mahjong, a strategic tile game. with every play a new adventure unfolds! Beginners and drop-ins welcome. No session March 15.

LGBT+

There’s nothing hotta than dinner with carlotta - at bonta italian restaurant.

DINNER & A DRAG SHOW!

When Every Tuesday and Thursday from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Bonta Italian Restaurant
Admission: Free.
Details: On Tuesdays it’s Carlotta Gurl and Thursdays it’s the unstoppable Conni Smudge entertaining at this popular Davie Street restaurant while diners enjoy a generous portion of Italian specialties.

ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK

The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info for all venues and organizations is at the end of this calendar.

  • ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLUB: Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m. at HIM on Davie’s Lounge Space. Join a conversation night for GBQ men and gender diverse people whose first language is not English, to practice speaking in a safe, non-judgmental and fun space. The program is fully inclusive for all folks regardless of refugee, visa, or citizenship status.

  • RAINBOW MEN’S GROUP: Mondays from 3 to 4:30 at Barclay Manor —Multipurpose Room. A group open to older gay, bi, and trans men to share experiences of life in the West End. Join for fun, socializing, and serious conversation. Facilitated by Bil Coleman and Jeff Darcy, counsellors in private practice and at WESN.

  • BINGO FOR LIFE: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at The Junction Pub at 11:38 Davie. Free. Drag diva Kamelle Toe presides over a weekly fundraiser for The Vancouver Friends for Life Society. Free admission. $10 per bingo card.

  • TUESDAY NIGHT TRIVIA: At the Fountainhead Pub at 7 p.m. No cover. An evening of trivia and fun hosted by Richard Romano-Carlsen.

  • QUEERPROV: Thursdays at 8 p.m. at The Junction. Pay What You Can. A weekly celebration of improv comedy. The November lineup includes: Nov. 1 - Halloween Hangover; Nov. 8 - Queerprov Challenge; Nov. 15 - Coming Out Stories; Nov. 22 - Perfect Catch; Nov. 29 - Fruitbowl …. followed by —

  • DRAG ME TO HELL! Thursdays at 11:30 p.m. An evening of killer drag hosted by Miss Understood and featuring a revolving cast of special guest performers and music by Dj Amy Grindhouse. Admission $12 in advance (here) and $15 at the door.

  • UNITY FRIDAY: At The Junction. Showtime 11 p.m. Service until 4 a.m. Hosted each week by a variety of queer community members. $15 cover. Music by DJ Dennis Kindel.

  • THE REALLY GAY HISTORY TOUR: Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. It’s time for Vancouver’s secrets to come out of the closet. Tour guide Glenn Tkach tells the stories of drag kings and two spirit warriors, queer church ministers ,and transgender crime fighters. This two-hour walking tour is a celebration of the unsung heroes who forever changed the social fabric of our city. $32 for adults and $29 for youth and seniors. Information and tickets here.

Venue Directory

WHERE THEY’RE AT AND HOW TO CONNECT …

If we’ve missed a venue please let us know at editor@thewestendjournal.ca

  • 1181 Lounge / 1181 Davie / 236.513.1181  / Website

  • Art@Bentall Gallery / 595 Burrard St - Concourse #05 / 604.682.3701 / Website

  • Barclay Manor / 1447 Barclay / 604.669.5051 / Website

  • Bonta Italian Ristorante / 1047 Davie / 604.687.0055 / Website

  • Chef Ron Restaurant / 1037 Denman / 604.336.9994 / Website

  • Coal Harbour Community Centre / 480 Broughton / 604-718-8222 / Website

  • Gordon Neighbourhood House / 1019 Broughton / 604.683.2554 / Website

  • Health Initiative For Men (HIM) / 300 - 1033 Davie / 604 488 1001 / Website

  • HI Hostel Vancouver / 1114 Burnaby / 604.684.4565 / Website

  • Joe Fortes Library / 870 Denman / 604-665-3972 / Website

  • Kay’s Place / 118 - 1030 Denman (Denman Mall) / 604.669.5051 / Website

  • Mole Gallery / 1157 Pendrell Street, access from Jepson-Young Lane / Website

  • PAL Studio Theatre / 581 Cardero / 604.255.4313 / Website

  • Robert Lee YMCA / 955 Burrard / 604.939.9622 / Website

  • Shamrock Pub / 1184 Denman / 604.428.4414 / Website

  • St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church / 1022 Nelson / 604.683.4574 / Website

  • St. Paul’s Anglican Church / 1130 Jervis / 604.685.6832 / Website

  • Stanley Park Ecology Society / 610 Pipeline Road / 604.257.6908 / Website

  • Stanley Park Nature House / 712 Lost Lagoon Path / 604.257.8544 / Website

  • The Fountainhead Pub / 1025 Davie / 604.687.2222 / Website

  • The Loft Lounge / 1184 Denman / 604.602.1000 / Website

  • The Park Pub / 1755 Davie / 604.682.1831 / Website

  • The Pumpjack Pub / 1167 Davie / 604.685.3417 / Website

  • The Show Cellar (at the Park Pub) / 1755 Davie / 604.682.1831 / Website

  • The Pumpjack Pub / 1167 Davie / 604.685.3417 / Website

  • West End Community Centre / 870 Denman / 604.257.8333 / Website

If we’ve missed a venue please let us know at editor@thewestendjournal.ca

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Thank you!
Kevin Dale McKeown
Editor & Publisher
editor@thewestendjournal.ca