Vancouver in the Know: Staycation Ideas

Every year, my parents want to do some family activities in Vancouver and I’m always at a loss for ideas. Staycations are great if you only have the weekend off work and can’t get away. So instead of spending your money on flights and hotels, splurge on some shows and food that you wouldn’t normally do in Vancouver. Here are some of my ideas!

Disney on Ice- Frozen

I recently came back from Disneyworld and one of the most popular attractions was to meet Anna and Elsa! Now you can watch the magic of the movie Frozen with Disney on Ice! Let it go, let it go!!

Audiences will be magically whisked away into the wintery world of Arendelle by dazzling special effects and astonishing skating as you sing and dance along to instant Disney classics such as “Let It Go” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” Join royal sisters Anna and Elsa, the hilarious snowman Olaf, Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and the mystical trolls, as they journey to discover that true love is the most magical power of all!

Where: Pacific Coliseum at the PNE
When: November 25 – 29, 2015
Price: Ticket prices range from $25 – $95. Tickets available for purchase online at TicketLeader.ca, charge by phone at 604-252-3700, or visit the PNE Box Office.

Goh Ballet- The Nutcracker

Every year near Christmas, Goh Ballet puts on The Nutcracker and features international ballerinas as well as kids in their academy. I remember going a couple years ago and watching my family friend’s daughters participate in the show.

It’s really well put together and perfect for the holiday season!

Where:The Centre in Vancouver, 777 Homer Street, Vancouver, BC
When: December 17-22, 2015
Price: Tickets start at $28

Yaletown Candy Town

During the summer time, there are festivals happening every weekend and some of my favorites were the KitsFest and the Richmond World Festival! There hasn’t been too much since Fall came around but here’s a great one for November!

On Saturday, November 21, 2015 12-7pm, the fourth annual CandyTown festival will celebrate the season right in the heart of Yaletown. With a sweet candy theme for this year’s event, everyone can enjoy this free festival as this heritage neighbourhood is transformed into a winter wonderland.

These types of festivals are usually more fun if you are prepared to bring money for the food and shopping. Since you are having a staycation, why not splurge and try out as many food trucks as you can! Or buy a nice Christmas present for yourself from the vendors at the event!

Food

Of course a “staycation” is not complete with a nice splurge for your tummy. First off, Royal Dinette is a new restaurant that has a rotational seasonal menu. The restaurant revolves around celebrated chef David Gunawan’s signature focus on a true farm-to-table dining experience. They have an a-la-carte menu, a set menu (currently $65 for 6 courses) and special event menus. Their current special event is called the “Ugly Duckling” which focuses on underutilized, often disposed scraps and offcuts ($79 for 5 courses)

Another option that I think is very holiday like is going for afternoon tea. The Urban Tea Merchant is launching a festive tea set starting November 12th. Check out this beautiful photo from my friend over at Macarons and Mischief.