The Vancouver Chinatown Festival takes place in July: Here's what you should know
The 23rd-annual Vancouver Chinatown Festival will take place this July.
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This family friendly festival, put on by the Vancouver Chinatown Business Improvement Area Society (VCBIA), is free to attend and features events and flavours for all-ages from the varied shops and restaurants in the historic area.
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'The Vancouver Chinatown Festival is a celebration of culture, community and connection, and we are thrilled to have BMO's support for our 23rd year,' said Joey Kwan, executive director of VCBIA, in a news release. 'We're proud to see the festival continue to grow with new and returning experiences for all ages. It's a reflection of the energy and resilience that define Chinatown, and we can't wait to share this year's festivities with everyone.'
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Entertainment includes Cindy Yang Dance Academy of Canada, Boogaloo Dance Academy and Colours of Dance Academy, music from marimba ensemble Muevete, the B.C. Chinese Music Association and the rock/pop sextet Rain City 6. There will also be cultural showcases of Japanese Yosakoi dance by Appare, Brazilian rhythms by Samba Fusion, and more.
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What other activities will take place?
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The Children's Theatre area is expanded to feature family-oriented activities and shows with performers such as magician Blake Aleong. New additions range from roving giant bubble stilt walkers, the Story on Wheels and Science World On the Road. Face painting, balloon twisting, t-shirt painting, MiniMakers crafts, and games for kids of all ages take place throughout the day.
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The Cultural Zone features Vancouver Chinatown walking tours hosted by Bob Sung of A Wok Around, Chinese painting and calligraphy demonstrations, mini massages, paper lantern and fan-making, as well as a giant Mahjong board.
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The VCBIA is promoting an interactive 'Where's Van Van the Panda?' contest. Track the festival's mascot around the area using the Vancouver Chinatown Festival app or following @visitchinatown on Instagram for a chance to win tickets to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Chinese Canadian Museum, and Chinatown Storytelling Centre.
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