Gayvan Blog

January, 2012

2012-01-30T07:20:00.000-08:00

YEAR OF THE DRAGON!
As we head into the Year of the Dragon, 2012, or year 4080 on the Chinese Lunar Calendar, Gayvan.com Travel Marketing will also be celebrating our 10th Anniversary throughout the year. As part of our celebrations, Mz. Gayvan.com Travel Marketing, Carlotta Gurl, recently made her first public debut at a recent cocktail reception in Vancouver’s West End. We are also currently working on our 10th annual Gay Friendly Vancouver – In Town Guide, to be published in March, and our 9th annual Gay Friendly Canada publication is also in the works for later in the year. You can check out the digital editions of these popular guides via the links below, or feel free to contact us if you would like to see a hard copy and find out more about being part of the 2012 editions:

http://www.gayvan.com/InTown/Basic/Default.html
http://www.gayvan.com/GayCanada180DPI/Basic/Default.html

GUNG HEI FAT CHOY - VANCOUVER'S CHINATOWN CELEBRATES!
With over 40% of Vancouver’s population being of Asian descent, there’s a lot to celebrate at this time of year, such as the Chinese New Year celebrations, or Spring Festival, jam-packed with events, as well as gastronomic and visual delights. Sunday, January 29 will see over 50,000 people line the streets of historic Chinatown for the annual Vancouver Chinese New Year Parade and there are colourful special events at the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden and Cultural Centre. You can check out all the details of the parade and also get a quick video glimpse of the action via the Chinatown page of our web site: http://www.gayvan.com/neighbourhoods/chinatown.html

CANDYGRAMS
As Valentine's Day approaches, be sure to be part of the amazing CandyGrams campaign, where for just $10 you can send a special gift to your loved ones across Canada and support a great cause, A Loving Spoonful, at the same time.

You can order Candygrams with various messages themed under Like, Love or Lust this Valentine’s Day. Mailed anywhere in Canada, Candygrams include a special edition card, your unique message, 2 delicious Purdy’s chocolates, a Yelpstick lip balm, Shamin Jewellers ‘Perfect Kiss’ mints, as well as a $15 Gift Card (Value $25). And the best part, all proceeds to benefit A Loving Spoonful, a volunteer-driven, non-partisan Society that provides free, nutritious meals to people living with HIV/AIDS in Greater Vancouver.

Order Deadlines:
Feb 6th – Eastern Canada, Feb 9th – Western Canada

Visit Gayan.com’s opening page for direct links to send your CandyGrams to friends, family, loved ones and co-workers today: http://www.gayvan.com/

WHAT’S ON
Gayvan.com has a wide range of regularly updated events listed on our What’s On pages, including special events for the LGBT community, mainstream events of interest, Pride events, and more. Just a few highlights of note include the upcoming 20th Annual WinterPride in Whistler, Vancouver’s Next Drag Superstar competition in the city, the newly resurrected Mardi Gras in Davie Village, and the search for the next Mr. Gay Canada is on! Check out all the details: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html

TRAVEL
Travel is our passion at Gayvan.com, as we strive to bring you the best in LGBT-welcoming destinations, fabulous accommodation, fantastic restaurants, convenient transportation options and services. In addition to the city of Vancouver, we also offer information and links to other parts of British Columbia, including our gorgeous capital city, Victoria, world-renowned Whistler Resort, the stunning Okanagan region, and more. You can also visit our hip friends to the south in Seattle, or head east to check out the rest of gay-friendly Canada. We hope you will stop by for a visit soon: http://www.gayvan.com/

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

December 2011

2011-12-05T19:57:00.000-08:00

With our fab Holiday Season now in full swing on Canada's West Coast, there are events of interest galore, including Sting, the Canadian Tenors, Tori Amos, Prince and Tony Bennett to name a few. There's an amazing line-up of live theatre performances, such as La Cage Aux Folles, Goh's Ballet -The Nutcracker, Blood Brothers, The Patron Saint of Stanley Park, Irving Berlin's White Christmas, and the fourth annual Dr. Peter's Centre Voices of Hope Concert on World AIDS Day.

Sports enthusiasts in Vancouver are having a fantastic time now that BC Place Stadium is open after an amazing half-billion-plus renovation and the CFL BC Lions just won the 2011 Grey Cup! Rogers arena is also right next door and is home to the Vancouver Canucks, where there's a full schedule of NHL regular season games available to attend in the months ahead, as well as an amazing concert schedule.

The 2011 Ski Season is also in full swing ahead of schedule, with early openings for nearby Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain and Whistler Village, with large amounts of fresh whitestuff blanketing the runs. Sun Peaks is celebrating their 50th season and Whistler gay ski week, WinterPride, will celebrate 20 years in 2012!

On the LGBT social scene, there's Numbers Karaoke Challenge, JetGirl by Crema Productions, the 21st DIORAMA PARTY, CoCo's 11th Annual Christmas Show, a New Pub Triva Night, the Get Your Glam On Fundraiser with La Cage, Flygirl Production's Hershe Bar and the Vancouver's Men's Chorus beloved annual Making Spirits Bright holiday concert series, and more: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

Check back with us over the holidays as we continue to update on new events and add New Year's party stuff.

Happy Holidays!

Movember 2011

2011-11-04T10:09:00.000-07:00

As freshly sprouting moustaches appear all over town for Movember, we've had an amazingly sunny start to the month, which is usually the height of our rainy season. The first dusting of snow on the Northshore Mountains overlooking the sparkling towers of downtown, along with the fab fall colours and sunny blue skies, gives you a real sense of Vancouver's slogan "Spectacular by Nature".

Events galore are on the LGBT scene this month, including HARD3: A Leather & Festish Ball which is the largest event of it's kind on Canada's west coast, Prairie Fairies Fowl Supper hosts their 12th annual, Numbers Karaoke Challenge Round 1 begins, Audball - An East Van Queer Night is at The Waldorf, The Ryan and Amy Show has its debut at the Oasis, the Entertainer of the Year competition is at Cobalt, Queens Care IV is at Celebrities, Flygirl's Sweet Friday: Total 80s & 90s Edition is at Canvas Lounge, and Prince Poppycock, from the hit TV show, America's Got Talent, will be headlining the Guilty Pleasures fundraising concert at Club 560 to name a few. Get all the details: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Sports enthusiasts in Vancouver are having a fantastic time now that BC Place Stadium is open after an amazing half-billion-plus renovation, the CFL BC Lions are in top form and the city is getting set to host the 99th Grey Cup this month. Rogers arena is just next door and is home to the Vancouver Canucks, where there's a full schedule of NHL regular season games available to attend in the months ahead. These are also great venues to see Movember in action in a big way!

Other events of interest include the Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour, Sting, JAY-Z and Kanye West, Guns N' Roses, Prince and Tony Bennett to name a few. There's an amazing line-up of live theatre performances, such as Falling in Time, La Cage Aux Folles, as well as the Shore, Forest and Beyond: Art from the Audain Collection at the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Asian Film Festival, the 18th Annual Art for Life Fine Art Auction takes place and Whistler is hosting their 15th Annual Cornucopia celebration. Check out further details and online concert booking via the Tickets Tonight link on our Events of Interest page: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/events-of-interest.html .

Happy Movember!

Gay Vancouver, Fall 2011

2011-09-23T17:24:00.000-07:00

As we kick off our fab fall season here on Canada's West Coast, we are enjoying above average temperatures and gorgeous blue skies, with a hot weekend in the forecast. Great time to head down to Vancouver's English Bay to catch the sunset amongst the palm trees and soak up the early fall sunshine.

Fall is a favourite time for many LGBT travelers, as schools are back in session, crowds are generally smaller and there is greater availability for just about everything. Lots of special travel deals, lower hotel rates and events galore to choose from, make for good travel planning for the months ahead.

Among events of interest in the weeks ahead is the 30th annual Vancouver International Film Festival, VIFF, with a full line-up of LGBT/queer cinema showings and/or films produced or directed by LGBT talent. Festival viewers are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, and come out to show support for LGBT films at this international film event. Here's a list of the titles to look for:

- 40 Days at Base Camp, Dianne Whelan, Canada
- Alan Bennett and the Habit of Art, Adam Low, UK
- Alan Bennett: The Southbank Show, Archie Powell, UK
- Ballad of Genesis and Lady Jaye, Marie Losier, USA/France
- The British Guide to Showing Off, Jes Benstock, UK
- Carol Channing: Larger Than Life, Dori Berinstein, USA
- Circumstance, Maryam Keshavarz, USA/Iran/France
- Cloudburst, Thom Fitzgerald, Canada
- Everything and Everyone, Tracey D. Smith, Canada
- Happy, Happy, Anne Sewitsky, Norway
- How to Die in Oregon, Peter D. Richardson, USA
- Lost Bohemia, Josef "Birdman" Astor, USA
- Lost in Paradise, Vu Ngoc Dang, Vietnam
- Miss Representation, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, USA
- The Natural Phenomenon of Madness, Charliebebs Gohetia, Philippines
- Our Future, Iizuka Kashou, Japan
- Palácios de Pena, Gabriel Abrantes and Daniel Schimdt, Portugal
- Paul Goodman Changed My Life, Jonathan Lee, USA
- Sauna on Moon, Zou Peng, China
- Señorita, Vincent Sandoval, Philippines
- Sisters & Brothers, Carl Bessai, Canada
- The Skin I Live In, Pedro Almodóvar, Spain
- Sufferrosa, Dawid Marcinkowski, Poland/UK
- Wetlands, Guy Édoin, Canada
- Wish Me Away, Bobbie Birleffi, Beverly Kopf, USA
- Without, Mark Jackson, USA

Get all the details at: http://www.viff.org/

Other events of interest include the Interior Design Show West, the 2011 Vancouver Home & Design Show, and a multitude of live theatre performances. Check out further info and links on our What's On Event of Interest page: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/events-of-interest.html

LGBT-specific events and club nights are also in abundance this season, including Canvas Lounge's 4th Anniversary Party, Divas Live at Celebrities, male exotic dancers at both Hard Candy and Junk on Thursdays, UNO - the new Oasis One Year Anniversary, the 1st annual Stack the Rack benefit for Qmunity, Hershe Bar at the Red Room and the 32 Annual Mr, Miss, Ms Gay Vancouver Pageant, Vancouver's WILD Weekend for bears and Truckerdisco to name a few. All this and upcoming Halloween details as they become available: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html

Happy Fall!

Gay Vancouver, Pride 2011

2011-07-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

As the clock strikes 6 on this gorgeous, sunny, Vancouver July evening, there is excitement in the air as we gaze out our windows overlooking the preparations for the Davie Street Party, a major highlight kicking off the final weekend of Vancouver Pride 2011 celebrations. Three city blocks in the heart of Davie Village are cordoned off, several stages and numerous DJ's are busy setting up, bartenders are popping up beverage stations up and down the street, food vendors are prepping their kiosks, the many bars and outdoor patios in Davie Village are packed, the Sandman Suites have unfurled rainbow flags from their balconies and no doubt many more are at home staking out their plans for the action-packed festivities ahead.

In reality, there have been Pride events going on for over a month now, but this coming weekend is the grand finale, so to speak, and includes the 33rd annual Pride Parade and Festival, taking place on Sunday, July 31. Estimates for attendance at last year's event were quoted at 650,000, so it is definitely a crowd pleaser. Get down to the parade route early on Sunday to ensure the best viewing spots; complete details on the parade and other official Pride events can be accessed via links on our Pride page: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/pride.html .

A multitude of other events are going on this year at the same time, including the North America Outgames and Human Rights Conference, which have brought additional people from across the continent and from other countries around the world to play, compete and celebrate at this exciting time in our city. We had the pleasure of attending the official Pride Launch and running of the Outgames Flag at City Hall on July 25, followed by the official Outgames Opening Ceremony at the Vancouver Art Gallery, several sporting events and receptions around the city, cocktails with some of Japan's Men's Soccer team yesterday evening, and look forward to attending the Closing Ceremony and Party at the Plaza of Nations on Saturday, July 30. Another highlight topping off this colourful sporting event will be the March of the Athletes, which will lead off the start of the 33rd annual Vancouver Pride Parade on Sunday, July 31. What week!

So many other events are also taking place this week that we had to add a second page to our Gay Special Events page, to make room for everything from the Queer Arts Festival, the Q Ball at the Sheraton Wall Centre, Rapture Heatwave Pool Party at the Westin Grand, Sweet Fridays by Flygirl at Canvas Lounge, Celebrities Pride Ball, New Patio special events at 1181, Tom of Finland Party for Vancouver Men in Leather at Numbers, Hot & Wet Women's Pride Cruise by Crema Productions, Bearracuda at 560, Thickset at the Cobalt, Rapture at the Commodore Ballroom, Social Sundays at Oasis, Chicks Ahoy Cruise, Chicas at the Queen Elizabeth, CruiseyT's Pride GoGo Cruise, White Party Cruise, Pride Party Cruise, Hershe Bar and more. Check out all the action: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/gay-special-events1.html .

Happy Pride Vancouver!!!

Gay Vancouver, Summer 2011

2011-06-21T12:24:00.000-07:00

At time of writing, there are just three minutes to go until it is officially summer in Vancouver! Sunny blue skies and long overdue warm weather are right on cue for the start of this exciting time of year. One minute to go...

It's here; it's finally Summer on Canada's west coast! Time to try to shake off memories of the coldest, wettest spring in memory, a hockey riot in the streets and to look forward to the non-stop lineup of events, gorgeous parks, sunny beaches, cruises and hot nightlife that are all part of the Vancouver summer mix.

To touch on the hockey riot, as it continues to be broadcast extensively on many media platforms, here's a few comments about it from our point of view that evening. At the time, from our 18th floor perch in Vancouver's West End, overlooking downtown Vancouver and Davie Village, the packed sports bars in the village were ominously quiet after the devasting loss for the Canucks, but fortunately they all seemed to empty out without much noise or fuss and the village started to empty out relatively quickly as well. However, within a few minutes we noticed that a very dark cloud plume had started to rise above the downtown skyline to the far left of the village (from our viewpoint) and we knew something was going on downtown. Not long afterwards, reports of the start of that unbelievable night went live on TV and we felt like we were watching something from afar; certainly not happening right here in beautiful downtown Vancouver! In real time, news helicopters swooped over the skies in front of our eyes, the dark smoke fumes got bigger and it was almost surreal. As the night unfolded, we were shocked and saddened to watch some of the most unbelievable, devasting and embarrassing public behaviour we had ever witnessed. That said, on a positive note, in the days since that regretful night there has been a mass outpouring of reactions from Vancouver residents and an unprecedented social media response is also showing another side of the tragedy. To see ongoing blogposts by local residents "This Is Our Vancouver" has launched this week: http://thisisourvancouver.com/ .

On a happier note, with summer now officially here, events galore are taking place all across Canada and in our neighbouring regions of the USA. Pride season is in full swing, with major events such as New York Pride, Toronto Pride, Seattle Pride and San Francisco Pride. Here's a few links:

http://www.nycpride.org/
http://www.gayvan.com/travel/seattle.html
http://www.pridetoronto.com/
http://www.sfpride.org/ (if you're in SF June 25-26, stop by the Vancouver booth at the Pride Festival)

Hop on the HeliJet for a spectacular ride over for Victoria Pride, July 1 -10, 2011, with everything from Pink Whale Watching Tours with Prince of Whales, Sunset Harbour Cruise, the GaGa Show, Pride Parade, Pride Festival and more. See links to this and more on our Victoria pages: http://www.gayvan.com/travel/victoria.html .

It's also just over a month until the start of a multi-tiered, action packed week of overlapping events in Vancouver, as the city hosts the 2011 North America Outgames, Human Rights Conference, the Vancouver Pride Parade and Festival, and the 2011 Celebration of Light International Fireworks Festival, all in the same week, July 25 - 31. What a time to be in the city! See these events and more at:

http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html
http://www.gayvan.com/outgames2011.html

Add to the mix a multitude of other LGBT specific events and special nightlife offerings and there is a seemingly never-ending choice of things to do. Check it out: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Happy Summer!

Gay Vancouver, June 2011

2011-06-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Many events of interest are happening right now, including the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs in Vancouver, where the Vancouver Canucks will be battling the Boston Bruins for the cup. That said, the sports bars in Davie Village are full to the max, Canucks jerseys and flags are de rigueur, Granville Street downtown is blocked off for street celebrations on game nights and public transit vehicles all over town feature digital banners with Go Canucks Go!

Vancouver is also gearing up for other major sporting events and events of interest to the LGBT community in the months ahead, including the the 2011 Vancouver North America Outgames, July 25 - 31, and the Vancouver Outgames 2011 Human Rights Conference, July 26 - 28. Check out our Outgames 2011 page for further details: http://www.gayvan.com/outgames2011.html

The annual Vancouver Pride Festival kicks off on June 25 with East Side Pride, with over a month of exciting events, culminating with the Vancouver Pride Parade and Festival on July 31. Last year, it is estimated that over 650,000 people came out for this spectacular event. You can find the Pride event lineup for 2011 on our What's On - Pride page: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/pride

On the club scene in Vancouver, there's a never-ending series of special club nights, promotions, CD launch parties, leather and Military nights, lesbian hot spots, pageants and fundraisers. We constantly update our What's On - Gay Special Events page to to give you this and more:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Gayvan.com is also happy to support the 2011 Community Marketing, Inc. Gay & Lesbian Community Survey. Enter by June 15 and you will have a chance to win one of five $100 US cash prizes. Direct link to survey: http://www.lgbtsurvey.com/ .

June also marks the start of Pride festivals and celebrations from coast to coast, right across Canada. Be sure to see our Travel pages for links to info and events in other parts of Canada, as well as regional information on Whistler, Victoria, Seattle and more. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, April 2011

2011-04-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

With spring in full swing in the Vancouver region and beautiful weather forecast for the days ahead, we expect to see folks out and about as we haven't seen this year so far. Great time to dust off the bike, freshen up the wardrobe, play in the garden, or just get out there.

Lots of events of interest on the calendar as Vancouver gears up to celebrate our 125th Anniversary on April 6, with parties galore and a big splash at Jack Poole Plaza. Things kick off with a Vancouver AM breakfast at the stylish Vancouver Convention Centre next door, then street hockey tournaments at the Plaza, live bands, Aboriginal community ceremonies, Vancouver Bach Choir performance, mmHop dancers, Japanese Taiko drumming West Coast style, speech by Mayor Robertson, lighting of the Olympic Cauldron, multi-media video and light art installation spectacular by Phillip Geist and more. Official ceremonies begin at 6:00 PM: http://www.celebratevancouver125.ca/

Vancouver's Cherry Blossom Festival is also in full bloom, as we celebrate the over 37,000 cherry trees originally given to Vancouver as a gift from Japan back in the 1930's, adding colourful pinks and startling whites to our streets all over town; check out how to participate: http://www.vcbf.ca/ . And to show ways to support our friends in Japan as they face a challenging time, we have posted links on our website: https://www.gayvan.com/japanese/japan-relief.html .

Here in Davie Village, Rubbout is celebrating their 20th Anniversary, kicking off with a gear swap meet at PumpJack on Saturday, April 2nd at noon, and with a full lineup of events planned at various venues for the following weekend.

The Fountainhead Pub has just re-opened this week after a brief closure for renos. Great time to get down there to check it out and to grab a spot on one of the best patios in town as we enjoy the sunshine.

Carlotta Gurl celebrates her birthday on Saturday with a big birthday show at her new weekly Absolutly Drag-u-lous show at The Junction, with special guest performers and her own live GaGa impersonation...she's on the right track baby!

Ryan Steele has a new "Oh F***It's M**day show at Oasis Ultra Lounge on Mondays, there's free Latin dance lessons at Fiesta Night at Celebrities, $3 drinks and a live act "4U" at Numbers and Wired Wednesdays continue at 1181 Tight Lounge.

Taste of Pride is a special event offering signature tastes from the El Barrio, Cupcakes, Milestones, Moxies, The Fountainhead Pub, Vera's Burger Shack, Oasis, and The Boathouse, hosted by Barb Snelgrove and David C. Jones at the CBC Broadcast Centre on April 7th, and the BC Persons With AIDS Society (BCPWA) presents SILVER GALA, Saturday, April 9th at Terminal City Club.

Later this month, Gay Top Model is hosting this years Finale at the fab River Rock Casino Resort on April 23, Flygirl Productions is kicking off their 10th Anniversary Weekend with Hershe bar on Thursday April 21 at the Red Room, with the Closing Party at Canvas Lounge on the 24th, and Lipstick Jungle is teaming up with Crema Productions to share the love for "one hoppin' party" on Easter Sunday, April 24th at 560.

All the above and direct links to bar, pub and club websites are available at: https://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html and http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/bars-a-pubs.html .

The team at Gayvan.com is also happy to announce that our 2011 Gay Friendly Vancouver In Town Guide is off the press and in circulation about town and beyond. Pick up copies of the print edition locally at Little Sister's Bookstore and participating bars and clubs in Davie Village, major downtown hotel concierge desks, or the Tourism Visitor Centre at 200 Burrard St. You can also browse our digital edition in low or high resolution via the opening page of our website http://www.gayvan.com/ , or click this link to see the high-rez version: https://www.gayvan.com/InTown/Basic/Default.html .

Happy Spring!

Gay Vancouver, February 26, 2011

2011-02-26T13:17:00.000-08:00

What a difference a year makes. This time last year we were in full-swing Olympics mode, the weather had been amazingly mild (even for us here in balmy Vancouver), the blossoms were out on all the trees, daffodils and even tulips were blooming all over town, and we had to ship in snow for the start of the games by early February. Fast forward to the last weekend of February 2011, the folks up in Whistler are enjoying some of the best snowfalls ever, and here in the city we are having record low temperatures, with snow forecast for today, and daffodils still straining to burst forth. Even more surprising, our friends over in beautiful Victoria were digging out from a 25 cm dump of snow this week, just days before their annual flower count; must be that nasty ol' La Nina trying to get us finally!

That said, a little cool weather never slowed us down, especially not with the week of brilliant sunshine we just had, and the non-stop events lined up for the weeks ahead. Kicking off Coronation week here in Vancouver, on Saturday, Feb. 26, voting takes place at Little Sister's on Davie for our next Empress; get out there and show your support for Kamelle Toe! Ball Fever also takes place the same afternoon at The Junction, launching festivities for the 40th Anniversary of Coronation; expect to see Glam on Davie Street earlier than usual with a 3:00 PM start time. Emperor Marty Mojo Stevens and Empress Raye Sunshine's year wraps up with a full lineup of events starting with the In-Town Show on Wednesday, March 2, and winding up with Coronation XL - The Heaven & Hell Ball on Saturday, March 5, 2011 at Perfomance Works on Granville Island.

Speaking of Glam, Carlotta Gurl debuts a new show "Absolutely Drag-u-lous" at The Junction, Saturday, Feb. 26, 10:30 PM, with a fab line-up of special guests, including Joan-E, and we've heard Justine Tyme is in town from Calgary. We're definitely going to check it out.

And the Glam continues on Sunday, February 27, as Hollywood North pays tribute to the Academy in Hollywood, CA, with Oscar events galore all over town. This year the Vancouver International Film Festival hosts an Oscar Par-tay in support of Out In Schools (a Vancouver Queer Film Festival sponsored project) at the VanCity Theatre, emceed by the always glam Symone Says! Joan-E and Justine Tyme are hosting a 2011 Academy Awards Viewing Party at The Helm, with a pre-show starting at 4:00 PM in support of Friends for Life, and Terry Costa is hosting an Oscar Night with live telecast on the 12 foot screen at JLounge, to name a few.

If you are not planning to attend the Coronation Out-of-Town show on Friday, March 4, and are interested in special events for women, Crema Productions is hosting Jet Girl at 560 nightclub that night. As one of the longest running party promoters in the city, Crema and company have been producing some of the hottest events for women in the city for years.

Check out all the details on these events and more on our What's On pages: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Cheers!

Olympic Memories...

2011-02-09T15:12:00.000-08:00

Flashback to February 2010; there is a palpable sense of excitement and high energy in the air, as Vancouver and Whistler get set to host the world for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Colourful banners adorn the streetposts, international Olympic pavilions are in full swing, security helicopters are buzzing the skies, brightly donned groups with Olympic team jackets scour the urban landscape, dozens of languages are abuzz on pedstrian only streets, red olympic mittens are de rigeur, and CANADA branded outfits are all the rage. International newscasters and celebrities are showing up all over town, the Premier is about to Ignite the Dream in Robson Square, Olympic Torch Relay bearers are closing in, the Olympic Cauldron is ready to be lit, and the town is about to pop!

The team at Gayvan.com were also in very high gear, as we burned the candle at both ends in efforts to get our 2010 Gay Friendly Vancouver - In Town Guide to press and on the streets by the opening day of the Olympics. So hectic was our schedule, that we couldn't really focus on the fact that one of us had the honour of carrying the Olympic Torch on opening day. Although it had nothing to do with our company, and was the result of an individual application to the Olympic Torch Relay lottery a year earlier, nonetheless, we are a team, and it required a team effort, along with the help of a few close friends, to get it all together to be ready in the middle of Stanley Park by 4:30 AM.

By 6:30 AM, with the lit torch finally in hand, one of the most incredible days ever was about to unfold. Being number 10 in line on opening day was pretty exciting in itself, but with Arnold Schwarzenegger running at number 18 about twenty minutes later, there was that added extra buzz. Although there were no massive crowds waiting for number 10, we had a respectable group of good friends and supporters, but you couldn't get anywhere near the number 18 position, where there was a media frenzy going on. Sidestepping the crowds, we struggled to snag taxis, and headed downtown to the CTV studios, where we had been invited after the relay for the national morning show coverage. Once there, we were part of an exciting mix of local and national politicians, celebrities, numerous other torchbearers, and well-known national broadcasters, all cheering on the start of the Games.

Next it was off to the Inukshuk in English Bay for a Torch Relay Mascot event hosted by the Westend Business Improvement Association, where we rallied with mascots from the Vancouver Canucks, the Show of Hearts Telethon, and more. The mascots passed the torch among themselves, posed for pictures, and the amazing magic of the Olympic torch was really starting to sink in. Immediately following the Mascot event, as we headed along Beach Avenue to the Boathouse for a scrumptious breakfast, suddenly a group of about 20 young elementary school students with their teacher spotted the torchbearer outfit and torch, ran over to surround us and began to sing in unision Oh Canada; it was simply amazing, and one of the most memorable goosebump and wet eye moments of a day of many!

We then headed off to see our Greek barbers near Davie Village, whom we promised to visit with the torch after the relay, as it was dear to their hearts. They were so excited when we finally showed up, pictures were taken all around, and the photo of them holding the torch is hung proudly on the wall of their shop to this day. Figured we would just head home for a break after the barber shop, but soon found out that if you were wearing a torchbearer outfit and carrying the torch on opening day, you were a photo-opp in the making; swarms of people were lining up on the street, wanting their picture taken with the torch. Finally, we had to hit the back alleys off Davie, just to get home.

Word spread fast in the village, however, and soon afterwards the phone started ringing, asking if we would bring the torch to various restaurants and pubs along Davie, so we headed out once again. Unprepared for the response is a bit of an understatement, as we were literally swarmed everywhere we went, with people just wanting to hold the torch and have their picture taken with it. We started out at Score on the west end of Davie and hit every bar and pub along the strip, with numerous street stops along the way...incredible! Final stop was by special invitation to the Feather Boa Show at the infamous Odyssey nightclub, where the whole crowd joined in unison for a resounding rendition of I Am Canadian...WOW!

It's hard to show the level of excitement using only words, and fortunately we took a few snaps and videos ourselves during our Olympic experiences along the way. We have put together a small collage of clips, which you can check out on our YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/Gayvanguy .

For those wanting to relive a bit of that Olympic experience in the flesh, check out these happenings in the days ahead:

2011 CIBC LunarFest February 3 - 13, 2011 - The free 10-day festival includes a Lanterns parade, a Lantern Aquarium in front of the Vancouver Art Gallery, concerts and more.
Illuminate Yaletown February 11 - 12, 2011 - Illuminate Yaletown first lit up the neighbourhood during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games; this year's free two-day event is an entertainment-filled street party featuring spectacular light installations from local artists.
Olympics Celebration at Robson Square February 12, 2011 - During the Olympics, Robson Square was a centre of entertainment. Check out the free ice skating, music and live entertainment, as well as a chance to meet Canuck's Mascot Fin and Canadian 2010 Olympians.
Free Admission to the Vancouver Art Gallery February 12, 2011, from 10am - 5pm - See the work of famous Vancouver artist Ken Lum.
Relive Centre Ice on Granville February 12, 2011, 12pm - 9pm - Granville Street will close between Smithe and Dunsmuir for an Olympic street party that includes street hockey, buskers and the LunarFest Procession.
Lighting of the Olympic Cauldron February 12, 2011, at 4pm - Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games torchbearers, VANOC volunteers and the public will come together for the first anniversary of the official lighting of the Olympic Cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Granville Street Party - Olympic Glory Relived! February 26, starting at 9pm - more than 20,000 people on Facebook are planning a huge street party on Granville St. in downtown Vancouver to celebrate last year's Vancouver Olympics and Canadian Gold Medals.

Get out there and BELIEVE...

Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, December 21, 2010

2010-12-21T05:44:00.000-08:00

A rare lunar eclipse in conjunction with Winter Soltice kicked off the first day of winter, and the start of the spectacular 2010 holiday season here in Canada. The northern hemisphere was the best place to witness this once-in-a-lifetime celestial event, which last occurred either 372 or 456 years ago, depending on which source you hear it from; nonetheless it had been a very long time!

That said, winter is a fantastic time to visit Canada, and the Vancouver region of British Columbia is alive with holiday parties galore, non-stop nightclub action, incredible shopping, scrumptious dining, balmy seasonal temperatures in our cities, and mounds of fresh snow in the nearby mountains.

More than any other time of year, great shopping values are in abundance, and online shopping has made it so that we can shop anytime of day or night, helping us get the gift giving part of the season under control. Whether you plan to order online, or just browse to get some good ideas before heading out, we have links to a great selection of businesses that offer both online and in-store shopping. Check out our Shopping pages for some of the hottest stuff in town: http://www.gayvan.com/services/shopping.html .

Gift certificates are another great option at this time of year, and having just received one for one of our favourite restaurants in Victoria, reminded us that this is a great gift to give or receive. Check out our Dining pages for restaurants in Vancouver, our Victoria page for more of our favourites, and our new online Travel Directory for options in Whistler, the Thompson Okanagan region, other parts of BC, Seattle and more:
http://www.gayvan.com/services/dining.html
http://www.gayvan.com/travel/victoria.html
http://www.gayvan.com/travel/travel-directory.html

A few other gift ideas that come to mind are hotel stays, spa packages, ski holidays, get-a-ways to Victoria, or a trip to one of the fab resorts in the Thompson Okanagan. Quick Shuttle tickets to Seattle, New Year's Eve event tickets, or advance passes for WinterPride in Whistler are always welcome surprises. Or why not just treat yourself to a relaxing getaway during the holidays. Easy access to all this and a lot more is available via our main website: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

On the entertainment scene, our club and event organizers are preparing a multitude of parties and special events, theatres are in full swing, ballet companies are performing seasonal specialities, making right now a good time to map out schedules and explore options for the festivities ahead. To get details on the latest, and links to buy tickets visit: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

Wishing you all the best of the season and the coming year.

Happy Holidays!

Vancouver, November 10, 2010

2010-11-10T13:11:00.000-08:00

There's nothing like sitting in brilliant sunshine on a Vancouver November morning coffee break to lift the spirits. November is typically the start to our rainy season, with clouds and rain expected (to keep us lush and green), so the unusual amount of sunshine so far this year is a very welcome bonus. Add in a spectacular rainbow lightshow or two over Davie Village, and who can complain!

In addition to the weather surprises, we also have a statutory holiday this month, Remembrance Day, where we honour brave Canadians who have lost their lives serving in our military, so we can enjoy the fantastic lifestyle we enjoy here in Canada. We can be thankful as well, as gays and lesbians serve openly in our military. Red poppies are in abundance on the streets, pinned over the hearts of Canadians from coast to coast, and there are numerous events taking place across the land. Details of official events can be found at:
http://www.vac-acc.gc.ca/remembers/sub.cfm?source=feature/week2010/events

With a holiday scheduled right in the middle of the week, you can also expect there to be a great lineup of special nightlife events on November 10, and Vancouver is no exception. Here's a few we have on file to help you plan your night:

Gay Bingo kicks off at 8:00 PM at Celebrities, with host Joan-E and special guest, Carlotta Gurl, Celebrities Night Club (1022 Davie Street)
Vancouver Men's Chorus presents: Singing Can Be a Drag, Wednesday November 10th, 2010 at 8pm, the Junction Public house (1138 Davie Street)
Dollicious present JujuBee, Wednesday, November 10 at 9:00pm, Celebrities Night Club (1022 Davie Street)
Holy Batman Grab Your Nuts!, Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at 8:00pm, Numbers Cabaret
HERSHE BAR - Wednesday NOV 10/10, Here we go again.......... DJ Amara (LA, Club Skirts The Dinah) returns to slay another Hershe long weekend with DJ Riki Rocket (UK, Australia)!

The Bears will also be out and about Saturday night with another special event:
THICKSET - Bear & Cub Hangout, Saturday, November 13, ANZA Club - 3 W. 8th Ave, doors 9pm / $5 before 10 / $10 after. Further details: http://thickset.wordpress.com/

Another event of note coming up on November 15, is the 25th Anniversary Show of Starry Night. Gayvan.com is proud to be a sponsor of this landmark event: Monday, November 15 · 8:00pm - 11:00pm, Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (Stanley Theatre), 2750 Granville Street (South Granville). Link to tickets and further info: http://www.shootingstarsfoundation.org/event_starrynight.php .

The amazing Kim Kuzma will also be in town this week with: An Acoustic Performance by Kim Kuzma and Mark James Fortin, Wednesday, November 17 7:00pm - 9:00pm, J Lounge (1216 Bute Street)

Another "Sweet" women's event takes place on November 19: "SWEET" - FRIDAY NOVEMBER 19/10, "SWEET" Friday is THE once a month Friday lesbian hot spot where the girls are hot, the dancefloor is hopping and the atmosphere is elegant, warm and welcoming. Come as you are. EVERYONE welcome!

And believe of not, it's also time to start planning our Holiday calendars. The Vancouver Men's Chorus kicks off the season once again, with their annual lineup of concerts. The Vancouver Men’s Chorus presents: Making Spirits Bright

Thursday, December 9 at 8:00 PM
Saturday, December 11 at 8:00 PM
Sunday, December 12 at 3:00 PM & 8:00 PM
Monday, December 13 at 8:00 PM

Check out further details on these events and more:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html

Cheers!

Vancouver, October 23, 2010

2010-10-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

What better than a full moon on a late October Saturday, to kick off one of the most celebrated weeks of the year here in Vancouver! A great way to get into the swing of things, is a visit to one of the local businesses supporting "OUT! and about", which will donate a portion of their proceeds on October 23 to "Out in Schools", to further their efforts to reach BC's LGBTQ youth in rural areas, to let them know they are not alone. This is also a good way to follow up on the Spirit Day candle light vigil held earlier this week, or the proclamation taking place at City Hall this evening at 5:30 PM, declaring October 23 to be a "Day Against Hate Crime" in the City of Vancouver.

Another highlight of note for anyone visiting Vancouver today who missed their chance to see the Olympic cauldron lit during the Vancouver Olympics, or if you live here and would like to relive the experience, the cauldron was lit yesterday evening and will remain lit throughout October 23, to commemorate the dedication of Jack Poole Plaze (where the cauldron sits) in honour of Jack Poole, the Chairman of the Vancouver Organizing Committee, who passed on just a couple of months before the start of the games.

On a lighter note, the party scene is heating up all over town, with everything from UFC on the big screens in Davie Village, a Thickset event for the bear community, a Full Moon Party, and a full calendar of Halloween events to check out. As always, we continue to add details and updates as we get them, so be sure to check back with us while finalizing your plans: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

This is also the start of what is now becoming unofficially known as Halloweek across the land, where there are extensive lineups of events celebrating our ghoulish sides as we lead up to Halloween on October 31. To name a few, Numbers Cabaret in Vancouver has Halloweek festivities kicking off October 26, and Toronto's Church Wellesley Village has a full lineup of events starting on October 24: http://www.churchwellesleyvillage.ca/events.php?id=40 .

Happy Halloween!

Vancouver, September 30, 2010

2010-09-30T12:47:00.000-07:00

Now that we are well into the start of our fab fall season, it's great to report that we are enjoying a fantastic stretch of sunny days and summerlike temperatures once again. The trees are just starting to burst into colour, and with all the bright sunshine, there's no better time to get out there and enjoy!

Today also kicks off the start of the 29th Annual Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF), and we are happy once again to work with them to bring you the list of all the GLBT Films at VIFF 2010:

108 (Cuchillo de palo), Director: Renate Costa, Country: Spain
Daniel Schmid (Daniel Schmid--Le chat qui pense), Director: Pascal Hofmann, Benny Jaberg, Country: Switzerland
Family Complete, The (Kazoku Complete), Director: Imaizumi Koichi, Country: Japan
Family Tree (L' arbre et la forêt), Director: Olivier Ducastel, Jacques Martineau, Country: France
Heartbeats (Les amours imaginaries), Director: Xavier Dolan, Country: Canada/France
I Am (Afia megha abhimanyu omar), Director: Onir, Country: India
Insects in the Backyard, Director: Thanwarin Sukkaphisit, Country: Thailand
L.A. Zombie, Director: Bruce LaBruce, Country: Germany/USA
Single Man (Guanggun), Director: Hao Jie, Country: China
Stonewall Uprising, Director: Kate Davis, David Heilbroner, Country: USA
Figs in Motion, Director: Trevor Anderson, Country: Canada
Price of Flowers, The, Director: Ashley Charbonnet, Country: USA
Senorita, Director: Vincent Sandoval, Country: Philippines/USA
Silk Letter, A (Baekseo), Director: Kang Sangwoo, Country: South Korea
Mogadishu Dreaming, Director: Lesley Branagan, Country: Australia
Fathers & Sons, Director: Carl Bessai, Country: Canada (GLBT of interest film)
When the Devil Knocks, Director: Helen Slinger, Country: Canada (GLBT of interest film)

To get more info on these, and other films showing between September 30 and October 15, 2001, visit:
http://www.viff.org/festival/films-schedule/ .

We also had the pleasure this week to touch base with a bit of Vancouver LGBT history, as we met with the staff and management of the Moda Hotel downtown. As many remember, the Moda Hotel in a previous incarnation was the world-renowned Dufferin Hotel and Bar (the Duff); yet another gay space which closed its doors about 3 years ago. Having last stayed at the Duff back in 1990 during the Gay Games, we were keen to have the chance to check out its reincarnation, and couldn't believe the transformation!

Now with a decidedly Italian flavour, the Moda is a stylish, chic little downtown urban oasis, offering a full range of upscale amenities, and a few locals-know, insider surprises. To start, the lobby retains some of it's original trappings, such as the original tile floors, high ceilings with crown moldings, and a few decidely modern twists, such as fashionable lobby furniture, and a 30,000 Euro chandelier sent directly from Italy for the occasion. French doors open from the lobby to Cibo Trattoria, a stylish restaurant launched by Jamie Oliver of Food Network fame for its grand opening. Colourful original tile floors have been revealed, and oversized gilt-frame mirrors and artwork complete the picture. Uva wine bar is another stylish offering on site, where you can start with real Italian cappuccino in the morning, specialty lunch offerings (we had the Halibut...delish!), and a great selection of wines by the glass for evening soirees. You won't recognize the space that used to house the original Duff bar and lower bar Go-Go boys, which is now a split-level, high-end sports bar called the Red Card. A few insider surprises include the fact that they now offer fashionable suites for travellers, both onsite and across the street in a brand-new building complex, complete with french doors and separate entertainment areas. The former Karaoke Club is now a cold beer and wine store, and the new Madonna Room is a cozy boardroom-slash-wine-cellar circular space that seats 12, ideal for that special occasion, or perhaps a private birthday party in the centre of it all! Check out their listing on our Travel Directory for more: http://www.gayvan.com/component/sobi2/?sobi2Task=sobi2Details&catid=15&sobi2Id=101 .

We also recently had the chance to visit 560, which is an incredible downtown club space, becoming increasingly popular with the LGBT community. Now that we have just lost the Odyssey, and with 1181 out of order until early November due to a flood last week, it is a perfect time to check out this hot new space. Lola (remember Lola from the Odyssey patio bar?) invited us to visit and was working the downstairs bar on the night we went. There were many familiar faces mingling nearby Lola's station, a kind of deja-vu of sorts, but in an entirely new location. An amazing stretch of co-ed bathrooms (you have to see it to appreciate it) were just to the right and there were three more levels including bars, a loft, dance floor and semi-private lounges pumping away above. Out for Kicks were hosting a members event on site this night as well, and we understand that Big Rogers Events and House of Venus are also hosting regular events in this space.

TFD Productions is starting a new night at Celebrities, in addition to the new Hard Candy night on Thursdays (picking up where Shower Power left off), the Mr./Ms./Miss Gay Pageant takes place October 2, at the Coast Plaza Hotel, GLEE Tuesdays at JLounge, a DMS fundraiser "Dollicious" after Gay Bingo on October 6, Vancouver Men in Leather - Wild Party at Numbers October 8, Flygirl's Hershe Bar on Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend, and Thickset, Vancouver's popular Bear & Cub hangout at the Cobalt is back in October, and of course, Fright Nights at Playland kicks off October 15. Check out all this and more: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

As well, our friends at Momentum Grooming here in Vancouver are celebrating their 6th Anniversary with a Sale...treat yourself to something special, or delight a friend with a personal gift:
http://www.momentumgrooming.com/ .

And last. but not least, October is GLBT History Month, where beginning on October 1, 2010, a new GLBT Icon is presented daily. Each day you’ll have access to his or her video, bio and resources, along with information on all the preceding Icons. You can find links to this and much more on our homepage: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

Cheers!

Vancouver, September 10, 2010

2010-09-10T11:17:00.000-07:00

It was the end of an era here in Vancouver when the iconic Odyssey Nightclub finally closed it's doors on Howe Street for the last time at 4:00 AM on Monday, September 6, after 25 years. The lineup snaked down the alley with up to a three-hour wait to get in to toast the legendary club farewell. Fortunately, we had purchased advance tickets and got in before the 10 PM cut-off for ticketholders, and squeezed into the throng with just enough space to view the stage for the final night of the fifteen-year run of the Feather Boa Show, hosted since day-one by local female impersonator extraordinaire, Joan-E. Naturally, most of the city's top drag performers were out in full force and topped off the show with a spectacular grand finale of bejewelled showgirls onstage. All is not lost however, as the space once occupied by The Odyssey is being redeveloped for a much-needed social housing complex, and rumour has it that The Odyssey has scouted a new location that will be announced in the spring of 2011, if not sooner.

This week we also had the pleasure of escorting a visiting media celebrity from the Windy City Media Group of Chicago, Amy Matheny and her partner Kelli, on a whirlwind tour of Davie Village, while they were in town doing a podcast for the Windy City Queercast show, featuring Vancouver in an upcoming episode. We first met Amy last month in Chicago, at a media reception that was hosted by Tourism Vancouver, and it was great to see her here so soon afterwards. Be sure to check out Queercast.com for current shows, and the upcoming Vancouver feature in the days ahead: http://www.windycityqueercast.com/

Other events of interest on the calendar include the Vancouver Home & Interior Design Show, which runs from September 9 - 12, at the new Vancouver Convention Centre, and is a must-see for any aspiring decorators or those looking for new ideas to freshen up their homespace. After picking up a glass of wine at the Western Living Lounge, we wandered around sampling scrumptious hors d'oeuvres and gourmet bites offered by Diva at The Met, and Windset Farms Development Chef, Ned Bell, among others. Vancouverites may remember Ned Bell as a celebrity chef on Food Network Canada's "Cook like a Chef", or perhaps from Lumiere restaurant? You also can catch him in the upcoming "It's Just Food" for CTV, or check out his current venture, the Cabana Bar & Grille in Kelowna: http://www.cabanagrille.com/. Among other highlights of the evening, was the chance to chat with celebrity chef, David Adjey, and publicist, Cathy Kurzbock of the Food Network, about his upcoming new show on the Food Network entitled "The Opener" which debutes this fall: http://www.foodnetwork.ca/ontv/hosts/David-Adjey/host.html?hostid=39691 . After striking an Iron Chef pose with David (see photo on left), we went in search of Carlotta Gurl, who we knew was doing a promo appearance as Marilyn Monroe at one of the booths on the showfloor, caught up with her and shot a few glam pics around the marketplace, where heads were turning as she worked the room. Special thanks to Tara Tait and Lisa Kwong of Tait PR for their hospitality at this amazing event. Check out show details at: http://www.vancouverhomeshow.com/ .

After the show, Carlotta Gurl, Daichan and I hopped a cab to 1181 in Davie Village, where we met their new bar manager, Riley, and then strolled down the street to Celebrities Nightclub to see James, who was launching their new Hard Candy night for Thursdays, and not missing a beat picking up from where Shower Power left off at The Odyssey. James says they will also honour VIP passes from the Odyssey for this night for the next month or so: http://www.celebritiesnightclub.com/content/hard-candy-launch-party .

Many other notable events are lined up for the weeks ahead, including Davie Day, the Vancouver International Fringe Festival, the AIDS Walk for Life, the DMS Bar-b-que at PumpJack, Artists for Life at JLounge, the Q Golf Tournament at UBC, and the Mr./Ms./Miss Gay Vancouver XXXI Pageant at the Coast Plaza Hotel. All this and more at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, August 23, 2010

2010-08-23T12:44:00.000-07:00

As we head in to the last few weeks of summer 2010, the forecast is for clear skies, sunshine, warm temperatures, and there's a fantastic lineup of exciting events to explore.

Lady GaGa was performing with her Monster Ball Tour in Vancouver recently, with two sold-out shows on August 23 & 24 at Roger's Arena. After attending a tasteful wine and cheese hosted by the Empress of Canada, Mr. ted northe, promoting the September 29 Q Foundation Golf Tournament to raise funds to Fight Bullying, we happened upon Lady GaGa's tour bus in the parking lot of the arena, and took a snapshot while heading back the West End. Celebrities Nightclub is also hosting a Little Monster Party August 23 for all her little monsters after the performance, and if your didn't see her Monday night, you could win four tickets to her sold-out show on Tuesday for the best GaGa inspired outfit! Links and details:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) is celebrating their 100 Anniversary this year, and this annual event which has been part of many of our lives over the years (including Gay Day at Playland), has a fantastic line-up of events and concerts August 21 - September 6. A few highlights include Kevin Costner, Terri Clark, Michael Bolton, Loverboy, Huey Lewis and the News, Wayne Newton, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Cindi Lauper, Little River Band and Trooper. Seating for these performances (first come-first serve) are included in your gate entry ($20) and you can save a bit by booking online, or picking them up at 7 Eleven, Safeway, and Shoppers Drug Mart, in the lower mainland, or right on Davie Street in the West End. We're going this week, and plan to ride Revelation one more time; see last year's Revelation ride video on our YouTube uploads: http://www.youtube.com/user/Gayvanguy#p/u/8/ds77nGKSYjI . More PNE info online: http://www.pne.ca/thefair/index.html .

Other LGBT events of interest include:

Ladies of the 80's, Tuesday, August 24 at 10:30pm, Numbers Caberet (1042 Davie Street)
Faux Girls: ODYSSEY STAFF EDITION! Wednesday, August 25, The Odyssey (1251 Howe St), Doors @ 9, Faux Girls @ 11:30, Lips Inc @ 12:30, Cover $5
Madonnathon! Thursday August 26th. Doors @ 9, Cover $5, Show @ 10pm, The Odyssey The Rhinestones Phoenix Charity Foundation presents: DIVAS LIVE DISNEY (Drag Show),
Friday, August 27, 2010, The Odyssey Nightclub
Dragathon 2010! Saturday, August 28, The Odyssey (1251 Howe St), Doors @ 7, Show @ 8, Cover $5 to 11pm, $10 after, Circuit O: RETROspective! Friday, September 3, The Odyssey. Doors @ 9, Cover $10, Service to 4am
CruiseyT - Grande Finale Party Cruise, September 5th, Boarding: 3:30 pm, Departure: 4 pm (4 hour cruise - back at 8 pm), DJ(s): Zack Shore, Performer(s): Joan-E & Special Guests
HERSHE BAR, SUNDAY SEPT 5/10 @ RED ROOM, Where The Girls Are!
The Last Feather Boa show at the Odyssey Nightclub, Sunday, September 5 at 10:00pm - September 6 at 4:00am, The Odyssey (1251 Howe St.)

And as you may have noticed, we have highlighted many events taking place at the legendary Odyssey Nightclub, which after over 15 years of serving the Vancouver's gay community, are being forced out of their location which is set to be demolished; so this will be your last time to get out and celebrate this venue and all the fantastic times it represents. Be sure to be there for the last Feather Boa Show on Sunday, September 5, and be part of Vancouver's LGBT history. Or better yet, start off with host Joan-E on the CruiseyT Grande Finale Party Cruise of the season, and follow her to The Odyssey where she will host her final Feather Boa Show on the last night of this legendary nightclub!! Get all the details and ticket info at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, August 4, 2010

2010-08-04T07:06:00.000-07:00

Now that Vancouver has just celebrated another exciting Pride season, many of us can get back to our regular schedules and routines, including updating our blogs.

That said, Vancouver Pride this year was bigger and better than ever, with an amazing line-up of events, parties, cruises, and just a lot of fun for all. Some highlights for us included the Davie Street Party on Friday night, the Celebration of Light and a bar tour on Saturday evening, the Pride Parade Sunday at noon and the CruiseyT GoGo Cruise Sunday evening, followed by yet another bar tour! It was great to see many of our long-time friends out and about, many of whom we only see out at this time of year, and also lots of folks from out of town visiting for the celebrations.

It is an incredible high-energy weekend here in the city, with close to a half million people coming into the West End Saturday evening for the fireworks, a large percentage marching right through Davie Village enroute to the beaches of English Bay, followed by an estimated 600,000 just 12 hours or so later, to line the streets to watch the Pride Parade. If people watching is your thing, it just doesn't get much better than this! Add in the fact that there are relatively few problems overall, and it is a pretty amazing spectacle for everyone to see on this scale.

It was also great to see the many families, kids, and people of all walks of life out to cheer on the parade, waving rainbow flags and cheering on the participants. The importance of this was highlighted by one of our Grand Marshalls this year, Nicolai Alexseev from Moscow, who is currently fighting for the right to stage similar celebrations back home. We have come a very long way since our very first Vancouver Pride Festival back in 1973.

And as we wrap up Pride here in Vancouver, our friends in the Thompson Okanagan region are just gearing up for their celebrations, August 11-15, and have a full line-up of events in the works. Our contest for a Grand Prize Package for Okanagan Pride is now closed, and we will be announcing the winner in the days ahead. Check out the details for Okanangan Pride via the links on our Thompson Okanagan page: http://www.gayvan.com/travel/okanagan.html .

Back in the city, we are now getting ready for the 22 Annual Queer Film Festival, August 12-22, which is another great reason to visit Vancouver. Grab yourself a great hotel room, a film festival pass, and take a trip around the world with 90 films from a dozen countries, over an eleven day run. We're also offering a chance to win two tickets to The Butch Factor on August 15, and you can enter from the Newsletter box on our homepage: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

Cheers!

Vancouver, July 15, 2010

2010-07-15T18:53:00.000-07:00

Now that we are finally seeing hot summer temperatures here in Vancouver, the town has exploded into action. A wetter and colder than usual start to summer had us all holding back for a couple of weeks, but now the shorts, t-shirts, tanks and sandals are everywhere in sight, and people are making up for lost time, so to speak.

Just this week did my first full-on tanning session down at Sunset beach, just a few blocks from Davie Village, and the beach was absolutely packed. Snuck out early on Monday afternoon to savour the heat, and it was fun to see that I was not the only one skipping out of the office, as there were several folks within beach blanket view also clicking away on their laptops, chatting on their i-phones and blackberry's, and if you couldn't see the visuals, it would sound like a typical office setting on a late Monday afternoon. Ahh...the blessings of technology...I think.

With all this fabulous weather happening, read a recent news article on the best patios in Vancouver, and noticed that not one from Davie Village was even mentioned. Although they are not well-kept secrets, obviously they are not on everyone's radar, and a quick review reminded me that we have an amazing 10 outdoor patios within a three block stretch of Davie Village from Burrard to Jervis, including: The Fountainhead Pub, Oasis Ultra Lounge, Characters, The Junction Public House, Mis Trucos, Hamburger Mary's, Speakeasy, Score and the two large patios at JLounge!

Another highlight this week was the launch of the 7th annual edition of our Gay Friendly Canada publication, which we produce in both print and online digital versions, distribute nationally across Canada, as well as take on the road with us wherever we go. You can see the digital version of both our Gay Friendly Canada and Gay Friendly Vancouver publications via the opening page of our website, but as the Canada edition is the most recent, here's a quick link to the Zoom version:
http://www.gayvan.com/GayCanada180DPI/Basic/Default.html .

Vancouver is now in Pride mode, as we gear up for our annual Vancouver Pride Week celebrations, and this year is promising to be our biggest and best ever. With the expanded Parade route, Festival site, Davie Village Street Party, and a full line-up of official events, it's a fantastic time to be in town. Gay Day At Playland kicks off on Sat. July 17, followed by the ever-popular Picnic in the Park on July 24, just for starters. You can check out all the official Pride events, and link to the Vancouver Pride Society via our Pride page at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/pride.html .

Sweet, a special women's event kicks off Flygirl Productions Pride celebrations on Fri. July 16 at Canvas Lounge, Celebrities celebrates their 6 Year Anniversary with a Ken & Barbie Party, July 17 (Congrats Guys!), Numbers, JLounge, Odyssey, and Celebrities, all have full line-ups of Pride Week events, PRIAPE presents Tyra Sanchez & porn superstar Samuel Colt Live on July 28, Flygirl has the Chicks Ahoy Cruise, CruiseyT has the Pride White Party Cruise, the Pride Go-Go Cruise, the Traditional Pride Party Cruise, Crema Productions have the Hot & Wet Women's Cruise; there's Chicas - Hot House of Hotties, JetGirl, Hershe Bar, Big Roger's Events, Rapture Events, the fabulous Kim Kuzma will be in town, and more. Check it all out: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Happy Pride Vancouver!!!

Vancouver, June 20, 2010

2010-06-20T15:27:00.000-07:00

Summer officially kicks off with the Summer Solstice at 7:28 AM, EDT across North America on Monday, June 21, 2010, and we are gearing up for another exciting season in the months ahead.

Pride celebrations have already begun across the continent and around the world, and there's a full line-up of events at various times and places, everywhere from small town Canada, to the largest cities on the globe. The weekend of June 26-27 coincides with the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York (40th NYC Pride Festival this year), and is the usual main weekend for Toronto Pride, which has shifted to the following weekend this year due to the G8-G20 Summit. San Francisco celebrates that weekend as well, as does Chicago, Seattle, and Houston, among others.

Here in BC, our friends in Surrey celebrate Pride with a series of events, including a Paddle Boat Cruise on June 27, and a Pride Festival in Holland Park on July 11, Victoria celebrates Pride with more than a week of festivities, starting on June 27, with the main events, the annual Pride Parade and Festival on July 4. Prince George celebrates from July 14 - 18, with a Pride Parade, Pride Festival, and Pride Party on July 17, and Vancouverites enjoy a full month or so of Pride celebrations, kicking off with East Side Pride on June 26. With too many events to list here, Vancouver Pride is the region's largest celebration, culminating with Pride Weekend, which takes place July 29 - August 1, this year. Just a few hours east of Vancouver, our friends in the Okanagan are next in line, with celebrations from August, 11- 15, 2010. Check out our Travel pages and What's On pages for more information and links to these events and more: http://www.gayvan.com/travel.html , http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

In addition to Pride, there are many other festivals and events of interest this time of year, including the Dragon Boat Festival, June 19-10, Car Free Days at six locations around the city, June 20, The Vancouver International Jazz Festival, June 25 - July 4, Vancouver Shakespear Festival - Bard on the Beach, June 3 - Sept 25, Canada Day celebrations July 1, with the Burrard Inlet Fireworks Show at 10:30 PM same day, Festival of Contemporary Dance, July 8-18, the 32nd annual Folk Music Festival, July 16-18, Caribbean Days Festival in North Vancouver, July 24-25, Vancouver Early Music Festival, July 15 - August 14, Celebration of Light - International Fireworks Competition, four fabulous nights, July 21 - July 31 (right in the middle of Pride weekend), and of course, the Vancouver Queer Film Festival, August 12 - 22, 2010. Get info on these and other events:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/events-of-interest.html .

And to top off a great day of event hopping, Vancouver has a fantastic line-up of LGBT-specific nightlife in the weeks ahead, including:

D.M.S. Summer Solstice Show, Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at 10:00pm, Numbers Cabaret
Celebrities presents GLEEK NIGHT / ♫♫ Inspired by GLEE ♫♫, Thursday, June 24, 2010 9:00pm, Celebrities Night Club (1022 Davie Street)
Divas Live presents DIVAS GONE COUNTRY,Friday June 25th 2010, Dragshow, 9:30pm, Odyssey Nightclub (1251 Howe St)
900 Quayside Drive at the foot of the Inn at Westminster Quay“HERSHE BAR” WEDNESDAY JUNE 30/10 @ RED ROOM, Where The Girls Are!
Canada Day Celebration - SHERRY VINE Live! (NYC), Wednesday, June 30, 2010 at 10:00pm, Celebrities Night Club (1022 Davie Street)
CANADA DAY T-DANCE, Thursday, July 1, 2010 3:00pm - 9:00pm, J LOUNGE (1216 Bute Street)

Check out all these and more on our continually updated What's On Gay Events page:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

And on a final note, we just wanted to remind everyone that we have a great selection of gay friendly hotels, with special rates, Pride Packages and more listed on our secure, online Hotel Reservations System: http://www.gayvan.com/imscart/index.php?page=shop/index .

Happy Summer!

Vancouver, June 3, 2010

2010-06-04T16:37:00.000-07:00

As we head into the last few weeks of spring here in Vancouver, we're looking forward to the prospect of sunny skies and warmer weather ahead. Our friends in eastern Canada have been sweltering in well above average heat for the past few weeks, and we can't wait to get some it out here on the west coast too!

Speaking of heat, there's lots of hot action about town right now, with tourists arriving daily, special events galore, the cruise season in full swing, and the kick off to summer just around the corner.

The CLIA conference is in town right now (Cruise Lines International Association), IGLTA is in attendance (International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association), and IGLTA is hosting a Member's cocktail reception on the Penthouse level of the Sandman Suites on Davie, in the heart of the village, Friday evening. We look forward to seeing IGLTA in Vancouver once again!

It was announced today that the Celebration of Light will be back with their international fireworks competition for their 20th season, just off the beach at English Bay. Dates have been announced, but headlining sponsors, and competing countries have yet to be announced. Check back with us for updates, as we get details for these spectacular nights, that bring 400,000 or so folks nightly into the West End.

Cirque du Soleil are on tour and are coming back to Vancouver for another fabulous performance this season; tickets are now available for Kooza, "an adrenaline rush of acrobatics in a zany kingdom",which kicks off in Vancouver, July 22.

Rhianna is also coming to town July 4, the Backstreet Boys, Aug 6, Michael Buble, Aug 20 & 21, and Lady GaGa, Aug 23 & 24, to name a few. To book these, and Vancouver's only same-day, half-price event tiks, visit Tickets Tonight (a full-service Ticketmaster outlet) on our What's On - Events of Interest page: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/events-of-interest.html .

And for those in town right now, or planning to visit soon, following are a few events of interest in the weeks ahead:

Project Empty Bowl, Thursday, June 10, 2010 6:30pm - 11:00pm, at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel -Proceeds to A Loving Spoonful
Dine with Pride - Big Gay Wedding 2, an official Pride Fundraiser, June 12 @ the Holiday Inn Downtown
The 23rd Annual WESA Pageant, Saturday, June 12, 2010 8:00pm - 10:30pm, Celebrities Nightclub
D.M.S. BarbeQueen, Sunday, June 13, 2010 1:30 - 6:00pm, at the PumpJack Pub
Vancouver Men's Chorus presents "On Broadway", June 17 to 20, 2010 8PM, Performance Works on Granville Island

Check out details on these events and more: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events .

The Gayvan.com team and our associates are currently in the planning and production of our 7th annual Gay Friendly Canada publication, and look forward to launching our new print and digital editions nationally in the weeks ahead. To find our more, or to be part of it, feel free to contact us at ads@gayvan.com .

We would also like to invite you to take a new survey about your opinions and preferences, from an LGBT perspective. Everyone who completes the survey by June 30th will be entered into a drawing to win one of 20 Amazon $25 gift credits, or the grand prize of a $500 Visa gift card. Participating in this study helps open minds and doors around the world, and influences positive changes for our community. Click here to start the survey, or paste the following into your browser: http://www.lgbtsurvey.com/ .

And last, but not least, Vancouver's own Joan-E turns Four-T this year, and in celebration of this milestone, she will be hosting a fundraiser for Friends for Life on June 13, at Lift Restaurant, 333 Menchion Mews, from 8-11PM. Tickets available at: http://friendsforlife.ca/JoanEBirthday.html . What a great way to celebrate the big 4-O!

Cheers!

Vancouver, May 21, 2010

2010-05-21T07:09:00.000-07:00

The longest days of the year are here, and with the sun not going down until after 9PM, and the afterglow lasting until after 10-ish, it's no wonder the streets of Davie Village are a-buzz with activity into the wee hours. Thank goodness for 24-7 amenities and daylight savings time!

That said, we are also gearing up for the unofficial kick-off to summer weekend here in Canada, locally known as the May 24th weekend, with it's infamous reputation of being one of the biggest party weekends of the year. Dust off the barby's, freshen up the muscle-t's, shorts and sandals, grab some sunscreen and prepare for a good time. Pick out your spot on a patio somewhere in the village, on a beach, or anywhere around town for that matter, and just enjoy the festive atmosphere all day long until the day cools down, and the nightlife heats up.

Lots on the calendar entertainment-wise too, with everything from BBQ's, to T-dances, to Drag extravaganza's, women's events, and more. Here's a few:

"SWEET" FRIDAY MAY 21/10 @ Canvas Lounge - An all inclusive, elegant & playful party for women and friends! A perfect spot to sip martini’s, unwind from the week, meet new friends and rock-out the dancefloor! Canvas Lounge - 99 Powell St
The WIGGLE Show - Saturday, May 22, 2010 at 8:00pm, show time 9pm, Five Sixty (560 Seymour Street) The House of Venus annual wearable art / Wigfest returns to celebrate it's Sweet Sixteen!
SPRING FEVER III - with DJ MICKY FRIEDMANN (Berlin), Saturday, May 22, 2010 at 9:00pm
Celebrities Night Club (1022 Davie Street), Starring Berlin DJ and international star DJ MICKY FRIEDMANN with opening set by Vancouver's hottest DJ Nick Bertossi
ULTIMATE DJ 3-WAY - Sunday, May 23, 2010 at 3:00pm @ 1181 Davie Street, Mumbles, MamaBear, and introducing, Ghetto Cracker- 1181 has the ultimate music marathon SUNDAY, MAY 23RD, 3pm to 1am!
HERSHE BAR - SUNDAY MAY 23/10 @ RED ROOM - Where The Girls Are! One hot-mess of a party not to be missed!!!!!!! We are SO excited to introduce DJ SARATONIN from LA to this massive long weekend party!
TURNING JAPANESE : NEW WAVE GALA - Sunday, May 23, 2010 at 9:00pm, Celebrities Night Club (1022 Davie Street) - RESTRICTED ENTERTAINMENT and GALAXION team up to deliver an over-the-top 80's New Wave Gala, insane long weekend party-style! We're bringing you back to the arcade, along with a huge helping of 80's style and MUSIC!
SUPER-T - SUNDAYS T-DANCE @ J LOUNGE kicks-off right after Brunch...May 23 @ 4-9pm - TFD Productions presents SUPER T with DJ ROB HALL (NYC) $10
QUEENS UN-SYNCED! - Thursday, May 27, 2010 at 10:00pm - Celebrities Nightclub (1022 Davie Street), A rare "all live" performance by some of Vancouvers' favourite Drag Performers. Tickets are ten dollars with all net proceeds to benefit the Vancouver Friends For Life Society.
DIVAS LIVE PRESENT ' PROJECT RUNAWAY ' Dragshow - Friday May 28, 2010 8:30pm, Show 9:30pm, Odyssey Nightclub (1251 Howe St.), Tix $5 & Proceed go to A Loving Spoonful. Door Prizes Sponsor by El Barrio.ca, Steamworks, Fountainhead Pub & Little Sisters
CRUISEYT - Kick Off Party Cruise - Sunday, May 30th, Boarding: 3:30 pm, Departure: 4 pm (4 hour cruise - back at 8 pm), DJ(s): Zack Shore, Performer(s): Joan-E & Syren
DMS BARBEQUEEN - "at your service", May 30, 2PM - PumpJack Pub
HOT GAY DJ LAUNCH - DAVIE VILLAGE TOUR - Thursday, June 3, 2010 at 9:00pm, Davie Village - Vancouver. Participating venues are 1181, Celebrities Nightclub, J Lounge, Oasis and Score.

Check out all the details for these events and more on our What's On pages : http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, May 6, 2010

2010-05-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

May got off to a great start here in Vancouver, with sunny skies, tulips galore, and the tourism season kicking off in a big way. Saw the first cruiseship of the year gliding past Stanley Park early Saturday evening, while enjoying a cocktail from a sunny perch on English Bay. Nearly full Vancouver Trolleys rolled past regularly, with tourists taking in the exotic-looking stretches of palm trees, fabulous waterviews, and like us, the great people watching.

An unexpected visitor also graced our waters yesterday, as a 13 metre grey whale toured past Stanley Park and decided to check out the city. Amazing to see this huge leviathon in downtown Vancouver, within feet of the rainbow coloured Aquabuses in False Creek, and entertaining growing crowds of onlookers on the Seawall and Granville Island. Caused quite a commotion for a couple of hours from about noon, left for a while, and then returned for another tour during the evening. Apparently they are coming from Mexico, enroute to the feeding grounds in the Arctic, but nobody here seems to remember them ever checking out the town!

For all of us landlubbers who also want to check out the town, there's a fantastic line-up of events in the weeks ahead, including:

The Zodiac Parties: Taurus, May 8, at the Odyssey
It's the Golden Girls, hosted by Robyn Graves, Sunday, May 9, 8pm at 1181
Dogwood Monarchist Society - an Art Show - May 14, 7pm, 560 Lounge
6th International Day Against Homophobia Awareness Breakfast, May 20, 8am, hosted by Qmunity at the Coast Plaza Hotel (Also, don't forget that May 17 is the actual International Day Against Homophobia)
Spring Fever III - Starring Berlin DJ and international star, Mickey Friedman at Celebrities Nightclub; May 22, doors at 9pm
"Sweet" Friday - hot women's event hosted by Flygirl Productions, May 21, Canvas Lounge
The Wiggle Show - Saturday, May 22 @ Five Sixty
SuperT - An Afternoon T Dance Sunday, May 23, JLounge Patios
Hot Gay DJ Launch - Davie Village Tour, June 3, Davie Village
NHL Playoffs, catch the games at Score on Davie, The Fountainhead, JLounge, The Junction Public House, PumpJack, and the Speakeasy in the village. Go Canucks Go!
Kick Off Party Cruise - First cruise of the seaon, May 30, 4pm, by CruiseyT Productions

Check out all the details for these events and more on our What's On and Bar pages : http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Now is also the time to start planning for Pride, with events running from June 26 through Aug 1, and the Queer Film Festival in mid- August. Check out our website, or the digital edition of our Gay Friendly Vancouver - In Town Guide for more: http://www.gayvan.com/InTown72/Basic/Default.html .

And for those looking for another reason to visit to the city in the months ahead, Rhianna is coming to town July 4, the Backstreet Boys, Aug 6, Michael Buble, Aug 20 & 21, and Lady GaGa, Aug 23 & 24, to name a few. To book these, and Vancouver's only same-day, half-price event tiks, visit Tickets Tonight (a full-service Ticketmaster outlet) on our What's On - Events of Interest page:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/events-of-interest.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, April 18, 2010

2010-04-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

A bit of travel, several new projects, a few events and parties, as well as gorgeous springtime weather, have contributed to a great start to this exciting time of year here in the Vancouver region.

Our promotional campaign for the 7th annual edition of our Gay Friendly Canada publication is in full swing right now, and we are looking at a launch date in June, just as we head into summer 2010. You can check out a digital version of our current edition online, and we welcome inquiries from interested parties who would like to be part of the upcoming edition: http://www.gayvan.com/GayCanada180DPI/Basic/Default.html .

We also are doing a push for our new online Travel Directory, where businesses and organizations can be listed year-round for a one-time, very reasonable cost. We are also planning to expand this directory to include other regions of Canada, and are open to considering adding destinations beyond on request. Feel free to check it out and give us your feedback: http://www.gayvan.com/travel/travel-directory.html .

Here in the city, springtime is in full swing, the patios of Davie Village are open, and many businesses are opening their street level windows to the non-stop flow of people on the strip. Score on Davie is sporting a newly renovated patio, The Fountainhead has a new, heavy duty, retractable patio cover, and they are also celebrating their 10th Anniversary this week - Congrats guys!! Speakeasy has removed their patio tent covering and the patio is now open to the sunshine, the large glass panels on the front of 1181 and PumpJack are wide open, and visitors can chat street level to patrons as they pass by. Saw a photo shoot happening on the front patio of JLounge this week as well, and they have brand new furnishings on both of their large second level patios just off Davie, The Junction Public House is sporting new red patio umbrellas near the front entrance, and the newly renovated patio at Hamburger Mary's gives great street level views at Davie and Bute.

Congratulations to Fraser, who came out on top at the 2010 Vancouver Gay Top Model competition, held recently at Celebrities Nightclub! Terry and the folks at Mirateca Arts put on another fabulous event, showcasing some of gay Vancouver's hottest young men. Check out our vid clips from the night at: http://www.youtube.com/user/Gayvanguy .

Celebrities Nightclub, the Odyssey, Numbers Cabaret and JLounge are all promoting new club nights, and Flygirl productions, as well as Crema Productions are hosting special women's events around town in cool venues like Canvas Lounge and the new 569. Check out the latest details on our What's On pages: http://www.gayvan.com/travel/travel-directory.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, March 31, 2010

2010-03-31T10:03:00.000-07:00

After almost three months of spring-like weather, spring is officially in full swing here in Vancouver, and the city looks splendid. Magnolia trees are in full bloom, the third wave of cherry blossoms are bursting forth, tulips are popping up everywhere, exotic rhododendron are magnicificent, and lush green leaves give that fresh spring feeling. A leisurely stroll through Vancouver's West End neighbourhood, or nearby Stanley Park, are just some of the many great ways to take it all in.

Now that the rush of the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is over, some ask "What's there to do in Vancouver now?" Well, all you have to do is look around, or check online, and you'll see there is a non-stop series of exciting events and happenings to choose from.

Witness the battle of the vocal chords tonight as Group D enters the challenge for Numbers Idol, 8 PM at Numbers on Davie, get down to Celebrities Thursday night as Gay Top Model 2010 will decide Vancouver's third annual Gay Top Model, and Hershe Bar takes over the Red Room at 398 Richards as Flygirl Productions kicks off their 2010 party season on April 3.

Saturday, April 3 will also see Investiture 2010 take place at the Odyssey Nightclub, where the newly elected Emperor and Empress of Vancouver will bestow titles on their court for the coming year. 100% of this glittering fundraiser's cover charge will benefit DMS Charities.

Terry Costa is the new promotions manager for JLounge, and he is creating a fantastic sounding line-up of events for this sexy renewed space in Davie Village. New features in their line-up include Fixx Fridays, Boogie Nights, Drag Brunch, Brazilian Night, Latin Night, and more.

Crema Productions is the first to book the new Five Sixty Club at 560 Seymour St. for a women's event, as they hosts JetGirl on Sunday, April 4. This is the extensively renovated former A & B Sound location, with four floors of megaclub, several dance floors and numerous bars; there's even a dance floor in the unisex bathroom downstairs. Check out these events and more:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Other events of interest around town this week include the Vancouver International Auto Show:
http://www.vancouverinternationalautoshow.com/ , Vancouver Fashion Week kicks off April 7th:
http://www.vanfashionweek.com/ , and if you're in the mood for some good local queer theatre, Raving Theatre brings back David Blue's "Memoirs of a Gay Single White Male", starring Jamie Foster, April 7 - 11, at Performance Works on Granville Island:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=19028433712 .

Enjoy!

Vancouver, Friday, March 12, 2010

2010-03-12T11:28:00.000-08:00

Expect to see flashes of glitz and glam throughout Davie Village and Vancouver's West End this weekend, as it's Coronation time, when Vancouver says congrats to our current reigning Monarchs, Empress XXXVIII Iona Whipp and Emperor XXXV Michael Murrell for their successful year, and elects the next Empress and Emperor at the Coronation Ball, Sat March 13. Visiting titleholders are flying in from across the continent, glittering tiaras and crowns have been highly polished, the finest rhinestone beaded gowns and tuxedos fitted to measure, and there are numerous stylish receptions and shows taking place all weekend. We had the pleasure of attending the Awards Cocktail Reception hosted by the Decades Monarchs Thurs evening at 1181, and look forward to the Coronation Ball on Saturday, where DD Drew will do her 3-Decade Walk, Willi Taylor her 2-Decade Walk, and Carlotta Gurl will do her Decade Walk. Check out details at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events .

Another exciting event also kicks off Friday, March 12, as Vancouver hosts the Opening Ceremonies for the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games. The Olympic buzz is back in town, and the 60,000 seat BC Place Stadium is pretty much sold out for both the opening and closing ceremonies, with many of the sporting events in Vancouver and Whistler also selling out fast. Pride House will be open throughout the Games, a number of the Olympic Pavilions will re-open for the Paralympics, the Zip-line is back in action at Robson Square, Granville Street will be pedestrians only, the gay sports bars will be packed, and no-doubt the party will be ON for the next ten days or so. Check out official Paralymic information at: http://www.gayvan.com/olympics.html .

With all this excitement in town, we will definitely have our cameras out and about in the days ahead, so feel free to check back with us, and visit our Flickr, Facebook and Twitter accounts for updates: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

Cheers!

Vancouver, March 2, 2010

2010-03-02T15:50:00.000-08:00

What a Party! Vancouver rocked for 17 days as host to the 2010 Winter Olympics, and many we've spoken with don't think the city will ever be quite the same after this incredible experience.

And though we didn't manage to get tickets to any of the big sporting competitions, we did manage to get invited to a number of receptions at special pavilions, torchbearer related events, and lucked out with tickets to a Gold Medal Victory Ceremony at BC Place on the day Canada won our second gold medal.

On top of all of this, we were out and about on the streets on many occasions, which was also an unprecented happening in this town, as tens of thousands of people crowded the downtown core with non-stop entertainment, interactive displays, and a festive atmosphere that felt almost like Pride for a 17 day stretch. Whew!

RBC hosted a stylish reception for Torchbearers and their clients on the 36th floor of the main office tower downtown, complete with all the acroutements you would expect, and a few surprises as well. Had the pleasure of meeting a very charming and inspiring Olympian originally from Ghana that evening, Rukayatu (Ruky) Adbulai, who represented Canada in Beijing and will be representing us again in London in 2012. A departing gift bag also had some great gear to help you cheer during the games, complete with pompoms, special pins, light-up Bam Bams, and even a tambourine!

Another event of interest was the reception at the Manitoba Pavilion where the Human Rights Museum, which will open in Winnipeg in 2012, was host for an evening. Special guests including the COO, Patrick O'Reilly, City Counselor Ellen Woodswoth, and Olympic Gold Medal swimmer Mark Tewksbury. Later that evening we had invites to an event at the BC Pavilion which was hosted by the Province of BC and Trilogy Properties for a mix of media, LGBT business people and tourism folks. More cocktails, music and great networking topped off the night!

Another highlight event took place at Concord Place at the Maison Du Quebec, where Destination Quebec hosted a casual/elegant affair with hand passed hors d'houvres, delicious wine, and a variety of entertainers, including a Cirque de Soleil performer and the talented Quebec pop/rock band, Les Tres D'Accords live onstage, among others.

On other evenings, we stopped by Canada House at Live City Downtown, the Ontario Pavilion, the Molson Hockey House, the Saskatchewan Pavilion (at Concord Place), Alberta House near BC Place, Irish House next to Doolins Irish Pub, Atlantic House on PEI Day, the Swiss House on Granville Island, Saxony House at the Vancouver Yacht Club, saw Sochi House lit up on the water at Science World opposite Athlete's Village, and checked out the nightly fireworks at Live City Yaletown.

We also attended a series of events in the gay bars and pubs in Davie Village, and even got to participate in a small way onstage at the Feather Boa show at the Odyssey during their Olympic Special. The sports bars were packed every night throughout the games, and the streets, patios and pubs were wildly exuberant when Sid the Kid popped in the winning puck to bring Canada to its record-breaking 14 Gold Medal sweep! It was the perfect Icing-On-The-Cake top off to a most fabulous time here in Vancouver's history!

And the party doesn’t stop yet, with WinterPride in Whistler happening the first week of March, followed by the Paralympic Winter Games kicking off on March 12. You can pick up official information on the Winter Games via our designated Olympics page at: http://www.gayvan.com/olympics.html , and information on WinterPride and other LGBT events and events of interest via our What’s On pages: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

Check out our Flickr pages, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and blog posts for photos, videos and more: http://www.gayvan.com/ . Also, feel free to join our Newsletter to get updates delivered directly to your inbox. You can see a sample of our latest edition here:
http://www.gayvan.com/component/acajoom/mailing/view/listid-1/mailingid-3/Itemid-999.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, Feb 21, 2010

2010-02-21T10:24:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been nothing short of amazing to be here in Vancouver as we celebrate the 2010 Winter Olypic Games. Fantastic above seasonal warm weather (for those not competing) has been with us for over a month, and the city is in full bloom with cherry blossoms, daffodils, lush pink camelia, rhododendrons and more. Clear blue skies have been with us all week and we haven't seen so many shorts and t-shirts on the Davie Village strip since early fall.

As per our previous blog, we were up and at it very early to run with the Olympic Torch on Feb 12, and it was a definite Wow moment for the archives. Not only were we thrilled by our group of supporters who joined us by 5:30 AM, we were then invited down to CTV studios for a post-torch reception with special presentations, interviews and live national coverage. Also experienced an unexpected emotional tug or two during the whole affair, with an amazing public reaction in front of CTV studios, as so many folks lined up, wanting their picture taken with the torch. At one point a little later, we turned a corner and were spotted by a group of about 20 or so young elementary school students with their teacher, who immediately ran up, surrounded us while reaching for the torch, and started to sing O Canada! Must admit, it was incredible, and actually brought a few tears to our eyes.

On a slightly dfferent note, we were thrilled to have completed and have our 2010 Gay Friendly Vancouver - In Town Guide off the press and ready for distribution the day before the start of the games. Copies of the print edition are now available at the Tourism Visitor Centre at 200 Burrard St., Little Sister's Book Emporium in Davie Village, hotel concierge desks, bars/pubs and various other outlets around town. You can also see a digital version on the opening page of our website: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

At the same time, check out our "What's On" and "Olympics" pages to see what's happening in LGBT nightlife, links to official Olympic information and events, as well as links to all the exciting free events happening around town during this historic time for Vancouver:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html ,
http://www.gayvan.com/olympics.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, Feb. 12, 2010

2010-02-12T03:12:00.000-08:00

WOW, it's finally here; opening day for the biggest event ever hosted by our fair city! The excitement is running at extreme peak levels and you can feel the buzz on the streets all over town!! The tag line says it perfectly; You Gotta Be Here!!!

From my angle on things, I am up and at it very early, preparing to head out to my debriefing session at 4:30 AM in Stanley Park, for my chance to carry the torch at 6:37 AM. There was no dallying getting out of bed on this day, as the natural energy level was switched on high the moment the eyes opened. Got the uniform all laid out, the taxi on call for 4:00 AM, and my Facebook and Twittering all done for now, so just thought I would jot down a few notes here before heading out.

Heard two days ago that Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ebb Coe (Chair of the London 2012 Organizing Committee) will be running within minutes of my run, so am curious to see if by any chance they will be at the same debriefing session this morning? Nonetheless, it's a pretty exciting experience to be part of....that said, have to go, but will update further as soon as possible.

To watch the Torch Relay on a Live Webcam, go to:
http://www.ctvolympics.ca/torch/follow-torch/index.html

Cheers!

Vancouver, Feb. 2, 2010

2010-02-02T17:21:00.000-08:00

As two of Canada's most famous groundhogs poked their heads out and saw their shadows today, predicting six more weeks of winter, they obviously do not live here in Vancouver. We have had an extraordinary stretch of spring-like weather through most of January, making it the warmest January on record! Daffodils, cherry blossoms, crocus and even some early rhododendrons are in full bloom in the city, making a delightful scene around town, and the surrounding region.

The only challenge to all this fab weather, is the fact that we are just about to host the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. However, although there has been some concern over snow conditions in the nearby local mountains, and some international media predicting disaster, on the homefront all reports are that everything is right on track, and Whistler is reporting some of the best snow accumulations ever. For the real deal, check out official information via the official websites for the Games: http://www.gayvan.com/olympics.html .

That said, there is palpable excitement in the air, with reality sinking in as road closures begin, security helicopters swirl over head, celebratory signs, and exciting events galore are announced. In addition to all the expected ticketed sporting events, there are also many cultural and free events throughout the region, making it an exciting time just to be out and about. Here's a few links to some of the best free events, and events of interest:

Lunarfest 2010 - http://www.lunarfest.org/about
Robson Square - http://www.gov.bc.ca/
You Gotta Be Here - 2010 Olympic Games Free Attractions:
http://www.yougottabehere.com/new_events_centre/signature_events

Not to be outdone, the LGBT community has an international lineup of DJs on the books at various nightclubs, Pride House in Whistler, and at Score in Davie Village, as well as special parties nightly. It's an exciting time to be here as we welcome the world. Check things out: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, Jan 17, 2010

2010-01-18T16:32:00.000-08:00

The new year kicked off with a flurry of activity here in Vancouver, and at Gayvan.com. We had a great lineup of events to attend, a cocktail reception for 150 or so to plan, and we are in pre-publishing mode for our 2010 Gay Friendly Vancouver - In Town Guide, which is coming out in February. Nothing like keeping busy to get the year off to a good start!

Add to this that our region is gearing up for one of the most exciting times in its history, as hosts to the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic games; there is definitely excitement in the air! Tranportation routes are being re-organized, transit and security are being beefed up, downtown office towers are being shrink-wrapped in sponsor logos and imagery, the international media is starting to arrive, spotlights are circling the skies, and many local residents have left holiday light displays up well past the season, to add to the festive flair (no Santa Clauses. etc.; just lights). To do our part, we're adding an Olympics page to our website in the days ahead, where you can access offical information, imagery, and links to what's happening in the region. Check out it out: http://www.gayvan.com/olympics.html .

The region's LGBT community is also getting ready to welcome our international visitors, with a special Pride House at the Pan Pacific in Whistler, and related events at Score on Davie and other Vancouver venues, in cooperation with Qmmunity. The bars and nightclubs also have an exciting schedule of top level entertainment on the books, and we will cover their entertainment lineups with all the latest up to date event information on our What's On page: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

And as we prepare to welcome the world, it is also important to remember those less fortunate, especially the people in Haiti right now, as they struggle to recover from the horrific earthquake that devasted their world. The best way to help is to donate money; following are links to a number of ways to consider:

Canadian Red Cross: Provides online option to donate immediately:
http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=000005&tid=003

American Red Cross: If you live in the USA, the American Red Cross will receive $10 if you text “Haiti” to 90999. Other ways to donate via their website: http://www.redcross.org/

BritishRedCross: Donate directly from their website:
http://www.redcross.org.uk/news.asp?id=102258

Direct Relief International has a text-based relief system, which allows you to donate $10 by texting “Give10” to 20222. More info at: http://www.directrelief.org/EmergencyResponse/2010/EarthquakeHaiti.aspx .

Canada Revenue Agency website with information on donating and links:
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/chrts/dnrs/menu-eng.html

Wishing You all the best in 2010!

Vancouver, Dec. 31, 2009

2009-12-31T12:11:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

As we wind down 2009, and a fantastic holiday season here in Vancouver, we are looking at seasonal temperatures in the city, overcast skies, and a light dusting of fresh snow on the peaks of the Coast Mountains, from our viewpoint here at Gayvan.

Like many, we are working today, and at the same time making plans to crack open the champagne, sample some great eats, and make the rounds about town to wish our friends and associates all the best on this New Years Eve. If you are still looking for some party ideas, check out our What's On page: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

Whistler is reporting 50 cm of fresh snow on the mountains, on top of the incredible base they are already enjoying, and our friends in Victoria and Vancouver Island are celebrating the start of a new year with a fresh line-up of events of interest, including brew pub specials, a whiskey festival and the Victoria Film Festival in January. Get details: http://www.gayvan.com/travel/whistler.html and
http://www.gayvan.com/travel/victoria/211.html .

And for those with a bit of daring, and the urge to get wet to jump start their year, the 90th Annual Polar Bear Swim takes place at English Bay, in Vancouver's West End (just four blocks from Davie Village) at 2:30 PM on Jan. 1, 2010. Although not quite into taking the dip ourselves, we did attend last year's event, and it was a lot of fun! See a couple of pics from '08 at left, and more info on the event at:
http://vancouver.ca/Parks/events/polarbear/2010/index.htm .

Wishing everyone all the best for 2010; Happy New Year!

Vancouver, Dec. 21, 2009

2009-12-21T12:19:00.000-08:00

Winter Solstice took place at 9:47 AM, Monday, Dec. 21, here in Vancouver, so we are now officially celebrating winter, just in time for our fabulous holiday season. Above average warm temperatures are about to change today, with a cold front heading down from the north, bringing clear skies, sunshine, and seasonal temperatures in the short-term forecast. No white Christmas this year, but shopping and travel should be a breeze!

We are planning a last-minute shopping trip in the days ahead, and hope to try out the blades at the new skating rink downtown at GE Plaza, followed by snacks and bevies apres-skate. Should be fun, although it has been a while since we tried the ice, so will have to take it slow at first. GE Plaxa (formerly Robson Square) has brand new ice near the corner of Robson and Howe, and skate rentals are just three bucks for adults.

Online shopping has made it that much easier to get the gift giving part of the season under control, whether to order online, or at least browse to get some good ideas before heading out. If you are looking for some great ideas for personal gifts, or a reward for yourself for all your hard work, check out our Shopping pages for links to some of the hottest stuff in town: http://www.gayvan.com/services/shopping.html .

Gift certificates are another option at this time of year, and having just received one for one of our favourite restaurants in town, reminded us that these are also a great way to take care of your loved ones at this time of year. Here's a few of our recommendations: http://www.gayvan.com/services/dining.html .

Other ideas that come to mind are hotel stays, spa packages, ski trips to nearby resorts, Helijet get-aways to Victoria, Quick Shuttle tics to Seattle, New Year's Eve event tickets, or something related to the upcoming winter Olympics.

The clubs and event organizers are hosting parties galore, and now is the time to map out schedules and buy tickets for the days ahead. Get details on the latest, and links to buy tickets: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2.html .

Happy Holidays!

Vancouver, Dec. 11, 2009

2009-12-11T12:49:00.000-08:00

The first few flakes of snow of the season have just started falling in Vancouver's West End, and can't wait to see the scene when the snow clouds lift from the surrounding Coast Mountains with the forecast afternoon sunshine. More snow is predicted to fall over the weekend, and it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas, as they say.

Cool temperatures have given a slight bite to the air, adding to the sense of winter holidays and all the festivities and excitement that go with them. Out and about for meetings around town all week gave a first-hand look at the crowds, the shopping, and the explosion of holiday lights. Downtown, the bars, restaurants, and lounges had a festive air, packed with after-work business folks raising some cheer, and those taking a break from the stores.

While downtown, had the pleasure of attending a Destination Marketplace hosted by Tourisme Quebec Thursday evening, where many Vancouver-based tourism industry people were wined and dined in style, while having a chance to touch base with Quebec-based tourism suppliers. It was great to make some new acquaintances, and to see a number of old friends and industry colleagues that we hadn't seen for some time. A good time was had by all, and it was perfect timing with the holidays! Links to Quebec resources available via: http://www.gayvan.com/travel/gay-friendly-canada/quebec.html .

Holiday festivities are well underway all over the region, the Van Dusen Botanical Gardens Festival of Lights kicks off Dec,11, http://vancouver.ca/PARKS/parks/vandusen/website/events/fol.htm , Lady GaGa gives the last of her three crowd wowing shows at the Queen E., Dec. 11, the 49th annual Vancouver Carol Ships Parade is in full swing nightly until Dec. 23, http://www.carolships.org/s/Home.asp , Canyon Lights are on display at the Capilano Suspension Bridge through Jan. 2, http://www.capbridge.com/rates_information/special_events/canyon.html , The Peak of Christmas on Grouse Mountain continues to Dec. 24, http://www.grousemountain.com/Winter/ , Bright Nights in Stanley Park's magic and illumination takes place through Jan. 2, http://vancouver.ca/PARKS/events/brightnights/index.htm , Holiday Market Dec. 11 & 12, and the Christmas Tree Light Up Ceremony Dec. 18, take place in Mount Pleasant, http://www.gayvan.com/neighbourhoods/mount-pleasant.html , the River Rock Casino Resort presents Christmas with the Fab Four, Dec. 19 & 20, http://www.gayvan.com/travel/richmond.html , the Winter Solstice Lantern Festival lights up Britannia Park on Commercial Drive, Dec. 22, http://www.gayvan.com/neighbourhoods/commercial-drive.html , you can support the BC Children's Hospital at the Festival of Trees in Vancouver, Victoria, and Port Ablerni, http://www.bcchf.ca/main/?festivalofTrees , as well as the St. Paul's Hospital Lights of Hope, http://www.helpstpauls.com/lights_of_hope.php , to help get you into the holiday spirit.

On the LGBT side of things, The Vancouver Men's Chorus, Making Spirits Bright 2009 concert series runs Dec 10-14 at St. Pauls Anglican Church on Jervis, and the Rhinestone Phoenix Charity Foundation (RPCF) presents Santa vs Grinch - Davie Village, Dec 12, and Santa vs Grinch - Commercial Drive, Dec 13. CoCo's 9th Annual Christmas Show takes place at The Fountainhead on Dec 12 from 8:30PM, the Best Rubber Contest is at PumpJack Dec 12, at 10PM, the RPCP is back on Commercial Drive, with Divas On The Drive, Dec 13 at St. Augustines Cafe from 8PM, City of Toyland @ Celebrities Dec. 17, The Sexy Xmas Part at the Odyssey Dec. 17, Flygirl Productions hosts Lounge, Dec, 26, and Crema Productions hosts Hershe Bar Dec. 27, to name a few. A great time to get out there, and support these events that support our community. All this and more at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Now is also the time to start planning New Year celebrations, and to book your holiday accommodation. We have great rates for gay-friendly hotels, with deals starting at $66 + tax, per room, per night. Check them out: http://www.gayvan.com/imscart/index.php?page=shop/index , and feel free to check back with us as we update with the latest New Year information as it becomes available.

Happy Holidays!

Vancouver, Dec. 5, 2009

2009-12-05T19:24:00.000-08:00

Just loving the fact that we have needed sunglasses everyday in Dec. so far, and that there's nothing but sunshine in the extended forecast for the foreseeable future. This great weather has seemed to energize the city, and people are out and about, cycling, roller blanding, and of course, holiday shopping; even saw a couple of kabuki cabs picking up fares along Davie in the Village yesterday evening, complete with T-shirts and shorts. Not quite shorts and T-shirt weather unless you are jogging or peddling a kabuki cab, but it sure is fab to be hands free without the umbrella!

Speaking of holiday shopping, got more than half of it done yesterday evening, and had a pretty good time actually, by adding a few nice breaks enroute to ease stress of it all. Mid-swing, grabbed some hot roasted chestnuts off a street vendor on Robson Street, and took in a free, live big band playing onstage at GE Plaza at the foot of the steps of the Law Courts, adding a festive flair to the scene of holdiay decorations and skaters cirlcling on the new public rink. Walked back to the village with my packages, and stopped off for a brew at a local pub, as a final reward for doing it early!

It was also nice to have this great weather to welcome a friend visiting from Tokyo this week, and it occurred to me that it was a no-brainer to pick up some Olympic souvenirs as timely gifts for family and friends not living in Vancouver. Although you can find them at various places around town, The Bay downtown is the largest official outlet, and has an extensive selection of branded items, including the now-famous red mittens, hats, scarves, sportwear, outerwear, and 2010 gear of all kinds. Packaged in their official Go World Visa bags, it was fun to exchange some of our official gear for some fresh-off-the-plane Japanese goodies last night, and enjoyed some exquisitely packaged filo-wrapped pumpkin cakes from the land of the rising sun, as our sun was rising brightly over the west end this morning.

While out and about today, stopped by Little Sisters to pick up tics for the 19th Annual Diorama Party at Celebrities, grabbed a quick haircut, and checked out who was doing what this weekend. The Mr. Leatherman Vancouver 2010 Contest takes place tonight at PumpJack, and apparently there was a brisk trade at the barbershop for the past few days, with folks getting ready for the festivities that are taking place all weekend.

Received a voice message from Carlotta Gurl reminding me that Joan-E is celebrating her 15th anniversary of performing onstage at the Feather Boa Show at the Odyssey, Sunday, Dec. 6, and that Carlotta Gurl will be among the Special Guest Performers; showtime 11PM. Earlier that evening, The Conni Smudge and Symone Variety Show kicks off at 8PM at the Junction Public House, and the Numbers Idol Contest starts at 9PM.

A new show, 3Sum'n "LIVE in the LOFT" starts at Numbers at 9:30PM, Dec. 7, it's Lady Gaga week as she performs three live Monster Ball shows at the newly refurbished Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Dec, 9, 10, & 11, with Celebrities being the place to be on Dec 10, with the Love Fame after-concert show from 9PM. Flame, The Vancouver Men's Chorus, Making Spirits Bright 2009 concert series runs Dec 10-14 at St. Pauls Anglican Church on Jervis, and the Rhinestone Phoenix Charity Foundation (RPCF) presents Santa vs Grinch - Davie Village, Dec 12, and Santa vs Grinch - Commercial Drive, Dec 13. CoCo's 9th Annual Christmas Show takes place at The Fountainhead on Dec 12 from 8:30PM, the Best Rubber Contest is at PumpJack Dec 12, at 10PM, and the RPCP is back on Commercial Drive, with Divas On The Drive, Dec 13 at St. Augustines Cafe from 8PM. A great time to get out there, and support these events that support our community. All this and more at:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Happy Holidays!

P.S. For those wanting to kick-start the holiday spirit, the Sixth Annual Rogers Santa Claus Parade takes place Sunday, Dec. 6. Starts along West Georgia Street at Broughton in the West End at 1:00PM, travels through downtown, turns on Howe, and ends up on Davie Street just two blocks east of Davie Village: http://rogerssantaclausparade.com/ .

EJDV5NJ28QKM

Vancouver, Nov. 27, 2009

2009-11-27T10:34:00.000-08:00

This misty November morning began with cool banks of fog swirling around all but the tops of the many high-rises surrounding Davie Village, and the downtown core. This soon cleared into a gorgeous sunrise, dramatically splashing light over the city, and the surrounding Coast Mountains. Clear blue skies are a very welcome break from our recent 22 or so days of straight rain, and after we get through another system this weekend, the extended forecast is looking bright and sunny into December (fingers crossed).

Lots of changes happening in the city, as the town gears up for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and you can actually feel the buzz as you walk around downtown, with all the new signage, displays, lighting, venues, and more. The countdown clock was at 78 days when I walked by yesterday evening, and noticed that some visiting media were already in action. A spectacular new lighting extravaganza was announced this week, with plans to showcase a large-scale aerial light show over Sunset Beach and English Bay during the games, and the newly refurbished $2 million public skating rink opened in GE Plaza (formerly Robson Square). Checked it out yesterday, and the skating is free if you have your own skates, and skate rentals are just $3.00 for adults. Might test the blades sometime soon!

Of course, there's lots on the go in LGBT Vancouver at this time of year, and there are numerous events of interest, including "Lounge", a stylish party diversion for Vancouver's contemporary lesbian, Nov 28 at The Boathouse, Black Saturday, Nov, 28, at PumpJack, hosted by Vancouver's Men in Leather, Amped Saturdays at The Junction Public House (TJPH) celebrates resident DJ, Landon's B-day, RELEASE Saturdays at Celebrities, Nov 28, After Eight - Connie Smudge and Symone Variety Show happens at TJPH Sunday, Nov 29, Mr. Leatherman Vancouver 2010 takes place at various venues Dec 5, and the 19th Annual Diorama Party kicks off at Celebrities at 9pm sharp! Check out this and more:

http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

And if you're in the mood for a touch of colour, "Tan for Cans ~ Free tan for Food Bank Donations" is happening Tuesday, December 8 to Saturday, December 12, 9am to 9pm, at Banana Tans (148 East Broadway, and for a touch of holiday spirit, also benefiting The Greater Vancouver Food Bank, The Commercial Drive Business Society presents Winter Festival 2009 Sat, Nov 28, 1:30 pm - 9:00 pm at The Britannia Community Centre, (1661 Napier Street). The event includes ice skating with Santa, a holiday movie - "Miracle on 34th Street", a trees display decorated by local schools, and prizes under the trees! Great to see these special events supporting the Food Bank at this most crucial time of year; details on these and more: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/events-of-interest.html .

Cheers!

EJDV5NJ28QKM

ZHQ8QP4WK234

3BYT5XK94FHX

Vancouver, Nov. 21, 2009

2009-11-21T20:39:00.000-08:00

What a week of amazing wetness, in our spectacular annual wettest month of the year! A full-blown Pineapple Express brought horizontal sheets of rain, powerful winds, and a brilliant thunder and lightning show mid-week. Although this may not appeal to some, there's nothing quite like hunkering down during a good storm, with warm lights, good food, a good movie, a good book, good friends, or whatever else works for you. Friends visiting from LA thought our rain was amazing, and enjoyed the experience thoroughly (we'll be sure to pay them a return visit soon for a blast of their sunshine).

That said, of course most of us here must venture out at some point to brave the elements, and we were delighted to be invited to the Grand Atrium opening reception at the River Rock Casino Resort, on Thurs., Nov 19, in nearby Richmond. From our location in Davie Village in Vancouver's West End, we caught a commuter bus on Davie Street for a short ride to Yaletown, paid a two-zone fare ($3.75) and transferred at Yaletown Station to the new Canada Line subway, for a comfortable twenty minute or so ride to Bridgeport Station, conveniently right in front of the River Rock Casino Resort.

As we stepped off the train at Bridgeport, we started to see the first example of what the $30 million upgrade to the River Rock consisted of, as we turned into the Star Walk, complete with moving sidewalk, and were greeted by the surround-sound commentary of Joan Rivers, who performed recently on Halloween night at the River Rock Show Theatre (flashback to the entrance walkway at Caesars Palace Casino in Vegas). The Star Walk takes you into a stylish lobby/reception area for hotel check-in, and then onwards to the spectacular Grand Atrium, with it's three-story lobby, mirror-image dual curved escalators designed by Mitsubishi (first in Canada), which take you down to the main level, where you can relax in the classy new Curve Lounge, or turn right for the main casino, or left to the River Rock Show Theatre.

New features highlighted that evening were three new suites for the River Rock Show Theatre, which are available for private functions for groups of 6 to 20 persons, and include private dining and lounge areas, as well as open balcony to the main theatre room with performance stage. One of the suites was designated the Dal Richards Suite, and as it turned out, Dal was also performing live that night in Lulu's Lounge in the main casino. What a night!!

After thoroughly enjoying ourselves at River Rock, we went seemlessly back to the Canada Line station, and were back in Davie Village within a half hour. With no worries about driving, parking, or having a drink or two, this has made it a lot easier for folks in the West End to enjoy the great entertainment options the River Rock Resort brings in year-round. We'll be back! Check it out:
http://www.gayvan.com/services/attractions.html .

Back in Davie Village, Congrats to Carlotta Gurl and the Imperial Crown Prince and Princess on the Ball Friday night at The Odyssey, and there's lots on the marqee for the days ahead; with UFC at Score on Davie, the Zodiac Parties (Scorpio) at Odyssey, Amped Saturday with DJ Landon James & DJ Jeremy Khamkeo at The Jucntion Public House, Nov 21, the second week of AFTER EIGHT-THE CONNI SMUDGE & SYMONE VARIETY SHOW Nov. 22 at The Junction Public House, Numbers Idol Competition at Numbers, Nov. 22, The Ryan Steele Show #35 @ The Odyssey, Nov, 24, 2009 Calendar Contest Nov, 26 at The Odyssey, "Lounge", a stylish party diversion for Vancouver's contemporary lesbian at The Boathouse Nov. 28, Black Saturday at The PumpJack, Nov 28, PRIAPE, in collaberatuion with The Knights Of Malta present MR. LEATHERMAN VANCOUVER 2010 on Dec. 5 @ PumpJack, LOVE FAME ~ The #1 Lady Gaga Concert After Party Destination @ Celebrities Dec. 10 (after her three night sold-out concert series), and Vancouver Men's Chorus concert, Making Spirits Bright 2009 - FLAME, Dec. 10, 12 , 13 & 14 evenings at 8:00 PM, and Dec. 13 matinee performance at 3:00 PM @ St. Paul's Anglican Church in the West End. All this and more:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, Nov. 13, 2009

2009-11-13T17:16:00.000-08:00

Friday the 13th started off with a typical November wind and rainstorm overnight, but it all blew away by morning, leaving us with brilliant sunshine, and the dramatic first substantial snowfall visible on the Coastal Mountains surrounding the city...stunning visuals, and pretty good luck overall on this ominous day, to say the least!

Speaking of snow, there has been an amazing early accumulation in several of the surrounding ski areas and resorts, resulting in an early opening for nearby Grouse Mountain, as well as Cypress Mountain, Whistler Mountain, Big White, and Sun Peaks in BC, Mount Baker in Washington State, and talk of an early opening for Mount Washington on Vancouver Island. A great start to the season, as we gear up for the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games!

For those heading up to Whistler, Cornucopia, Whistler's food and wine extravaganza is in full swing, Nov. 12- 15, with international tastings, glam galas, and after parties. A great chance to get in the first ski of the season, and take in some fabulous culinary delights apres ski.

If staying in the city, the Vancouver Art Gallery is currently hosting Expanding Horizons; Painting and Photography of American and Canadian Landscape 1860-1918, as well as Scott McFarland, Two Visions: Emily Carr and Jack Shadbolt, Dawn: Sketches and Paintings by the Group of Seven, and more. Saw a rare Georgia O'Keefe on view as well during our most recent visit.

Check out these events, and a link to Tickets Tonight; a full-service Ticketmaster outlet, with same-day, half-price tickets, via the Gayvan.com Events of Interest page:
http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/events-of-interest.html .

UFC fans can take in UFC 105: COUTURE VS. VERA starting at 8pm at Score On Davie, Nov. 14, or check out the Best Jockstrap Contest at PumpJack starting at 10pm, and RELEASE Saturdays presents DJ/Producer OSCAR VELAZQUEZ at Celebrities from 9pm, on Nov. 14, to name a few.

Connie Smudge and Symone kick off the brand new AFTER EIGHT-THE CONNI SMUDGE SYMONE VARIETY SHOW at 8pm, Nov. 15, at The Junction Public House, and you can test out your vocals at the new Numbers Idol Competition, every Sun. and Wed. at Numbers Cabaret. The monthly Toolbox Wednesdays happens Nov. 18 at PumpJack, and the Vancouver Men's Chorus concert series Making Spirits Bright 2009 - FLAME schedule is now available to help plan your holiday outings.

And for those who "wanna be on top" as they say, Vancouver's Next Gay Top Model 2010 competition is now accepting contestant applications for Auditions in January; be part of their exciting third season!

All this and more: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

Cheers!

Vancouver, Nov. 3, 2009

2009-11-03T08:51:00.000-08:00

Halloween weekend was amazing here in Vancouver on many levels, including brilliant sunshine, warm temperatures, a full moon, events galore, and a non-stop parade of costumes in Davie Village, starting from early afternoon. And of course, there were all the expected goodies, and a few bad boys thrown in for effect!

Typically the wettest month of the year, and the unofficial start of our rainy season, November started off with clear skies, sunshine, and outdoor activities. The beaches and the Seawall were packed with people (no bathing suits, but quite a few shorts), watersporters, cyclers, roller bladers, joggers, photographers, buskers, and those just out for a good walk. Clear skies prevail until the middle of the week, when we are expected to get back to our usual seasonal weather. Must get out there and enjoy it while we can.

Vancouver Fashion week kicks off today, with Sustainable Design as the theme, and a wide range of cuturally diverse designers, including local designers of asian descent, as well as international designers from Italy, Israel, Norway, Germany, Ireland, the USA, and more. This consumer-friendly event is open to the public. More at: http://www.vanfashionweek.com/ .

MYDWYK Wednesdays kick off at the Oasis Ultra Lounge this week, with some of the best House music from around the world. New resident DJ ToXiK, spins what's new and hip from 8:30 pm. Grab a martini and check it out.

Many of Vancouver's top female impersonators will be glammed up and performing at Queens Care II, Thurs., Nov. 4 at Celebrities nightclub. This fundraiser for Friendly for Life and the DMS, will be a tribute and celebration in loving memory of Empress Diana Rose, and DJ Jules. Hosted by Willie Taylor and Joan-E. Doors open at 9pm, and advance tickets are available at Little Sister's.

The BC Gay Men's Health Summit takes place at the SFU Harbour Centre, Nov. 9-10, with a focus on discussing issues and trends for gay men and their allies. Registration is now open online at: http://www.gaysummit.ca/ .

Flygirl Productions has two womens events this month, with Hershe Bar at the Red Room on Richards, Tues. Nov. 10, and Lounge at The Boathouse Nov. 28. With Wed Nov. 11, a national holiday (Remembrance Day), expect the bars, pubs, and nightclubs to be hopping Tuesday night. Check out details at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html and http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/bars-a-pubs.html . Cheers!

Vancouver, Oct. 26, 2009

2009-10-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

The week started off this morning with drizzle and fog, but by 10:30 am, the sun had broken through, and by time of writing (11 am), the sky was blue, and the scenery amazing! The first sign of snow has also just appeared on the extreme tips of the gorgeous mountains surrounding the city, and autumn colours are ablaze.

Excitement is running high after the official lighting of the Olympic Torch in Greece on Oct. 22; the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay begins on October 30 in Victoria, and will travel 45,000 km across this great land of ours, until returning back to Vancouver for the start of the 2010 Winter Olympics on February 12. Details on this landmark event: http://www.vancouver2010.com/olympic-torch-relay/ .

Another landmark event will take place during the Olympic and Paralympic games this time round, as Gaywhistler.com and the Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre collaborate to produce the first-ever PRIDE house in Whistler, as well as partnering with Qmunity in Vancouver to offer PRIDE house related services and activities to gay & lesbian athletes, coaches, family, friends and allies. Find out more: http://www.gaywhistler.com/pride-house.php and http://www.qmunity.ca/

And yet another landmark event, and amid some controversy, the Michael Jackson movie, THIS IS IT, begins showing on Tuesday, Oct. 27, at the Tinseltown Cinemas in Vancouver, and at other venues throughout the region. Find out more at: http://www.cinemaclock.com/aw/crva.aw/bri/Vancouver/e/34327/This_Is_It.html , and http://www.this-is-not-it.com/ .

Stopped by yesterday to see The Junction Public House, in the heart of Davie Village (formerly Pulse Nightclub). A new format includes multiple large flat screens around the room, pub-style seating, a new menu (we had the Satay Chicken Burger and authentic English-style Fish & Chips; delicious by the way), and a unique twist that converts this pub-by-day venue, into a stylish nightclub-by-night on Fri, Sat, and Sun. nights. It was great to see a number of our friends and associates also checking out the new digs. More at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/bars-a-pubs.html

One of LGBT Vancouver's favourite times of year is also at hand, and excitement builds throughout the Village, as preparations begin for Halloween; there are events galore at the bars, pubs and nightclubs, and about town. Check it out: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html .

And for those wanting a Spooktacular experience, Fright Nights at Playland at the PNE runs through Oct 31, complete with four haunted houses, the eerie history of execution, and the midway rides of Playland decked out with a ghostly twist. Dare Yourself; Double Dare your Friends: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/events-of-interest.html .

Have a great week!

Vancouver, Oct. 15, 2009

2009-10-15T17:19:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to k.d. lang on this glorious fall day, as she is today's Icon for glbt History Month, which highlights the achievements of 31 gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender Icons annually:
http://www.glbthistorymonth.com/glbthistorymonth/2009/icon.cfm?id=47

Nothing like a brisk walk on a cool October morning to get the circulation going, rain or shine, and then settling into a warm cuppa in a neighbourhood cafe before starting the work day. Speaking of rain or shine, we've certainly had lots of both in the past week or so, including above average daytime highs, below average nighttime lows, a bit of wind, a downpour or two, and welcome sunny breaks, complete with rainbows. Many of us love the change of seasons, and fall is perhaps the most dramatic and colourful of all.

Fall is also a very active time for festivals and events, including the Vancouver Home & Interior Design Show, Oct. 15-18, this year featuring Ty Pennington as a special guest Thursday, and Justin and Colin on Friday and Saturday: http://www.vancouverhomeandinteriordesignshow.com/ .

The 22nd annual Vancouver International Writers and Readers Festival takes place on Granville Island Oct. 18-25, and includes writers from Canada, the US, the UK, Italy, France, Australia, Bolivia and China, as well as thousands of readers: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/ .

The UBC Apple Show takes place Oct. 17 & 18, and for a $2 admission, and $3 tasting fee, you can sample up to 60 varieties grown in BC, as well as displays, explore history of over 200 varieties, shop for apple-themed merchandise, try some apple pie, apple cider, and more, all in the settings of the UBC Botanical Gardens. Great fall fun: http://www.ubcbotanicalgarden.org/events/applefest.php .

For the choco-holics among us, the West Coast Chocolate Festival returns for a three week or so run, Oct. 15 - Nov. 10, and includes everything from Chocolate High Teas, samplings of chocolate, wines, beers, scotches, liquers, entertainment and more. Get your fix: http://www.chocolatefestival.ca/festivalmain.htm .

On the club scene, Celebrities Nightclub welcomes New York's latest DJ Superstar, Hector Fonseca, Oct. 17, The Odyssey hosts Libra, the next blowout party in the Zodiac Party series, Oct 17, Latin Night is back at Numbers Oct. 19, Toolbox Wednesdays kick off at PumpJack, Oct 21, NYC's IT Girl, Amanda Lapore's Cotton Candy World Tour hits Celebrities, Oct. 22, and the DMS is hosting the second annual Bizarre Bazaar on Oct 24; "Calling all drag queens, trannies, wannabes and everyone in between. Come to PULSE NIGHTCLUB on Saturday October 24th and pick up all your wigs and gowns, heels and hair from the pros! AND JUST IN TIME FOR HALLOWEEN!" as they say. All this and more: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events.html . Cheers!

Vancouver, Oct. 5, 2009

2009-10-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

What a difference a day makes; the old cliche certainly rings true as we head into our fall season here on Canada's west coast. Just a week ago, many of us were lying on the beach, having BBQ's, and enjoying above average summer-like weather, but within 48 hours, were braving a hailstorm with a dramatic drop in temperature, followed by an incredible deluge of rain, which gave us more of the wet stuff in a few hours than we had received in the entire months of July and August combined! Glad to say that the sun and seasonably warm days are back, with a long stretch of sunshine in the forecast.

Congratulations to the newly elected Mr. and Ms. Gay Vancouver, Aedan Saint, and Celestial Seasons! This years Faerie Tale themed, 30th annual pageant, took place at the Empire Landmark Hotel on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2009. Bravo! to outgoing Mr. Gay Vancouver XXIX, Brent Wildfyre, and Ms. Gay Vancouver XXIX, Jackie A GoGo, on a very active and successful year!

October is GLBT History Month, and each day this month, a different GLBT icon will be featured, with biography, video, and related resources. This is an important opportunity to educate our communities, as well as ourselves, about our proud history. Kudos to Malcolm, Chip, and all the folks at Equality Forum in Philadelphia for making this all happen! Canadian icon k.d. lang is the 15th on this years list; http://www.glbthistorymonth.com/glbthistorymonth/2009/ .

Canadian Thanksgiving takes place on Monday, Oct. 12, as we give thanks for our good fortune, by celebrating with a national holiday, including a long weekend, lots of turkey, pumpkin pie and other goodies. Many also visit the city during this period, and there are events galore all over town, in the clubs, and at special venues. Special events include Flygirl Production's Hershe Bar at the Red Room, and Crema Production's Chiclets at Pulse Nightclub; making Sunday, Oct. 11, a great night out for women in the city! Details on this and more at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events . Cheers!

Vancouver, Sept. 20, 2009

2009-09-20T14:30:00.000-07:00

Having just sampled the first of this year's crop of delicious, juicy, BC apples, I was reminded that the days of fresh, local watermelon are numbered, and that we are heading into our delightful harvest season. Can't wait to check out the Farmer's Market to see what's fresh off the vine this week.

Started this beautiful day off with a trip to Stanley Park for the 24th annual Vancouver AIDS Walk for Life, and it was great to see the large number, and great diversity of people participating. Clowns, entertainers, a myriad of volunteers (CREW) in bright red T-shirts, and squads of cheerleaders enthusiastically encouraging everyone through the large red balloon arch, made for a festive atmosphere, despite the heartbreaking reality of why we are having this event in the first place. You can see a few pics on our revised Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vancouver-BC/Gayvancom-Travel-Marketing/59843599156

Speaking of revisions, after several months of behind the scenes preparation, and many a recent burning the midnight oil sessions, we finally launched a completely new version of our Gayvan.com website on Sat., Sept. 19, 2009! Although we still have some minor tweeking, and a few areas are still under construction, the vast majority of the site is done, and it is great to have it go live. Feel free to check it out if you haven't already, http://www.gayvan.com/ , and let us know if you have any suggestions, or comments about something you would like to see.

Join 'Friends Help Friends' at their Official Launch on Sept 20 at Oasis Ultra Lounge at 3:00 pm. This newly formed group is a registered non-profit society, dedicated to supporting the health and well being of Queer women and their friends who may be struggling with critical illness. "DJ G-Luv will be spinning tunes, Robin Toma will get you rolling with acoustics, Martina Griffiths will rock you with her voice, and Gary Bollywood will have you off your seat and on your feet dancing."

The Greater Vancouver Native Cultural Society 2009 - 2010 Executive Council will be introducing Chief & Princess 32 to the Community on Sept. 23, at 8 pm at Pulse Nightclub, as they break bannock with various dignitaries and communication organizations. Community Unity is their theme.

On October 3, Mr. & Ms. Gay Vancouver XXIX, Brent WildeFyre & Jackie A Go-Go, will be hosting the 30th Annual Gay Vancouver Pageant: "A FAERIE TALE: The Drag Queen & I," as they celebrate their reign, and 30 years of community service for the Rhinestone Phoenix Charity Foundation. This glittering event will take place at the Empire Landmark Hotel on Robson Street, starting at 6 pm, and tickets are available at Little Sister's Bookstore in Davie Village.

The 2009 Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF), kicks off Oct. 1, and runs until Oct. 16, 2009. "Critically acclaimed as 'an unspoiled celebration of world cinema,' VIFF presents approximately 575 screenings of 350+ films from over 70 countries. Our team of expert programmers screen thousands of films and travel to some of the biggest festivals to bring Vancouver the best of world cinema." 2009 also offers a unique schedule of GLBT films, and the folks at VIFF have advised us that to avoid disappointment, we are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, and come out to show support for (GLBT) films at an international film event. Here's a list of the titles to look for:

Adrift (Choi Voi)
Assume Nothing
Cats
Eyes Wide Open
Face
I Killed My Mother (J'ai tué ma mere)
It Came from Kuchar
Johnny Weir: Pop Star on Ice
My Dog Tulip
Queer China, 'COMRADE' CHINA
To Die Like a Man (Morrer como um homem)
Trash Humpers
Yang Yang
ZMD: Zombies of Mass Destruction
The Armoire (short film 22 mins)
Island, The (short film 6 mins)
New Beijing, New Marriage (short film 20 mins)

Detailed film festival information can be obtained at http://www.viff.org/.
Film schedules: http://www.viff.org/tixSYS/2009/filmguide/
Tickets / Box Office info: http://www.viff.org/09boxoffice/info.htm

More about these, and other GLBT events of interest at: http://www.gayvan.com/whats-on2/lgbt-special-events

Happy Fall!

Vancouver, Sept. 10, 2009

2009-09-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

As we headed into the dog days of summer, so to speak, we had a much needed soaking of rain here in greater Vancouver, but the sun is back, and the days ahead are looking warm and summery.

Now that many are back in school, and the travel lineups of summer are gone, this is a favourite time for the LGBT community to travel, and there is lots to see and do in the city, and throughout our beautiful region.

The 25th Vancouver Fringe Festival kicked off on Sept. 9, with an exciting line up of live entertainment, comedy, special events and more. Check out the Fresh Sheet, and the full Program Guide until Sept. 20, on and around Granville Island (as they say): http://www.vancouverfringe.com/

The Rhinestone Phoenix Charity Foundation, with Mr. Gay Vancouver XXIX Brent WildeFyre & Ms. Gay Vancouver XXIX Jackie A Go-Go, will be presenting the candidates for Mr.& Ms. Gay Vancouver XXX, and Miss Gay Vancouver II, on Thursday, September 10, 2009, 9:00pm - 11:00pm at Numbers Cabaret on Davie. This year will also mark the 30th anniversary of the annual Gay Vancouver Pageant, being held on October 3, 2009 at the Empire Landmark Hotel on Robson Street, so now is a great time to start making plans for this historic event.

Speaking of historic events, we just received an invitation from The Empress of Canada, to attend Q Ball, on Saturday September 19, where the CIBC Pride Network and Qmunity have teamed up to present the first annual Q-Ball, a formal, red carpet, black tie gala fundraiser for Qmunity, that will also introduce the first inductees to the Q Hall of Fame. The Q Hall of Fame will recognize those that have made significant contributions to the struggle for human rights, and full equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered Canadians. Further details, where to buy tickets, and more: http://www.qhalloffame.ca/ .

The morning after the Q Ball is a great time to get out and walk it off, at the 24th annual AIDS Walk For Life, which takes place on Sept. 20, in Stanley Park, and around the fabulous Sea Wall. The WALK continues to be a celebration of life, as well as a time of reflection and tribute, to our friends and family we have lost, with a hope for a future without HIV/AIDS. More info on The AIDS Walk For Life at: http://www.aidswalkforlifevancouver.ca/

Of course, there's lots more going on, but just wanted to make a special mention of Davie Day, which takes place on Saturday, Sept. 12, where Davie Street will be closed off from Burrard to Broughton, and jam-packed with food kiosks, booths of many kinds, live entertainment, street buskers, a free movie tent, outdoor patios, and more. The weather is supposed to be nice, so expect a big turn out. Details on this and all the club action at http://www.gayvan.com/ . Cheers!

Vancouver, Aug. 28, 2009

2009-08-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

As we head into the last few weeks of summer, you can just start to see a slight hint of colour on some of the trees in Vancouver's west end, but the sun is still forecast to be shining, and temperatures warm into the foreseeable future. Beaches are packed, the Seawall has a non-stop daytime parade of people, Davie Village is a-buzz, and the nighttime party scene is fierce.

The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) is in full swing right now, until Sept. 7, and if you are in the mood for a good old-fashioned trip to the fair, this event has it all. The Gayvan.com team spent an afternoon there recently, and learned that The Fair (as it is sometimes referred to) is celebrating 99 years in Vancouver, and the fabulous Wooden Roller Coaster is celebrating its 50th. A full-blown midway surrounds the coaster, and several newer versions of coasters round up the over 50 rides on site. We opted for one ride only, The Revelation, and it was a blast to say the least (see video on left). After also taking in several live stage performances, the outdoor beer garden, the indoor casino, a corn dog, and a bag of infamous PNE mini-donuts, it was time to call it a day. More info at http://www.pne.ca/ .

For those wanting to take in some original local theatre, Daisy, written and directed by Jordan Patterson, and featuring Doug Miller and Michaela Mann, runs at the PAL Theatre from Aug. 26-29. Tickets and additional information at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/PAL-Theatre/93167817544 .

Oasis Ultra Lounge launches a new night, Fierce Fridays, Aug, 28, Score on Davie features UFC 102: Couture vs Nogueira, Sat., August 29, at 7:00pm, Velvet wraps up her summer series; Velvet Nights Of Passion In Play, Sat., Aug 29, at 7:00pm - midnight at Little Sisters , Tommy D hosts Amped at Pulse Nightclub, Sat., Aug. 29, it's LATINO NITE Monday, Aug. 31, at 10 pm at Numbers, the Kristy Krunt Variety Show, Tues., Sept 1st, at 11pm, also at Numbers, and GRACELAND with DJ Robert Shea & Guest Eric Lewis celebrate Vancouver's former Iconic Dance Culture NightClub Friday, Sept. 4, at 9 pm at Pulse Nightclub.

Flygirl Productions hosts "One hot mess of a party with Vancouver's hottest female DJ's and seductive go-go dancers ready to do it even better" with Hershe Bar at the Red Room on Richards, Sept. 6, and Crema Productions takes over Pulse Nightclub with Chiclets "a dance party for girls who like girls who like… (all genders welcome)" on Sun., Sept. 6.

CruiseyT Productions set sail with their Grand Finale Party Cruise on Sun., Sept. 6, at 4 pm, to wrap up their summer cruise season, with DJ Zack Shore, Joan-E and Jaylene performing, full no-host bar, and optional BBQ dinner, with Qmunity as a beneficiary. A great way to celebrate a fabulous Labour Day weekend!

Further details on this and more: http://www.gayvan.com/ . Cheers!

Vancouver, August 19, 2009

2009-08-19T10:40:00.000-07:00

With hot summer temperatures back again (after a brief, cool interlude), there is no better time to visit Vancouver, and to take in the Vancouver Queer Film Festival, which runs until August 23, 2009. A fantastic line-up of international films, performances, and documentaries, will wrap up a great 11-day run, with the closing Gala Party at Celebrities Nightclub on Sunday, August, 23, graciously hosted by Symone.

This week also saw the official opening of the Canada Line, Vancouver's direct, light-rail service from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to downtown, with a great temporary opening price of $3.75 CAD each way. 85,000 or so also took advantage of the free ride offered on Monday, the day before the official full day of operations, which tested the system almost to capacity, but they had a relatively smooth run overall, despite long lineups.

Wanting to check out the new service, I opted to wait until the first full day, when paid service began, with expectations of a lower crowd factor. In hindsight, this proved to be the right choice, with no wait times, and a comfortable crowd factor. With an appointment in Yaletown, and a meeting downtown, I decided to ditch the car for the day and opt for a transit DayPass, which I picked up at Shoppers Drug Mart in Davie Village for a reasonable $9 CAD. This all-inclusive pass allowed me to take a quick bus ride from Davie Village several blocks east to Yaletown, hop the Canada Line station from there, one stop downtown to the City Centre station, did my biz, and then hopped back on the Canada Line for a ride out to YVR.

Fifteen minutes later, enroute to YVR, I had to change trains once at Bridgeport station, which is the stop directly across the River Rock Casino Resort. Made note of how convenient this will now be to catch a show at the River Rock Show Theatre, including pre/post drinks in the casino, without having to worry about driving, or costly taxi fares. May check out Wanda Sykes, or Sheena Easton in September (saw Sheena in Vegas a few years ago at the RIO with David Cassidy and she was still fabulous), and the amazing Joan Rivers will be live on Halloween night, to name just a few.

Sixteen sleek modern terminals line the route from downtown to YVR, underground from Waterfront station to Marine Drive, then a scenic tour above ground for a few more stops until YVR. Easy, convenient connections from the rail terminal to both the Domestic and International terminals, should make this a hit with travelers. From YVR, it was an easy 25 minutes back downtown to the Waterfront terminus, where I decided to hop on the SeaBus for a quick, early evening cruise over to North Vancouver, had a bite to eat at Lonsdale Quay Market, then back on the Seabus to Waterfront, hopped on the Canada Line back to Yaletown, and then a short bus ride to Davie Village; all for the amazing price of $9 CAD. After calculating what I would have usually paid for parking and gas, along with the stress factor for this multi-destination adventure if using a car, I'm glad I opted to try a DayPass for a change.

There is more exciting news this week in the world of rail travel, as Amtrak launches a new service Aug. 19, 2009, that will allow travelers from Oregon to have direct round-trip service between Portland and Vancouver, in addition to the current direct rail service from Seattle.

The second train will debut with a northbound arrival from Portland into Vancouver at about 10:45 p.m. The next morning, the southbound Amtrak Cascades train will leave Vancouver at 6:40 a.m. and arrive in Portland at 2:45 p.m.

Find out more about the Canada Line at http://www.translink.ca/ , Amtrak Cascades at http://www.amtrakcascades.com/, as well as updates on the Queer Film Festival and other Vancouver events via http://www.gayvan.com/ .
Cheers!

Vancouver, Aug. 8, 2009

2009-08-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

Vancouver Pride 2009 was a smashing success once again, with hundreds of thousands of participants, events galore, and the largest Pride Parade ever. Add in an international fireworks competition, the Celebration of Light, and we had crowds of upwards of half a million people descend upon the West End on Saturday evening, Aug. 1, followed by another half million or so twelve hours later for the parade. Talk about action-packed, and great people watching!

Friday night saw the Davie Street Party kick off the Pride weekend party scene, and as we did the rounds, there was standing room only everywhere on the two-block stretch of Davie closed off from traffic, and every business on the strip was doing a brisk trade. Several stages with live entertainment and guest DJs highlighted the street party, and there was non-stop action in all the bars, pubs, and clubs.

Moved around to several locations during the Pride Parade for various photo ops, including the Pride Society's reception at the Boathouse, along the route on Denman and Pacific, and finally down to the festival site. At one point, I noticed the man and woman in front of me became very excited and started waving when the RCMP contingent was nearing our spot on Pacific, so I asked the woman if one of them was her son, to which she enthusiastically said "yes, and he's gay, and we are very proud of him!" Way to go Mom!!

The festival site was massive, with many booths, a live entertainment stage, and an outdoor beer garden for about a thousand or so, situated in the park along Sunset Beach, showing off one of the most beautiful Pride Parade and Festival sites anywhere. After a couple of hours at the festival site, it was off the to CruiseyT Go-Go cruise, with 400 or so others, for a four-hour sail, complete with on board dinner, drag entertainment, excellent DJs, and fantastic scenery. We also did the traditional big wave to the Pride Uniform Cruise ship as it passed us enroute from Indian Arm, and a couple of hours later saw many of them about the village for the post-cruise festivities. Congratulations to the Vancouver Pride Society, all the participating businesses, and the myriad of volunteers, on a job well done!!!

Now that Pride has passed, we are now looking forward to the upcoming Vancouver Queer Film Festival, celebrating 21 years in 2009, with the kick-off Gala on Aug. 13, with a full eleven days of films from around the world, and various special events. Get passes online and detailed info at: http://www.queerfilmfestival.ca/ . You can also book your accommodation, and have a chance to win two passes to a special showing of Tarnation, via Gayvan.com: http://www.gayvan.com/imscart/index.php?page=shop/index . Cheers!

Vancouver, July 25, 2009

2009-07-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

Now that East Side Pride and Gay Day at Playland 2009 have already passed, the Picnic in the Park on Saturday, July 25, is for many the start of their Pride celebrations. This fun and exciting free event takes place at Brockton Oval in beautiful Stanley Park, from 11 am to 6 pm, and includes the ever-popular faves of tug-of-war, potatoe sack races, high heel toss, Drag races, guest DJ's, BBQ, and beer garden. Add the gorgeous sunny weather and hot summer temps, and it sounds like a party!

Davie Village was already in full swing by 11 am this morning, and by the time I grabbed a watermelon at Super Valu just before noon, there were already folks sipping beer on the patios at Score and Speak Easy, and soaking up the rays. No doubt the outside upper deck at the Oasis, and the street level patio at the Fountainhead will be full in no time, and expect the street view windows at 1181 and PumpJack will be wide open and full by mid-afternoon. Lots of tourists in town as well, and with Davie Village being on most itineraries, it will be the place to see and be seen.

Now that Pride 2009 has kicked off in the city, there is a non-stop list of things to do over the next ten days or so, including a full line-up of special club events, international guest DJ's, entertainers, and more.

To name just a few, Lady Bunny from NYC will make a guest appearance and Grammy nominated superstar DJ/Producer/Remixer, Chris Cox, will spin at Celebrities Nightclub, AMPED with DJ/Producer Joe Bermudez from Boston spins at Pulse Nightclub, where they Blast Off starting on Tuesday, with Beach Party beer gardens, complete with trucked-in sand. Go-Go boys will be shaking it at the Red Bull Circuit-O Party at the Odyssey, there's real cash give-a-ways at Numbers all week, a Pride Kick-off fundraiser and Conni's Big Phat BBQ at Oasis Ultra Lounge, and beer gardens and BBQ all weekend at the PumpJack. There's also the special Pride In Art series, and a special Pride Movie Night, featuring Out of the Past and Little Sisters vs. Big Brother. There will also be an interactive discussion with Grand Marshall Janine Fuller and Director Aerlyn Weissman immediately following the film.

Flygirl Productions and Crema Productions are hosting a whole weekend of special women's events, including a Hot & Wet women's boat cruise, a Chicks Ahoy women's boat cruise, and much more. CruiseyT Productions offers their 16th annual series of popular cruises over Pride weekend, that include a Pride Uniform boat cruise, a Go-Go boat cruise, and a Pride Party boat cruise. As well, TFD presents Rapture Vancouver, and Big Roger Events are hosting dance parties all weekend.

The 2009 Pride Grand Marshalls will be at the Pride Weekend Launch at the Vancouver Art Gallery on Friday at noon, the street closes to traffic for the Davie Street Pride Party on Friday night, the annual Terry Wallace Memorial breakfast starts early on Saturday morning, half a million or so will take in China's display at the Celebration of Light Fireworks competition Saturday night, and of course, there's the 31st Annual Pride Parade and Pride Festival on Sunday, with hundreds of thousands of spectators and participants. Way too much to cover in this space, so feel free to visit Gayvan.com's What's On page for more: www.gayvan.com/events.htm . Happy Pride Vancouver!!!

Vancouver, July 16, 2009

2009-07-16T12:11:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce that our sixth annual Gay Friendly Canada publication is at the printer in Toronto, and will soon be in circulation across Canada. If you are in the tourism industry, and are one of 13,000 subscribers to the Canadian Travel Press print edition, or one of over 6,000 digital subsribers, you will receive a copy in the upcoming July 20 edition. If you live in urban Toronto, there will be 12,000 copies available in the July 30 print edition of Xtra. Vancouverites can pick up copies at various outlets in the west end, including Little Sister's Book Emporium, starting July 21, and visitors to the gayvan.com website can view a digital version in the weeks ahead.

Vancouver is gearing up for another exciting Pride season, and there are numerous events taking place over the next several weeks, so now is a great time to start making plans. If you plan on visiting from out of town, and haven't already booked your hotel, now is also a great time to do so, to make sure you don't miss out on the best selection of available rooms: www.gayvan.com/imscart/index.php?page=shop/index .

Gay Day at Playland takes place on Saturday, July 18, and this is a fun way to get into the Pride spirit, and have a blast at the same time. This unique annual event features live performances and a big, gay beer garden, all of Playland’s the carnival games, rides, food and the roller coasters. Advance tickets are available for $27 at Little Sisters (1238 Davie St.), or the VPS Office for Vancouver Pride to receive partial proceeds. Tickets are also available that day outside the Main Gate at the Pride booth.

Catch the world-famous Britney Spears impersonator, Derrick Barry, performing live at Celebrities nightclub on July 22. This talented performer did a cameo appearance with Britney Spears on NBC's 'The Tonight Show with Jay Leno', was a Top 40 Finalist on NBC's 'America's Got Talent', competed on ABC's 'The Next Best Thing', and is featured on Britney Spears' Official Website & YouTube. He is also the youngest cast member in the 23 year history of 'An Evening at La Cage' at the Riviera Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. Advance tickets are only $10, and are available at Little Sister's and Priape in Davie Village.

The Feud, hosted by Barb Snelgrove, kicks off of their Pride line up on Thursday, July 23. If you haven’t experienced The Feud, it’s like watching a TV game show live, with all the bells and whistles. Six teams compete for the cash prize, which is in support of Qmunity, Vancouver's newly rebranded LGBT community centre. Starts at 9pm sharp.

There is so much going on right now; to get all the details, with links to the actual events, visit the gayvan.com "What's On" page: http://www.gayvan.com/events.htm . Happy Pride!

Vancouver, July 1, 2009

2009-07-01T10:07:00.000-07:00

After a fabulous visit with our friends south of the border for Seattle Pride celebrations, we are glad to be back just in time to celebrate Canada Day here at home!

Seattle put on a great show as always, and some of the highlights included the Seattle Pride Parade, the third annual Seattle Pride Cruise hosted by Vancouver's own CruiseyT Productions, special Pride events at RPlace, The Cuff street party, and a special tribute to Michael Jackson at the Experience Music Project at Seattle Center, which was also the site of the Seattle Pride Festival at the end of the parade route.

Back in Vancouver, Canada Day celebrations are kicking off, with a wide range of events including a huge celebration on Granville Island, complete with a Canadian Pancake Breakfast, parade, live entertainers, the False Creek Ferry Ballet, and more. Canada Place is also a hot spot of Canada Day activities, with a new street festival throughout the day, a parade at 7PM, and the Burrard Inlet Fireworks at 10:30 PM. Sports enthusiasts can take in the Yaletown Grand Prix, the annual Canada Day high speed bike race attracting thousands from 1PM to 6PM.

Davie Village is also gearing up for an action packed day, with folks already positioning themselves on the sunny patio at Score, to watch the Wimbledon men's quarter finals on the big screen from 10AM, the red and white balloons are giving a festive air to the patio at Speakeasy Bar & Grill, and it will be a good idea to get out early to grab prime sunny spots on the patios of the Fountainhead and Oasis Ultra Lounge. The PumpJack will be packed for sure with Canada Day revellers, there's non-stop Karaoke with DJTom @ Numbers, Lips Inc. hosts a special show at The Odyssey, and a new Gay Indie Dance Party, Mondo, kicks off at Pulse nightclub with Maxwell Maxwell.

July 4th will see many of our American friends coming to visit us as they celebrate Independence Day, Victoria Pride is in full swing this weekend, complete with a parade and festival on Sunday July 5, and a special Victoria's Sekret women's event put on by Vancouver's Flygirl Productions. CruiseyT Productions hosts their Salute to Summer Cruise, July 5th, boarding at 3:30PM, departing Coal Harbour at 4PM. Cruise tickets available at Little Sister's, Priape and dockside. It's a great time to get out in the city, or to start planning your next visit. More info and links available at http://www.gayvan.com/events.htm . Cheers!

Vancouver, June 21, 2009

2009-06-21T11:43:00.000-07:00

Now that summer has officially arrived, many are already tanned and ready, the town is hopping and the party has begun!

One great way to kick off the summer will be at the 12-hour Mega Benefit Beach Party for the BC Cancer Society being held at Pulse Nightclub on Davie on June 21, complete with trucked in sand, an outdoor beer garden with performance stage, all day BBQ, non-stop rotating DJs, spotlight Drag performances, door prizes, raffles, and a chance to win a $1200 getaway for two, courtesy of Fairmont Hotels: 100% of the proceeds go to the BC Cancer Foundation and the Vancouver Dream Centre. A $10 wristband gets you in, and helps towards their goal of raising $10,000. Get down there for the doors at 3PM, and the opening ceremony with a ribbon cutting ceremony with MP Hedy Fry at 4PM. Further details on this event and lots more available on our What's On page: www.gayvan.com/events.htm .

The start of summer also means it's time to start thinking of Pride, and over the next several weeks there are three large Pride events in our region to attend and start celebrating:

Seattle Pride kicks off this week, and a contingent of Vancouverites are heading south for this annual extravaganza. Not to be missed is the CruiseyT Seattle Pride Cruise on Saturday, June 27, with a meet and greet party Friday night at Purr Cocktail Lounge, and a pre-cruise party at the ever-popular RPlace on Saturday from 2-4PM. Boarding for The Spirit of Seattle of Argosy Cruises starts at 5PM and departs promptly at 5:30PM. Additional info and tickets available at: www.cruisyt.com/seattle.shtml .

Victoria Pride Week also kicks off on June 27, with a Pride Kick-Off Party at Papparazi Nightclub, a Roller Derby challenge, The Big Le Boutski on June 28, a Business Fair on the 29th, a Pink Whale Watching Tour with Prince of Whales on June 29, a Cheesecake Burlesque show, Big Gay Dog Party, Victoria's Sekret event put on by Vancouver's Flygirl Productions, and annual Pride Parade, Pride Festival and Pride Wrap-Up Party on July 5th. All this and more at:
www.victoriapridesociety.org/events.html .

And of course, our own annual mega-event, the Vancouver Pride Festival, kicks off with the grassroots, East Side Pride, on June 27 in the Commercial Drive neighbourhood, followed by Gay Day at Playland on July 18, the annual Picnic in the Park on July 27, and the Pride Parade on Sunday, August 2nd. Too numerous to list here, visit our Pride page for event details, a link to the Vancouver Pride Society, and check back regularly on our What's On page, where we regularly update the latest special event and club info: http://www.gayvan.com/ . Happy Summer!!

Vancouver, June 13, 2009

2009-06-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

The fabulousness continues here in beautiful Vancouver, with seemingly non-stop, sunny, summer-like weather, even before the official start to summer. Weather-wise, this has been the most incredible late May/early June we have experienced here on Canada's west coast for years; maybe even ever, as records are being broken all over the region.

Started the day off with a cuppa in Davie Village, followed by an early morning bike ride down the hill to English Bay, then on to the 10K Seawall around Stanley Park, with a pit stop at Beaver Lake, which is currently in full bloom with hundreds (perhaps thousands) of fragrant water lilies, in white, red, fuchsia and pink...an amazing stop along the way. The Seawall itself is a wonder, with breathtaking vistas, stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and non-stop action; rollerbladers, bikers, joggers, float planes, helicopters, motor boats, seadoos, the occasional luxury passenger cruise ship gliding by, and more.

Back in the village, the patios were packed by noon; saw Steve and the gang at Score chatting with folks on the new extension to their Davie Street patio, saw Ken C. with a prime seat on the second level Speakeasy patio, waved at a group of locals positioning themselves strategically on the Fountainhead patio, and no doubt there was action on the upstairs deck at Oasis Ultra Lounge.

Flygirl @ The Boathouse happens on Sat. June 13, it's Rubber Weekend at The PumpJack, Malibu Queen - Fierce Amateur Drag Competition happens at Pulse Nightclub on the 14th, followed by a new night "Gayties" with all your favourite hits from the '80s. James S. and Joan-E are off to Winnipeg, to ride in their Pride Parade and stage a special "Celebrities" night at Gios nightclub, and if Joan's out of town, I guess that means someone else will be hosting "Afternoon Delight" at 1181 on the 14th (DDD perhaps?). The semi-finals start for the Talent Search at Numbers next week (16th), and Australian sensation SNEAKY SOUND SYSTEM is at STEREOTYPE at Celebrities on June 19.

It's Car Free Day in several of the LGBT community's favourite parts of town on Sunday, June 14, including Denman Street at English Bay in the west end, Commercial Drive, and the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood. The weather is supposed to be excellent, so expect big crowds and lottsa action!

There is also a Vancouver contingent heading down to Seattle Pride on the 26th, we will all be aboard the CruiseyT Seattle Pride Cruise for the third annual cruise on the 27th, and there are still a few rooms up for grabs in our room block at our host hotel until Monday, June 15th. After that, rooms are on a first come, first serve, availability basis. For all this and more, visit our What's On page: http://www.gayvan.com/events.htm . Cheers!

Vancouver, June 3, 2009

2009-06-03T14:48:00.000-07:00

Well it just doesn't get much better than this; we have had an absolutely incredible run of weather here in the Vancouver region for the past 10 days or so, and it is looking clear, warm and dry in the immediate forecast.

The days are now getting close to their longest of the year, with sunset after 9 PM and the last silouette of blue sky not vanishing until after 10 PM. The beaches are packed all day long, and well after working hours, with August-like temperatures in the upper 20's Celsius (80 degrees plus F), with bustling streets and overflowing patios. A little slice of summer, with a full summer ahead to look forward to.

Apart from doing a patio run over the past several days, we also took a swing through nearby Stanley Park, where the blooms are out in full force, and the wildlife is frisky. Apart from the plethora of human beings, we forgot how amazingly tame the squirrels, racoons, Canada geese and swans that inhabit the park are; literally walking (or swimming) right up to you, hoping for treats. Posted a couple of pics of them on the left.

Lots going on in town as well; following are a few links to events of interest:

MADE IN RIO - DJ FELIPE LIRA - Thursday, June 4th, 2009 9pm until 2amCelebrities Night Club (1022 Davie Street)
DJ FELIPE LIRA: From Rio de Janeiro, Lira has played all the major clubs in the city of samba and capoeira as well across the country including major venues in Sao Paulo.
http://www.celebritiesnightclub.com/

Connections - The Vancouver Men's Chorus' 2009 concert
Where: Performance Works, on Granville Island.When: 8 pm, June 4th, 6th and 7th, 2009
www.vancouvermenschorus.ca

Dine with Pride at MY BIG GAY WEDDING - Sunday, June 7, 2009 at 5:00pmHoliday Inn Downtown (1180 Howe St.)
http://www.vancouverpride.ca/

The Queerly Canadian Conference @ UBC
This conference will ask how queer narratives have changed, not only the changes from l/g to l/g/b to l/g/b/t to queer, but our changing sense of ourselves in relation to society and to history. http://queerlycanadian.wordpress.com/

We are also happy to report that our 2009 Gay Friendly Vancouver - In Town Guides are now out and about all over town. You can pick up free copies at the Tourism Vancouver Visitor Centre, most major hotel concierge desks, and at various venues in the Davie Village, including Little Sister's Bookstore (right at the entrance) and at many bars, pubs, and restaurants.

Our 2009 Gay Friendly Canada publication is currently in the works, and will be for the next several weeks, so there is still time to be part of it if you have a business that you would like to promote. Feel free to contact us for further information: gayvan@shaw.ca .

Cheers!

Vancouver, May 17, 2009

2009-05-17T14:29:00.000-07:00

We are currently mid-swing in an absolutely gorgeous, summer-like long weekend here in Vancouver's west end. Warm temperatures, sunny skies, shorts, sandles, tank-tops, the smell of BBQ's, packed outdoor patios, and crowds on our many beautiful beaches...Victoria Day weekend is the unofficial start of the summer season, and it sure feels like it!

Speaking of patios, the Fountainhead Pub, Oasis Ultra Lounge, Score on Davie, and the new Speakeasy on Davie all have great patios that were in full swing when we walked past in the last hour or so, and the PumpJack is hosting a special BBQ outdoor patio Kegger all afternoon with great prices and a handsome crowd.

Just got an email from Joan-E moments ago, and she is hosting a new promotion "Afternoon Delight" at 1181 on Davie, with special guest DeDe Drew (one of the most accomplished female illusionists in North America!). Doors at 2Pm, the girls arrive around 4PM, and DJ Cole will be spinning all afternoon, with spotlight performances throughout the day. Sounds like fun!

Sunday, May 17th, is also the 26th Annual Vancouver AIDS Candlelight Memorial and Vigil starting at 8PM. During the ceremony, as the sun sets, a single candle is lit and its flame passed through the crowd lighting a sea of individual candles. Candles will be provided at the event for participants to use. For further information, visit http://www.aidsmemorial.ca/

Lots more going on this weekend and in the week ahead. Following are details for a few events of interest taking place:

Chicklets – Sunday, May 17/09, Pulse Nightclub (1138 Davie Street). Doors open at 9PM. Join resident DJ - TraceyD. The hottest new club on the Davie strip, and eye-popping eye-candy! A dance party for girls who like girls who like… (All genders welcome). Tickets $10.00 advance at Little Sisters; http://www.cremaproductions.com/

HERSHE BAR, SUN MAY 17/09 - Where The Girls Are! Hot female DJ's and seductive go-go dancers ready to do it even better this month! Red Room – 398 Richards Street. This Hershe showcasing - DJ Betti Forde, DJ Rhiannon, DJ Cho Cha and DJ SHE. 9PM-2AM, $10 advance. This Hershe is also supporting Vancouver Dyke March 2009. Tickets available: Online http://www.flygirlproductions.com/ . Little Sisters Bookstore-1238 Davie St. 604-669-1753 Kokopelli Salon-2052 Commercial Drive @ 4th Ave

Kristy Krunt hosts the popular TALENT CONTEST @ NUMBERS Tuesday, May 19, at 11PM, Numbers Cabaret (1042 Davie Street). Each week, the 'Girls, Games and Gags TALENT SEARCH' will feature ten contestants competing for prizes, and a place in the finals, where the Grand Prize winner will receive $650, American Idol style judging! Categories include: Lip Sync, Amateur Strip, Magic, Celebrity Impersonation, Musicians, Live Singing, Comedy, etc....

CruiseyT Boat Cruise - Sunday May 24th, 4-8pm. "The Kick Off Cruise" will feature music by CruiseyT's resident DJ Zach Shore, and performances by Joan-E & Syren. There is a $7 BBQ available on board and lots of bars to keep the lines down. Tickets are $25 and available at http://www.cruiseyt.com/ .

And to top it all off, Davie Street is being repaved this weekend with fresh black asphalt, so it will look clean and fresh for our friends from the south as they visit us during the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend. Here's to summer (almost)! Cheers,

Monday, May 4, 2009

2009-05-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to have completed the final press check for our 7th Annual Gay Friendly Vancouver - In Town Guide, and look forward to seeing the first copies hot-off-the-press this week. We then fly out with them to Toronto on Wednesday, where we will be attending the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) Convention. We will also be distributing free copies, on Friday May 7th, from our booth at the IGLTA Travel Tradeshow in Maple Leaf Gardens from 6:00 to 10:00 PM. Stop by and say hi if you are in TO this week!

With our Vancouver guide on the press, we can now focus our full attention on our 6th annual Gay Friendly Canada publication, which will be coming out in July this year. For those in TO, we will also be distributing free copies of our 5th at the tradeshow on Friday. A digital version will also be available.

Vancouver will have a nice showing at the conference and tradeshow this year, as I understand the Vancouver Pride Society and WinterPride will both have booths, and we hope to have them side by side with ours, for convenient one-stop destination shopping. Gayvan.com will also be having a draw for a Hotel Package for two in downtown Vancouver, including a Spa visit for the lucky entrant, as well as special pins, pens and more, courtesy of Tourism Vancouver. Hope to see you there!

While we are out of town, of course there will be lots going on in Vancouver, and now is a good time to start thinking about the first CruiseyT Party Cruise of the season on May 24, or plan ahead for the CruiseyT Seattle Pride Cruise in June. For CruiseyT reservations, secure online hotel bookings and more, visit us at: http://www.gayvan.com/. Cheers!

Friday, April 17, 2009

2009-04-17T19:24:00.000-07:00

The team at Gayvan.com is now in production mode for the upcoming seventh annual edition of our Gay Friendly Vancouver - In Town Guide , so most everything else has been taking a back seat while we cut, paste, design, edit, discuss, and make last-minute phone calls. I didn't even get around to publishing the blog review of Liza Minneli, whom we saw last Friday night live at the River Rock Show Theatre; wrote a review the next day, deleted most of it by mistake, and just never got around to re-writing it. Apologies Liza; you were fabulous!

What's more, Twitter, Facebook, Digg, Myspace, Plaxo, LinkedIn, You Tube, Craigslist, and a few other social responsibilities have also had varying degrees of activity recently. Sound familiar?

That said, it's a beautiful sunny spring day here in Vancouver, and after a late afternoon meeting downtown, swung the car through Stanley Park on the way back, parked overlooking the downtown cityscape for a few minutes, had a few deep breaths of fresh salt sea air, and took a few pics while on a short stroll along the seawall, basking in the sunshine. Lucky we are, that the sun is staying out late after work these days, and the glorious parks and seaside are just minutes away from it all here in Vancouver.

Enroute from Stanley Park, stopped off to pick up a nice bottle of red to top off the week, as we are planning to take Friday night off. Feel free to check out our Bars and What's On pages to see what's happening around town: http://www.gayvan.com/ . Cheers!

Vancouver, April 6, 09

2009-04-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

What a glorious stretch of above average spring temperatures we have experienced here in Vancouver for the past several days, and it sounds like we will continue to do so for the next few if the forecasts are correct. Great to see the streets, outdoor patios, and beaches packed with people; not quite full-on suntanning weather yet, but saw quite a few t-shirts and shorts at least.

The fine weather brought out a large number of community members and our allies for the "Enough" rally held on April 5, to show solidarity and build public awareness about a recent gay-bashing incident that took place right in Davie Village. Despite all of our advances with civil rights, gay marriage, and openly elected gay politicians, these unfortunate incidents do still happen on occasion. However, reaction was swift, community organizers quickly arranged the rally, and local LGBT media got the word out. The Vancouver Men's Chorus led the large contingent from Nelson Park along Thurlow Street, through Davie Village and down the hill to a stage set up across from English Bay, supported enroute by the Vancouver Police Department, local politicians, labour leaders, community public figures, and many resident supporters on the sidelines. This peaceful event made a strong statement, and was heavily covered by the mainstream media. Education and awareness will hopefully put a stop to this once and for all.

On a lighter note, last Thursday night saw a great turnout for the 2009 Vancouver's Next Gay Top Model competition at Celebrities nightclub. Congratulations to "Calan" , who took top spot with his tall, lean, handsome Scottish looks! He will now go on to represent Vancouver for the next year, will start a two-year modelling contract with I Model Management, head up to Whistler aboard the Rocky Mountaineer courtesy of Gaywhistler.com, and fly to London courtesy of British Airways, to name a few highlights. It was fun to be part of this high-energy extravaganza, and to announce the travel prizes to the exuberant crowd. Kudos to the Producer, Terry Costa, Special Host, Mathieu Chantelois, and all the businesses, organizations, media, and volunteers, who helped make this 2nd annual event a resounding success! Find out more at: http://mirateca.lldt.net/topmodel/default.aspx

Vancouver's new Convention Centre opened to the public on April 4, and it was great to see this spectacular $883 million venue spring to life after watching it rise from the downtown waterfront over the past several years. Posted a number of photos on Facebook over the weekend, and already have had positive feedback from friends and associates from as far away as Florida and Peru. Great time to consider Vancouver for your next big event.

Britney Spears will be performing at GM Place this week, and there seems to be lots of excitement and fanfare planned by her local community supporters. Both Celebrities and Pulse nightclubs have special Britney After Parties Wednesday night, and the village will definitely be happening.

Liza Minelli takes to the stage at the fabulous River Rock Casino Show Theatre, Friday, April 10, and we can't wait to see her her live. A great way to start off the evening is with a toast and light meal in Lulu's Lounge in the Casino before the show, or grab a libation at one of the convenient beverage stations, and try your luck at one of the 1,000 or so slots and gaming tables. At the time of writing, there were still a few tickets available via Ticketmaster. For details, tickets and more: http://www.riverrock.com/

Easter long weekend will see lots of action around town, with both Flygirl Productions, and Crema Productions holding special women's events on April 9, 11 and 12, Conni Smudge has a new Hott Smudge Sundays brunch at Oasis Ultra Lounge, and of course there's lots going on for the boys. Check out these events and more on our What's On page: http://www.gayvan.com/events.htm . Cheers!

Vancouver, March 27, 2009

2009-03-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

Started off the season's events with "Spring into Pride", a Pride launch event hosted by the Vancouver Pride Society on March 20, highlighted with snacks, beverages, cake, and a well-orchestrated presentation with special guests. This year's theme "educate, liberate, celebrate" says it all.

Lots going on in town this week. Currently in full swing is Vancouver's Fashion Week 2009, March 24-29, hailed as the West Coast's most prestigious industry event. Check it out: http://www.vanfashionweek.com/ .

Vancouver's 38,000 gorgeous Japanese cherry trees are celebrated by the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, which kicks off this weekend at the Van Dusen Gardens, and runs from March 28 - April 24. A couple of highlights of interest include "The Cherry Jam" on March 31, a free lunchtime concert hosted by CBC's Bill Richardson at the Burrard Skytrain station, complete with Taiko drummers, dancers, and even a Japanese Pop band. "Bike the Blossoms" on April 18, is also a great chance to grab your camera and get some exercise. More at: http://www.vcbf.ca/ .

Canada's music awards, the JUNO Awards, are being hosted in Vancouver this year, and the town is already hopping with free concerts all week long at the West Jet stage on Granville Street, impromtu performances, sightings, and appearances by the some of the nominees and stars, a pre-JUNO red carpet party hosted by CTV's eTalk Canada, and the Awards show at GM Place on Sunday, March 29. Full details at: http://www.junoawards.ca/ .

To get a taste of the JUNO's right here in Davie Village, Stereotype Fridays and Blueprint present 2009 JUNO nominee, James Doman, w/DJ Timeline at Celebrities nightclub on Friday, March 27. Advance tickets are $15 and can be purchased at: http://www.clubzone.com/

Vancouver's Next Gay Top Model 2009 Finale will be taking place on Thursday, April 2nd at Celebrities nightclub. Hosted by Matthieu Chantelois, with special performances by Armstrong Jr, Jerome Mandrake, Jaylene, Peter Breeze, Queen of Samba, DJ Zach Shore, as well as a lineup of special guests and co-hosts, including myself. Doors at 9PM, show at 10PM, advance tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Little Sister's Bookstore http://www.littlesistersbookstore.com/ .

Check out these, and all the other latest gay club action on our "What's On" page: www.gayvan.com/events.htm . Cheers!

Vancouver, March 20, 09

2009-03-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Vernal Equinox has just taken place, marking the end of winter and the official start of spring 2009. Looking forward, we couldn't be happier, as we leave behind the most winter-like of winters we have experienced here in Vancouver in recent memory.

That said, I saw my first tulip in bloom yesterday in the community garden in Nelson Park as I walked to a meeting downtown, and the daffodils and cherry blossoms were out all over the place. Also, our friends over in Greater Victoria are in the midst of their "33rd Annual Flower Count" where each community in the region take up the "Banana Belt Challenge" to see who can count the most blossoms (March 18-23, 2009). More event details available at www.tourismvictoria.ca/EventDetail.aspx?eid=6635 .

Congratulations to Emperor 35 of Vancouver, Mike Murrell and Empress 38 of Vancouver, Iona Whip, whom were crowned by the College of Monarchs of the Dogwood Monarchist Society in Vancouver, at the Stanley Park Pavilion on March 14, 2009! Should you wish to meet the new Monarchs, there is a Toast to the New Empress & Emperor on Saturday March 21 at Oasis Ultra Lounge, hosted by Ms. Gay Vancouver XXIX, Jackie A Go-Go, and Mr. Gay Vancouver XXIX, Brent Wildefyre (it is also a joint birthday party).

Friday, March 2oth also kicks off the season with a landmark event for the Vancouver Pride Society "Spring Into Pride" as the theme for this year's celebration is unveiled at the Edgewater Casino, along with preview of Pride 2009 events, media kits, special Pride movie showing, appetizers, refreshments and more. Visit our "What's On" page for additional information on these events and more: www.gayvan.com/events.htm . Cheers!

Vancouver, Sat, Mar 7, 09

2009-03-07T11:19:00.000-08:00

Started off with another gorgeous sunny morning here in beautiful downtown Vancouver, with dramatic mountain views and slightly cooler than normal temperatures for this time of year. As I write, a quick look out the window shows a new dusting of snow rolling over the northshore mountains, but it looks like it will stay up in the hills, and not threaten the spring flowers, or those of us here in Davie Village.

With the countdown to the 2010 Olympics now less than a year to go, sporting enthusiasts will find an ongoing series of major sporting events taking place in the Vancouver region right now, including the World Juniors Curling Championships at Vancouver Olympic Centre from March 5-15, IPC Alpine Skiing World Cup Finals 2009 at Whistler Creekside from March 9- 14, IBU World Cup Biathlon Vancouver 2009, March 11-15, at Whistler Olympic Park, and the ISU World Single Distances Speed Skating Championships, March 12-15, at the Richmond Olympic Speed Skating Oval. A great chance to see world-class athletes from all over the world.

This is also the start of the 38th annual Coronation festivities here in Vancouver, where visiting title holders from across North America will join Vancouverites as we elect the 38th Empress and 35th Emperor of Vancouver. Festivities kick off March 7, with voting at Little Sister's Book & Art Emporium, from 10 AM unitl 11 PM. There will be lots of flair and glitter as well throughout Davie Village, as Ball Fever gets underway from 3 PM at Pulse Nightclub March 7, hosted by the Empress of Canada, and the glamorous Coronation Ball takes place on March 14, at the Stanley Park Pavilion. Time to polish up the tiaras!

This is also the time to start picking out your restaurant for Dining Out for Life, which takes place on Thursday, March 12, with over 200 restaurants participating, and offering 25% of proceeds from all dinners ordered that day. All money raised will go to A Loving Spoonful and Friends For Life, Lower Mainland charities supporting local people living with AIDS.

Lots more going on in the bars, pubs, nightclubs in the days, nights, and weeks ahead. Check out our Bars and What's On pages for details www.gayvan.com. Cheers!

Vancouver, March 3, 09

2009-03-03T17:58:00.000-08:00

What a difference a day makes, as the timeless, award-winning song goes...and it certainly sang true this past week as we ventured off to Seattle for the HX Gay Travel Expo. After about ten days of gorgeous sunny weather, suddenly, overnight, on the day we were to drive south, another blast of winter hit BC and Washington State. The temperature dropped, and snow fell all over the region, which made us wonder if our all-season radials were up to the challenge.

As it turned out, the roads were pretty clear this side of the border, although there was snow on the rooftops in the city, and on the ground in the burbs. As we got closer to the border, the roads were a bit wet, but nothing the radials couldn't cope with.

Next, we arrived at the border, and when asked told the man at customs where we were going, that we were exhibiting at a Gay Travel Expo, and that we had brochures and related materials in the trunk. He didn't blink an eye, but told us that because we were bringing in brochures, that we would have to park our car for inspection, and to go inside to pay a fee for bringing print materials into the USA. This was nothing unusual, and when our turn came around, we talked with the agent, explained again what we were up to, he asked a couple of questions about the travel show, then told us we needed to pay a small fee for bringing in the brochures, and wished us a pleasant trip.

After the border crossing, one of our usual stops is at the Subway sandwich shop in Blaine, which is literally an immediate right turn and about 100 yards from the border crossing. Loaded up on footlongs for the trip and headed south on the I-5.

About 30 minutes later the sun broke out, and we found ourselves in a spectacular winter-wonderland just outside of Bellingham Washington. This stunning scenery was only surpassed when we turned a curve, and a snow-clad Mount Baker suddenly Wowed us front and centre. The trip then rolled on smoothly for the next hour and and a half or so, with clear skys and brilliant sunshine as we cruised into Seattle.

With less than an hour to spare we checked into the Hotel Monaco, parked the car, and then proceeded to roll our handcarts full of gear the few blocks across downtown Seattle to the Grand Hyatt where the Expo was taking place. Got our booth set-up just in the nick of time, as the first guests strolled in.

The Expo was well attended, and traffic was brisk throughout. It was great to see some of our friends and associates we have come to know over the years, and to meet a lot of new people who stopped by our booth to pick up info on Gay Vancouver.

After the show, we had a great dinner in the hip Hotel Monaco restaurant, Sazerac, then grabbed a cab up Capital Hill to toast a few at some of the local gay establishments, but made it an early night because of the drive back to Canada the next day.

As our usual routine goes when leaving Seattle, we drove up Pike Street, filled the car with gas at the station on the corner of Pike and Broadway, parked on Broadway, had a great lunch at the Broadway Grill, and afterwards continued straight ahead on Broadway to the turnoff to I-5 North back to Canada. An action-packed, and exciting 24 hours. Cheers!

Vancouver, Feb 24, 09

2009-02-24T09:49:00.000-08:00

What a gorgeous stretch of spring-like weather we have experienced over the past ten days or so. Glorious sunshine, relatively warm temperatures, with just a few spots of rain to freshen the air!

There's nothing like the early spring we experience here in southern BC, with flowers in bloom all over the region, and excellent snow conditions for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains. Parks, gardens and the streets of Vancouver are currently lined with daffodils, crocus, and the spectacular cherry blossoms are starting to burst forth.

Our capital city, Victoria, is getting set to celebrate the 33rd annual Flower Count, this year from March 18 - 23, during which time they will send freshly cut daffodils to media all across North America, to kick off the Flower Count, which now accounts for reports of billions of blooms annually. A great time to get over to Victoria and join in the festivities! Check our Victoria section for more: http://www.gayvan.com/victoria_nanaimo.htm

Wednesday, Feb 25 has been officially declared "Pink Shirt Anti-Bullying Day" in the province of British Columbia, so this is the time to don your pink shirt to show support for this landmark social event. Find out more at: http://www.pinkshirtday.ca/ .

The Gayvan.com team will be hitting the road this week to exhibit at the HX Gay Travel Expo in Seattle on Thursday, Feb 26, at the Grand Hyatt in downtown Seattle. We hope to see as many of our friends and associates as possible at the show, and you can pick up Free Admission coupons from our Seattle page: http://www.gayvan.com/seattle.htm .

We'll be posting news about the show, and our trip to the Emerald City in the days ahead. Cheers!

Vancouver, Feb 14, 09

2009-02-14T10:09:00.000-08:00

Another fabulous week here in southern British Columbia, with milestone events, spring-like weather, and excitement in the air.

WinterPride was a blast last weekend; we travelled up to Whistler with Carlotta Gurl on Saturday, and she did a fabulous job of performing as Heidi at the Switzerland themed Apres (Mix) Party (see video on left). Later that evening, we took in the Mr. Gay World competition, with competitors from 19 countries, Mark Tewksbury as Emcee, and Willie Taylor onstage for the swimsuit portion at the Westin Resort & Spa. Congratulations to all the competitors, and especially Mr. Gay Ireland who took the title as the first Mr. Gay World!

My partner Daichan and I both celebrate birthdays this month, so we had a joint celebration on Wednesday evening, starting off with early evening cocktails and appys with our friend Candice at The Transcontinental, followed later by sashimi and other goodies with the gang at Samurai in Davie Village, topped off by a surprise Happy Birthday rendition onstage with the fabulous Willie Taylor during her Lips Inc. show at the Odyssey. What a day!

The next day, Feb 12, was the kick-off to the one-year countdown to the 2010 Oympics, and there were festivities and events throughout the region. Large scale celebrations were held at the spectacular new Speed Skating Oval in Richmond, Village Square in Richmond, and in Victoria, with the unveiling of the Olympic Torch with it's sleek modern design. There were crowds surrounding the Olympic Countdown Clock in downtown Vancouver, watching the turnover to 365 days to go, so we are now in the final countdown to welcoming the world this time next year.

Friday was also a day to remember, with sunny skies, mild temperatures, and our first view of daffodils and crocus in bloom this year; confirming that spring '09 has sprung! We also looked forward to our trip out to nearby Richmond that evening to see Gladys Knight live at the River Rock Casino Resort Theatre.

Gladys Knight was fantastic! We had some of the best seats in the house, five rows up, front and centre, and at eye level with Gladys and company (thanks Cecilia!). The seven-time Grammy Award-winning "Empress of Soul" was amazing, the band was excellent, the backup singers fabulous; they rolled out all her greatest hits in succession, along with some touching personal anecdotes, and a surprise visit and performance by "Bubba", her older brother and one of the original "Pips". A standing ovation was in order, and she rewarded the crowd with a final encore of "I Will Survive". Bravo!!

After the goosebumps settled down, we headed into the casino, where John Ferierra and company were performing live Swing/R & B in Lulu's Lounge; we decided to grab a drink, followed by a light meal, and a tour of the 1,000 or so slot machines and gaming tables. We laughed in good spirits, and had a near deja-vu experience from the great time we had at the IGLTA Convention held in Vegas last May. Liza Minelli will be at the River Rock Theatre for two nights, April 10-11, so we just may have to start making plans to do it all over again.

But the week is not over yet, and today is a great time to get out there around town, with fine weather, and a lineup of fun-filled events all over town. You can also visit our Bars and What's On pages for more of what's happening this evening: http://www.gayvan.com/ . Happy Valentines Day!

Vancouver, Feb 6, 2009

2009-02-06T20:34:00.000-08:00

Just wrapped up an amazingly busy week here in Vancouver, and am looking forward to a great weekend ahead. The weather is looking good for our trip up to Whistler for WinterPride tomorrow morning, so we're packing our bags tonight and getting an early start.

Earlier in the week, I had the pleasure of visiting the River Rock Casino Resort, which was just a twenty minute drive from downtown Vancouver, but feels like you've just be transported to Vegas once you step inside. A large-scale casino with all the bells and whistles stretches into the distance on your left, complete with over 1,000 slot machines, gaming tables and Lulu's Lounge (showbar with live entertainment). On your right is the 950 seat River Rock Show Theatre, with a never-ending lineup of top notch performers, and boasting the world's largest disco ball! Gladys Knight performs February 13, Blondie on February 20, and Diana Ross is on the calendar for May, to name a few. A spectacular new curved escalator was in the works while I was there, as well as a newly converted conference centre and marina, which complement the existing full service hotel.With a Canada Line station opening right across the street, it will soon also have direct access from the new Davie Station in Yaletown, just a few blocks from Davie Village.

The shows were in full swing in town as well last night, with the Grand Re-Opening of The Oasis Ultra Lounge, and Numbers 29th Birthday bash kicking off the early evening. Many of Vancouver's most recognibable community members were out and about and having a good time. We started off at The Oasis, which has had a stylish make-over, new menu, charming new owners and new management. Next stop was Numbers, Vancouver's longest continually operating gay bar, and the old girl was kicking up her heels, with complimentary beverages, tastings, snacks, and our local trekky hostess, Kristy Krunt, doing a fine job of keeping the party going. Stopped by 1181 with the gang before excusing myself as they headed off to Shower Power at the Odyssey.

Daichan and I are meeting up with Carlotta Gurl a few hours from now to head up the mountain, where she will be performing as Heidi for the Switzerland themed Apres (Mix)Party at the Telus Whistler Conference Centre, and later look forward to seeing Mark Tewksbury who will Emcee the Mr. Gay World Finale. Hope to catch Willi Taylor, who is the Special Guest at the WHOOSH Martini Party at the Hilton, Flygirl is producing Shred Betties Bash - GLC, and the Snowball kicks off at 10 pm until 4 am. Chill at Rick's Grill goes from 3:30 am until 7 am, which is perfect for those doing the $159 Daypass. Will update upon our return. Cheers!

Vancouver, February 3, 2009

2009-02-04T09:01:00.000-08:00

Despite the groundhog seeing his shadow yesterday, predicting six more weeks of winter, it was a gorgeous spring-like day here in downtown Vancouver, with sunny skies and temperatures of 10 degrees C (50 Fahrenheit) approximately. No snow, clear streets, clear skies and light jackets made getting around town a breeze. Looking forward to seeing those crocus and daffodil sprouts breaking ground any day now.

While Vancouver is about to kick off our usual early spring, there's lot's of fresh snow and spring-skiing-like conditions in the nearby mountains, with Whistler announcing yet another 14 cm of accumulation just yesterday. Perfect conditions, especially with WinterPride now in full swing.

Speaking of WinterPride, we are just now finalizing details for our trip up the mountain, to take in as many events as possible, including the Mr. Gay World competition that will take place on Saturday night. Looking forward to a great time, seeing old friends, and making new ones. Check out our What's On page for links to all the details: http://www.gayvan.com/events.htm .

But before we take off for Whistler, there's lots going on here in the city, and we plan to take in the Grand Re-Opening Party for Oasis Ultra Lounge on Thursday evening, followed by the 29th Birthday Party for Numbers, Vancouver's longest, continually running gay bar. Looking forward to meeting the new owners at the Oasis, and seeing Tom, Kristy Krunt and the gang at Numbers later that night.

Just a short time from now, I am heading out for lunch with associates at the River Rock Casino Resort, which I also understand is the host venue for The Travel Media Association of Canada AGM which kicks off today. If I'm lucky, I just may run into some familiar faces while touring the resort. There are also a number of international LGBT media in town for pre/post WinterPride excursions this week, so there will be lots of press out and about in the days ahead. Happy WinterPride!

Vancouver, Jan 25, 09

2009-01-25T12:51:00.000-08:00

Glorious sunshine finally returned in full force on Friday, which ended a 19 day stretch of fog in the city, just shy of an all-time record of 21 days. Can't remember more than a partial day or two of fog in the recent past though, so this really was an amazing run. The sunshine returned just in time for Friday's re-opening of the scenic 10 km Sea Wall, going from English Bay, around Stanley Park, ending up in stunning Coal Harbour, or vice-versa. With more fabulous sunshine today, it's a great time to get out there for some fresh air, exercise and a blast of natural Vitamin D.

Davie Village was also very active and bustling in the sunshine as we walked the strip earlier today, with people grabbing spots on sunny patios, having a bit of lunch or brunch, hanging out in the cafes, or perhaps just doing a round of local shopping; on a day like this, we also expect to see a line-up for PumpJack's Sunday Kegger by about 4 pm or so.

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of having lunch at the stylish Voya restaurant, and a tour of the chic new Loden Hotel in downtown Vancouver. Not only was my choice off the two course lunch menu exceptional (a specialty carrot-ginger bisque to start, followed by a perfectly prepared Arctic Char), we also had the chance to sample a selection of sweets: chocolate truffles, sweet gelled candies, mini espresso cookies and a decadent signature chocolate brownie. We were also offered a sample of their latest signature cocktail creation, Get a Room!, which was a watermellony blend of tequila-based deliciousness! There was also a buzz about a couple of well known celebs in house that day, and the media were all over the place.

Saturday saw the long-awaited opening of Vancouver's tallest new skyscaper, the Shangri-la, after several years of watching it grow up and above the downtown skyline. At 61 stories, it eclipses the 48 story Wall Centre which held the title for the past 5 years or so. This high-end development houses the posh Shangri-La Hotel on the first 15 floors, with the remaining floors as exclusive upscale condo suites and penthouses. I was fortunate to be among the first in a long line of folks waiting to get a glimpse of this gorgeous new property as they offered tours Saturday, and can see why this first North American outlet for one of Asia's top luxury chains will be a popular downtown destination for years to come. Doesn't hurt that this is just a comfortable walk, or short taxi ride to Davie Village.

It's a great time to be in Vancouver. There is so much on the go right now, that it is hard to mention it all in one sitting, but with Chinese New Year starting on Monday, Jan 26, the PuSh Festival in full swing right now, Winter Pride about to kick off, pre/post visits by international media, the grand re-opening of The Oasis next week, Vancouver's longest running gay bar "Numbers" celebrating their 29th Anniversary on February 5th, and the one year countdown the the 2010 Winter Olympics about to start, there's never a dull moment to say the least. Cheers!

Vancouver, Jan 21, 09

2009-01-21T10:11:00.000-08:00

Vancouver has been in yet another unusual weather pattern for the past week or so, or to put it more clearly, fog, and lots of it. Never before have I seen such a consistent, consecutive blanketing of the city in thick fog, all day long. Gives a kind of mysterious feel to the city streets. Fortunately, there have been a few odd breaks here and there, and the forecast is that it will soon be shifting. As well, above the fog, the ski hills have basked in gorgeous sunshine, with above average, spring-like temperatures.

That said, a bit of fog has never stopped the flurry of activity in the city, with ongoing party nights, community receptions, the opening of a new nightclub, Pulse, in Davie Village (scroll down to Video Bar to see a video I took standing at the bar on opening night), Flygirl hosts a women's Saturday night party at The Boathouse, the Grammy Award winning, Peter Rauhofer, proclaimed #1 DJ in the world, spins @ Celebrities also on Saturday night, and you can meet the semi-finalists for the 2009 Vancouver's Next Gay Top Model at Pulse on Sunday, to name a few.

This week is also the start of PuSh - International Performing Arts Festival, the folks in Surrey are preparing for the Miss, Mr. & Ms. Gay Surrey Pageant, and Chinatown was all abuzz when I visited recently, in prepartion for Chinese New Year, kicking off the Year of the Ox, on January 26th. Gung Hei Fat Choi!!

Vancouver, Jan 09, 09

2009-01-09T17:34:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Have been out of the blogosphere for just over a week now, but there have been nothing but good things keeping us pre-occupied as we head into this new year. The launch of our 2009 marketing materials and the planning of an event taking place next week have kept all hands on deck until the wee hours every day so far!

Started the year off with a visit to the Polar Bear Swim at English Bay (no dipping, just camera in hand) and got some fun videos and photo stills. Will post a couple for those who are interested. What a great way to begin the new year, with fresh air, exercise and a good laugh or two! A perfect way to offset the nightclub revellry of New Year's Eve!

2009 seems to be blasting off to a fabulous start, with a great line-up of events all around town. For those who missed seeing Kathy Griffin in Times Square (NYC) New Year's Eve with Anderson Cooper, you can catch her here in Vancouver (Richmond actually) tomorrow night (Jan 10th) at the River Rock Casino Resort: http://www.riverrock.com/ .

The fifth anniversary party of "The House of Just Cuz" takes place on Monday night at the new Speakeasy Bar & Grill in Davie Village, Kristy Krunt has a new show at Numbers Tuesday night, The Majestic has re-branded as PULSE Nightclub, has been undergoing renos and will launch with a Grand Opening Party on Thursday Jan 15 from 10 PM (can't wait to see what they've done), Mr & Ms Gay Vancouver host Queens on Ice Friday the 16th, White Party Palm Springs at RELEASE @ Celebrities on the 17th, followed by the Radical Element fundraiser on Sunday the 18th at award winning Shine to name a few highlights.

Also time to start planning for WinterPride, with a fantastic line-up of events, including the re-appearance of GRIP, with Furrocious - a Gay Ski Week Bear Party -on Feb 6th, Celebrities hosting Snowstorm in Whistler for the first time also on Feb 6th, the Mr. Gay World Pageant on Feb 7th, and after the pageant on Feb 7th, Snowball - Dance till Dawn! More details available on our What's On, Bars and Whistler pages.
Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Dec 31, 2008

2008-12-31T10:41:00.000-08:00

After an exciting holiday season, wild record-breaking weather and a year of landmarks for Vancouver's LGBT community, the last day of 2008 has turned out to be a beautiful sunny day, with cool temperatures and a gorgeous backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

In 2008, Vancouver celebrated the 30th year of the Vancouver Pride Festival, the 20th Anniversary of Out on Screen, Vancouver's Queer Film Festival, ted northe celebrated 4o years as the Empress of Canada, we crowned Robyn Graves as our 37th Empress, Sounds and Furies hosted their 4th annual Vancouver BOLD conference, San Francisco based Community Marketing held their 9th Annual International Conference on Gay and Lesbian Tourism, the international 2008 InterPride Conference took place here, and Vancouver was confirmed as the host city for the 2011 North American Outgames. What a year!

That said, the last night of 2008 is going to be very exciting, with special events happening in all the bars, pubs and nightclubs, including Score on Davie, with two DJ's, a burlesque show by Miss Naughty Box and no cover before 10 PM, sexy new years eve @ sexy 1181, with sexy bartenders dressed as Chippendale dancers and sexy no cover from 6 PM, no cover also at The Fountainhead and Pumpjack Pubs which will both be packed as always with revellers ringing in the new year. There's Arctic Inferno @ Celebrities, the New Year's Eve Crystal Ball Masquerade @ Majestic, Phoenix Flight 2009 - New Year's @ The Odyssey!, New Years Eve at Oasis Ultra Lounge, Numbers New Years 2009 "Black N' White", Big Roger's Events hosts Nuovo at the Roundhouse, and Canvas Lounge hosts a Midnight in Venice Masquerade Ball. Flygirl's Red Carpet New Year's Eve taking place at Zin on Robson and Dreamweaver hosting their 2nd annual Women's New Year's Eve Gala at the Coast Plaza Hotel rounds off the party schedule.

For those wanting to start the new year off with a splash, the 89th Annual Polar Bear Swim takes place at 2:30 PM at English Bay on Jan 1st, where large crowds of costumed participants splash into the chilly waters. Regisitration starts at 12:30 PM, so you should get down there early if you want to take a dip. Not So Strictly Ballroom hosts their 5th annual New Years Day T-dance from 3:30 PM at Let's Dance Studio, or for those just wanting to take it a bit easier, a nice walk along the seawall is a refreshing way to start, with perhaps a stop by the village where many will be out and about all day toasting the new year.

Happy New Year!

Gay Vancouver, Wed, Dec 24, 08

2008-12-24T08:17:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas eve for many, the eve to light the fourth candle on the menorah for Hanukkah for others, and the whitest holiday season ever for all of us! Surpassing the previous held record from back in 1964, the snow is steadily falling once again and reports say it will continue throughout the day.

Great news for those who love snow at this time of year; it is a spectaculary beautiful treat for some of us here in Vancouver, but a headache for travelers throughout the region and coast to coast. Recent delays, cancellations and closures have affected everything from air, train, boat, bus and auto in varying degrees, and it is highly recommended to check and plan ahead before heading out.

This is also the last day for Christmas shopping and many will be braving the elements and perhaps kicking themselves a bit for leaving it to the last minute. All of our major stuff is done (did the crowds downtown yesterday evening) and all that's left is a trip to the liquor store and to pick up a few last minute groceries. Fortunately, we live in the village, and everything we need is just steps outside our door.

Many will also be stopping by the bars, pubs and restaurants around town for a break this afternoon and evening, and although it will be somewhat quieter than usual, there will still be folks out and about celebrating. Happy Holidays!

Gay Vancouver, Sat, Dec 20, 08

2008-12-20T17:56:00.000-08:00

Last night was the coldest we have had on record in over 40 years and the weather forecasters are telling us another big snowfall is heading our way tonight, with below normal temperatures and high winds. This can be a hazard for some, and it is being advised that if you have a flight to catch on Sunday, to call ahead to confirm. That said, most people I have talked to are really enjoying this unusual stretch of cold and white stuff, especially because it is just before Christmas.

As we brace for the upcoming storm, the village is abuzz with people out shopping, dining and packing into the pubs and bars for a bit of holiday cheer. Many people are taking the better part of next week off and we are starting to see a few familiar faces popping up of those who are home for the holidays.

As I write this, the Chicago Blackhawks and the Vancouver Canucks are dropping the puck at GM Place and if you don't have tickets, you can always head over to Score on Davie and catch it live on the big screen, or grab a cozy spot at the Fountainhead with their multiple screens. There's Filthy Gorgeous Saturdays at the Oasis, Leather Night at the PumpJack, and there's a Happy Birthday Jesus party at the Majestic (this is the last Saturday night before they re-brand themselves). It's Release Saturdays - Free to be yourself - Gay Night at Celebrities from 9PM, DJ Shelley spins at Numbers, and the Go-Go Gods are going all the way once again at Fallen Angel at the Odyssey.

Tomorrow, starting at 10 AM, the Rhinestone Phoenix Charity Foundation presents Jackie Claus at Little Sister's, where you can join Mr. & Ms. Gay Vancouver XXIX for a day of holiday cheer and help them stuff their charity stockings (for Covenant House & Metro Vancouver Dream Centre). Especially needed are canned food, blankets, new pillows, new socks, new underwear, new toothbrushes and toothpaste. Bring down your donation up until 5 PM and get your picture taken with Jackie Claus. A great way to help out and spread the joy at Christmas! Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Wed, Dec 17, 08

2008-12-17T16:28:00.000-08:00

It definitely looks like we are going to get that once-in-a-decade White Christmas this year, with another steady falling of snow all day long here in Vancouver. This put a fun holiday buzz in the air around Davie Village, with a lot of people out shopping, or taking a break in the coffee shops, restaurants and pubs.

I was very fortunate to be treated to my first-ever straight razor shave, early this afternoon at Momentum Grooming in the village. Graham and Robert have added two barber chairs to their beautiful shop and I was introduced to Adam, who was my charming and sensitive barber (much appreciated, being my first time and all). Adam calmly talked me through the proceedure, explaining about the several hot facial towel sessions, the two separate straight razor shaves between sessions, and the several high quality gels and lotions he was going to apply at various times. Add to that melow music, facial massage and soothing conversation, and after 45 minutes or so, I was almost ready to curl up somewhere and nap. The final cool towel compress, eye gel and facial massage were refreshing and I felt like a new man going back out into the falling snow. What a treat this was; it would also be a great gift idea for someone special. You can also browse the shop for their excellent lines of skin care and grooming products while there, and pick up something unique and personal for those men in your life. For more info, visit Momentum Grooming via our shopping page @ http://www.gayvan.com/ .

For those wanting join in some holiday festivities this evening, Gay Bingo Kicks off at 8 PM at Celebrities, there's a Holiday Special with Carlotta Gurl and Willie Taylor at Oasis Ultra Lounge from 8 PM and Kristine W's " Never" Release Party is at Celebrities from 10 PM, to name a few. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Monday, Dec 15, 08

2008-12-15T11:57:00.001-08:00

What a weekend we had in Vancouver, with our first big snow of the season which started coming down Saturday evening just after 9PM. Looks like this could possibly be a White Christmas, which we only get once in a decade or so.

By Sunday morning, Davie Village was looking very festive, with lots of snow, icicles and people everywhere. A few blocks down the hill from the village, English Bay was looking gorgeous in a blanket of snow, and only the palm trees looked a wee bit out of place.

This morning the skies are blue, with brilliant sunshine, cold temperatures and lots and lots of fresh snow in the mountains. Grouse Mountain reportedly received 48 centimetres within 24 hours and have announced the opening of the Screaming Eagle Chair and the dramatic Cut run. Sunshine is forecast for the next several days, so this is a great time to get out on the slopes!

The week ahead is jam-packed with parties and special events, including Carlotta Gurl and Willie Taylor's Holiday Special at the Oasis, Kristine W's "Never" Release Party and Tinsel Twinkies at Celebrities, Symone's Christmas Show at the Majestic, and Kristy Krunt's Girls, Games and Gags at Numbers, to name a few. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Sat, Dec 13, 08

2008-12-13T11:52:00.000-08:00

Friday morning gave us our first taste of snow in the city this year, and although it came down heavily in the morning, none of it stuck and it was all over by noon or so. Kept falling in higher elevations all day, however, and we woke to a spectacular view of fresh snow-capped mountains, with a back drop of sunny skies.

Friday was also a day of note on several levels, one being the brightest and largest full moon viewing in 15 years, with the moon in Gemini 30% brighter and 14% larger than any other moon this year. Great time to get out on the slopes for some spectacular night skiing!

Grouse Mountain has advised they are opening Friday morning, with their Paradise run serviced by the new Greenway chair, and more slopes to open ASAP. You just can't beat the spectacular city views from Grouse!

Friday was also the opening ceremony for the Peak 2 Peak Gondola in nearby Whistler/Blackcomb, linking 8, 171 kilometres of mountain terrain with the longest continuous gondola system in the world. Just one more reason to start making plans for WinterPride in February.

Another milestone was the opening ceremony for the spectacular new Speed Skating Oval for the 2010 Olympics in nearby Richmond. This 178 million dollar venue was built from scratch and is now open, more than a year before the start of the Games; it's reported to be the most state-of-the-art facility of it's kind in the world. The countdown for the games is on!

Saturday night marks the second of five scheduled dates for the Vancouver Men's Chorus' Making Spirits Bright concert series, the 12th Anniversary of the Diorama Party at the Majestic, Flygirl is at the Boathouse, Tight is on at 1181, Filthy Gorgeous Saturdays at the Oasis Ultra Lounge and Release Saturdays are hot at Celebrities. You can also catch Edmonton vs. Vancouver NHL action from 7PM and the UFC Ultimate fighter finale from 9PM on the big screens at Score On Davie, or opt for a heated patio seat at the Fountainhead Pub. Dj Shelley spins at Numbers from 9PM, it's Leather Night at the PumpJack, and the GoGo Gods have 3 shows for Fallen Angel at the Odyssey starting at midnight. Further details at: http://www.gayvan.com/. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Thurs, Dec 11, 08

2008-12-11T17:39:00.000-08:00

After a couple of wet and windy days, the sun was back this morning, revealing fresh snow in the mountains and blue skies above. The forecast says we may even get a few snowflakes in the city overnight tonight, or possibly later tomorrow afternoon, topped off by a full moon tomorrow night and sunny skies for the next few days. Sounds like perfect Christmastime weather!

With the promise of new snow, many are making plans get up on the slopes over the holidays, whether it be up in nearby Whistler Resort, or closer to town on Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain or Seymour Mountain. Word has it that the local mountains should be opening soon, just in time for the holidays.

The Vancouver Art Gallery sent an update today with their latest list of exhibits for the season; they also have a nice gift shop with unique gift ideas, as well as the Gallery Cafe, an oasis in the centre of downtown if you need a break from the holiday crowds.

It's also a good time to book hotels, whether it's for a power-shopping trip, a holiday visit, New Year's Eve, or just to share with a few friends during a party night on the town without the car. The best rates of the year are available right now.

It's also not too early to start planning for WinterPride, Whistler's Gay Ski Week, coming the first week of February. Just received a press release today from Dean and Terry with updated information, including the Mr. Gay World competition, which will take place during WinterPride, with contestants from 24 countries.

More updates to come in the days ahead. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Monday, Dec 8, 08

2008-12-08T20:18:00.000-08:00

What a gorgeous weekend we just had here in Vancouver. The city was hopping with events all over town, and we managed to make it out to as many as possible. A few highlights included PumpJack's 8th Anniversary Party early Saturday afternoon, CoCo's 8th Annual Christmas Show later that night at the Fountainhead and the 14th Anniversary Show for Feather Boa at the Odyssey Sunday night. As a reminder of the significance of these anniversaries, one young man we talked to laughingly made a comment that he was only six years old when the FB show began!

Sunny skies prevailed on Sunday, making it feel almost like spring instead of Christmas, and we actually saw several men walking around wearing shorts, which was a bit of a stretch, but why not? The tail end of the Santa Claus Parade wound up just outside the village boundary on Davie Street and there was a festive buzz in the air all around.

On Friday this week, the Vancouver Men's Chorus kick off their annual concert series, with five consecutive shows this season. A great way to join in on a long-standing community event (27 years I believe), and a festive way to highlight the holidays.

Another Vancouver tradition "Diorama" celebrates it's 12th season this Saturday, Dec. 13th, at the Majestic on Davie, where musicians and performance artists hit the stage from 8:30 PM and the Diorama tree becomes a unique piece of artwork with a wide range of community input. Proceeds go to support the Dr. Peter Centre, A Loving Spoonful, the BCSPCA, The Centre and Renters at Risk. Expect a packed room.

Lots more to come later in the week, so feel free to check back for updates. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Friday, Dec 5, 08

2008-12-05T21:14:00.000-08:00

December is off to a great start, with festivities and parties galore! Had my first chance to carve a turkey this season after being chosen by my tablemates to don the hat and apron at the annual Tourism Vancouver Christmas lunch yesterday at the Hotel Vancouver. Lots of fun was had by all! Even got a surprise kiss on the cheek from a cute waiter who snuck up from behind me (thanks Rob!).

Lots going on this weekend, and if you're looking for something worthwhile to do on Saturday during the day, you can Ride the Queer Express to Abbotsford to show support for LGBT youth and their allies, who have organised a Social Justice Rally to start at 11:00 a.m. at Abbotsford Community Services. The rally is intended to bring attention to the needs for equality and diversity education, and to respond to comments that "there are no gays in Abbotsford". On Saturday, December 6th there will be three buses waiting outside The Centre (1170 Bute at Davie) to take Vancouver area people out to Abbotsford. The buses will leave at 9:00 a.m. and return at 3:00 p.m. There's lots of fun planned as well, with entertainers, drag queens, snacks, and more.

Another worthwhile cause with great entertainment takes place later Saturday evening, with CoCo's 8th Annual Christmas show, where you can "Help raise food, money and the Roof!" Show starts at 8 PM at The Fountainhead, but get there early as it will be packed. You can also drop off your non-perishable donation for the foodbank.

For those who want a bit of old fashioned holiday fun, along with about 300,000 others, the Rogers Santa Claus Parade takes place on Sunday, Dec. 7th, from 1:00 PM. The route starts on West Georgia at Broughton, turns down Howe, and actually finishes at Davie and Howe, just steps from the Davie Village. Expect at least 60 bands, floats, community groups and of course, Santa!

For those wanting pub action and nightlife, check out our What's On and Bar pages for further details: http://www.gayvan.com/ . Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Tuesday, Dec 2, 08

2008-12-02T16:36:00.000-08:00

As we head into the holiday season, it's great to see the local shops and businesses decking the halls so to speak, and the colourful displays on residential highrise buildings throughout the West End are lighting up the neighbourhood as they do every year.

As I walked through the village this afternoon, noticed Priape had another great holiday window (see photo on left) and that special event posters were up in many shop windows enroute. There is so much going on, you could be out and at it every night of the week!

The "Suspended" Exhibition, New Paintings by Sean Kaushakis kicks off @ 1181, Thursday, December 4, at 5:00 PM, The Crystal Method - DJ Set with special guest Dana D is at Celebrities later that night with doors from 9:00 PM (tickets available at Ticketmaster.ca), and Cruiseline presents the HUGE Show at Numbers, starring Carlotta Gurl, Joan-E and Willi Taylor from 10:30 PM. There's also a Cruise Line Amateur Strip contest with $300 in Cash and Prizes, and Audience give-a-ways including an i-Pod following the HUGE show.

For women exclusively, Crema Productions presents JetGirl – Friday, Dec. 12th at The Majestic, from 9 PM to 3 AM and Flygirl is Rockin' the Boathouse, Saturday, Dec. 13th, with special reservation-only Flygirl Dinner from 5 - 9:30 PM, followed by an exclusive Flygirl party with DJ in the Boathouse Waterfront Bar until 1:00 AM.

VANCOUVER MEN'S CHORUS presents Making Spirits Bright holiday concert series; Dec 11, 13, 14, 15 – 8pm, Dec 14 – 3pm, at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 1130 Jervis Street (at Pendrell). Local ticket purchase: Little Sister's Bookstore (1111 Davie St.).

Saturday, Dec. 6th marks CoCo's 8th Annual Christmas Show at 8:00 PM at The Fountainhead: "Help raise food, money and the Roof!" Standing room only for this annual holiday fundraising extravaganza!

This is just a sample of festivities taking place this season. Check back with us throughout the holidays for updates, and further details are available on our What's On page: http://www.gayvan.com/ . Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Friday, Nov 28, 08

2008-11-28T17:21:00.000-08:00

A great weekend ahead for some indoor activity and fortunately there's lots to do.

If you are wanting to catch a movie, Milk with Sean Penn opened on Wednesday here in Vancouver and some folks I talked to, who have not already seen it, are planning do so this weekend. Good chance you may run into someone you know at the theatre.

Art and Activism - World Aids Day events continue throughout the weekend, presented by Cineworks, The Dance Centre, Out on Screen, Pacific Cinematheque, Vancouver New Music and VIVO Media Arts. For complete details visit: http://www.newmusic.org/Art_and_Activism08.htm .

There are also a couple of other special events tonight, including Red Ribbons for Life hosted by Martin Rooney and Mz. Adrien at Positive Haven in Surrey, starting with a BBQ from 6 PM, as well as Voices of Hope, a benefit for the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation featuring Vancouver Symphony members, Vancouver Men's Chorus and more: 7:30 PM at Christ Church Cathedral on Burrard; $20 donation at the door.

For those wanting more on the club and bar scene this weekend, there's a great lineup of regular Friday night events and more. Check out our What's On and Bars pages for details: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

And although it's not Black Friday here in Canada, it is still a good time to grab an umbrella and get out there to do some shopping around town; some of the best deals we have seen in ages are up for grabs. For those visiting us on an extended Thanksgiving holiday, the savings are even better for you, with basically a 20%-25% discount on top of the already incredible prices.

For those who prefer to shop online, don't forget we have Cyber Monday coming up this week (the online version of Black Friday), and there will be online specials like you have never seen before, with expectations for it to be the busiest online shopping day ever.

And lest we forget, it's World AIDS Day on Monday.

Have a great weekend!

Gay Vancouver, Wed, Nov 26, 08

2008-11-26T16:28:00.000-08:00

After one day of rain, the sun has been back for the last two days and things are gorgeous in downtown Vancouver. Great to see the snow finally topping the nearby mountains and just a moment ago looked out the side window and saw the mountaintops reflecting a spectacular pink off the snow topped mountains overlooking downtown.

With snow in mind, the nearby ski resorts are gearing up for another exciting season, with Whistler opening this weekend on November 28th, soon to be followed by Grouse Mountain Resort, Cypress and Seymour mountain resorts. As well, our friends in the Okanagan Valley are getting ready to open at Big White and Silverstar resorts, and we have just received word that a new gay Heli-skiing week will take place in Valemont this season.

Speaking of Gay Ski Weeks, WinterPride will also take place in Whistler in February 2009 and this year they will also be hosting the Mr. Gay International pageant, as well as partnering with Vancouver-based Flygirl Productions for the Women's parties. Sounds like it is going to be a blast. No better time than now to start making plans. Feel free to visit the Ski BC, Whistler and Okanagan pages of www.gayvan.com for updates and additional info on these and other events as they become available.

In the city, there's lots going on as well, including a new comedy show by Kristy Krunt at Numbers Thursday night, another new event, Flashback Fridays, starts this week at the Majestic, The Perry Twins, one of the hottest DJ acts in the US, will be spinning at Celebrities on Saturday, just to name a few.

On Sunday evening, Vancouver's Gay Top Model Frolics event takes place at Score, where you can hear the latest updates on Vancouver's Next Gay Top Model 2009 contest, see winner of the first-ever Gay Top Model, Aaron Ursacki and enjoy performances by Peter Breeze "Boy" and GoGo Boy Star, Sergio. $10 cover (first 50 receive a copy of Bridge Magazine and a CD from VNGTM). You can even sign up to become a 2009 contestant yourself. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Sat, Nov 22, 08

2008-11-22T14:48:00.000-08:00

Well, the high winds yesterday blew through the city and left us with blue skies and a few clouds today, for a pretty nice Saturday overall. Although there are still some high clouds hanging around the mountaintops, they have lifted slightly a couple of times to reveal some fresh snow on the peaks. This is much needed right now, as we get closer to the opening of the nearby ski hills.

A great day to get out there to do some shopping, have a walk on the seawall, or any one of the seemingly endless options we have in town on days like this. After a busy day outside, a relaxing stop at the Fountainhead should work, or catch an NHL game and snack at Score. For those wanting to plan ahead for this evening, following are a few special events to consider:

"Tribute to BILL MONROE "The Queen" Roast & Toast 50+ Years, Saturday November 22, 4pm-7pm@ The Speakeasy (1239 Davie Street). A tribute to one of Vancouver's top entertainers and charity fundraisersHosted by Empress of Canada: ted north. Donations @ Door."

"Raye Sunshine presents the WHITE PARTY @ The Majestic, this evening starting at 8:00pm. Please join Imperial Crown Princess RAYE SUNSHINE for the 2008 PRINCESS BALL! With performances by: Iona Whip, Kamelle Toe, Gouda Gabor, Connie Smudge, and a very special midnight performance by RAYE SUNSHINE! Two of Vancouver biggest DJ's, DJ CRYSTAL ADARE & DJ ADAM DREADDY, will be on the decks all night long going back and forth until the early hours of the morning! Proceeds from THE WHITE PARTY to benefit the 2008 DMS Charities!: A Loving Spoonful, Dr Peter Centre, SPCA.

"Flygirl Productions will also be Rockin' the Boathouse tonight, with Food, DJ's and a panormic view." Details at: http://www.flygirlproductions.com/ .

Tonight RELEASE yourself at Celebrities with DJ's The Threesome (Dan James, Zach Shore & Ryan Bazeley. Take it all in with the Cities HOTTEST Go Go Boys, plus amazing performances by the Drag Diva herself Symone at 11:30 & 12:30. Leather Night is back at PumpJack, tight @ 1181 with DJ Rhiannon, Saturdays with DJ Shelley at Numbers, Filthy Gorgeous Saturdays with DJ Kamm and DJ Sherry Freeze at Oasis Ultra Lounge, and the Go-Go Gods are in all their glory at the Odyssey's Fallen Angel. Find further details on our What's On page or Bars pages: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

We are also getting some keen interest from our neighbours in the USA, with their upcoming Thanksgiving holiday in the week ahead (Nov 27), and look forward to seeing some of them in town. With the recent change in the currency exchange rate, now well in their favour ($1 US = $1.29 Cdn), it is a really good time for our American friends to visit and perhaps get a head start on their holiday shopping. Have a great weekend!

Gay Vancouver, Friday, Nov 21, 08

2008-11-21T18:26:00.000-08:00

What a difference a day (or two) makes...we're definitely feeling like November all of a sudden, with a heavy downpour yesterday and a wind warning with rain in effect this evening. However, we had a nice break yesterday afternoon, with a brilliant rainbow spanning the skies, and this evening marks the kick-off for the St. Paul's Hospital Foundation's annual "Lights of Hope" display on Burrard street, just a few short steps from Davie Village, complete with fireworks. For more info visit: http://www.helpstpauls.com/lights_of_hope.php .

I also received a News Release today advising that Canadians can apply to become Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torchbearers through Coca-Cola and RBC . Could be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take part in the this international event, that will take place across Canada starting in October 2009 and finishing at the opening ceremonies here in Vancouver in Feb 2010. Would be great to see some community members taking part in the relay. You can find out more and apply online at the Vancouver 2010 website.

TGIF was already happening at the PumpJack when we walked past just after 3 PM and there were folks watching the big screens @ Score. The Fountainhead will be packed early evening as usual, and the boys will be taking their shirts off for meat night @ 1181 in a few hours. There's Ultra Sexy Fridays with an ALL GIRL DJ Lineup tonight! DJ Leanne, DJ ZarahSkye and DJ Crystal A'Dare, at the Oasis from 9 PM, Numbers will have 5 floors of action, Yield kicks off at the Majestic at 10 PM, it's Friday night at Celebrities and the Circuit O Dance Party will feature Naked in the Cage, and Shower in Your Face at the Odyssey until the wee hours.

Today also marks the arrival of the 2008 vintage Beaujolais Nouveau worldwide and Vancouver is no exception. Many of our local restaurants, liquor stores, and specialty wine stores have a variety of offerings, fresh off the plane so to speak, and we are looking at testing the vintage as soon as I finish this blog. Great way to start the weekend! Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Wed, Nov 19, 08

2008-11-19T18:32:00.000-08:00

Brilliant sunshine, gorgeous blue skies and mild temperatures blessed us on this 150th birthday of British Columbia. On November 19, 1858, Governor James Douglas read the official proclamation that declared British Columbia a Crown Colony. Since that time, we have progressed on many levels, to earn accolades for our standard of living, acknowledgement for our progressive politics, which have included same-sex marriage since 2003, and prestigious awards such as being chosen as the host city/province for the 2010 Winter Olympics. That said, it has been a great day to get out there and enjoy living in BC!

Fortunately for me, I had to get out there both yesterday and today in the afternoon sunshine for appointments in North Vancouver and Commercial Drive respectively. Couldn't have wished for more, traffic was smooth and swift over the Lion's Gate Bridge in both directions yesterday and today was a perfect reminder as to why I have to visit the Drive more often. It had been a while since I visited the Drive and I had forgotten how rich the diversity was on the strip. I actually had flashbacks of Venice Beach in LA and Haight Ashbury in San Francisco on several occasions; and only a twenty minute drive from the West End! Snapped out of that in a hurry though, as I passed several new fashionble eateries, upscale pubs, boutiques and more. Being by myself, however, I was contemplating something on a more moderate scale, perhaps Ethiopian, or maybe Himilayan fare? In mid-thought, I passed by Tino's Barber shop, where I saw whom I guessed was Tino, cutting hair in his two chair shop, which looked like it had been there for ages, and reminded me of Commercial Drive's Little Italy origins. Need to go back again soon.

I also heard positive comments today about "Hairspray", which started last night and has performances until November 23 at The Center in Vancouver. Apparently John Travolta did not make it to town, but at least the mother is still a man in drag. As well , apparently there are still tickets available for the Nov. 21st show for New Kids on the Block at GM Place. Visit TicketMaster.ca for more. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Monday, Nov 17, 08

2008-11-17T14:46:00.000-08:00

We headed into this week with a low-lying fog cover over the city, but that soon lifted to reveal sunshine and above average temperatures for this time in November. We certainly can't complain weather-wise this season!

This past weekend was momentus on several levels, including the election of a new Mayor in Vancouver, Gregor Robertson, and a near sweep by the Vision Vancouver and Cope parties resulted in us having both an openly gay City Councillor, Tim Stevenson and an openly lesbian City Councillor, Ellen Woodsworth, once again. It has been several years since the LGBT community had such representation on council.

The Art for Life Fundraising event was a glamorous success, held at the Rocky Mountaineer Station, which turned out to be a fabulous space for this fashionable soiree, complete with many of Vancouver's top artists and LGBT personalities in attendance. Congratulations to Drew and the AFL team!

The week ahead is also momentus, with a number of organizations holding community events honouring Vancouver personalities, including:

"Phoenix from the Flame Fundraising @ The Oasis on Thursday, Nov 20, with Newly Elected Mr. & Ms. Gay Vancouver XXIX 2008/2009, Brent Wildefyre, Mr. Gay Vancouver XXIX and Jackie A Go-Go, Ms. Gay Vancouver XXIX."

"Tribute to BILL MONROE "The Queen" Roast & Toast 50+ Years, Saturday November 22, 4pm-7pm@ The Speakeasy (1239 Davie Street). A tribute to one of Vancouver's top entertainers and charity fundraisersHosted by Empress of Canada: ted north. Donations @ Door."

"Raye Sunshine presents the WHITE PARTY @ The Majestic, Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 8:00pm. Please join Imperial Crown Princess RAYE SUNSHINE for the 2008 PRINCESS BALL! With performances by: Iona Whip, Kamelle Toe, Gouda Gabor, Connie Smudge, and a very special midnight performance by RAYE SUNSHINE! Two of Vancouver biggest DJ's, DJ CRYSTAL ADARE & DJ ADAM DREADDY, will be on the decks all night long going back and forth until the early hours of the morning! Proceeds from THE WHITE PARTY to benefit the 2008 DMS Charities!: A Loving Spoonful, Dr Peter Centre, SPCA."

Flygirl Productions will also be Rockin' the Boathouse this Saturday, Nov 22, with Food, DJ's and a panormic view. Check out our What's On page for more: http://www.gayvan.com/ . Have a great week!

Gay Vancouver, Friday, Nov 14, 08

2008-11-14T15:05:00.000-08:00

Friday's here once again and despite a few clouds in the air, it is dry and comfortable around town, with just a hint of seasonal coolness nipping the air. A great day for a business lunch downtown, a brisk walk in the village and perhaps catch a movie before doing the rounds tonight.

For those looking for some unique film viewing this evening or over the weekend, the Amnesty International Film Festival started yesterday and runs through the 16th in Vancouver, bringing to film important issues surrounding Human Rights. Advanced tickets for tonight's shows have ended, but you can pick up tickets one hour before showing at the venue. Advance tickets for shows tomorrow and Sunday can be purchased online via the Tickets Tonight link on the What's On page of our website: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

In the village this afternoon, saw some folks were already having a good time at The Fountainhead and a few were getting an early start at Score when I walked by. While walking past the PumpJack, Harvey let me know that they had run out of our Gay Friendly Vancouver Guides, so once finished this blog, I plan to drop off a box and perhaps stop in for a TGIF brew. Great way to start the weekend!

Later this evening, it's meat night (shirtless boys) once again @1181, Ultra Sexy Fridays at the Oasis Ultra Lounge with DJ Leanne from 9PM, Yield opens doors at The Majestic at 11 PM, Sterotype presents Lee Burridge with Tyler Johnson & Julia Chow at Celebrities, Circuit O Dance Party - Naked in the Cage, the Shower and your face at the Odyssey, as well as five floors of fun at Numbers.

A friendly reminder; tomorrow evening is the Art For Life Event at the Rocky Mountaineer Station and afterwards, the Blacklight is Out for the second edition of Lipstick and Rouge at The Majestic. Wear your best neon to L&R and get in free! Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Nov 13, 08

2008-11-13T15:05:00.000-08:00

Another glorious sunny day in beautiful Vancouver, with enough wind in the air to froth up the waves on English Bay and put colour in your cheeks. It is also a full moon tonight, so with the clear skies, it should be spectacular.

With the holiday season nearly upon us, a great place to get an early start, or some unique ideas is to stop by the 35th Annual Circle Craft Christmas Market at the Vancouver Exhibition and Convention Centre November 11–16, 2008: http://www.circlecraft.net/sites/circlecraft2/files/homepage.htm .

Hotels in Vancouver are also now offering the best deals of the year and it is a great time to plan ahead to spend a few days in Vancouver over the holidays, whether it is just to do some fabulous shopping downtown, to get in a bit of nightlife, or to take advantage of the great exchange rate now available on the US dollar, Euro or Yen.

For those looking for something to do locally, that not only is a great event, but supports a great cause, this Saturday's 15th annual celebration of Art for Life event is taking place at the Rocky Mountaineer Station. We plan to be there and look forward to seeing as many people as possible at this fabulous event. For more, visit our homepage and click on the Art for Life banner: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

Another fantastic event is the Raymond James Starry Night, Monday, November 17th, 2008, at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage. This is the 23rd year this musical extravaganza has taken place and proceeds will help raise money for people with HIV/Aids. Details at: http://www.shootingstarsfoundation.org/ .

We also just received details for the Vancouver Men's Chorus annual Christmas concert series, Making Spirits Bright, with five performances this season, starting December 11th. Get details on this and more on our What's On page. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Monday, Nov 10, 08

2008-11-10T11:36:00.000-08:00

The sunshine is finally back in Vancouver this morning and from what we can see out our window, the clouds are finally starting to lift to reveal the beautiful north shore mountains. With near record warm temperatures this weekend, will have to wait to see if there is any snow dusting the tops.

For those not taking an extra long weekend, today is one day in the office until the Remembrance Day holiday tomorrow. No doubt there will be lots out for dinner this evening, early evening pub gatherings and you can expect a good turnout later in the village on the eve of a holiday.

Flygirl Productions is hosting another popular HERSHE BAR event tonight for women, and as they say: "Salicious go-go girls, fierce dj’s, steamy dance floor and lots of room for all your booty shakin'!RED ROOM – 398 Richards Street, 9pm-2amDJ Betti Forde, DJ Soulfunkee, DJ De Lux, DJ Cho Cha$10 Advance.Tickets available at: Online http://www.flygirlproductions.com/ , Little Sisters Bookstore 1238 Davie Street 604.669.1753 and Kokopelli Salon 2052 Commercial Drive 604.253-6950" .

Celebrities Night Club Presents the Holiday Party with the legendary Grammy nominated producer/ remixer/ superstar DJ CHRIS COX (Thunderpuss): .::CHRIS COX BIOGRAPHY::. Avoid the lineup; get on the Guestlist at http://www.celebritiesnightclub.com/ . $10 Advance tickets available at Priape, Little Sister's or online.

Also, just heard that Numbers will be hosting the largest DMS event ever put on there TONIGHT, with 80's Night, hosted by Empress Robyn Graves. Expect many of your favourite female impersonators to stop by!

A great way to spend the holiday out and about is a visit to Granville Island and the Granville Island Public Market, which will be open from 9 AM till 7 PM on Tuesday. For those who enjoy Comedy and Improv, we've also heard that TheatreSports will launch their Holiday Special starting Nov 12 at the New Revue Stage. Feel free to check out our Granville Island page for links to this and more: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

And lest we forget why we have a holiday in the first place, Remembrance Day Ceremonies take place Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 10:30 a.m. at the Cenotaph at Victory Square (West Hastings Street, between Cambie and Hamilton). The Remembrance Day Parade also takes place at Victory Square and there will be road closures and alternate traffice routes from 9:30AM to 12:00PM. There are also simultaneous Remembrance Day ceremonies taking place at UBC and Legions throughout the region. This year, we commemorate two special and historic milestones, the 90th anniversary of the end of the First World War and the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights .

For more information on the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, visit the United Nations website.

All the best!

Gay Vancouver, Friday, Nov 7, 08

2008-11-07T15:21:00.001-08:00

Another soggy day out there, but that doesn't stop Vancouverites, who were out in full force on another busy Friday afternoon. Davie Village was buzzing as usual, it looked like the weather was good for the restaurant businesses and quite a few were getting an early start on the Friday afternoon pub scene.

Realized this morning it was a special day for a popular Canadian icon, Joni Mitchell, who is celebrating her 65th birthday today. Remember hearing she spent her 60th here in BC five years ago and although we are not sure where she is celebrating today, we wish her all the best.

We are also heading into what is for some, an extra-long weekend, with the Remembrance Day holiday here in Canada and the Veterans Day holiday in the USA, both falling on Tuesday. Expect to see some visitors in town over the weekend.

That said, there is lots going on this weekend, including tonight's performance by The Vancouver Chamber Choir which presents The Focus! Choir: Music Magic at the Ryerson United Church (2195 West 45th Ave at Yew), Ballet British Columbia presents The Faerie Queen at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, and The Cultch presents Companie Jant-Bi/Urban Bush Women's The Scales of Memory; a unique collaboration setting the performance world abuzz for bringing together African and African-American dance companies. See Tickets Tonight on our What's On page for further details on these and other performances: http://www.gayvan.com/ .

In Davie Village, TGIF was already happening at the PumpJack when we walked past at 3 PM and there were folks on the patios of both the Fountainhead and Score. The boys will be taking their shirts off for meat night @ 1181 in a few hours and the early evening cocktail crowd can groove into Ultra Sexy Fridays with DJ Leanne at the Oasis from 9 PM. Numbers will have 5 floors of action this evening, Yield kicks off at the Majestic at 10 PM, Stereotype presents The Cobrasnake Dance Party at Celebrities and the Circuit O Dance Party will feature Naked in the Cage, and Shower in Your Face at the Odyssey until the wee hours. Enjoy!

Gay Vancouver, Thursday, Nov 6, 08

2008-11-06T15:16:00.000-08:00

Thick walls of cloud are hiding the nearby mountains and the rain is quite heavy this November day; it is our rainy season afterall. However, once the clouds lift, we should see a spectacular view with the mountains covered in fresh white snow, while we enjoy moderate temperatures from a distance downtown. Will post photos ASAP.

That said, it's a good day to look at what's going on in town, go do some shopping, catch a movie, or pick a fabulous restaurant for dinner. On that note, we would like to give another plug for Gayvan.com's "CranApple Fling" cocktail, which won the Iron Chef corporate cocktail challenge in October, to become the drink of the month for November (one dollar for every drink purchased going to charity). Our CranApple Fling can be had at Zin Restaurant & Lounge in the Pacific Palisades Hotel on Robson http://www.zin-restaurant.com/ .

If you're in the village today, premium bottles are on special all day at PumpJack, there's a NHL Canucks homegame on the big screen at Score at 7 PM, and a new night "gossip" starts @ 1181 from 9PM with DJ Luve. It's remixed Thursdays with DJ Tony Montana at Oasis Ultra Lounge and DJ Aron is IN DA HOUSE at Numbers. And if you haven't had enough wet yet, Shower Power has 3 hot shows at the Odyssey from midnight. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Wednesday, Nov 5, 08

2008-11-05T11:07:00.000-08:00

After a wet start to the morning, the sun has broken out in Vancouver and it's looking like another beautiful day here on Canada's West Coast.

Like many places around the world, the talk around the water cooler today is about Barrack Obama's victory in the US election. Another topic being discussed here in the LGBT community is, as the LA Times headlined "Californians OK ban on gay marriage". No doubt this will be a hot topic.

On our own political front, tonight there will be a community panel discussion with moderator, Robin Perelle, Managing Editor, Xtra West, a community panel of questioners (Little Sister's Jim Deva, The LGTB Centre's Jennifer Breakspear and former city councillor Alan Herbert) and the two front-runners for mayor, Peter Ladner (NPA) and Gregor Robertson (Vision). Questions will be taken from the audience as well. Details: Wednesday November 5, 7:00 PM, at St Paul's Anglican Church, 1130 Jervis St (at Pendrell). This is a great chance to interact with the Mayoral candidates before the November 15 election. This community panel discussion takes place just one block off Davie, so no doubt some will be stopping by the village afterwards, before heading home.

As well, the Border Riders Motorcycle club meets this evening at PumpJack, there's an NHL game on the big screens at Score, Ry n' Ginger kicks off at 8 PM @ 1181 and Bingo for Life starts off at it's new location at Celebrities, also at 8 PM.

For those going to see Lenny Kravitz at GM Place tonight, the Oasis and Fountainhead are great meet and greet spots pre/post concert, join DJ Tom for Karaoke at Numbers from 9 PM, College Night Twinkies is at Celebrities after Bingo and the ever-popular Lips Inc. hits the stage at the Odyssey at midnight. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Monday, Nov 3, 08

2008-11-03T10:37:00.000-08:00

After an exciting weekend of events, Vancouver is kicking off November with another series of special events, concerts and festivities.

Tickets are still available for tomorrow night's performance by Alanis Morrisette at the Orpheum theatre (great chance to see her live in a relatively small and intimate venue), as well as Lenny Kravitz at GM Place on Wednesday. Check TicketMaster for details.

Davie Village Central closed their doors yesterday, leaving one less venue on the strip for now, but word has it the place is for sale, so anyone interested can find out more on their website (still listed on our Bars page www.gayvan.com/bars.htm ).

Gay Bingo finds a new home this week, starting Wednesday night at Celebrities and in cooperation with the Fountainhead Pub across the street, you can order food from their menu and have it delivered to you at Bingo.

Monday Night Football (NHL) returns to the big screen at Score on Davie, starting at 5:30 PM, Coronas are on special at the PumpJack and it's Industry Night at the Odyssey, with a $3 special for anything on the bar.

Vancouver Fashion Week also kicks off tomorrow and runs until the 9th, bringing 15,000 industry people together for this international event highlighting spring/summer 2009 collections.

Last but not least, it was in the news that Obamamania has hit Vancouver, as many will watch the upcoming US election with interest. Apparently Commercial Drive will be home to numerous venues offering everthing from Obama finger puppets to t-shirts, as well as planned victory parties. Who knew this would happen here? Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Saturday, Nov 1, 08

2008-11-01T17:56:00.000-07:00

Halloween was wet & wild in the village, with costumed partiers in all the clubs, as well a non-stop parade of revelers up and down the strip until the wee hours. Fireworks went off all night long, with everything from firecrackers to multi-coloured flares in the sky. And for those who want to continue the party, Celebrities is hosting Vancouver's largest annual gay Halloween party tonight. Aaron & Isaac from Sin City/Sanctuary will transform the club into a horrific Morgue!! Dress to Kill or be Killed they say! Advance Tickets are only $15 and available now at Little Sister's Priape and online at http://www.celebritiesnightclub.com/ .

Today also marked the AGM for the Vancouver Pride Society, which was fairly well attended and was action packed for the nearly five-hour duration. Congratulations to John Boychuck on stepping down from a successful five years as President, and to Ken Coolen, the newly elected President for the next three years. The new Executive and Board were also elected today and an announcement of the successful candidates will be made soon. Congratulations everyone!

For those looking for other things to do this evening, all regular events are back on at all the pubs, bars and clubs and you can find details on our What's On page or Bars pages: www.gayvan.com/events.htm or www.gayvan.com/bars.htm .

Just heard a firecracker going off in the village, so the party must be starting all over again. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Friday, Oct 31, 08

2008-10-31T11:19:00.000-07:00

As we arrived at the airport in Vancouver yesterday evening, we noticed something was out of the ordinary...there was a distinct lack of the usual long line of taxis waiting to pick up folks from the International Arrivals area, and had to wait briefly for a taxi to take us downtown. Although we only waited a minute or so, the moment we got into the taxi, the driver said one word..."Madonna". He then told us that the city traffic was going crazy with the unusual number of people heading into the city during rush-hour to go to the concert, rather than the other way around. We then proceeded with near bumper-to-bumper traffic all the way downtown. Once getting downtown, it almost looked like Halloween had arrived a night early, with gaggles of young women, drag queens and others dressed in various versions of the Material Girl congregating on street corners, and with nearly 60,000 people attending, it made a definite splash downtown.

Without missing a beat, Halloween will keep the town hopping for yet another couple of days/nights, with events, parades, parties, club nights and of course, fireworks. Expect explosions to start sounding off in the West End, just after sunset.
For those who want a bit of traditional Halloween, kid stuff, or even Halloween stuff for the pooch, a few things of interest include:

The Ghost Train in Stanley Park http://vancouver.ca/parks/events/ghosttrain/index.htm

Haunted Trolley Tours http://www.vanmuseum.bc.ca/calendar/haunted.aspx

The Yaletown Trick or Treat Parade http://www.yaletowninfo.com/events/halloween.aspx

Barking Babies hall-o-ween pooch party http://www.barkingbabies.com/

Needless to say, the pubs, bars and clubs will all be packed with special Halloween nights and the streets of Davie Village will be full of costumes and party-goers until the wee hours. Check out our website for more: http://www.gayvan.com/ .
Happy Halloween!

Gay Vancouver, Tuesday, Oct 28, 08

2008-10-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

After spending yesterday evening in the Castro, we are packing up and heading back to Vancouver, just in time for all the Halloween activity.

Great turn out at the Gay & Lesbian Travel Expo here in San Francisco and lots of interest in Vancouver. Told many what a great deal it is right now with the exchange rate and hope to see some of these folks in the village in the near future. The American long weekend is coming up in a few weeks, so the timing is good.

Tonight is the big night many have been waiting for...Madonna's in town! BC Place will be sold out with nearly 60,000 fans and no doubt the clubs will be rocking afterwards. Check out some of the after show parties on our What's On page: www.gayvan.com/events.htm .

That said, it is also time to get the Halloween gear together for tomorrow night, and with it landing on a Friday, there are events galore! Whether you choose to take a Ghost Ship party cruise or hit one of the special club events, plan ahead as it will be packed everywhere. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Monday, Oct 27, 08

2008-10-28T03:00:00.000-07:00

Headed out to YVR for an afternoon flight to San Francisco and was reminded once again that Vancouver has one of the nicest airports on the circuit these days. Breezed through check-in and customs with minimal lineups and arrived at the hotel in downtown SFO four and a half hours later. With just over two hours in the air and no time change, it's a pretty easy commute.

The Loonie however, is making everything close to 30% more than what you see on the pricetag, but look forward to letting people here know what a great time it is for them to visit us in Vancouver.

On the homefront, it's time to put the final touches on the Halloween outfit, Kristy Krunt kicks off her new Kreep Show at Numbers Tuesday night and only three more sleeps until Madonna hits town. Check out the post Madge parties on our What's On page: www.gayvan.com/events.htm . Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Saturday, Oct 25, 08

2008-10-25T18:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday started off early with a review of last minute details for our PowerPoint presentation on Travel, Tourism and Pride at the 2008 InterPride Conference, along with Tourism Vancouver and Community Marketing of San Francisco, from 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM at the Marriot Pinnacle Hotel downtown. Despite some initial minor techinical challenges with equipment, all went well and it was a pleasure to be part of this international conference of Pride organizations from 17 countries from around the world. Congratulations to Caryl, John and their team from the Vancouver Pride Society on a job well done!
After socializing during the coffee break, we departed the conference and headed out into an ever brightening day in Vancouver, where the clouds dispersed and brilliant sunshine prevailed. The forecasts say that we are in line for three of four more days of fabulous weather and sunshine!
Next stop was the bank to pick up some US cash in preparation for our trip to San Francisco on Monday for the Gay & Lesbian Travel Expo, and although we knew the Loonie was doing poorly, we were just a bit surprised that we had to pay just over $260 Cdn for $200 US....sheesh! Three weeks ago we were at par! Good for our American friends thinking about visiting us though.
In town, there is a special DMS function today, Bizarre Bizarri, starting at 3:00 PM at The Majestic, with an indoor Halloween and Costume aisle hosted by Empress XXXVII, Robyn Graves, with show at 5:30 PM, followed by Sauce on Top with Joan-E and Carlotta Gurl.
The NHL and The World Series are on the big screens at Score, starting from 4:00 PM and when we passed by the patio at the Fountainhead late this afternoon, it was full of folks enjoying the afternoon sunshine.
This Saturday is also the last monthly GRIP Bear and Cub event at the Davie Village Central due to their recently announced Nov. 2nd closing. Could be a good time to connect to see what plans are in store for future events.
As well, tonight also is the launch of the new Gay night at Celebrities, and if you get there before 10:30 PM, there is no cover. We look forward to hearing what the new name will be for this former "Popular" night.
Tight @ 1181 features DJ Quest tonight and as usual, jager and the elixir from Mexico are the shots of the night. Filthy Gorgeous Saturdays are on schedule at the Oasis, Leather Night is back at the PumpJack, tonight features DJ Shelley at Numbers and the Go-Go Gods go all the way at the Odyssey.
Keep an eye out for our friends from the InterPride conference. Business is wrapping up and we heard that many of them plan to be out and about tonight. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Friday, Oct 24, 08

2008-10-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

Well Friday has turned out to be a cool, overcast day, which was a great day to stay indoors to plan what to do on a Friday night and the glorious sunny weekend forecast ahead.
For those wanting to head over to Yaletown for the evening, or for the many of our community who live there, Taste of Yaletown continues until the 26th, including 3 course set menus at 20 great restaurants, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank: http://www.tasteofyaletown.com/ .
Another way to support the Food Bank takes place on Saturday morning at Kits beach, where starting at 10 AM (registration) a zombie army will dance to Michael Jackson's Thriller as part of the Thrill the World series of 97 events in 12 countries, which will vie for a Guinness World Record for Largest Simultaneous Dance. $10 minimum donations will go to support for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank.
Over near the Drive on Saturday evening, the Parade of Lost Souls, an annual Halloween Parade with over 1,000 participants walking the streets in costume, with decorations and lighting to get you into the Halloween spirit: http://www.publicdreams.org/ .
WACK! Art and Feminist Revolution continues at the Vancouver Art Gallery, with exhibits from over 120 artists from 21 countries that chronicles the impact of the feminist revolution on art made between 1965 and 1980, including works by Judy Chicago, Sheila Levrant de Bretteville, Lucy Lippard, Alice Neel, and Yoko Ono to name a few. See our What's On page for more: http://www.gayvan.com/events.htm .
The History Boys, a 2006 Tony Award winning play, which they bill as "Alan Bennett's exuberant study of education, sex and the anarchy of adolescence" continues at the Arts Club Theatre on Granville Island until Nov 1st: http://www.artsclub.com/ .
On the bar scene, a rumour has been confirmed this afternoon via email from the proprietor, that Davie Village Central will be closing their doors on November 2nd, with further information available on their website. Also, another rumour has surfaced that the Odyssey will be not be closing after Halloween night after all and is expected to stay open until New Years, which is welcome news on the club scene!
More good news is that a new night is about to start at Celebrities, with the launch party on Oct 25 and complimentary cover before 10:30pm. There’ll be special performances by the World’s most notorious drag performer, FLAVA, all the way from Los Angeles and that’s only a small reason not to miss this launch party. Collect all 7 t-ser cards and figure out the name of the new night when combining all 7 cards.
Fridays feature 1/2 price wings and PPV games at Score on Davie all day long and the early evening crowd packs into The Fountainhead with standing room only every week. TGIF Fridays at PumpJack get off to an early start with an after-work crowd that leads into a packed night ahead. Meat night @ 1181 feature $5 Cervesas served up by hot, shirtless boys and The Dating Game with TRIXIE takes place at The Majestic, followed by Flashback with Dickey Doo. Ultra Sexy Fridays with DJ Leanne gets going at 9:30 PM at the Oasis and Stereotype presents Steve Lawler Audiofly-Barcelona, as well as Nicky Delgado at Celebrities.
Fridays at Numbers features DJ Drew, Mr Right or Mr Right now...and Circuit O Dance Party features Naked in the Cage, the Shower and your Face, as well as Drumattic Bobby on the Bongo's at the Odyssey. Happy Friday!

Gay Vancouver, Thursday, Oct 23 08

2008-10-23T16:20:00.000-07:00

The day got off to a cloudy start this morning, but the sun is out and the fall colours in Vancouver's West End are brilliant.
The Loonie is down even further today, under 79 cents US for the first time since 2005, so this should be welcome news for visitors from the US and abroad.
That said, today is the start of the 2008 InterPride Conference in Vancouver, as we welcome delegates from 17 countries around the world. There is a welcome reception at Celebrities nightclub this evening and we look forward to seeing delegates in the village over the next few days.
This week also marks 20 years of the Vancouver International Writers Festival, with six days of events taking place on Granville Island, a unique urban oasis just minutes from downtown and the West End. For further details on the festival and Granville Island : http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/ , http://www.gayvan.com/granville.htm .
In addition, there's an NHL double-header, as well as the World Series on the big screens at Score, premium brews on special at PumpJack, Gossip @ 1181 features Satellite Salon's Hair & Make-up show styled by Jeph & Spencer from 9pm till late tonight, there's a special Alumni Gathering, Party of the Year at the Oasis, Rockhard Thursdays at Davie Village Central, darts, pool and big screens at the Fountainhead, Ritual at The Majestic, and the infamous Shower Power at the Odyssey. Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Wednesday, Oct 22, 08

2008-10-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

Another sunny, gorgeous fall day here in downtown Vancouver; we certainly can't complain about the weather!
The news this morning advised that the Loonie has dropped once again today, to just under 80 cents US, making it an even better reason for folks with foreign currencies to think about a visit. Will make our trip to San Francisco next week a bit more pricey, but we can spread the word about the deals to be had by San Francisco travelers just a short two-hour and fifteen minute flight up the coast.
Yesterday evening we took part in a fun, corporate, Iron Chef cocktail challenge at Zin Restaurant & Lounge in the Pacific Palisades Hotel downtown. Company teams each had a bar service station set up with their corporate signage and were to prepare a series of unique cocktails for revue by a panel of three judges, to determine the next Drink of the Month. The Gayvan.com team failed miserably in the first round (last place), but eventually rallied with a new concoction and ended up winning the final judgement with our Cranapple Fling cocktail. That said, the Cranapple Fling will be the Drink of the Month on the menu at Zin for the month of November and one dollar from every drink sold will go to charity. A big thanks to the staff and management at Zin and the Pacific Palisades Hotel for their hospitality and a great time: http://www.zin-restaurant.com/ .
Today is yet another great day to think about getting out there for a walk or bike ride in the glorious sunshine when possible. Also a great day to grab a seat on the patio at the Fountainhead, catch an NHL game or the start of The World Series on one of the big screens at Score, or perhaps sample a special craft brew at the PumpJack. Wednesdays are also infamous for the long-standing Bingo For Life that takes place at The Majestic from 7 PM, with proceeds going to Friends for Life. It's Fuzz Wednesdays at Davie Village Central, "Voices" with Kevin Spence & Andrew Alcade at the Oasis, ry n' ginger with DJ Robyn Graves at 1181, Karaoke from 9 PM at Numbers with DJ Tom, College Night Twinkies presents X-Rated featuring Derrick Hanson at Celebrities and Lips Inc. rounds off the day at midnight at the Odsssey. More details can be found on our What's On and Bars pages http://www.gayvan.com/ . Cheers!

Gay Vancouver, Tuesday, Oct 21, 08

2008-10-21T11:02:00.000-07:00

As yesterday's workday wound down around 5 PM, the sky lit up with a brilliant rainbow that arched over the West End to downtown and this morning we woke up to the first light dusting of snow on the tops of the local mountains. Great to have it up in the mountains and not in the city. Added a couple of pics below.
Noticed today that the Canadian dollar has gone down further to about 82 cents US, so it's a great time for our American and overseas friends to visit us and save some money at the same time.
Celine Dion is getting rave reviews in the local press for her performance last night and there will be a repeat performance tonight at GM Place. For those looking for something to do in the village, as always there's lots going on, including NHL on the big screen at Score from 4 PM, Tuesday specials at PumpJack, Davie Village Central and the Fountainhead, Roboteria at 1181 and "So you wanna be Vancouver's next Drag Queen" at the Oasis, hosted by Connie Smudge. Tuesday nights are also very busy at Celebrities with $3 Highballs, Frequeency Top 40 Drag at the Odyssey and DJ Drew spins for groove box at Numbers from midnight. Enjoy!

Gay Vancouver, Monday, Oct 20, 08

2008-10-20T14:58:00.000-07:00

We started off the week in Vancouver with a bit of rain this morning, but this soon changed to a mixed bag of sun, cloud and seasonal temperatures. Not as glorious as the weekend was, but not too bad overall.
As we hit mid-week, you may start to notice some new faces on the streets of Vancouver, as about 175 delegates for the 2008 InterPride Conference arrive in the city from all over the world. The conference takes place from the 23rd to the 26th and we will be delivering copies of our "Gay Friendly Vancouver - In Town Guide" to the conference headquarters, to help delegates find their way around town. Gayvan.com's Angus Praught will also be a speaker at the Travel, Tourism and Pride workshop on Saturday, October 25. Further info available at http://www.interpride08.com/ .
For those not going to the Celine Dion performance tonight at GM Place, Mondays can be a relatively inexpensive night out, with Industry Night specials at several locations in Davie Village and Monday night specials at most places. Tonight is also the monthly Best Butt contest at Numbers, where over $200 in prizes are up for grabs; sponsored by Priape and hosted by the gorgeous Mandy Kamp. More details at www.gayvan.com/bars.htm . Cheers!