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Vancouver Adventures: Our To Do Picks for Feb. 8-14

This Week: feel better now at the Wellness Show, relax at the Brentwood Bay Spa and enjoy a romantic dinner for two at the Farimont Pacific Rim

By Anna Dupas /

Credit: Vernon Winter Carnival / Wayne Emde and Simara Albi

Vernon Winter Carnival – February 7-16

The best cure for cabin fever? A winter carnival, of course! And the Vernon Winter Carnival, held from February 7 to 16, is one sure-fire way to help you shake off the dead-of-winter doldrums. Take your pick from over 100 family-friendly events, including a parade, snow sculpture competition, dinner dances and even a hot air balloon fiesta. And while you’re there, check out the nearby Silver Star Mountain Resort for a quick shoosh down the slopes or an apres-ski tipple at the Club Saloon.  



Credit: Flickr / RelaxingMusic

The Wellness Show – February 14-16

‘Tis the season for sneezing, and if you want to stay sniffle-free there’s no need to resort to wearing one of those freakish facemasks. Just check out the wealth of health tips at the Wellness Show, running from February 14 to 16 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Going far beyond echinacea and oil of oregano, the show spotlights health products and services from more than 300 cutting-edge exhibitors, along with educational sessions, exercise workshops and entertainment showcases covering everything from pranic healing to anti-aging remedies.



Credit: Flickr / riacale

Fairmont Pacific Rim’s Sparkling Love Affair – February 14-15

Andy Warhol once mused, “I wonder if it’s possible to have a love affair that lasts forever?” Who knows, but personally we’re big believers in quality over quantity, which is just what’s in store at Fairmont Pacific Rim’s Sparkling Love Affair, taking place for only two nights February 14 and 15. This special dinner a deux invites guests to enjoy a four-course “passion-producing menu” at ORU paired with a flute of Veuve Clicquot and a chocolate tasting.



Credit: Flcikr / Scott Ableman

Winterruption

Enough already! That pretty much sums up the sentiment of most people right about now, who are winter weary and impatient for the arrival of spring. So thank goodness for Winterruption, the ninth annual festival that chills out these dead-of-winter days with music, food and fine arts from February 14 to 16 at various Granville Island venues. And in a nod to Family Day, all-ages entertainment takes centre stage with performances by children’s singer Charlotte Diamond and acrobat ensemble Axe Capoeira as well as a stilt-walking parade and face painting. 



Credit: Facebook / Tigh-na-mara Seaside Spa Resort

Tigh-na-mara Seaside Spa Resort

Fact: More relationships end on Valentine’s Day than almost any other time of the year. If the state of your union needs to be addressed, check out the Rediscover Romance package at Parksville’s Tigh-na-mara Seaside Spa Resort. You’d have to be pretty hard-hearted not to get all gooey-eyed in an oceanfront suite stocked with flickering candles, sparkling wine, chocolate-dipped strawberries and a bed strewn with rose petals. And did we mention you’ll also get a $116 dining credits, all from $336 per night?



Credit: Flickr / Jeremy Wilbrun

ESL @ Vancouver Public Library

English is said to be one of the hardest languages to learn, so ESL speakers are invited to commiserate over their conjugations at the Vancouver Public Library, hosting conversation circles at various branches around town. This free group for aspiring English speakers allows you to practice your language skills using everyday conversation scenarios, such as seeing a doctor, hiring an electrician or grocery shopping. These meet-ups will take place on Tuesdays and Saturdays through March. For details, call MOSAIC at 604 438-8214.



Credit: Facebook / Yew Seafood

Yew Seafood & Bar

Yew Seafood + Bar is all geared up for Valentine’s Day with a luxurious menu and passionate cocktail created especially for the day of devotion. For $75 per person, this Valentine’s feast sets the mood for romance with a menu featuring three irresistible lobster-centric courses and one of Bartender Justin Taylor’s signature creations – “The Heart Beet,” a fiery tequila-based sipper to heat up the mood. Dinner finishes on a sweet note with a choice of Warm Dark Chocolate Cake or a White Chocolate, Raspberry and Coconut Lime Millefeuille. Check it out from February 14 to 16, with complete menu details available online.



Credit: Big White

Big White Ice Climbing

All the rage in winter recreation? Ice climbing! And the place to try it is at Big White (5315 Big White Rd, Kelowna), home to not only some of Canada’s best “champagne powder” but also to a 60-foot-tall Ice Tower. Suitable for all fitness levels, this three-foot-thick pillar of ice has a beginner side and three sleeker sides for more advanced climbers. Check it out daily, except Tuesdays, and don’t worry, you’ll receive all the equipment and safety instructions you need from a certified mountain guide. Tickets are $25 per person, or $65 for all-day access.    



Credit: Brentwood Spa

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

Score points with your sweetheart at Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa (849 Verdier Ave), Victoria’s only five-star oceanfront resort. Make a reservation for romance with a Spa Lovers Escape, a two-night getaway that includes accommodation in a luxurious ocean suite, a champagne welcome, and a $100 spa credit for side-by-side treatments ranging from facials and massages to pedicures and wraps. Go online for all the details. 



Credit: Diva at The Met

Diva at The Met – February 14-16

Viva la difference! And Diva at the Met (645 Howe St, Vancouver) is doing just with a Valentine’s Day dinner that recognizes men and women have diverse tastes, even when it comes to food. From February 14 to 16, couples can choose between two distinctly different four-course menus: the “Divo,” highlighting rich, bold dishes; or the “Diva,” featuring lighter fare with lively flavours. Dinner is $75 per person. Call 604-602-7788 to book.