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Vancouver Adventures: Our To Do Picks for Jan. 18-24

This week: Head underwater at the Vancouver Aquarium for Diver's Weekend, soar over China with a little help from FlyOver Canada, bathe in the sweet sounds of Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s first annual New Music Festival, and more

By Anna Dupas /

Credit: Flickr / MaryMakesDinner

Flight of the Dragon – January 17 to March 2

FlyOver Canada (201 – 999 Canada Place, Vancouver) is celebrating Lunar New Year in style with a limited-engagement run of the Chinese film Flight of the Dragon from January 17 to March 2. It’s the first time this flight-simulation ride, which soars high over China’s most spectacular sights, has been shown in North America, so check it out daily from 10 a.m. till 9 p.m. for $19.95 per person, with discounts for seniors and students.



Credit: Flickr / Jeremy

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s New Music Festival – January 17-20

If your musical taste runs more toward cutting edge than classic, you may want to check out the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s first annual New Music Festival from January 17 to 20 at the Orpheum Theatre. The spotlight will shine on renowned Australian composer and violist Brett Dean, who’ll be joined by a lineup of guest performers including Germany’s Rascher Saxophone Quartet and Vancouver’s acclaimed new music ensemble, Standing Wave. Plus, count on plenty of pre-concert chats, post-show cabarets and performances by up-and-coming musicians.



Credit: Vancouver Aquarium

Divers’ Weekend at the Vancouver Aquarium – January 18-19

Ready to take the plunge? Then check out the 15th annual Divers’ Weekend at the Vancouver Aquarium (845 Avison Way, Stanley Park) on January 18 and 19. Starting at 10 a.m., this yearly celebration of diving offers underwater enthusiasts a place to explore the oceans, expand their horizons, and exchange ideas. Plus, you’ll find numerous exhibitors, an array of engaging seminars, and — if you show your dive certification card — you’ll receive 50 per cent off the admission price.



Credit: Instagram / The Emerald

The Emerald’s Gospel Brunch – January 19

A brunch that fills you up both physically and spiritually? That’s on the menu at The Emerald’s (555 Gore St, Vancouver) gospel brunch on January 19, when award-winning musical trio The Sojourners serve up “soul and sustenance” in a special fundraising performance benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. For details, go online or call 604-559-8477.

 



Credit: Vancouver TheatreSports League

The Massacre at Vancouver TheatreSports™ League – January 22 to February 16

Vancouver TheatreSports™ League is pulling out its big guns for The Massacre, a 26th annual improv tournament that runs January 22 through February 16. Check it out as exceptional improv-ers from around the world compete to outwit each other in a quest for comedic supremacy. Tickets for the show, held at The Improv Centre (1502 Duranleau St, Granville Island), are available online.



Credit: Arts Club

The Odd Couple – January 23 to February 23

What would be worse: living with an OCD neat-freak or a total slob? Decide for yourself when Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple comes to Vancouver’s Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage from January 23 to February 23. When mismatched roomies Felix Ungar and Oscar Madison share digs after being kicked to the curb by their respective wives, will their irreconcilable differences bring them to blows? Buy tix online or by phone at 604-687-1644.



Credit: Vancouver Motorcycle Show

Motorcycle Mania – January 24-26

Bikers are about to go “hog” wild at the 2014 Vancouver Motorcycle Show, revving up from January 24 to 26 at Abbotsford’s Tradex Centre (1190 Cornell St). There, the world’s top manufacturers will showcase the hottest new bikes, ATVs and scooters, plus exclusive displays, giveaways and live entertainment from Team Empire stunt riders, Supersport champ Jordan Szoke and the Yamaha Riding Academy for Kids.



Credit: West Coast College of Massage Therapy

West Coast College of Massage Therapy – Until February 23

Doctors recommend getting a massage at least once a month to promote good health. Sounds great, but with most treatments costing about $100 a pop, who can afford it? The answer is everyone, now that the West Coast College of Massage Therapy (613 Columbia St, New Westminster) is offering 60-minute treatments for just $20 every Sunday until February 23. To book, call 604-520-1830.



Credit: Milestones

Milestones Grill + Bar – Ongoing

Who says date night has to break the bank? Certainly not Milestones Grill + Bar (various Lower Mainland locations), where tight-budgeted twosomes can enjoy a three-course dinner a deux for $50 every Wednesday. You’ll chow down for (relatively) cheap on a shareable appetizer and dessert, plus an individual entrée with options ranging from rice bowls and ravioli to gourmet salads and sirloin steaks. And if you want to top it all off with a bottle of wine, good news: you’ll also receive a $5 discount on your purchase.



OPUS Hotel’s Winter Radiance Package – Until March

Celebs know the secret to looking radiant is rest, relaxation and a little help from medical spas. So get ready for your close-up with OPUS Hotel’s Winter Radiance package. Starting from $499, it includes a deluxe king room, $50 dining credit, free continental breakfast and a two-hour spa experience at Vancouver’s Project Skin MD that aims to restore your radiance with a customized medical facial, dermaplaning and an eye treatment. To book this package, available until March, call 1-866-642-6787.