Bust out the shorts and sandals, because the happiest season is here. From refreshing wine to an on-the-go fanny pack, here are a few of our favorite things for summer.
Osprey Arcane Waist
Be they walks in the woods or lake afternoons, the Arcane Waist fanny pack from Osprey is the perfect grab-and-go accessory. Made from sustainably-made recycled polyester, it’s a no-brainer everyday piece that is durable enough for wilderness adventures but stylish enough for errands in the city.
Tata Harper Restorative Eye Creme
Now available in a sustainable refillable pump bottle, Tata Harper’s fan-favorite Restorative Eye Creme is an under-eye savior. Combating dryness and dark circles, this luxurious natural cream will help you look refreshed—even after late nights spent with friends.
Parachute Pop-In@Nordstrom
Everyone’s favorite California-cool home brand Parachute is the latest inhabitant of Pop-In@Nordstrom. Until Aug. 21, shop a curated selection of linen bedding, tabletop wares, and robes at Nordstrom’s Vancouver and Toronto locations. It's the perfect time to spruce up your space.
Parade New:Cotton
One of the latest innovations from underwear brand Parade is New:Cotton, a line of bralettes, bottoms, and tops, and more made from a blend of Tencel Lyocell and upcycled cotton scraps. The result is a breathable, naturally antimicrobial, and very comfortable material that the brand says is 95 percent more sustainable than regular cotton. It’s eco-chic.
Broadway Across Canada’s “Hamilton”
After a hiatus due to the pandemic, Broadway Across Canada is back in action. Latest to stop in Vancouver is Hamilton, the much-lauded hip-hop musical about Alexander Hamilton and the history of America. It’s a high-energy show that demonstrates the sheer athleticism and stamina of its performers, with the entire two-and-a-half-hour musical performed entirely in song.
Hero’s Welcome
For a lot of laughs in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood, hit up Hero’s Welcome. The historic veteran’s-club-turned-pub has a games room in the back, delicious deli-style sandwiches, and pitchers of cocktails to share with your table. On Sundays, local drag queen Jerrilynn Spears hosts Bimbo Bingo, which is just as entertaining as it sounds.
Nox
New to downtown Vancouver’s dining scene is Nox, an Italian restaurant with a touch of the coast. Created by the team behind New Westminster's beloved El Santo, Nox offers fresh pasta, delicious share plates, and a lot of soul. There’s a strong focus on sustainability here, which means not even tomato seeds are wasted (really—they’re cooked down with balsamic and fig and spread across grilled bread for canapes). The gnocchi is deliciously and charmingly handmade, and the roasted duck is nothing short of dream-like. Grab a negroni or a glass of natural wine and tuck in.
Swan Dive
We’re spilling the tea: post-work patio happy hour dreams were made of these. Swan Dive is a new sparkling hard tea brand brewed with natural, organic ingredients. With three subtle yet beautiful flavors to choose from (Lavender Oolong, Apple Berry, and Hibiscus Rose Rooibos) and no added sugar or fillers, you can drink Swan Dive without guilt. Sunny days, here we come.
Chiwis
Summer snacking just got an upgrade thanks to Chiwis. The nutritionist-founded food brand focuses on all-natural dehydrated fruit snacks that pack a delicious crunch. From kiwi chips to mango chips, these lightweight, sweet-but-not-too-sweet snacks are perfect for picnics, hikes, commutes, beach hangs, and boat days.
vitruvi Wild Posy Blend
It smells like a field of wildflowers—need we say more? Wild Posy is the perfect summer scent for your slow mornings and late evenings.
Carlino Restaurant
Newly opened in the Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver, Carlino is a delicious take on Northern Italian fare. Taking its inspiration from Italy’s Friuli region, the menu features a rotating selection of antipasti, pasta, risotto, and more. Opt for the family-style fai tu tasting menu, which allows chef Mark Perrier and team to lead you through a true feast. It may include Risotto Verde (asparagus, nettle, peas, prosciutto); daily fresh ricotta; tagliatelle with venison ragu; and potato gnocchi with lamb. Paired expertly with Italian wines, it’s a show-stopping meal best shared among loved ones as the summer sun goes down.
Oakridge x Fairmont Pacific Rim Patio
Back for another year is the pop-up patio outside the Fairmont Pacific Rim. Indulge in a craft cocktail and a delicious poke bowl or shrimp gyoza while listening to live music and people-watching. This is a great place to kick off the summer season in luxury.
Vancouver Mural Fest
The city’s beloved arts festival is back and bigger than ever. Featuring a block party at the iconic City Centre motel—which has been converted into artist spaces—the Vancouver Mural Festival runs from Aug. 4 to 14 and features talks, mural tours, block parties, and more around the city. A must-do for locals and visitors alike.
The season is yours for the taking.
