What’s On in Richmond: February

Vicky Sjohall at the Porthole Steveston

February 1 (from 7:00pm)
Cover $10; minimum spend $20 per person

Located in the heart of Steveston Village, Porthole Steveston is a cozy tapas bar that's the perfect venue for a delightful evening of delicious eats, lovely libations, and the captivating singer-songwriting skills of BC-based Vicky Sjohall, whose multitudinous influences range from the Beatles to Sheryl Crow and beyond. Space is limited, so be sure to book ahead. And watch for other shows at the Porthole Steveston this month, including the David Sikula Trio and Stephanie Pedraza.

Straight White Men at the Gateway Theatre

February 6 to 15
Tickets from $29

This thought-provoking satirical comedy addresses issues of contemporary masculinity in a unique way. The first half of the show sees three brothers returning home and regressing into their usual patterns of sibling pranks and trash-talking. But things have changed in their absence, forcing them to confront their ideas about modern-day maleness. These themes are explored further in the show’s unusual second half, where a guest speaker (a different one each night) offers their own perspective, inviting questions and debate from audience members. It’s a unique evening at the Gateway Theatre that should not be missed.

Single White Men is on stage at the Gateway. | Photo: ​Matt Reznek​

Valentine’s Bunny Yoga at Sunberry Fitness

February 9 (2:30pm to 3:30pm)
$25

Fall in love with some curious furballs as you practice your favourite yoga moves at Sunberry Fitness. A gaggle of friendly, whisker-twitching rabbits will be sharing the space with you during this one-hour session, adding an extra layer to your muscle-stretching workout. All the rabbits at the yoga session are from local shelter Bandaids for Bunnies (all proceeds are directed to this very worthy cause) and each of the floppy-eared herbivores will be fully available for photos before, during, and after your class. Can't make this particular Valentine’s date? There’s an Easter-themed bunny yoga class coming up on April 12 as well.

Hang out with some friendly rabbits at Sunberry Fitness. | Photo: Sunberry Fitness​

Cannery Farmers’ Market

February 9 and February 23 (10:00am to 3:00pm)
Free

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site is your highly inviting host for this ever-popular Steveston Village Sunday farmers' market, complete with vendors offering produce, baked treats, artisan creations, and more. If you visit the market, which runs both inside and outside the wood-built heritage site, you’ll also receive free entry to the Cannery—a great opportunity to peruse its fascinating permanent exhibits plus its colourful exhibition on the history of salmon can labels.

The Cannery Farmers' Market runs twice in February. | Photo: ​Jessie Hebert

Valentine’s Day at Richmond Restaurants

On and around February 14
Prices vary

Many local eateries are offering special Valentine’s menus this year. But don't forget to book your table unless you want to be feasting on a romantic box of Timbits in your car instead. Options include 75 West Coast Grill, where the three-course $75 per person menu served on both February 14 and 15 includes choices such as lamb, lobster, chocolate fondue, and more. Alternatively, Steveston’s Buck & Ear Pub is offering a February 14 wine-pairing dinner that includes five courses and five wines for $70 per person (tax and gratuity included). Check out our restaurants page for more ideas on where to take your sweetheart.

Artists Talk & Reception at the Richmond Art Gallery

February 15 (1:00pm to 4:00pm)
Free

If one of your New Year resolutions is to check out more culture, beeline to the city centre Richmond Art Gallery for the launch event of its intriguing new exhibition. Running until April 11, Labour’s Trace sees Karin Jones (an artist of African decent living in Vancouver) and Amy Malbeuf (a Métis artist based in Nova Scotia) deploy contemporary materials and techniques to address a wide range of issues from identity to cultural legacies. This free event will start with a tour and talk from the artists, followed by a reception.

Family Day Events in Steveston

February 15 to February 17
Free

There are many ways to mark BC’s Family Day holiday here­­—including a boat full of options in Steveston Village. Drop by Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site throughout the long weekend (February 15 – 17) for activities including scavenger hunts and ‘living history’ demonstrations.
Alternatively, Steveston Museum’s February 17 offerings include the chance to hammer out a letter on a yesteryear typewriter and have it mailed anywhere in Canada. Just along the street on the same day, the charming Steveston Tram will also be hosting craft activities and more for Family Day visitors. Why not make a day of it by visiting all three?

Visit the Steveston Tram on February 17 for Family Day activities. | Photo: ​John Lee

Family Fun Days at the Richmond Nature Park

February 15 to February 17 (11:00am to 3:00pm)
Free (donations appreciated)

If it’s time to get the kids back outdoors, bring them to one of the city's most beloved green spaces—the Richmond Nature Park. Running throughout the Family Day long weekend, you’ll find special themed activities for all ages here—the ideal way to have fun while also learning about the region’s flora and fauna. From scavenger hunts to interactive Nature House displays, you’ll also have the chance to create your own twig-crafted picture frame: perfect for that sparkling snapshot you just took of the hummingbirds buzzing around the feeders outside!

Reconnect your kids with the natural world at Richmond Nature Park. | Photo: ​John Lee

Children’s Arts Festival at the Richmond Cultural Centre

February 17 (10:00am to 4:00pm)
Admission $5; classes $15

If your kids love stretching their creative muscles, the city’s 12th annual Children’s Arts Festival is a must. Aimed at junior artists aged from 3 to 12, this highly engaging hands-on event is full of workshops, artsy locals, and interactive activities as well as an entertaining roster of eye-catching performances. Drop by to watch the fun unfold throughout the day or sign your kids up for classes in everything from animation to acrylic painting to musical theatre. Peruse the festival’s program here and register in advance for classes here.

Living the Legacy: Olympic 10 Year Anniversary Celebration

February 21 to 23 (5:00pm to 8:00pm Friday; 10:00am to 4:00pm Saturday; 10:00am to 2:00pm Sunday)
Free

The landmark Richmond Olympic Oval is your host for this family-friendly celebration marking the 10-year anniversary since BC hosted the XXI Olympic Winter Games. Official home of 2010’s long-track speed skating, there’s a gold medal array of activities planned throughout the three-day event—including exhibition hockey games, speed skating try-outs, the chance to snap a selfie with an Olympic torch, and the opportunity to meet some real Canadian Olympic athletes. Circus performers will also be on-hand to add to the party atmosphere. Event details here.

Don't miss the anniversary festivities at the Oval. | Image: Richmond Olympic Oval