Originally opened in 1959 as Oakridge Centre, the mall was developed by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) on a then-undeveloped 32-acre forested site at West 41st Avenue and Cambie Street. Built with a construction budget of $25 million, the open-air shopping centre became Vancouver’s first major mall, anchored by the Woodward’s department store and surrounded by 2,500 surface parking spaces.

Related story: International Fashion Gala: Ode to elegance

Walking through the front doors of the new Oakridge Park reveals just how much Vancouver has evolved over the decades — from a quiet forestry town into a global city preparing to host FIFA and attract visitors from around the world.

Offering a luxury shopping experience

The all-new Oakridge Park is centred entirely around luxury retail. There are no fast-fashion outlets here. Instead, shoppers stroll along expansive granite floors lined with brands ranging from local favourites such as Lululemon and Aritzia to prestigious European fashion houses including Louis Vuitton, Brunello Cucinelli, and Bvlgari.

Surprisingly, several luxury boutiques, including Dior, were still not open despite the redevelopment having been underway for more than a decade. Most remaining tenants are expected to be operational by the fall.

Inside the mall, suspended glass art installations hang overhead, including a small indoor amphitheatre with church-style wooden pews that provides space for live performances and cultural programming.

Time Out Market

Located above the shopping centre is the new Time Out Market, the internationally recognized food hall concept founded in Lisbon with locations around the world. My most recent visit to a Time Out Market was in Barcelona last year, and stepping into the Vancouver location immediately brought back memories of enjoying authentic Spanish paella.

The food hall promises an elevated culinary and cultural experience, featuring cuisine from some of the city’s top chefs. Visitors can choose from 18 kitchens, three bars, a coffee shop, and a main stage dedicated to arts and cultural events.

Dining here, however, comes at a premium. The Le Croc burger from Feenie’s starts at $27.99, add foie gras, port wine jus and truffle fries, and your tab climbs to $72.96, not including tip and tax.

Most seating consists of large communal bench-style tables accommodating up to 1,000 guests. During the summer months, visitors can also dine outdoors on the rooftop patio while enjoying some of Vancouver’s best people-watching.

Luxury fashion and dining converges at Oakridge Park

Oakridge Park’s upscale retail tenant mix targets affluent shoppers and has historically posted the highest sales per square metre among malls across Canada.

Strategically located between downtown Vancouver and Vancouver International Airport, with access to the Skytrain, Oakridge Park appears well-positioned for long-term success despite a recent slowdown in global luxury goods spending.

Beneath the mall are 2,000 underground parking spaces, including 200 electric vehicle charging stations. Valet parking is available on the P1 level at both the north and south atriums, while the first two levels of underground parking remain free for up to three hours.

The Oakridge Park redevelopment was approved by the City of Vancouver in 2014 as a then-$1.5-billion project. Since then, it has expanded into a $5-billion development that includes five luxury condominium towers nearing occupancy, future office towers, and a proposed street-style shopping district still awaiting a construction timeline.

From luxury fashion to contemporary streetwear, Oakridge Park aims to bring together some of the world’s most established and innovative names in fashion. Vancouver has certainly grown since its beginnings. 

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Produced by the Chef’s Table Society of BC (CTS) in collaboration with the Pacific Prawn Fishermen’s Association (PPFA), this cherished coastal tradition has been a Vancouver favourite since 2006. The festival kicks off the much-awaited BC spot prawn season, bringing together chefs, fishers, and food enthusiasts to celebrate one of the province’s most iconic and sustainable seafoods.

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This year, they warmly invite Vancouverites to support our local fishers during the Spot Prawn festival, especially as they navigate uncertain times caused by foreign tariffs. With export demand and prices declining, our harvesters and the coastal community are feeling the financial strain. Let’s come together to show our support and appreciation for their hard work.

Eat more prawns

We must all step up to support the local people who power the industry and bolster domestic demand. Eat more spot prawns. Our future depends on this effort. 

You have three ways to support the fishers at the Spot Prawn Festival:

Back by popular demand, Chefs’ Table Society will serve up a Prawn & Seafood Chowder. Tickets for the chowder with a freshly baked bun are $12 per bowl (plus tax and service), and you can take it to go!

No long waits

Choose to enjoy your Prawn Seafood Chowder in one of the following time slots:
11:00 am to 12:00 pm
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
The time clearly indicated on your ticket should be respected. Please note that arriving early will not grant earlier access, and arriving late may result in a longer wait.

Live Demo Stage on the dock (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Join talented chefs for 30-minute cooking demonstrations as they share tips, techniques, and inspiration for cooking with BC Spot Prawns.

Spot Prawn Festival Brunch
Excited about attending the weekend brunch featuring a tasting menu with six delicious spot prawn dishes that showcase the many ways this delicacy can be enjoyed. Dishes will be prepared by some of BC’s finest chefs—a great way to sample a variety of creations and connect with the chefs as you move between food stations, while enjoying samples of BC wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. A sweet treat will be served as well.

Participating chefs and restaurants include:
Ben Kiely, PICAchef
Bobby Milheron, Maxine’s Café and Bar
Christopher Janowski, Sunflower Café
David Lee, Vancouver Aquarium
Jay Park, Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar
Jitin Kapoor, Glowbal
Kailash Chandra, Sula Indian Restaurant
Lina Caschetto, Say Hey Cafe
Malindi Taylor & Alex Guido, Fanny Bay Oyster Bar
Raimund Heuser, Blue Water Café
Steve Kuan, Torafuku
Tyler Prevette, Folietta Ristorante & Bar
Ysmael Media/Catalino III Javier, Halina Modern Filipino Kitchen + Bar

Chef’s Table Society

Each year, the Spot Prawn festival helps build domestic appreciation for BC Spot Prawns while raising vital funds for CTS programs, including culinary scholarships, mentorship, and sustainability initiatives. It also supports The Commons by CTS—a dynamic new culinary hub in Vancouver dedicated to preserving BC’s rich food heritage while fostering education, industry connections, and the next generation of culinary talent.

Event Details
Event: Spot Prawn Festival 2026
Date: Sunday, May 31, 2026
Venue: False Creek Fishermen’s Wharf 
Host: Chefs’ Table Society
Tickets & Information: Chef’s Table Society

All photos courtesy of Chef’s Table Society of BC.

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Above photo: SpiralAloe

Related story: Heritage in Motion: African fashion and art show

This year’s runway shows dazzle with joyful, colourful designs that embody the bold spirit of African fashion. With bright colours and eye-catching looks, the showcase features six talented fashion designers setting major trends while promoting sustainability through environmentally friendly fabrics.

Founded by Yao Zeus Agoeyovo in 2018, this remarkable event has grown into a platform that supports local economies and empowers entrepreneurs within the African community. Attendees at the BMO Theatre’s Newmont stage were treated to an unforgettable evening filled with art, music, dance performances. Plus, a bustling marketplace that brought together the essence of life itself.

The impact of African Fashion Week Vancouver goes beyond mere aesthetics; it nurtures a global community united by a shared appreciation for rich textiles and motifs. As audiences witness these bold statements on the runway, they are encouraged to embrace diversity while supporting sustainable fashion practices.

Here are the designers celebrating African Fashion Week’s extraordinary fusion of style and substance—be part of something truly transformative!

Photos: Simon Lau

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Related story: The Art of Living by Jean de la Croix

Their innovative unisex designs are suitable for all and challenge traditional fashion standards. I have learned that their best sellers include oversized sweaters, turtlenecks, cable-knit pullovers, and knit tank tops.

Ahblo’s exquisite alpaca knitwear offers unparalleled comfort for cozy nights at home and stylish gatherings with friends.

At VFW, each piece is crafted with care and attention to detail. A luxurious addition to your wardrobe with the softest baby alpaca fibres.

Alpaca products are practical and feel luxurious against your skin, renowned for their incredibly silky texture, warmth, and functionality. Alpaca yarns are hypoallergenic, temperature-regulating, and naturally water-repellent.

They exclusively use natural materials to craft each garment with integrity and purpose. The fibres they use are sustainable, smart, and luxurious.

By utilizing natural, plant-based dyes and ethically sourcing their Peruvian alpaca wool fibre from Fair Trade-certified suppliers. They are committed to eco-friendly and ethical apparel production practices.

Experience pure luxury and comfort. Ahblo luxury fashion designs encapsulate the laid-back, relaxed spirit of the West Coast. While their alpaca knitwear pays homage to traditional Peruvian artisan techniques.

Let their soft luxury alpaca knitwear allow you to express your personal style. 

Explore their seasonless collections of cozy baby alpaca sweaters, crop tops, knit vests, shorts, headscarves, and ponchos. All are available online at Ahblo.

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Photos: Simon Lau

Related story: Jumper Zhang haute couture boutique opens in Vancouver

In keeping with the brand’s commitment to sustainability, these looks were crafted from eco-friendly materials and produced using ethical manufacturing practices. The brand is dedicated to minimizing its environmental footprint while creating fashion that enriches the lives of its clientele.

Viewing Jean De La Croix’s collection at the front row of VFW is undeniably visually stunning and culturally meaningful for women who are world travellers. Each garment is meticulously designed to inspire creativity, ignite passion, and evoke a sense of wonder in those who wear it, regardless of the occasion or location.

The launch of this collection heralds a new chapter, one that is designed to spread joy through its exquisite and thoughtful details. The bold geometry and vibrant colour palette are a testament to blending artistic expression with everyday wearability. With luxurious fabrics and intricate details, a fusion that is sure to resonate with those who appreciate the artistry of luxury fashion.

I am excited to see this level of fashion talent in Vancouver, a collection that celebrates joy and artistry, inspiring all who experience it.

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I recently attended the runway collection by Zhang Peng, the founder and art director of Jumper Zhang, at Vancouver Fashion Week FW24. The event offered a glimpse into China’s emerging fashion talent, now making its mark on the global stage.

Photos: Simon Lau

Related story: Top fashion looks from VFW FW24

Zhang Peng combines traditional Eastern elegance with modern haute couture in his designs. His collection “Circle” draws inspiration from humanity’s reverence and worship of the sun, one of China’s oldest abstract decorative patterns. The collection revolves around the ancient symbolism and historical meaning of the sun.

The looks for Jumper Zhang’s collection are not just clothes; they are works of art meticulously crafted by hand. Each piece showcases a unique blend of techniques such as bead embroidery, needlework, applique, layering, weaving, and rhinestone decoration, demonstrating Zhang’s commitment to quality and innovation.

The collection, through a contemporary high-fashion lens, pays homage to the beauty of the natural world. While respecting cultural traditions, the designer hopes to set a new vision in the fashion world.

His talent and creativity have placed him among China’s top ten fashion designers. Interestingly, his artistic prowess is not limited to fashion alone. Zhang is also a national champion in Tai Chi Quan and Tai Chi Sword at the National Martial Arts Championship.

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As the leader in premium Alaskan vacations, this nine-day Princess Cruises tour includes two nights in Anchorage. Plus, a bear-watching experience at Brook Falls in Katmai National Park.

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Princess Cruises Katmai Park Tour

The Princess Cruises Katmai Park tour begins with a visit to Alaska’s Wildlife Conversation Centre, situated just outside of Whittier. This centre is dedicated to the conservation, education, research, and quality care of Alaska’s wildlife. During your visit, guests can see various animals such as moose, muskox, reindeer, wolves, lynx, and caribou.

Cruise guests will fly from Anchorage to King Salmon to observe giant brown grizzly bears eagerly welcoming the returning sockeye salmon. Plus, view dominating male bears compete for the best catching spots at Brooks Lodge.

Experience wild brown bear habitats

Guests can hike scenic trails through natural brown bear habitats and salmon-feeding locations, including the iconic Brooks Falls. A complimentary lunch is provided at midday, and Princess guests receive an exclusive souvenir.

Travellers can choose 16 northbound and 16 southbound departures from Vancouver or Whittier (Anchorage) for the Katmai Park tour.

Voyage of the Glaciers cruise

Enjoy your tour before or after a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise, which includes an opportunity to visit Glacier Bay National Park. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers in College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

Consider a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise on Grand, Royal, or Sapphire Princess, followed by a three-day stay in Anchorage. Sailings is scheduled to depart from June 8 to August 29, 2024. 

Experience Alaska’s magnificent wildlife in its natural habitat with the Princess Cruises Katmai Park tour.

The 2024 season marks Princess Cruises’ 55th anniversary of sailing in Alaska. Seven ships will sail from five homeports: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver, and Anchorage (Whittier).

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Get into the holiday spirit by experiencing the infamous Dancing Lights. Explore the themed light areas and treat yourself to delicious snacks from a variety of food vendors. This year, there are three Dancing Lights sets to enjoy. You can catch the show every 20 minutes from the top of the hour.

Don’t forget to stop by the Scottish Shelter to light a candle and donate to our charitable partner, Make-A-Wish.

VanDusen Botanical Garden Festival of Lights tickets must be purchased online in advance for a designated entry time. Tickets are not sold on-site.

Related Story: 2023 Vancouver Michelin Guide

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Following two hugely successful European pop-ups at Moebius in Milan and The Court in Rome, the team at Chinatown’s award-winning Laowai is pleased to present its latest pop-up partnership, featuring one of the world’s most acclaimed cocktail bars. 

On Monday, October 30, Laowai will play host to Hong Kong’s critically acclaimed Penicillin at Laowai x Penicillin.

Hailed as a world-class watering hole and listed at #71 by the World’s Best Bars, Penicillin’s husband-and-wife team of Agung and Laura Prabowo are travelling to Vancouver to produce an evening of cocktail magic alongside Laowai Chef Phong Vo’s street-bites inspired menu. 

Laowai x Pencillin Tickets

Tickets* for both the 8:30 pm and 11 pm seatings are now available via Eventbrite. The 6 pm seating is sold out. General Admission: $30 for an individual reserved seat, includes welcome cocktail. VIP: $300 includes a reserved booth, full cocktail card and dumplings for four people.

*Ticket pricing does not include ticketing fees and taxes. 

Related story: Cornucopia, Whistler’s celebration of food + drink

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Above photo: Porsche Panamera E-Hybird

Following successful exhibitions in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver for the Voyage tour, the next stop is the Pride tour in Vancouver from Wednesday, August 2 – Monday, August 7, 2023. There will be signature floral mannequins and Porsche installations at 3 different locations across the city (Bentall Centre, Yaletown, and Morton Park (one-day pop-up). At Bentall Centre, they will feature a 2024 Cayenne and in Yaletown, a 2023 Taycan 4S Cross Turismo. The one-day pop-up at Morton Park will take place on Friday, August 4 and will feature a 2023 Panamera E-Hybrid. All of these vehicles will be specially designed with floral arrangements inspired by the Pride festivities and the 75 Years of Porsche brand anniversary. 

Porsche Cars Canada wanted to take this celebration a step further and created the Porsche Corral. A fun and engaging event for PCA-CWR club members to drive their 911s (in honour of the 60 Years of 911 anniversary) to the different Porsche installations around Vancouver before getting together in Yaletown to display their vehicles in the Pride colours. 

The Porsche Corral in Yaletown runs from 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM on Saturday, August 5 beginning at Sunset Beach Park. Everyone is welcome to join in the celebration. 

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