As a pilot strike at WestJet looms, BC Ferries reservations are snapped up, and the likelihood of being stuck in a long border crossing line-up (likely) seems unappealing, perhaps you might be inclined to spend time a little closer to home—and in New West.

There is quite a bit to do over the next few days, especially with the weather being so nice. That being said, be sure to stay cool, drink plenty of water, seek shade as needed, and be mindful of where the cooling centres in the city are because the warm streak will continue into next week. And while we’re expecting a chance of rain on Sunday, Monday, and even Tuesday, those showers are highly likely give way to sunshine later on in the day.

Please note these events span Friday May 19, Saturday May 20, and Sunday May 21. A number of the below-mentioned spaces are running on modified hours, so you’ll want to check their schedules online before making your way down.

Celebrate a New West restaurant’s birthday

Longtail is turning 10 this year! This local Thai food favourite is situated along the water at River Market, and they’ll be hosting a bash on Saturday, May 20 from 2 to 7pm. Tickets are required: they start at $51 and includes your own personal pound of spot prawns, along with a refreshing beer from Steel & Oak.

Tickets are running out—there are still few left as of publication—and you can get them here.

If you can’t attend, but want to stop for a quick bite to eat, the restaurant will still be taking to-go orders.

Head out for a picnic

There are a ton of spaces to choose from throughout the city, so make some sandwiches, pack the blanket, and take in some fresh air.

We’ve got a round-up of perfect New West picnic spots you can take a look at here.

Check out an art show

There are a variety of galleries you can check out, including the Plaskett Gallery at the Massey Theatre, The Gallery at Queen’s Park, as well as the one on the second floor of the New West Public Library’s main branch. We also recommend keeping your eyes open as you make your way through the city: you may spot some unexpected pieces—including the one currently in the window of the Anvil Centre.

• Currently on display at the Plaskett Gallery: Hidden Fragments: Layers of Discovery.

• Currently on display at The Gallery at Queen’s Park: Romance and Roses.

• Currently on display at the New West Public Library’s main branch: It’s a Thin Line. 

• In the window at the Anvil Centre: Curl Mapped. 

Take in some fun facts about our local waters

There are at least two options in the city for this: the Fraser River Discovery Centre offers a variety of programs every weekend for anyone who is interested in learning about the waters and wildlife in our region.

The second option is to head down to Sapperton Landing: did you know this 2km loop has plaques on display that will tell you about the animals in the area? (This is also one of our favourite places to go on a picnic, so you can go on a walk around the area, read about Sapperton Landing, then grab a bite to eat. Or vice versa!)