The Vancouver Group Chat: What your friends are talking about this week (April 21)

Welcome back to the Vancouver Group Chat, a hyperlocal source for all things new, noteworthy, and straight-up jaw-dropping in the city. Last week, we dove into some prime patio spots, Vancouver’s newest city park, and the next wave of cherry blossoms to sweep the city.

This week, we’re chatting about a rare pelican sighting, the return of Vin Van, and a new listening bar that’s opening soon.

Here’s what’s worth hitting “send” in your group chats in Vancouver this week!

What’s new, Vancouver?

An unlikely visitor

A very rare bird sighting is making its rounds on Reddit and socials. A stunning brown pelican was spotted in False Creek and Science World late last week, delighting seawall strollers with its massive beak, spectacular wing span, and even its impressive “loaf” form when taking a break from flying.

“That’s a wild spot for a pelican, never thought I’d see one here,” says one Reddit user.

I thought I was insane last year when I was walking my dog, looked up and saw about six of these flying above us out in Kits. Nobody believed me,” shares another.

“Some folks said they saw more of them near Jericho. If it’s lost, I hope it can find its way back.”

The Vin Van is back

Vancouver’s favourite pop-up wine bar is back, and coming to a neighbourhood near you! Vin Van has officially arrived at 417 Industrial Ave. with delicious pours every Saturday this April and May, complete with a bread window by Mimi’s Foccacia and fresh sandwiches from Sundays.

The wine bar’s popular wine and disco night series, Stompin’ Grapes, is also back this May at the Ellis building. Stay tuned for dates and more details to come!

More World Cup tickets on sale

Yes, the impossible has become possible. A new tier of tickets to all 104 FIFA World Cup matches goes on sale on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, so set those reminders for  8 a.m., and prepare for waiting queues.

New openings to look forward to

Listening bars are quietly redefining Vancouver’s night scene, and we’re all for it. We’ve got Chinatown’s hidden gem, Bleach, a cocktail-forward speakeasy under June (LaLa), and now, Amber Listening Lounge. While it will also double as a restaurant, the downtown establishment (set to open soon!) promises that music will always come first.

Bar Supernova is another establishment that will soon be slinging cocktails, but these sips will be made nearly entirely from perceived food waste! From koji-cured yams and roasted yeast to burrata water, you’ll find some truly eclectic and innovative ingredients in every drink.

Finally, the recently opened Bam Bam is serving up fried chicken, donuts, coffee, pastries, and iced matcha downtown, ready to fulfill practically any craving that hits you, ever.

Your sign to do something random

Think outside of the box. Or inside a new one, whatever makes you buzz with excitement! The sun is shining, the blossoms are at their peak, and there’s never been a better time to take that leap. Draw the forest, stage a play, or stitch and bitch. No judgment here!

• Draw the forest at Stanley Park on Earth Day (Wednesday, April 22, 2026) with Drawn Outdoors.
• Listen to historical recordings of classical pianists of the past at the VPL on Friday, April 24, 2026.
• Check out some bug-themed art at this collective art show and party from Friday, April 24 to Sunday, April 26, 2026.
• Stitch and bitch at this BYOB and BYO-craft night at Slice of Life on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
• Relive your childhood nostalgia with a screening of Studio Ghibli’s Kiki’s Delivery Service at The Rio on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
• Make a set of coasters with Pomelo Pottery Club on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
• Stage your own play at the VPL with Cee Peal on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

Stick around for more city updates next week!

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