You’ve probably been wondering why we’ve been quiet over the last few weeks.
Well, in the last week, just as we were about to announce Chinatown Together’s next events, our plans were disrupted by a series of dramatic events involving the City of Vancouver, Chinatown BIA, and a super secretive film production.
Long story short — at the last minute, we got kicked out of the Chinatown Memorial Plaza, a public space, even though we had already secured a City of Vancouver permit a month prior to host our next event there.
Luckily late Friday before the long weekend, we were able to secure an alternate space at the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Plaza for the Chinatown Variety Show Extravaganza!
(To give you some perspective on why securing a new space isn’t trivial and what goes on behind the scenes of event planning — the Park Board that controls that public space typically requires a two-month advance notice for applications, $200+ in fees, and insurance. Their conditional approval email on Friday included 4,100 words of guidelines and requirements, illustrating just how involved the process can be.)
Alas, the show must go on…
Join us for an afternoon of non-stop entertainment, Chinatown style with the Chinatown Variety Show Extravaganza!
Get ready to laugh, dance, win prizes and be entertained as we bring a live version of your favourite TVB Variety Show, Super Trio 超級無敵獎門人, right to the heart of Chinatown.
🗓️WHEN: Sunday, July 7 2024, 2:00PM to 5:00PM
📍WHERE: Sun Yat Sen Courtyard - 578 Carrall St, Vancouver
On Sunday, July 7th, the Sun Yat Sen Courtyard will be transformed into a stage for our talented community members to showcase their skills. From singing to dancing, sword dancing to drag performances, we have a lineup that will have you cheering for more! Stay tuned for the official performance list.
And that’s not all! The event wouldn’t be complete without games and prizes brought to you by our dynamic Chinatown Super Trio 華埠無敵獎門人 - Sally, Celyne, and Melody! Be sure to stick around for the entire event for your chance to win fantastic prizes!
On top of the show, after the success of San Lee’s popup grocery stand for Cantonese Opera, we’re experimenting with incubating new Chinatown businesses this event. There will be new local food stands for you to try, including:
Deep fried wontons from Cindy’s Ho Yummy 水雲鲜好食檔 🥟
Refreshing traditional tofu pudding dessert from Dou Lok Fong Tofu 豆樂坊 🍮
Fresh Chinese groceries from Chinatown’s San Lee Market 生利公司 🥬
Don't forget to bring cash to treat yourself to these tasty treats and get your weekly groceries!
Grab your friends, bring the family, and get ready for a hilarious and heartwarming afternoon of fun, laughter, and delicious food. See you at Chinatown Together, where the party never stops!
Wonton Wrapping with Chinatown Auntie Cindy (July 5 6:30-8:30pm)
Learn how to make wontons from a long-time Chinatown resident, Auntie Cindy!
Master the technique of wrapping wontons under Auntie Cindy's guidance that uses fresh ingredients sourced from Chinatown. Sample some of Auntie Cindy's delicious wontons during the workshop and enjoy a hearty bao from Chinatown provided for everyone who attends.
Not only will you learn how to wrap wontons, you will be helping Auntie Cindy take the first step in her dream business, Cindy's Ho Yummy 水雲鲜好食檔 wonton stand. She will be debuting her delicious wontons that you'll help her wrap at the Chinatown Variety Show Extravaganza on Sunday, July 7.
Join us in making wontons, tasting delicious food, and supporting Auntie Cindy's new venture! Everyone make yummy!
🗓️WHEN: Friday, July 5 2024, 6:30PM to 8:30PM
📍WHERE: Japanese Language School & Japanese Hall - 487 Alexander St
Help us continue Chinatown Together events until the end of the year!
We short on funding to be able to run events until the end of the year. If you love the free and inclusive public cultural events that we host in Chinatown to push back against gentrification, please consider donating.