EVENTS
Press Start: A Vancouver Game History Pop-Up
Did you know that Vancouver played a role in Nintendo establishing their North American headquarters? Or that one of the top manufacturers of video game controllers during the late '80s and early '90s was located right in Burnaby? The Canadian Video Game Museum (CVGM) is partnering with the Museum of Vancouver (MOV) to open a temporary exhibition called Press Start: A Vancouver Game History Pop-Up, opening July 9, 2026 and running until Fall 2026. Press Start explores Vancouver’s many contributions to gaming, from mobile games like Marvel Contest of Champions to big-budget blockbusters from publishers like Electronic Arts and Microsoft to award-winning indie games like Celeste and Darkest Dungeon and includes the chance to get hands-on with retro gaming hardware with made-in-Vancouver connections. To showcase these made-in-Vancouver stories, the pop-up will include vintage video game systems, playable arcade cabinets, game demos, and interactive glimpses into the game development process.
“Starting research for this project began all the way back in 2016, beginning with a database of game companies that have existed in Vancouver, later expanding to include all of BC. Over time, this concept evolved, recognizing a need for a physical entity to spread awareness and education around game development and Canada's role in the game industry.” —Ryan Dunnison, Executive Director and founder of the CVGM
For decades, Vancouver has been a global hub for video game development. The MOV is excited to partner with CVGM to share stories of how our community has helped to shape this half-trillion-dollar global industry. The gaming industry in particular is born out of Vancouver’s unique crossover of people in film, VFX, and games. Press Start will spotlight, celebrate, and document the people, stories, and games that make up the city’s ever-changing video game landscape.
“The Museum of Vancouver exists to share Vancouver’s stories, and the people who’ve built Vancouver’s video game industry have made an indelible mark on global storytelling. We are excited to provide a platform to an emerging museum focused on video games and the people who make them.” —Ryan Hunt, CEO of MOV
(Museum of Vancouver, 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC, Canada, Jul. 9, 2026 - Fall 2026 (Every Thursday-Sunday))
26th Annual Chutzpah! Festival
The Chutzpah! Festival returns with an incredible lineup this November 3–15, showcasing music, theatre, comedy, dance, and storytelling presentations by exciting local, national, and international artists. With an emphasis on Canadian artists, the Festival will also present artists from Israel, the United States, the United Kingdom, Morocco, and Spain.
(Norman & Annette Rothstein Theatre and other Vancouver venues, 950 W. 41st Ave., Vancouver, BC, Nov. 3–15)
National Geographic Live: Wild Cats Revealed with Sandesh Kadur
Discover India’s wonderful world of wild cats with BAFTA-winning filmmaker Sandesh Kadur!
(Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, 6265 Crescent Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Nov. 18, 2026, 7:30 PM)
An Evening with Gabor Maté
Join the Chan Centre for an essential conversation with one of UBC’s most distinguished alumni who has rewritten the narrative on how we understand mental health.
(Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, 6265 Crescent Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Nov. 19, 2026, 7:30 PM)
Frozen Singalong Screening
No need to let it go—PHT's Frozen Movie Sing-Along is an open door to joy! Join us for a special sing-along screening of Disney's beloved 2013 hit. When Snow Queen Elsa's icy powers trap the kingdom of Arendelle in an eternal winter, only her fiercely optimistic and loving sister Anna can save her. Join us to sing along with iconic hits like "Let It Go," "Love Is an Open Door," and "Do You Want to Build a Snowman?" Come dressed up like your favourite Frozen character for the chance to win a prize!
(Presentation House Theatre, 333 Chesterfield Ave, North Vancouver, Nov. 28)
National Geographic Live: Earth After Dark with Babak Tafreshi
From the Milky Way to meteor showers to fireflies that emerge at dusk on neighbourhood streets, our eyes open a little wider at the stunning photos and videos of National Geographic Explorer Babak Tafreshi. He has spent his career documenting wildlife, humanity, and the cosmos—from dark national parks to bright urban areas—with the belief that people everywhere can connect through the shared experience of simply looking up.
(Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, 6265 Crescent Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Jan. 20, 2027, 7:30 PM)
An Evening with Chani Nicholas
Join us for an evening with B.C. native Chani Nicholas, who has redefined astrology for a generation seeking clarity, connection, and collective care.
(Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, 6265 Crescent Rd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z1, Feb. 11, 2027, 7:30 PM)
