When we think of holiday season culture, we tend to think of Christmas caroling and performances of the Nutcracker. Although these seasonal festivities are definitely a joyful way to mark the holiday season, Vancouver also features a number of intriguing cultural events taking place over the next few weeks. From talks with musicians, art shows and more, there’s never been a better time to get out and enjoy Vancouver’s thriving arts scene. Keep reading to find out our top picks for the best upcoming exhibitions, lectures, and festivals that Van City has to offer.

Photo: moa_ubc on Instagram

Layers of Influence: Unfolding Cloth Across Cultures, November 17- April 9: 

There’s no question that clothing is an essential aspect of our everyday lives. But we rarely take the time to think about the meaning behind our wardrobe choices.  This notion is the theme behind the Museum of Anthropology’s upcoming exhibition, Layers of Influence: Unfolding Cloth Across Cultures. Curated by Dr. Jennifer Kramer, this visual exhibition will investigate the ability of clothing to display social prestige, economic status, political might, and spirituality. Featuring textiles from Japan, India, and more, Layers of Influence intends to make visitors think about clothing as more than a survival mode, but instead as an external expression of one’s values. The exhibition takes place at University of British Columbia’s Museum of Anthropology. 

Eastside Culture Crawl, November 17- 20: 

 The artist’s studio is typically a private and dynamic space where an artist can work in peace, which is likely what makes this event so appealing to culture fanatics. The Eastside Culture Crawl is a four day festival in which over 475 artists open their studios to the public. Participating artists range from painters to jewelers, sculptors to printmakers and everything in between. The crawl aims to promote Vancouver’s east end artists who demonstrate a high quality of work. The Eastside Culture Crawl takes place along Columbia Street, First Avenue, Victoria Drive, and the Waterfront. 

Anonymous Art Show, November 18- December 17: 

It is relatively rare to have an exhibition place equal value on the work of established artists and unknowns. Yet this is the magic of the Anonymous Art Show, run by the North Vancouver Arts Council. This unique exhibition features hundreds of works by Canadian artists that are available for purchase. Each piece of artwork is $100 but there’s the catch – the name of the artist is not revealed until after the purchase has been made. This uncommon method of art sales allows the community to support some of the country’s up and coming artists, as well as the exciting chance to purchase a work from a well known artist. Proceeds are divided between the artist and the North Vancouver Arts Council, which allows the organization to continue funding their many free programs. The Anonymous Art Show takes place at Vancouver’s CityScape Community Art Space. 

Elvis Costello In Conversation with Stephen Quinn, November 23: 

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to win a Grammy or hang out with Paul McCartney? This November, The Vancouver Writers Festival will give you a chance to find out in their live talk with Elvis Costello. In conversation with CBC’s Steven Quinn, Costello will discuss his recent memoir Unfaithful Music & Disappearing Ink. The book describes Costello’s unlikely road to success, his many encounters with some of the world’s most iconic musicians, and the downsides of fame. Elvis Costello in Conversation with Stephen Quinn will take place at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts.