Hi friends!
Welcome to the other side.
The holidays are over. The in-laws have left. The alarm clock feels like a personal attack.
January is really the "Monday" of months. That's why this week’s issue is packed with things that make the days feel a little easier.
Here’s what’s inside this issue:
The Comeback: The Park Theatre is open again (and yes, the popcorn is ready).
The $5 Miracle: A morning playgroup that burns toddler energy for less than a latte.
The Weather Hack: A covered skate spot where the rain can’t touch you.
Also, If you’re planning outings, school drop‑offs, or airport runs, definitely skim the Notice Board — Marpole is about to be a traffic puzzle.
Scan, grab one or two that fit your week, and ignore the rest. This is a menu, not homework.
🍿 The Park Theatre Is Back (And Looking Good)
Guess who’s back on Cambie?
🎬 The Park Theatre has reopened, and honestly? We missed it.
The historic Park Theatre: now run by the same folks behind East Van’s beloved Rio Theatre
A serious tech glow-up: fresh sound + crisp 4K laser projection
The same cozy vibe: still a beloved single-screen experience (no megaplex chaos)
Cambie Village location: between 18th & 19th — easy stroll territory
The Move
Skip the chaotic mall parking lots. Plan a Dinner & A Movie night in the village. Grab sushi nearby (TonTon Sushi is my go-to), then walk over.
Check their new website for listings before you go.
Why It Matters
This is your chance to support a local cultural anchor instead of a big chain. And it’s one of those rare outings that works for date night, solo decompression, or a chill older-kid movie afternoon.
🎨 Local Art Call: Marpole’s Community Art Show Wants You
To anyone who bought expensive paints during the pandemic and never opened them—or has a fridge covered in toddler masterpieces—this is your sign.
What: Marpole Neighbourhood House is scouting local talent for their Annual Community Art Exhibition.
Who: "All creators" of all ages. Brush strokes, sculptures, photos, mixed media—if you (or your kid) made it, they want it.
The Deadline: You must register by April 24, 2026.
The Details: The show runs May 23 + 24 at 8585 Hudson St.
How: Register using the QR Code or email [email protected]
The Move
No gatekeeping here. This is community-first, not gallery-snob. If your kid loves making art, or you do, submit something. It’s a rare chance to show work without pressure, judgment, or imposter syndrome.
Why It Matters
It’s a low-pressure way to connect with the community. Plus, showing your work at a Neighbourhood House is the safest, warmest audience you will ever find. It’s good for the soul.
📌 The Notice Board
🚧 Science World Closures
If you were planning to wait out the rain at the dome, check the schedule first:
Jan 5–8: The Science Theatre is closed for updates.
Jan 14: The Eureka Water Table is closed for repairs.
The Science Park is currently closed.
The Move
Still lots to do — just manage expectations if those were your main draws.
🚦 Marpole Traffic Alert (January 5–15)
Heads up if you drive, bus, bike, or do school drop-off anywhere near Granville & Park Drive.
Jan 5–11:
Granville Street reduced to one lane in each direction between W 57th–W 64th
No left turns onto Park Drive
Jan 11–15:
Park Drive is fully closed between Granville & French
Lane reductions on Granville continue
Construction runs 24/7 and is expected to wrap by 7 AM Thursday, Jan 15
The Move
Check your map app before you leave, allow extra time, and avoid cutting through side streets. If you’re heading to the airport, plan way ahead.
🧸 Play & Learn at West Side Family Place
If your mornings need structure and your kid needs to burn energy before lunch — this is your move.
Play & Learn program at West Side Family Place
Who: All families and caregivers with children ages 0–5.
When:
Monday–Thursday mornings: 9:30 am–12:00 pm
Monday afternoons: 1:30 pm–4:00 pm
Tuesday afternoons (under 18 months): 1:30 pm–3:00 pm
The Cost: $5 per family. Yes, for the whole family.
What’s included:
art and sensory activities
imaginative play
big movement time
Circle Time
The Move
This is the Taylor Swift ticket for toddler groups.
Registration opens on Fridays at 10 AM for the following week. Register Here.
Why It Matters
Finding an indoor activity in Vancouver for under $20 is hard. Finding one for $5 feels like a typo. You get 2.5 hours of entertainment and adult conversation. That is the best ROI in the city.
🎶 Sing & Grow at Creekside (0–3 Years)
If your kid loves music — or you just need a reason to leave the house before nap — this is a lovely way to start your Friday.
The program is free of charge, but you need to register before you go. (No Drop Ins)
Register Here.
Sing & Grow at Creekside Community Recreation Centre
Who: Families with children ages 0–3
When: Every Friday, January 9 – April 24, 2026
Time:
Baby Time: 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Toddler Time: 11:00 AM12:00 PM
Where: Creekside Community Centre (1 Athletes Way)
What to expect:
singing songs and nursery rhymes
music and movement
a warm, welcoming space to connect with other caregivers
Contact: Bilquis at [email protected]
The Move
If mornings feel long and lonely, put this on your calendar. You don’t need to be musical. You don’t need to prep. Just show up and let the songs do the heavy lifting.
Why It Matters
Music is magic for little brains — and for parents, too. This is a gentle structure, social connection, and a shared experience that actually feels calm. A rare combo in the 0–3 years.
🛹 Free, Covered Skateboarding at Granville Island
A dry outdoor activity in January? Yes, really. Vancouver’s only skateboarding space that checks all three boxes — free, covered, and accessible — is open daily through February, including school holidays.
What: The Green Ramp — a covered, accessible skateboarding space
Where: Granville Island
When: Open daily through February, including school holidays
Cost: Free
The Move
Bring your skateboard and layer up. This is a great option for kids who’ve outgrown playgrounds but still need to move. Bonus: it’s covered, so rain doesn’t cancel the plan.
Why It Matters
Free, active, and weather-proof? That’s a parenting trifecta. And it’s one of the few winter options that works for older kids and younger ones with scooters.
Let's Settle This…
We need to know where you stand on the Great Tree Debate.
The Ruthless: It was gone on December 26th. I needed my floor space back.
The Traditionalist: Took it down New Year's weekend. New year, clean slate.
The Purist: Taking it down today (Twelfth Night). I follow the rules.
The Cozy Keeper: It’s still up. It's dark outside, and I like the lights.
The Denial: It lives here now. It is a Valentine's Bush.
That’s a wrap for this week.
You’ve got this!
Saba Yazdani
The Cambie Memo
