Everything You Need To Know About The Vancouver International Wine Festival

The number of tourists who travel or spend a holiday in Vancouver keeps on increasing every year. It is not a surprise why the city’s tourism industry is flourishing. There are many reasons why people love to keep on coming back to this wonderful destination. 

One of the most anticipated events of 2020, Vancouver International Wine Festival, will again kick off the new year.  More commonly known as the VanWineFest, this event holds the record of being Canada’s premier wine and food show, pouring more than 750 wines from more than 16 countries, in only 8 short days. (Now who said math class wouldn’t be useful!) These wines will, of course, be accompanied by the most welcome of chaperones: their respective winemakers and vineyard owners. 

Rated the “#1 Food, Wine & Hospitality Event in Canada” by New York’s BizBash (for the past 6 years in a row!) this year’s celebration will take place starting from February 22 to March 1, 2020.

We have something special for our valued guests like you. Book your stay with us and enjoy a FREE admission ticket to one of the world’s largest wine and food festivals. More details are available at the end of this post! 

Knowing The History  

The popular Vancouver International Wine Festival was inaugurated in 1979. During that time, the festival was organized to last for only two days. In its first public event, only around 1,000 people attended the festival. What makes this event even more meaningful is the fact that it was created in typical Vancity Style: for fundraising purposes. Since then, the VanWineFest has grown to raise more than $9.2 million and latest reports now boast an average of 25,000 admissions to the festival!

There is a theme or feature each year – This year France is the feature country!

Photo Courtesy of Archives – California Agriculture

The “Tasting Room”

One of the popular areas in the festival is, of course, the Tasting Room, where all the magic happens. In this area, you can see several brand owners and wine producers who will showcase their products to everyone. All attendees have a  chance to have a taste of their share of the 750+ wines available for display. 

 

The best part of all, however, is that several of these wine products are sourced from 15 other countries. As such, if you are going to be there, you will also get an opportunity to check out the top brands from the participating wineries abroad. Most of these wineries are award winners and considered senior leaders in the industry. 

Where else can you visit with award-winning wineries and winemakers from across 5 different continents, while trying their finest wines in only 10 consecutive days …without a private jet? (Seriously, we’re interested if you know! You can find us in the tasting room)

 

Photo Courtesy of vanwinefest.ca

Tips To Remember

 If you are traveling to Vancouver for this iconic festival, be sure to arrive at least one day before the scheduled event. Not only will you have more time to prepare for the line up of activities prepared for all attendees, you’ll be in Vancity! This foodie paradise has more to see and do than can possibly be achieved in 10 days’ time — wine fests aside! However that’s not the only reason: as much as possible, try to avoid being late for this event so that you can still catch all the highlights and avoid line-ups.

Whether attending from Kits, Kelowna or out-of-country entirely, another thing to keep in mind is that if you do plan to stay in downtown Vancouver, you’ll want to book your stay ahead of time. Each year this Wine Festival brings in thousands of travelers to the city.

Until February 13th, you can still save on select downtown hotels using promo code VIWF. If you book a hotel with StayVancouverHotels.com, you will receive a FREE International Festival Tastings event ticket for the most anticipated Vancouver International Wine Festival ever: 

  • Thursday, Feb. 27, 7:00 – 10:00 PM ($95 value) 
  • Friday, Feb. 28, 7:00 – 10:00 PM ($105 value) 
  • Saturday, Feb. 29, 2:30 – 5:00 PM ($95 value) 
  • Saturday, Feb. 29, 7:00 – 10:00 PM ($115 value) 

 

Surprising Reasons to Book Early

Photo Courtesy of Sea to Sky Gondola Instagram

 

Can you believe it’s already been a decade!? If you can make it to Vancity a few weeks before the Vancouver International Wine Tasting event don’t think for a minute February isn’t a perfect month for tourism! Celebrating 10 years since the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic games the city has countless events going on – including  Vancouver’s Annual Just for Laughs festival  and the grand re-opening the Sea to Sky Gondola

Image Courtesy of JFL Northwest

Check out the countless other fabulous Vancity events this February 2020 events here.

Remember! If you do plan to attend the Vancouver Festival this year, be sure to use promo code VIWF to receive a free ticket when you book your downtown Vancouver hotel stay. Offer ends February 13, 2020 – Click here to book.

9 Epic Downtown Vancouver Eateries

Vancouver is one of those cities that only feels dangerous at dinnertime, but before your mind jumps to the latest crime podcast, let us explain. With more than 3000 restaurants in this trendy oceanside city, amazing eateries can be found around every corner. Even the most fanatical foodie can feel overwhelmed by so many choices.

With so many great options, how do you choose? You’re in luck! We’ve got you covered with our top 9 not-to-be-missed restaurants in downtown Vancouver, and a special offer to refresh your palate – details at the end of this post!

 

French Fusion with Vegan Options

Catching a bite in Cole Harbour? Experience fine-dining and a snap-worthy backdrop at this iconic Vancouver landmark. The Five Sails waterfront restaurant is conveniently located on Canada Place Pier, mere stiletto steps away from the Hotel Fairmont Pacific Rim… Learn more 

 

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Oysters & Seafood

Making the top 40 in a city boasting 3000+ restaurants is impressive, however, more impressive still is placing among the Top 5 Seafood Restaurants by Vancouver Magazine! Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar has also received awards for Best Upscale Restaurant, Best Dessert, Premier [service and hospitality] Crew… Learn more

 

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Canadian Organic Seafood Cuisine

Hawksworth restaurant offers a contemporary venue which has also helped them achieve the title Best Upscale Restaurant in Vancouver not once, but four times! The diverse culinary techniques and elegant atmosphere makes it just one of the six amazing restaurants located in the Rosewood Hotel… Learn more

 

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French Cuisine with Vegetarian-Friendly Options

Vancouver’s Bacchus Restaurant at the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa is a hidden gem that is complete with a piano lounge and is ranked the 3rd Best Restaurant in all of Vancouver. Spoil yourself with their expansive selection of Canadian specialty cheeses and decadent desserts… Learn more 

Photo Courtesy of the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa

 

Historic Speakeasy Atmosphere & Impressive Wine List

Can’t decide between History Gastown or a Shoppers Paradise? Enjoy the best of both at Fairmont Hotel’s Notch8 Restaurant & Bar. Hoping to take it up a Notch? Stop in for afternoon tea or private dining experience. Learn more

 

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The North American Classic  

You may already frequent one of JOEY’s 27 North American locations, however, not all Joey’s are created equal. Recently partnering with DoorDash means this Canadian-based franchise plans to bring their amazing cuisine home to you – or even better, directly to your hotel room. Learn more

 

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Oceanview Diningroom, Bistro & Lounge

If you’ve found yourself in English Bay be sure to warm up and take in the oceanview.  Whether it’s a quiet fireside view of the seawall sunset, late-night live music or a 7:00 am British Columbia Classic Smoked Salmon Bagel Breakfast, the Sylvia Restaurant & Lounge has you covered… Learn more

 

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French Cuisine Made with Local West Coast Ingredients

The Tableau Bar Bistro is impressively located in Coal Harbour’s popular boutique hotel: The Loden, voted 2nd best hotel in all of Vancouver. Whether ordering this exquisite room service or sipping an Aperitif immersed in this Parisian atmosphere, patrons are sure to enjoy the very best of French cuisine and local west coast ingredients. Learn more

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Asia-Italian Fusion with Gluten-free Options

Authentic french toast for breakfast, and “Ital-Asain” fusion for dinner? Only a 25-minute stroll from The Tableau Bistro, La Pentola sustainably offers traditional “nose-to-tail” dishes in this calm and traditional setting and is located in yet another boutique hotel making Vancouver’s Top 5 Best Hotel List: The OPUS

Photo Courtesy of La Pentola

 

Planning ahead? If you were impressed with the international wine selection on these menus then those planning to visit Vancouver this February 22nd – March 1st, 2020 are also eligible to receive ONE FREE International Festival Tastings event ticket at the 2020 Vancouver International Wine Festival when you use promo code “VIWF” with a hotel booking. Our promo to attend Canada’s premier food and wine event will be made available to our subscribers this November 6th – so don’t miss out!

10 Ways to Enjoy Vancouver this October!

It’s no secret that Vancouver offers never-ending entertainment for all ages and lifestyles – especially when the city promotes a natural splendour and dazzle that is so hard to resist!

In order to truly experience Vancouver this autumn, we thought we would dig a little deeper. The findings? Regardless of whether you are a tourist, a resident or perhaps just in need of a few envy-worthy snaps for your social media feed, mark your calendars and get ready to experience Vancouver like never before!

Family Fun

Head Down to Harvestland

The whole family is Willkommen to this traditional Bavarian event… learn more

Video courtesy of Harvestland Festival

Fifth Annual Scarecrow Festival

Have you ever attended a scarecrow festival? Come on down for this family fun event, full of hayrides, scavenger hunts, and lots of activities… learn more

Photo courtesy of Art’s Nursery Garden & Home

Big Day BBQ Tailgate Pop-up

Already missing those summer BBQs? Well, this is the ultimate fall BBQ party! Every Sunday until December 29th, 2019 at The American…learn more

Photo courtesy of The American

Celebrate Diwali

Experience everything from cooking classes to dancing and massive performances at the Vancouver Public Library…learn more

Photo courtesy of Vancouver Indian Boat Parties

Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours

Discover the natural beauty of Vancouver’s Stanley Park aboard a horse-drawn carriage on this charming 1-hour tour. Sit back….learn more

Photo courtesy of Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours

Vancouver Fall Home Show

Looking for cozy inspiration this fall? “Leave it to” the Vancouver Home Show — and HGTV’s Bryan Baumler to help you find the latest trends… Learn more

Photo courtesy of Vancouver Home Shows

Halloween Happenings

Gastown Ghost Tour 

Craving some ghoulish fun? This Gastown walking tour takes you to the heart of Vancouver’s paranormal activity… Do you dare to learn more?

Photo courtesy of Gastown Ghost Walking Tour

The Forbidden Downtown & Chinatown

Few may remember how far north prohibition spread, but the speakeasies and bootleggers from Vancouver’s rum-running past have yet to be forgotten – if you know where to look that is…learn more

Photo courtesy of Prohibition City Walking Tour

Dare to Enter Potter’s House of Horrors

Looking for family fun? Potter’s House of Horror is back and they’ve added a second haunted house! Bring your family and friends this Halloween… learn more.

Photo courtesy of Gord Goble/Surrey Now

Fright Nights at Playland

Fright Nights is back again! Leave it to Playland to make sure all your screams come true…learn more.

Photo courtesy of Erik Andersen

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StayVancouverHotels.com wants to help send you to these fun events! Beginning October 15th, receive up to $125 in FREE Visa Reward Cards when you book your stay (or staycation) at any of our 39 Vancouver properties! Staying for more than a night? Earn an additional $50 for each night of your stay. Limited time offer.

Top 5 Beaches in Vancouver

August is the warmest month in Vancouver, BC and an exciting time to be out enjoying the summer weather! Lucky for us, we have excellent beaches that are easily accessible from the best hotels in downtown.

Here are 5 beaches in Vancouver that we highly recommend and which you will absolutely love  – yet another reason to have yourself a staycation in this beautiful city!

 

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Vancouver’s Just for Laughs Festival, JFL NorthWest 2019

We are so excited for this year’s JFL NorthWest, Vancouver’s Just For Laughs Comedy Festival, which returns to our city this month from February 14th – 23rd, 2019. Attendees can look forward to 10 days of stand-up, podcast, improv & hilarious sketch performances. In addition to the comedy-packed schedule, JFL NorthWest will also be hosting the 2nd edition of the Vancouver Just for Laughs Film Festival and 3-Day Block Party.

All of the venues will be easily accessible from any of our fantastic downtown hotels – so don’t delay and reserve your room at StayVancouverHotels.com before they sell out!

Continue reading “Vancouver’s Just for Laughs Festival, JFL NorthWest 2019”