What to do in Burnaby this week: City events to check out

It’s almost summer and probably the busiest time of the year for cultural events in Burnaby. The city is sponsoring, funding, or hosting several events in the next couple of weeks; here are some free events you can attend this week; most of them are family-friendly events, so call up all your friends and relatives, bring your kids and get ready for some summer fun!

Art exhibitions, residencies, and book launch

On June 20, Burnaby Art Gallery (BAG) is hosting the opening of a new exhibition and book launch titled The Fireplace by artist Kelly Lycan. The opening reception is on June 20 from 6:30 to 9pm and will feature an exceptional performance by the solo music act My Name is Del at 8:30pm. If you miss the opening, you can still check out the exhibition free of charge at the BAG until Aug. 25. 

According to a city announcement, “The Fireplace looks at a host of occupants in the once residential space of the Burnaby Art Gallery, mediating between the world of objects and the absence of its former residents.” 

Check out another exhibition at Deer Lake Gallery titled Where I’m From by Mi’kmaq artist Alanna Irene Edwards. The exhibition and artist residency is open and will run until July 14. Edwards, who is also an art educator and works often with children, will be teaching art workshops for all ages.  

Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day 

Make sure you come down to Metrotown on June 21, where National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations will take place from 3-7pm in Civic Square in front of the Burnaby Public Library Bob Prittie, Metrotown. 

The event will include an Indigenous artisans’ market, music and dance performances, storytelling and readings from award-winning authors, and plenty of family-friendly activities, all free of charge. 

Celebrate Filipino culture at Central Park

For the second year, Swangard Stadium in Central Park will be home to the Pinoy Festival, which celebrates Filipino culture and heritage in Burnaby. Join the festivities free of charge on Saturday, June 22, from 8:30am to 9pm. 

If you’re a morning person who gets up early on Saturdays, you can join the free Zumba class at 8:30 am, make sure you register online in advance. If you prefer to sleep in, make sure you do not miss the parade at 10 am. 

The day will be packed with activities and events suitable for all age groups, including music and dance performances, mixed-media art exhibits by Filipino-Canadian artists, and more. 

If Zumba or dancing makes you hungry afterward, you can grab lunch or snacks from the food trucks and the Filipino Beer Garden, where you will find beer, barbecue, and music.