Get out and play this summer on the stunning North Shore
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This new app helps you explore the North Shore like never before discover
A North Vancouver arts organization and a pair of developers are uplifting local history through a new app.
North Van Arts launched North Shore Culture Quest last month, an app where players can learn local history through scavenger hunt challenges.
“The idea is to provide something fun to do so that you can learn something on the way and kind of see new areas that you might not have seen on the North Shore before,” said Anna Lynch, executive director for North Van Arts.
Each quest in the app explores a different area of the North Shore, where players are guided through multiple location-based clues and collect letters as they complete the tasks.
Some challenges include walking up to certain landmarks to answer multiple choice questions about the location, while others are lining up historic images with the present-day view, seeing how the North Shore has changed over the decades. The app also features ranking stats to compare to other players completing the quests.
Andrew Farris and Christopher Reid are the developers behind the
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North Shore Culture Quest team members Rebecca Lyon (left) and Teagan Moore join with North Shore Arts executive director Anna Lynch to help launch the Culture Quest app for exploring historical and public art sites across the North Shore.
app and were excited to take on the project for its local focus.
“We’ve never had a chance to do any work on the North Shore and in our neighbourhood, so this is a very exciting opportunity to do a new project that gave us an opportunity to explore our neighbourhood,” said Farris, who lives on the North Shore.
Farris said the app’s design is a great way to get people engaged in their surroundings.
“[It’s] not just walking around and reading text or listening, but rather they have to go and find things and engage with their surroundings,” Farris said. “It creates a much more interactive experience that’s a little more exciting for people.”
Creating the North Shore Culture Quest app was no strange task as the duo are also the developers behind On This Spot, an app that takes people on local historical walking tours in more than 60 cities across Canada.
North Van Arts worked with the app developers last year after receiving funding from B.C.’s Destination Development fund in 2023
But the project’s initial concept spans back to 2020, when the arts organization
launched PDF Culture Compass treasure hunts for people to get outside and explore during the COVID-19 pandemic After hearing positive feedback from the original treasure hunts, North Van Arts wanted to continue the fun and game for the community.
“It’s just our general goal to educate, but in a fun way, ” Lynch said. “As an arts organization, we’re always advocating in educating our community about all of the
different things that are on offer on the North Shore.”
App maps the entire North Shore Farris hopes the culture quest app encourages people to explore all the unique gems the North Shore has to offer “We’re trying to figure out ways to encourage people to explore the entire North Shore and get people out and about
The Shipyards is one of the featured locations to explore using the North Shore Culture Quest app.
and realizing that there’s more than just Lonsdale or Ambleside,” Farris said.
But he also hopes locals take on the quests too, rediscovering or learning new aspects of the community. Splitting the quests into different neighbourhoods was a way to achieve that for everyone using the app, he said
So far, people can explore Lower Lonsdale, The Shipyards, Mahon Park, Capilano University, Deep Cove and Ambleside A new quest will be added each month, Lynch said
“I think it’s a phenomenal thing for people to engage with in the summer,” Farris said. “It’s a free experience, it’s a public service and it’s for everybody this is a game where everyone can benefit from it.”
The app can be downloaded for free on both Apple and Android devices.
Abby Luciano is the Indigenous and civic affairs reporter for the North Shore News. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative
Adventure,communityanda village in the making
Cypress Village:Followthe journeytoa newaltitude of wellbeing
Athriving pop-up community sets the stage forawalkable West Coast village rooted in nature, connectionand sustainable design. Imagine stepping outside your front door and within 15 minutes youhaveeasy access to agrocery store, an elementary school and anetwork of scenic trails. The breathtaking viewsofVancouver Island and Mount Baker are partofeveryday lifehere.
All of this is within walking distance—novehicle required. From single-family homes to rental suites, townhomes and more, Cypress Village offers accessible living perfectly balanced betweenurban convenienceand naturalbeauty.
Cypress Village Pop-Up
While anticipation builds forthe future Cypress Village, British Properties is already bringing the area to life. Set above the city with views of Burrard Inlet,Cypress Village Pop-Up has become apopular gathering placefor locals and visitors.
Unwind on the spacious grassy field, explore over 11 kilometres of the multi-use Mountain Path and connecting trails or take astroll across the 200-metre Trestle Bridge and its newly completed companion. The Pop-Up also features local publicart,a bikewash and repair station and The Shed —a local favouriteservingcoffee,beerand handmade wood-fired pizza in acomfortable, covered, heated setting. Freeparking andpublic washrooms makevisiting easy andconvenient.The Pop-Up welcomes dogs —just keep your furry friends close and enjoy thespace responsibly.
More than just atemporarydestination, Cypress Village Pop-Up offers apreview of what’stocome —a vibrant,nature-rich environment that fosters astrong sense of community,reflecting the values andvision of the future Cypress Village.It’sa living example of howBritish Properties is building toward acomplete, connected and inclusive neighbourhood experience.
“Whether you’re renting or you’re buying, living inasingle-family house or acondo, youare able to go through all these different stages in lifeinthe same neighbourhood without having to move,” says British Proper-
ties president GeoffCroll.“Some people may think,‘there isnothing formeinWest Vancouver,’ and we want to change that discussion.”
Established in 1931, British Properties’ commitment to serving the needs of the North Shore dates back close to acentury.
“Astime hasgoneon, preferences have evolved andwehaveevolved,”Croll says.
“Some people are downsizing and theywant different transportation options. We are following the lead of the community,we’re responding and we’redelivering on that. Uplands already has adiverse offering and the Village will haveevenmore.”
Sustainabilitymeets adventure
Sustainability is at the heartofCypress Village.All multi-family homes will be fully electric with minimal relianceonfossil fuels. Treesremovedduring development have been reused forcommunityamenities or repurposed by B.C.-based mills. Meanwhile, 260 acres of Eagle Ridge havenow been preservedasdedicated parkland.
And then there’s the amenities to get outside and get afterit: signature trestle bridges that connect the terrain across forested valleys, biking and hiking trails at virtually every turn and streams and wetlands featuring all of nature’scolour palette.
That all these features areoffered within walking distance is perhaps theclearest
expression of what makes the newvillage so special and atestament to its intentional and community-focused design. Those familiar with North Shore traffic on weekends knowthe bustle of commuters converging from all corners of the region to enjoythe area’s surrounding beauty.AtCypress Village, traffic is replaced by tranquillity.
And if youdowant to scratch that out-oftown itch, consider the following: Cypress Village is 30 minutesfrom downtown Vancouver,45minutesfrom YVR and just over an hourto the world’sbest four-season resortinWhistler
“You’reinthe front rowfor all those urban amenities and other recreational amenities as well,”Croll says.“Wehavegot something foreverybody because this is avery accessible Village foranyone who visits, plays or lives here.”
Stay in touch to keep up with newamenities and offerings coming soon by visiting www.cypressvillage.com.
Scenic trestle bridges, forested trails, bikeand hiking paths, public art and open gathering spaces provide opportunities to connect with nature and the communityatCypress Village.
Cypress Village Pop-Up connects parkland and trails that bring people together outdoors.
Biking on the Mountain Path.
PHOTOSVIA JOHN SINAL PHOTOGRAPHY INC
Free concert series bringing good vibes all summer long groove
■ ZAIN ALRAGHEB Contributing writer
Warm summer evenings will now come with a cool soundtrack thanks to the return of North Vancouver Recreation and Culture’s Live & Local concert series.
No matter the music genre that grips you best, Live & Local has something for anyone and everyone It’s never been easier to find outdoor jam just minutes away from your home
No matter your age or the vibe you’re looking for, this is the perfect opportunity to lebrate with your loved ones and connect with your neighbours without needing to ke out your wallet
Concerts will take place around North ncouver from 7 to 9 p.m. on set dates. cations for venues include Seylynn rk, Lynn Valley Village, Panorama Park, Lions Gate Village, Edgemont Village, and y Perrault Park. There will be several formances at most of these venues, each with a distinct vibe to enjoy your summer with.
“This series is all about bringing people together to listen to great live music and meet up with friends, or make new friends in their neighborhoods,” said Heather Turner, NVRC director, recreation & culture.
NVRC has tapped many talented artists, both local and from out of town, to perform over the next month. This series began in early July and will run until the end of August If you haven’t already been, we’d definitely recommend checking out a concert or two. After all, it is free. Here are some of the acts hitting the stage over the next month.
If you’re looking for something groovy and cool, you can’t miss Coco Jafro’s performance at Panorama Park in Deep Cove on Aug. 22. This group’s approach to music is inspired by cultures and tunes all around the globe, creating a unique sound which expresses the creativity of different international genres.
“I see Coco Jafro as a kitchen where we get ingredients from all over the world, then cook a fusion dish,” said leader Amine Said. A mix of Moroccan funk, acid jazz, and Latin
The crowd enjoys a show from The Vanrays at Panorama Park in Deep Cove on July 4.
beats, Coco Jafro brings life and harmony to their performances, connecting the audience through their music and the message of community through blending genres and cultures.
At their upcoming performance, the band will play some favourites as well as brand new songs to be heard for the first time, so definitely don’t forget your dancing shoes.
Bakara Band brings audiences alive with hope through its upbeat and high-energy Persian pop music They’ll turn Lions Gate Village into a dance floor for all on Aug 28, inviting everyone to jam along with them.
“Participating in music and dancing is not allowed by the regime of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” said Milad Parpouchi, the band’s leader and keyboardist “We’re grateful to live in Canada, and to perform at events like these, which celebrate the performing arts.” The band is excited to perform at the North Shore community, as its members see music as a “powerful vehicle to bringing people from diverse backgrounds together.” For Bakara Band, music is about connecting the community through joyous and uplifting tunes.
Big City Soul is a band of nine, known around Metro Vancouver for playing a mix of
high-energy music alongside classical songs. If you show up to their concert on Aug 7 at Seylynn Park, there is a guarantee that the melodic mix of instruments you hear will make you want to dance the night away
The band is “delighted to be returning back to North Vancouver’s concert series, we last performed there prior to COVID,” said Ken Abel, who is a saxophone player as well as an original member of the band. “We’re gonna be playing a wide variety of music that people from all age groups will enjoy.”
NVRC has much more in store for you, and if you’re interested in knowing which concerts are playing where, we’d recommend checking out the full schedule and lineup for these local, free concerts on their website at nvrc.ca.
Just as every year, this year’s Live & Local series guarantees a thrilling, welcoming, and electrifying time for people of all ages. Everyone is invited to enjoy the good vibes during these late summer nights.
“Whether you want to dance or just like to enjoy listening to music outdoors, there’s something special about these evenings,” Turner said. “These events are a true celebration of community, and we invite everyone to attend.”
Zain Alragheb is a student intern reporting for the North Shore News. She can be reached at zainalragheb@gmail.com.
Larosa and band play in Seylynn Park on July 10.
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Sun and shade: Here are some of our favourite North Shore patios
■ ZAIN ALRAGHEB Contributing writer
Nothing says summer like a cool, refreshing drink as you enjoy the summer warmth in a comfortable, shaded patio
This time of the year is peak patio season, and it’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful skies and lively scenes before rain and clouds settle back in. Order a filling, delicious meal coupled with a colorful beverage, and enjoy the good vibes. And, you know what’s even better? Patio season is a perfect fit for all, whether you want to go alone and peacefully soak in your surroundings while you enjoy your food, or whether you want to bring your loved ones for a bustling conversation and grab a spoonful out of each other’s dishes.
Though there’s plenty of great options around town, the North Shore News has tried our best to compile a list of some of the best patio spots around the North Shore for you to check out this summer If we missed your favourite, let us know! No matter what vibe you’re looking for, we’re certain that you’ll find the perfect fit for you somewhere on the North Shore. Here’s our list below:
THE BEACHHOUSE RESTAURANT
150 25th St., West Vancouver thebeachhouserestaurant.ca
This West Vancouver spot really has lived many lives In it’s current configuration, the Beach House offers refreshing seafood with a stunning view of the ocean. In a heritage-designated building that was first built in 1912, this space has been a core aspect to the Dundarave community
for decades. In 2010, Beach House moved in to take care of the space and contribute to its already-rich history and legacy. The food and drink menu offers a unique West Coast dining experience, with a rotating seafood-centric menu and a grand selection of martinis and wine Beach House continues to fulfill this heritage space’s legacy of being a welcoming space where guests are taken care of, and we’re certain you’ll agree once you’re out on the patio, looking out over the water and enjoying their Spicy Japanese Gyoza and Aburi Salmon Oshi Press during happy hour You could also have a unique brunch here, if you choose to order the Crab Cake Benedict or the Coconut Berry French Toast
If you’re looking for a fruity drink on the side, opt for the Cherry Espresso
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al fresco
Martini, or maybe even the Raspberry Cosmopolitan. Maybe you can even go relax at Dundarave Beach, just a few steps away, after your meal.
ARMS REACH BISTRO
107c-4390 Gallant Ave., North Vancouver armsreachbistro.com
Located in Deep Cove, this bistro started out as a small, family-run restaurant.
Over time, Arms Reach Bistro has become an integral part of the North Vancouver community, and offers tasty meals with a lovely scenic view of the water
Going on a Tuesday evening? You’re just in time for Burger & Beer Tuesday, where you can grab a feature burger of the day with a local craft beer for $22. Couldn’t make it for Tuesday, but are planning on Wednesday? You’re in luck, it’s Pasta and Pint Wednesday, and for $20, you can grab another local craft beer, this time with the feature pasta of the day If you choose to visit on a Sunday for a nice weekend meal
out on the water, Arms Reach Bistro will be having Cellar Sunday, where there’ll be 30 per cent off all bottles of wine from their reserve list
Even if you couldn’t make it for any of those special daily features, you’re guaranteed to leave Arms Reach Bistro satisfied any day of the week. Definitely go for their Chosty Caesar Salad, and follow that up with a delicious Spicy Spaghetti, or if you’re feeling handhelds, a B.C. Organic Beef Burger. Don’t forget about dessert; you can’t go wrong with a rich Espresso Chocolate Cheesecake.
RAGLAN’S BISTRO
15 Lonsdale Ave., North Vancouver raglans.ca
This might just be one of the coolest patio spots in the North Shore. The Shipyard’s District has been home to Raglan’s since 1999, and the one promise this restaurant makes is that everyone will have a good time If you’re looking for a vibrant setting with a beachy atmosphere and fun music, Raglan’s Bistro is a must-visit for you. From burgers to sauces, everything here is made in house, and the portions are generous. Raglan’s is good for anyone who may want fresh, casual, food in a friendly atmosphere while they can admire the bustling Lower Lonsdale view from a large patio
Raglan’s brunch menu has reopened specifically for patio season, and the list is extensive You could grab a Ragtown Special, a Mexican Brunch Burrito, or even a Caramel Churros Waffle. At Raglan’s you can also opt for a brunch burger, homemade hot dog, or even a taco platter While you’re out on the vibrant patio, enjoying your sizeable portions, you should also look into ordering one of Raglan
Bistro’s beachy, colorful drinks. A special option would be to try one of Raglan’s Electric Teas. Either way, there’s a drink for everyone After all, what could be better than a classic Pina Colada in your favorite beach-atmosphere patio?
FISHWORKS
91 Lonsdale Ave., North Vancouver fishworks.ca
Looking for some sustainably sourced seafood with fresh ingredients? Look no further, we have the place for you. Fishworks offers a global culinary experience, providing you with both classic and contemporary cuisine, and you can experience this while in a stylish, comfortable patio located in a heritage building
Try out this site’s fine wine collection, or even grab a refreshing Lemon Drop or Jamaican Mule during Fishwork’s happy hour Make sure you don’t miss out on the fresh shellfish offered here, whether it be the Baked Oysters or the Local Manila Clams. If you’re looking for seafood soup, you need to try Fishwork’s Clam Chowder, ➞ continued on B10
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Fishworks offers a fresh take on seafood cuisine along with its sustainable, fresh ingredients. The Grilled Marinated Octopus makes for a great appetizer, and there’s a myriad of fish dishes to choose from.
The B.C Wild Sockeye Salmon Wellington comes with a cranberry-almond crust in crispy phyllo, and the Haida Gwaii Sablefish is rich, flavorful, and textured, served with maple hoisin glazed brussel sprouts. If you’re a seafood lover, Fishworks should be your next stop, and the one after that Don’t forget, you’ll be eating these delicious, flavorful, and creative meals while you’re enjoying the summer warmth in the comfortable shade of their patio
KING TAPS AT LONSDALE QUAY
141 - 123 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver kingtaps.com
The brand new King Taps location at Lonsdale Quay just opened this May, and offers an incredible patio which overlooks the waterfront While you’re there, you can enjoy the lively, friendly vibes and admire the local art and modern designs around you. The ambience will surely keep you energetic and excited to face the rest of your day, even after you’ve left Eat some of your favorite North American cuisine, while enjoying some regional wine on the side For starters, grab some Bang Bang Shrimp and then immerse yourself
in their delicious Italian-style cooking by ordering one of their delicious pizzas. Some of the most popular drinks include the Moonwalker and the Pink Flamingo. If you choose to visit King Taps during happy hour, which is two to five p.m. and nine to close daily, you can order a wine for half its price, or one of their many refreshing cocktails for $10. You could even get that Bang Bang Shrimp for $5 off its original price. All of this could be yours while you’re enjoying breezy views of the ocean, which we think is definitely a bonus
BURGOO BISTRO LONSDALE
3 Lonsdale Ave., North Vancouver burgoo.ca
At Burgoo Bistro, comfort is the top priority. At this bistro, you’ll feel right at home, and even more so if you’re out on the patio, sitting out by the sidewalk yet still close enough to the water to have great views of harbour life. This balanced setting is perfect for those who like to engage in people-watching every nowand-then.
Burgoo Bistro offers a homey, countryside ambiance, and immerses you into a
completely old-world vibe as you enjoy your favorite comfort meal. The earthy tones, stone walls, and vibrant greenery around you are bound to help you settle into the space almost immediately, feeling as though you’ve finally come back home after a timeless voyage.
While you enjoy views of both the water and the streets and people around you, make yourself at home with some French Onion Soup and a delicious Lobster Mac & Cheese For dessert, grab some classic comfort food by ordering warm mini doughnuts, with salted caramel sauce. You’ll be glad to hear that there’s also a great selection of both cocktails and mocktails. There’s the classic Margarita, the Boozy Blueberry Lemonade, and the Italian Boba Soda. Of course, it would be wrong not to mention Burgoo Bistro’s trademark Strawberry Lemonade as well. No matter what you order, you’ll be planning your next visit to Burgoo Bistro Lonsdale before you’ve even left
Zain Alragheb is a student intern reporting for the North Shore News. She can be reached at zainalragheb@gmail.com.
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Fishworks
■ ABBY LUCIANO Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Backpack makes travel more accessible
“Our goal is clear – to remove barriers and ensure that every visitor can enjoy all that our region has to offer in a way that meets their accessibility needs and expectations,” said Jennifer Belak, executive director of Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism Association.
A local tourism association is now offering a backpack loan program for neurodivergent children and adults to make travelling more comfortable across the North Shore.
Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism Association announced the launch of the Neurodiverse Sensory Backpack Loan program recently at the Museum of North Vancouver (MONOVA).
verse, seeing the challenges that can arise for families travelling with neurodiverse children.
are available, each headphones, sensory sunglasses, rain gear and a attractions across trails,
There are 24 free-to-borrow backpacks ailable, each packed with noise-cancelling hones, earplugs, sensory toys, unglasses, rain gear and a guide highlighting sensory-friendly attractions across the North Shore. Some of the attractions include hiking trails, Maplewood Farm, MONVOA and the three North Shore libraries.
Neurodivergent refers to natural variations in how people experience and interact with the world, said director of marketing for the tourism association Farah Stéen This includes autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing differences and other neurological variations.
Stéen came up with the backpack loan program idea after reading blog posts from a family member who has a son that is neurodi-
“I was looking at ideas how we could be more welcoming, not just create a marketing program, but create a program that’s really community and visitor based,” Stéen said She then pitched the backpack idea to the tourism board. When they finished creating the program, the tourism association asked a family to test the backpacks before launching them to the public
Author Stephanie Rose and her 12-yearold son Asher had a chance to test out the backpacks. The parent said the items inside helped them navigate around the North Shore.
“Those tools help with regulation. When there’s a lot of information around you it helps to have something where you can redirect that energy and help to focus,” Stephanie said. “Offering a host of options allows your children, or whoever it is that you know has sensory issues, pick up those things and run them.”
The mother and son picked up the backpacks at MONOVA and travelled across the North Shore, making stops at Capilano
Suspension Bridge, Lynn Valley Ecology Centre and skiing on Grouse Mountain. Stephanie said she was surprised to see the number of sensory-friendly activities on the North Shore.
“Just having the tool available and having those locations it just takes a level of stress off,” she added. “I like the red carpet being rolled out for us and feeling welcomed.”
City of North Vancouver Mayor Linda Buchanan also applauded the launch of the backpack program.
“This program is a beautiful example of how partnership and purpose can come together to make our communities stronger, more welcoming and more inclusive,” Buchanan said during the launch event “In the City of North Vancouver, we are committed to building a city that works for everyone A healthy city is an inclusive city.”
Backpacks can be picked at MONOVA and borrowed for up to 15 days. The backpacks can be dropped off at the museum between Wednesday to Sunday, the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce Monday to Friday, or the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier at any time.
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