SAÚDE! Celebrate Portuguese Heritage Month by raising a few glasses or bottles at the Portuguese Heritage Month kickoff June 2 at J Loung (1216 Bute). Join notable representatives including city councillor Suzanne Anton and Dr. Carlos Amaro, Consul General of Portugal in Vancouver, for a special beer and wine tasting courtesy of AFIC group and Super Bock with tasty Portuguese appetizers supplied by Union Food Market, all to the sweet sounds of traditional Portuguese music. 6:30-8pm, free entrance, cash bar. Info: PortugueseMonth.com
SCALE DOWN: By now, most of us know that the bigger is better ethos isnt a sustainable long-term plan for a planet with dwindling and finite resources. But after a century promoting continuous growth, few know what other options are out there. The second annual De-Growth Vancouver Conference tackles that and other issues surrounding sustainability and manageable growth for a healthy future. Join local experts, politicians and activists for this two-day discussion forum and downsizing on a global scale. June 3 (6-9pm) and June 4 (9am-6:30pm) at Simon Fraser Harbour Centre (515 W. Hastings). Cost: $30. Registration and info: De-Growth.com
GROWING APPETITES: Urban farming isnt just for grown-ups. This years Vancouver International Childrens Festival brings kids in on the food-growing action with a tot-friendly workshop led by author Andrea Bellamy (Sugar Snaps and Strawberries: Simple Solutions for Creating Your Own Small-space Edible Garden). In partnership with Edible BC, Bellamy will introduce kids to the fun, ease and satisfaction of growing your own food with a canny craft session that promises to sprout delicious, nutritious surprises. Saturday, June 4 noon-2pm with short craft sessions offered on the hour and half-hour at Origins Coffee Roasters (1245 Cartwright, Granville Island). Free, but advanced registration is required at ChildrensFestival.ca
A WHOLE LOTTA LOVE: Just when you thought Vancouvers zealous championing of green causes and sustainability couldnt get any stronger, the brand-spanking-new Love Vancouver, Love Your Planet Festival promises an all-out, feel-good frenzy. This family-friendly festival of art, music, lifestyle and eco-actions kicks off Canadian Environment Week on Sunday, June 5 at the Olympic Village at False Creek. Coinciding with the United Nations World Environment Day, Love Vancouver will feature outdoor concerts, local indie bands, eco-marketplace, food stalls and more. Festivities get started at 11am running to 6pm. Info: LoveVancouverFest.ca
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