Mood Swing (January 8, 2026)
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Catch the 1963 spanish classic executioner on the big screen this week at viff’s new spanish cinema series. image courtesy of viff.
Happy New Year! We’re still in the window of time where it’s appropriate to say that, right? Regardless, thank you for tuning in to a whole new year of Mood Swing, SAD’s weekly event roundup for all you art-loving baddies on a budget.
Even if you don’t subscribe to New Year’s resolutions, you can’t deny the buzz of hopeful ambition in the air. It’s the perfect season to try something new or tackle those pesky goals. Whether you’re looking to learn a new language, get out of your comfort zone or just find inspiration, this week’s list has you covered. Start the new year off right and don’t forget to subscribe to the Mood Swing newsletter to get the list straight to your inbox every Thursday!
TINY ART SHOW ☆ Who said size matters? If you’re an artist looking for creative ways to make art without a large studio space, check out the Tiny Show, the latest exhibit from Gallery 626, a collective show featuring a range of works that all fit in the palm of your hand. Mingle at the opening reception this Friday, Jan. 9, at 6 p.m. or pop by the gallery to catch the show until it closes Jan. 30.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 - FRIDAY, JANUARY 30 ☆ GALLERY 626, 626 MAIN ST ☆ FREE!
SPANISH CINEMA ☆ This one ticks a few potential resolutions: watching more foreign films and practicing a new language! VIFF is running a New Spanish Cinema series from Jan. 9 to 14, featuring the Vancouver premier of 13 Spanish films and special screenings of the 1963 classic The Executioner. Attend a matinee screening for only $10 or check out one of the special events, including a wine tasting on Jan. 9 and a live flamenco show on Jan. 11.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 - WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14 ☆ VIFF CENTRE, ☆ TICKETS ($10+)
MINI BALL AND DANCE BATTLE ☆ If you’re a performer looking to take your moves from your bedroom to the stage, check out Boots ‘N’ Cats, a mini ball and all styles battle merging ballroom with street dance culture this Friday, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m. Compete for crash prizes in performance, hands, runway and dance categories or just come watch and be amazed by the talent and artistry on display!
FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 7PM ☆ THE BIRDHOUSE, 44 W 4TH AVE ☆ TICKETS ($10 - $20)
LIVE MUSIC ☆ One of my personal goals this year is to discover more local music artists and I’ve found the best way to do that is to hit up a live show and see who gets me dancing the most. Green Auto offers a fresh lineup of local bands almost every weekend, with a show from Cherry Pick, Scarlet Fever, Jian & Kitten Co. and Gnawing this Saturday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 7PM ☆ GREEN AUTO, 1822 PANDORA ST ☆ TICKETS ($15)
RIFF RAFF OPEN MIC ☆ Last year, one of my resolutions was to perform at an open mic. I managed to tick it off in January and do a handful more throughout the year. There’s something addictive about making a whole room laugh (or if being on stage isn’t your thing, laughing with a whole room!). If you’re feeling inspired, check out Riff Raff, an open mic at Back and Forth Bar every Tuesday, frequented by some of my favourite local comedians.
EVERY TUESDAY ☆ BACK AND FORTH BAR, 303 COLUMBIA ST ☆ FREE!
