MOOD SWING (APRIL 16, 2026)
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CJ Sommerfeld of Foraster Vintage models in a promotional photo for The Heatley Block Ren Faire ( Photo by Jessica Nicklen Smart)
Have you made your maddening BC Parks reservations yet? Are you cheering for Darlene ahead of the season 18 finale of Ru Paul’s Drag Race? Can you tell I'm in a campy mood? Hot off the heels of our first editorial meeting for SAD Magazine’s Issue 40: Camp, I am feeling extra. Just reading about your camping adventures has me feeling like I haven’t showered in days - and I mean that as a compliment. I’m always delighted to see how people interpret our themes, and this issue has already delivered many surprises (hello, body horror fans)! SADly, we can’t share this magazine with you until summertime. Luckily, there are plenty of free and affordable events to keep you distracted in the meantime.
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ART AGAINST CLIMATE DISASTER ☆ Trash becomes treasure in Re-vision the Art of Recycling’s new exhibition Art Against Climate Disaster. Running at Burnaby’s Deer Lake Gallery from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday April 25, this exhibition sees 19 local artists transform discarded materials into urgent climate commentary.
APRIL 16–25 ☆ 6584 DEER LAKE AVENUE ☆ FREE
TRANS CLOTHING SWAP ☆ Chinatown gym Witness the Fitness is hosting a unique clothing swap on Sunday, April 19, that centres the trans community. In an effort to make gender-affirming clothing more accessible and joyful, trans people will get first dibs from 2-3 p.m. Bring what you can, take what you need or just come to hang!
SUNDAY, APRIL 19 ☆ 2–5 PM ☆ 10-268 KEEFER STREET ☆ FREE
VANCOUVER TOOL LIBRARY SALE ☆ Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or an aspiring craftsperson, you’re sure to find a fun new toy at the Vancouver Tool Library’s Spring Yard Sale on Sunday, April 19. Drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to browse various tools in need of a new home.
SATURDAY, APRIL 19 ☆ 10 AM–2 PM ☆ 3448 COMMERCIAL ST. ☆ PAY WHAT YOU CAN
GALLERY RECEPTION ☆ Reception, a new exhibition by Niitsítapi and Dene artist Lauren Crazybull, showcases the work she created during her 18-month 221A fellowship. Through her portraits and paintings, Crazybull pushes back against idealized representations of Indigeneity. The exhibit is on now until May 15.
APRIL 16–MAY 15 ☆ 825 PACIFIC STREET ☆ FREE
RENAISSANCE FAIRE ☆ Hear ye, hear ye: the Heatley Block is going full Ren Faire on Saturday, April 18. Organized by Forastera Vintage, the event promises everything from juggling contests, live screen printing, a medieval market, high fantasy improv and raucous live music. Dressing as your renaissance alter ego is highly encouraged.
SATURDAY, APRIL 18 ☆ 12 PM–12 AM ☆ 696 E HASTINGS ☆ FREE BEFORE 7PM, $15 AFTER
