List #26: Vancouver International Children's Festival Tips

It's just eight days until the Vancouver International Children's Festival starts! The Kidsfest blog has a great list of tips to make the festival more fun, but I thought I'd add my two cents. Here goes:

Photo: Vancouver125 on Flickr

1. Go on Wednesday, May 30th to play a quick game of shinny with Duh Hockey Guys & their crooked referee. Kidsfest mentioned this in their list, but I think it bears repeating because I know these guys:  they're HILARIOUS. Neezar & Dan are old stilting colleagues of mine. Another reason for going on the Wednesday: not only are the weekdays a bit less busy, but we'll be there that day too! 
2. Don't drive to Kidsfest: take transit (the #50 bus goes right to Granville Island from downtown), or ride the colourful little Aquabus or False Creek Ferries, or walk or bike to Granville Island. Check out Google Maps for one-stop trip planning functions if you're cycling, walking or taking transit.
3. Travel light--eat lunch out! If you don't want to pack a lunch, there are plenty of options on Granville Island. You don't have to spend a lot: you could buy a few apples, some fresh bagels & a bit of cheese from the stalls in the Public Market or you could have a tasty muffin & latte from somewhere like Agro Cafe. If you do pick up food from the Market, I DON'T recommend eating outside right there, especially with children. The gulls think nothing of stealing food right out of your hands.
4. Dress for the weather! While a lot of the performances & activities are inside at the new location on Granville Island (great news if it's raining!), there's still lots going on outdoors, so don't forget the sunblock & hats or umbrellas & sweaters--you never know in Vancouver!
5. Get your tickets in advance. If you want to go see any of the featured performances, buy your tickets ASAP! Some shows are already sold out but there are still many left at various times on each day of the festival. You can buy in advance online so you won't be disappointed.

6. 

   'painting a fence' in Twist & Toddle

   Bringing a baby or toddler to the festival? Check out the age range for the shows you want to attend (the age policy is explained here) before you buy tickets. There are activities designed just for the littlest ones in the Exploration Zone, like Twist & Toddle, created just for children under age five. If you don't want to do a diaper change al fresco, Kids Only Market & the False Creek Community Centre have change tables in the washrooms.

Disclosure: I was asked by Limelite PR to promote the festival as part of a team of bloggers  writing about our experiences with Kidsfest. My posts & opinions are my own. :)