The Top 5 Things To Do This Week

We got another dose of winter weather a few days ago, just when we thought spring might be on its way. Whether you're still in hibernation mode because of the snow, or are out and about, here are some things to do in and around Vancouver this week:

Monday, March 9, 2009 – Toronto, Mississippi

Toronto, Mississippi is a gripping story about Jhana, a mildly autistic girl, her poet mother and absentee Elvis impersonator father. The play explores the complexity of family bonds, love, and self-destruction as Jhana attempts to follow her dreams. Toronto, Mississippi continues until March 21 at the Vancouver Playhouse (Hamilton St. at Dunsmuir). Find out more at vancouverplayhouse.com.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009 – Birds of Prey in Flight at the Vancouver Aquarium

See birds of prey at the Vancouver Aquarium (Stanley Park): the the bald eagle, barn owl, red-tailed hawk and turkey vulture. Each day the Aquarium will present a special show featuring flying demonstrations and information on conservation efforts. Birds of Prey continues until March 28, and you can find out more at vanaqua.org/birdsofprey.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009 -6th Annual Edgewater Casino CelticFest Vancouver

Celebrate the 6th Annual Edgewater Casino CelticFest Vancouver, featuring top international and Canadian Celtic recording artists, Irish dance troupes, a literary pub crawl, tribute play to Robbie Burns, Scotch-tasting event and St. Patrick's Day Parade on March 15th.

There are 60 events scheduled at 10 popular venues and two outdoor stages around Vancouver, with headliners like Ashley MacIssac and The Paperboys. Hilarious comedian Maureen Langan hosts most of the events. Find event schedules and ticket prices at celticfestvancouver.com.

Thursday, March 12, 2009 – Dining Out For Life

Support  A Loving Spoonful and Friends for Life, charities that support local people living with HIV/AIDS by eating at one of the 200 participating Lower Mainland Restaurants. Find restaurants and info at diningoutforlife.com.

Friday, March 13, 2009 – ...and You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead

Texan indie band ...and You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead is at Richards on Richards (1036 Richards St.) tonight. Doors open at 9 p.m., and you can find tickets at ticketmaster.ca or at Zulu Records for $18.50.

Saturday, March 14, 2009 – Tryangle

Enjoy  acrobatics, juggling, and aerial dance in this amazing show from CircusWest  Performing Arts Society and the Vancouver 2010 Cultural Olympiad. Tryangle continues at the PNE Garden Auditorium (2901 E. Hastings) until March 15, with showings at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily. Tickets are $22/18/12 at ticketstonight.ca.

Sunday, March 15, 2009 - Iranian Day Festival

The Iranian Day Festival is a celebration of Iranian culture, presented by the Canadian Iranian Foundation. Come out to see Iranian pop star Shahram Shabpareh, DJ music, lots of children's activities, belly dancing, door prizes, and delicious international food. Admission to the festival is by donation from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mahon Park (17th St. & Jones Ave., North Van). More information is available at canadianiranianfoundation.com.