Chinatown Chess & Play

Let’s play! Come on by to our February Clay & Chess event!

WHEN: Sunday Feb 9 2025 2:00PM to 5:00PM

WHERE: Chinatown Plaza Mall - 180 Keefer Street

We’re back in the mall with a double feature just in time for Lunar New Year! 

Come learn to make air dry clay pieces with local artist and community member Ariel Z. / @mooncakeclay! Attendees will be guided by Ariel on how to make year-of-the-snake coasters and/or a dumpling shaped chopstick holder. All supplies will be provided however we do suggest you bring a box/container to bring your clay pieces in as they will need time to dry. 

*Note: This workshop will not include painting your pieces as the clay will require time to dry however the workshop facilitator will give you instructions on how to paint your pieces at home.*

If clay is not your thing stop on by our Chinese chess area where you can learn how to play the game with community member Michael S.! We’ll have several game boards out and guides available. If you’re already an expert at the game find a buddy and grab a seat to go all out and show your skills! A little shy and want to just learn or observe? No problem - we’ll have seating available! 

In addition to our two main featured activities we’ll also have Chinatown Today boothing with us with a fun community-led activity at their table. 

As per usual Chinatown Together will be providing our usual free buns and tea offerings William’s Library will be open and we are continuing our Chinatown Seniors grocery program. 

Event Amenities:

Snacks and beverages will be provided courtesy of Chinatown Together throughout the event.

To ensure inclusivity interpretation for instructions will be available in English Cantonese and Mandarin.

Things to bring:

- Water to stay hydrated

- A box to take your ceramics home 

In the face of ongoing gentrification it's crucial for us to unite in support of our Chinatown and DTES communities honor our elders and their cultural heritage and revel in the collective joy of artistic expression.

Through each Chinatown Together event we are dedicated to backing grassroots efforts amplifying the genuine voices of our community reclaiming our cultural roots and safe spaces and standing firmly united against encroaching gentrification. Celebrating community joy is our most powerful resistance to these forces - let's come together and celebrate in Chinatown as one!

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COVID Safety Information

For the health and safety of all our community members (especially seniors disabled and immunocompromised folks) we are making this event mask mandatory (preferably KN95 KF94 or N95). If you do not have a mask we will provide masks on site.

Accessibility Information

Transit: Chinatown is accessible by transit via skytrain and bus. The closest skytrain station is Stadium-Chinatown. The 3 8 19 and 22 bus lines are some of several in the area.

Washrooms: There are public washrooms available inside Chinatown Plaza Mall.

Water: Please bring your own water to keep hydrated.

This event was made possible with the help of the City of Vancouver.

Host or Publisher SaveChinatownYVR