Vancouver's kaleidoscopic cultural scene reflects the West Coast's diversity and cosmopolitan spirit. Whether in the performing, visual, literary or media arts, this positive multicultural influence fuels events throughout the Lower Mainland. The region is home to Chinese and Japanese gardens, festivals celebrating cultures from Portugal to the Caribbean and regular events showcasing dance, film, theatre, music, cuisine and the First Nations. For the latest on what's happening in Vancouver, contact Tickets Tonight (www.ticketstonight.ca) or visit their booth within the Tourism Vancouver Visitor Centre.

Story Idea Once regarded as a backwater for festivals, Vancouver's event roster has exploded in recent years. Consider a story on the city's festival renaissance, profiling some of Vancouver's biggest summer events from the list below. These could include the Celebration of Light fireworks competition, Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival, Vancouver International Film Festival and the Vancouver International Jazz Festival.

• Festivals and Events
• Hollywood North
• Celebrity Spotting
• Cinema
• Dance
• Literary
• Music
• Theatre
• Visual Arts
• Architecture
• The Bridges of Vancouver