by Meghan Roberts
Music + Dance
Feeling a little hardcore this weekend? Legendary Vancouver hardcore punk band D.O.A will be tearing down the Biltmore (395 Kingsway) this Friday with guests Little Guitar Army, Real Problems, and Child’s Play. Wear some shoes you can trash and take your chance in the crowd! http://www.biltmorecabaret.com/schedule.html#october

Who needs Dancing with the Stars when you can watch a live dance battle in your own city? This Sunday at 5pm head down to the W2 Storyeum for Roc Da House Vol. III, featuring hip hop, house, waacking, and experimental performers.
http://www.creativetechnology.org/events/roc-da-house-voliiiall-ages

Normally a Sunday night staple, Kitty Nights burlesque will be on Friday this week at the Mermaid Café. (3919 Knight St.) Get close to these steamy performers in this intimate space, and don’t forget your vintage gear!
http://www.kittynights.com/

Books + Film
Pick up your copy of Vancouver Special and head to the first meeting of the Vancouver is Awesome book club this Saturday. Chat with author Charles Demers and meet with some of Vancouver’s most awesome as you explore the secrets of the city featured in the book. http://vancouverisawesome.com/BookClub/

The Vancouver International Film Festival kicks off Thursday in theatres across the city. Check out the online guide and pick a film or two to check out. The festival runs until October 15th. http://www.viff.org/tixSYS/2010/filmguide/

Food + Drink
What’s October without a little beer? Justhereforthebeer.com is putting on an Oktoberfest celebration this Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $45 and include all the beer samples you can drink. Alternatively, head out to St Augustine’s, Alibi Room, or your own favourite beer-centric pub to create your own party. http://www.justhereforthebeer.com/oktoberfest/tickets.htm

Fancy something a little classier than Oktoberfest? Head to the Vancouver Rowing Club in Stanley Park this Thursday for an evening of Port and chocolate. Pros will create matches that will tickle your taste buds and get your weekend started right. http://libertywinemerchants.com/pages/wine-tasting-events.php