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This WKND in YXE: March 24 to 27, 2017

Your WKND in YXE March 24 - 27, 2017

Do Sask is all about plugging in to fun things to do in Saskatoon. According to a report released this week by Media Technology Monitor, young Canadians like us are spending and average of 5 hours per day online. It’s time to be intentional about getting out of the house and into making better connections with people who matter the most.

So in the spirit of creating deeper relationships offline, I’m giving you a run down on all the device-free events that you can do together this weekend in Saskatoon.

Friday, March 24, 2017

Saskatoon, Sask., Dragons’ Den Auditions

9:00 AM – Wilson Centre, 129-116 Research Dr

The Dragons’ Den audition tour is opening to Saskatoon’s hardest working business owners. If you run a business at any stage of development you can give a 5 minute pitch to the Dragons’ Den producers. You could be invited to Toronto to face the Dragons.

Details here: http://www.cbc.ca/dragonsden/auditions

Beats & Eats: Youth Electronic Music Showcase

7:00 PM – PAVED Arts, 424 20 St W

These kids are alright! Beats & Eats is a free, all ages, substance-free concert that gives kids from an after school electronic music workshop a chance to show off their freshly honed skills. The featured bands are IVy eNVy, Helianthus, No-Name, Safe Space, and local electronic trio 3 Ninjasks!

Supported by Saskatoon Open Door Society and Girls Rock Saskatoon.

Remnants Remnants Art Reception

7:00 PM – Gordon Snelgrove Gallery, U of S Campus

Art receptions are some of the best parties you’ll ever attend! William says he used a casting processes to replicate “remnants” that appear to have survived catastrophe, and have been left behind or discarded. This show features two artist exhibits (Stephanie Turtle) and a collaborative project.

Wine, cupcakes, and hors d’oeuvres by donation.

Saturday, March 25

Universal Love Sacred Sound Healing With Pamela Jane Gerrand

2:30 PM – Sanctuary in the City, 219A 21st St E

Sound therapy this weekend in Saskatoon March 25
Source: http://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-you/health/exploring-sound-therapy-at-helix-healthcare/

Take some time away from the noise of everyday life with the sacred sounds of poetry and music. Pamela walks you through a new method of self-care that involves breath work, chanting, and restorative sound. This healing event is meant to give you time to rest, release, and rejuvenate.

Registration is $40 by email ekam@thesanctuaryyxe.ca, or call 306-716-9996.

Carbonless Concert Series V

6:30 PM – D’Lish by Tish, 702 14th St E

Live local music with an unbeatable energy. Carbonless Concert is running a series of shows powered by zero-emissions equipment. See some of Saskatchewan’s best indie artists strike a chord with sustainable power. This week features Jay Maillet, Lyzanne Foth, and Aryn El Hefe.

Tickets just $10.

8 O’Clock Jump with Stone Frigate Big Band

8:00 PM – Salle Seguin, 414 1st Ave N

WKND in YXE swing dance
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjZpbw8IZMs

Partner or not, you’re invited to swing with live music and dancing. Bring a water bottle and non-marking shoes because this is a work out! Take a beginner lesson at 8, social dancing starts at 9. All ages and skill levels are welcome.

Tickets are $15 each.

Sunday, March 26

Introduction to Permaculture

9:00 AM – Saskatoon Food Bank, 202 Ave C S

WKND in YXE
Source: https://www.pinterest.com/plantsmap/growing-millennials/

Plants on plants on plants. Permaculture is the method of harnessing the patterns and features of natural ecosystems in your own backyard. As part of the training, you’ll have an opportunity to design your own permaculture garden.

Registration is $80 by email info@permasask.ca.

Saskatoon Police Pipes & Drums 1st Irish Breakfast

10:00 AM – O’Shea’s Irish Pub, 222 2nd Ave S

Support the Saskatoon Police Pipes & Drums by eating brunch at their first annual Irish Breakfast fundraiser. The band will perform some new music while you enjoy an authentic Irish Breakfast including Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Mushrooms, Beans, Hash browns, an English (whaaaat?!) Muffin and a bevvie (Coffee/Tea, Pop, Bottled Domestic Beer or Highball.)

Tickets are $20. DM the band’s Facebook page.

Pancakes. And. Jam!

11:00 AM – Saskatoon Academy of Music, 629 1st Ave N

WKND in YXE jam session
Source: http://percussionplay.com/blog/pancake-day-musical-fun-and-activities-and-songs-to-sing/

If you own a Ukulele that’s been collecting dust and have an incurable craving for maple syrup, this one’s for you! Explore music with pancakes. The monthly jam is for musicians and non-musicians to gather, play, eat and just have a good ol’ lazy Sunday.

Spectators welcome!

Despised Icon w/ Carnifex, Fallujah, ROS & Guests – Saskatoon

7:00 PM – O’Brians Event Centre, 241 2 Ave S

Saskatoon’s metal scene is all the rage right now (seriously, some of my metal head friends in Calgary are jealous). So, come check out a show for yourself – it’s all ages! Featuring Despised Icon, Carnifex, Fallujah, Rings Of Saturn, and Lorna Shore.
Tickets $25 at the Box Office and http://bit.ly/2h9RVq2

Monday, March 27th (Who says the weekend’s over?)

Nuit Blanche YXE 2017 – Artists & Enthusiasts Night

7:45 PM – The Storefront, 325 21st St W

WKND in YXE Nuit Blanche YXE
Source: https://www.picatic.com/NBYXE17

Get a taste of what this year’s Nuit Blanche curator is cooking up for the next free night festival on September 30th. Artists will showcase what’s to come and invite you to show off your creative skills at an open call for spectacular art.

Tickets $15 (includes a bevvie and appetizers) at https://www.picatic.com/NBYXE17

I hope you have fun dropping your smartphone to spend time with a friend at one of these local events.

If you have an event you’d like to share with the Do Sask community please join our Facebook group.

Become a contributor!

Contact Do Sask, or reach out on Facebook.

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Pick 10: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth on a tour of these Saskatoon Candy Stores

ten Saskatoon candy stores to satisfy your sweet tooth

Whether you have a sweet tooth, or you’re really trying to make a great first impression – you can’t go wrong with a trip to these Saskatoon candy stores.

This week I met up with a friend for a tasty froyo date because the weather started to feel like spring! While enjoying my key-lime-lemon-meringue mix topped with toasted coconut I got a flash of inspiration to write about Saskatoon’s best sweet tooth satisfying stores.

If you’re planning a first date remember that candy brings out the kid in everyone. So you’ll know right away if your date is just as sweet on you as they are on sugar. Even if you don’t purchase a kilogram or two of bagged penny candy you’ll find bright colors and fun in every square inch of these stores.

Give your date a sugar rush! Here are a few of the sweetest places to satisfy your candy craving. These are this week’s pick ten for Saskatoon candy stores.

Pine & Fancy Sweet Memories 2 locations Centre Mall & Lawson Heights


Have you ever had a craving for something so obscure that you didn’t think any store would stock in on their shelves? Pine & Fancy probably has it. Half of the store is dedicated to nostalgic, imported goodies that you would have never thought you’d find in Saskatoon. The other half is full of toys and games for the kid in everyone.

Those Girls at the Market Saskatoon Farmer’s Market


The girls, Ying and Julianna, hold a special place in my heart because I used to work for their family restaurant when I was an angst-ridden teenager growing up in Biggar, Saskatchewan. They’ve come a long way since then with many different ventures, but the girls are best known in Saskatoon as makers of kick-ass raw chocolate. Sure Those Girls is not technically a candy shop, but you won’t regret making a special trip to the Market to pick up your own batch of their locally-made, melt-in-your-mouth delicacies.

SaskMade Marketplace 1621 8 St E

Had I not stopped by the SaskMade Market for a Saskatchewan-infused gift bag I would never have known that they carry such a large collection of chocolates and sweets from local producers in store. You can sample all sorts of specialty bites from chocolate-covered Saskatoon berries to moose mud fudge, but please eventually purchase some of the deliciousness to support local artisan candy-makers.

The Museum Store at Western Development Museum 2610 Lorne Ave

Because…duh! #gilliam #candysticks #crackerbarrell #fun #yum #powderdip #dipbabydip

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If you’re looking for a really old-timey candy store, then this place has the treats you crave. WDM stocks a decent selection of old-fashioned candy which includes candy sticks and barley pops (no, not that kind).

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Company Centre Mall

#rockymountainchocolatecompany #carmelapples

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Is it just me, or is it impossibly difficult to make a quick trip to the Centre without stopping by this shop? Rocky Mountain is one of those rare Saskatoon gems where you can watch fancy fudge being made by hand like you’re on vacation. Choose your own pleasure adventure every time you drop in with fresh samples of the good stuff, or pre-packed choices to go. Plus, candy apples.

Laura Secord Midtown Plaza

Not only is Laura one of Canada’s renowned war heroines, it’s also the place where darn good chocolate gets made. My husband Chris will only visit Laura Secord if he’s in the mood for Super Kid ice cream, but there are plenty of other treats you can choose from to sweeten up your date.

Chocolaterie Bernard Callebaut 1526 8 St E

You can take the girl out of Calgary, but you can’t take the Calgary out of the girl. Bernard Callebaut is one of Cowtown’s most renowned chocolatiers, so it’s great to see that they’re making their way into Saskatoon’s candy circuit. Check their interactive chocolate map to plan your date with over 48 flavours to choose from! They’re always adding seasonal treats for your most special memories.

Bulk Barn 2 locations Betts Avenue and McOrmond Drive


For a first date? Maybe it’s not the fanciest place in town. But get creative with a five dollar bill to see how much candy you can get within that budget. No matter if you like sweet or salty Bulk Barn has the selection and inventory that smaller stores can’t match. Bring your own container to cut down on waste. Win-win!

Okay, these aren’t Saskatoon candy stores, but you can mix your favourite into the creamy goodness!

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt 2 locations 8th Street and Nelson Road

Want to try a twenty different flavours of frozen yogurt? Well you may not reach that amount in one trip, but you’ll come close! Menchie’s lets you sample different flavours before you buy so you can choose your favourite before going all in… (just like dating!) Take your bae here for a glimpse into their preferences – flavours, candy, toppings.

Marble Slab Creamery McOrmond Drive


Never before had I tasted a dessert so close to PB & J without actually being PB & J than with my PB & J mash-up creation. There are all sorts of desserts you can create with mixins, or you can grab a traditional banana split to share between the two of you.

I hope this compilation makes your weekend date planning a bit easier. No matter where you go, there is no chance of having a bad time at one of these Saskatoon candy stores.

Do you agree with these ten picks, or did I miss your favourite? Join the Do Sask Facebook group to have your say in the discussion on your favourite Saskatoon candy stores.

Become a contributor!

Contact Do Sask, or reach out on Facebook if you would like everyone to know your pick 10.

 

 

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Pick 10: The Best Geeky Things to Do in Saskatoon

best geeky things to do in saskatoon)

There are all different types of words people use to describe those who are incredibly passionate about games. The negative meaning behind dork, geek, and nerd has been thrown on its head by modern society. That’s why there was no shortage in choosing the best geeky things to do in Saskatoon.

Over the past ten years there’s been a transformation that’s turned some of the bullied into billionaires. People who have a knack for coding or comics have reached a new level of cool. And Saskatoon knows it.

People have called me a nerd for years. But I’ve never identified with the fangirls of Star Wars and LOTR, or played a MMORPG. I was in a bit of denial at first, but now I’ve learned to embrace the term. Geeky things I love to do are actually really fun. It’s like you get to be a kid again and the only thing people can say is, “What a geek!” Burn.

I have a message for the fellow geeks that stumbled here: there is no shame in embracing your passions. From arcades to comic book stores, read on to journey into the best of Saskatoon’s geekdom.

*This list has been edited to reflect business changes on March 25, 2018.

Don’t miss Riversdale, a.k.a. home of the best geekiest block in Saskatoon: Mana Bar, King Me Boardgamery, Deadlock VR, and Bartari.

Mana Bar 523 20 St W

Owner Chris calls it “a nerdtopia for those into every geeky subculture”. And he’s working very hard to satisfy every niche of nerd across the city. Whether you’re into Magic or live streamed e-games, this is a bar with a pixelated heartbeat. Check their calendar for specialty nights like trivia to meet and compete with other bespectacled people of the prairies.

Pro Tip: Make sure you visit the gender-neutral Star Wars and Zelda-themed washrooms that play music from their respective titles while you pee.

Update: Chris makes specialty waffles on Wednesdays (Jalapeno Popper, Mac N Cheese, and Gingerbread to name a few). He also has a selection of bourbon and scotch for tasting (November 18, 2017).

Update: According to its regulars, Mana Bar permanently closed in March of 2019. An official confirmation of closure has yet to be released from its owner Chris on Mana Bar’s social, storefront, or website (April 7, 2019).

King Me Boardgamery and Cafe 527 20th Street West

Best Geeky Things to Do in Saskatoon King Me Boardgamery and Cafe interior
Photo via King Me Boardgamery website.

Next door from Mana Bar, you’ll find King Me where your fiver goes far with All You Can Play board games. They’re open seven days a week, so you can plan your regular board game night here.

The thing I like about King Me is that you can try out the latest board games at a fraction of the cost of buying to avoid overspending on games that you may not want to play again. Check out the board game library to see if they have the one you want.

Update: According to their Facebook Page, King Me has started offering solo player promotions on Tuesdays (November 19, 2017).

Deadlock Virtual Reality (added March 25, 2018)

While I haven’t personally experienced this gaming arcade, Chris from Mana Bar tells me that it’s worth a visit. Deadlock’s new second location offers a combo of escape rooms and virtual reality gaming options. There are 6 stand-up VR stations with dozens of multiplayer games to challenge your nerdy friends.

Bartari 511 20th Street West


Walk a few doors down from Mana Bar to grab a table for you and a few friends to play unlimited games all night for $5. You can choose from a vast collection of retro and new console games, or arcade style pinball. Start a battle with your friends and the servers will fuel your evening with treats like milk and cookies between rounds.

Ruckers 2 locations: 2910 8th St E and  2301 22 St W

So maybe Ruckers isn’t the geekiest place Saskatoon, but you’ll have fun reliving your nostalgic arcade days. Spend around $30 to get over 100 tokens to play. Take your friends, or plan your next date here. The east location is part of a fun centre that includes: Putt ‘n Bounce mini golf, The Rock climbing wall, Grand Slam batting cages, and one of the only Fuddruckers locations in Canada.

Pro Tip: pack your hand sanitizer.

Pokey’s Pinball 211-B 33rd St W

Do Sask goes to Pokey's Pinball

What originated as a pinball servicing company is now a licensed cafe in the burgeoning 33rd Street neighbourhood. Pokey’s is made for Saskatoon’s most dedicated pinball fans. They have a rotating wall of games and regular pinball leagues. Order some nachos and a pitcher, then get some tokens and play the afternoon away.

Note: You won’t be able to find much of Pokey’s online, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth a visit!

Aspect Virtual Reality Gaming Studio 2218 Millar Ave *Edit permanently closed

I first heard about ASPECT VR after reading an article in the StarPhoenix, so naturally we had to check it out for our next date night. The owners say this is the only Virtual Reality Studio of this quality anywhere in Saskatchewan. They also do large parties (a.k.a. the quietest birthday you’ll ever have).

When my date (my husband, Chris) and I walked into the space we could tell it was a very expensive room. We opted for the immersive experience of the Zombie story, but there are other options for folks who want ease their way into VR.  See what it feels like to be completely inside of a video game.

Pro Tip: We played for an hour, but we recommend limiting yourself to a half hour your first time.

Your nearest Saskatoon Public Library location.

Conversations already happening by the fireplace in the new Round Prairie branch #yxe #saskatoon #roundprairiemetis

A post shared by Saskatoon Public Library (@stoonlibrary) on

I’ve always found the library to be a comforting space. It’s somewhere I can explore the world without leaving my city. The library is the perfect spot for geeky dates because they have so much going on to satisfy all different types of people. Membership is free and gives you access to a world of knowledge. Check out a location near you, or visit the new Round Prairie branch location in Stonebridge.

Note: Do Sask’s book club is open to join and free if you borrow instead of buy. Check out the book of the month from the library, then come out to a meeting to discuss. Sign up to the newsletter to get updates on where and when we meet. Everyone’s welcome!

U of S Observatory

Best Geeky Things to Do in Saskatoon U of S Observatory
Photo via U of S Observatory website.

I remember going to the U of S a lot as a kid. The observatory was always one of the highlights. It’s open every Saturday year round, but typically you can get the best view in the summer months. For a romantic take on the best geeky thing to do in Saskatoon, pack a midnight snack and take a peek at the universe through a 6 inch diameter lens to see planets, clusters, galaxies, and even comets. There’s a small Astronomy museum with a tour of our solar system!

Pro Tip: Check out their hours to see how long they’re open for this Saturday.

Escape Rooms

I experienced my first escape room a few years ago in Calgary at a place called The Locked Room. Essentially we gathered a group of five to play a live action puzzle in which we had to take steps to find and unlock ourselves from the room to successfully save humanity from a zombie apocalypse. (FYI We made it to the last piece when the buzzer rang… Fail.)

Saskatoon has a handful of escape rooms to choose from. I’ve only tried Keller’s Magic Emporium at Escape City, so tell me which one is the best! Here’s where you can find them:

Canadian Light Source 44 Innovation Blvd

Best Geeky Things to Do in Saskatoon Canadian Light Source Synchrotron
Photo via Light Source website.

Canada’s hub for STEM research is right here in Saskatoon at the internationally renowned multidisciplinary synchrotron. Take a free tour of the spot that has grabbed the science world’s attention. The Canadian Light Source gives free tours every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 2 p.m. You can drop in at that time, or request another time (for groups of 5 or more).

Amazing Stories  2508 8th St E

Can you connect the dots?? #dottodot #connectthedots #spiderman #amazingstoriescomics

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If you’re going to check out a comic book store, why not head to one of the world’s best? Amazing Stories has more than comics – check them out for everything geek culture from collectibles to clothes. They’ve got a lot of community events, so check here to see what’s going on this week.

Honorable mention: Create Cafe 510 Cir Dr E

3D Printed Brain Lamp from a MRI Scan #MadeForSinterit @MyMiniFactory @Sinterit #3dprinting #yxe #yxeart #brainstorming #3ddesign

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Learn how to use a 3D printer and grab a coffee with your friends at the same time. Create Cafe has three Makerbot printers that you can rent by the hour for a very low cost. Two stations are set up for you to design and prep your project. You can send your design to be printed, or work on it at the cafe. According to their website, workshops are coming soon!

Whether you play esports, read manga, create epic Magic character-lines, enjoy a simple social board game, or have all of the game shops on speed dial to get the NES Classic Edition – you name it, there’s a spot in Saskatoon that satisfies your specific geeky needs.

Do you agree with these ten picks, or did I miss your favourite? Join the Do Sask Facebook group to have your say in the discussion on your favourite geeky things to do in Saskatoon.

Become a contributor!

Contact Do Sask, or reach out on Facebook if you would like everyone to know your pick 10.

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Pick 10: Best Saskatoon Coffee Shops for a Casual Date

Top 10 Best Saskatoon Coffee Shops

Some people prefer slow conversations that encourage comfortable silence and embrace the simplicity of being around someone special to you. My cousin is one of those people. She would rather have a meaningful conversation than an adventurous outing on the town. When I asked what her ultimate favourite thing to do was, she said she loved spending time with friends in the best Saskatoon coffee shops.

The thing my cousin enjoys doing the most is not an extravagant outing to the latest event, but having a simple chat with a good friend over a nice local mug of comfort. Sometimes everyone needs to take a break over a coffee or tea, so she inspired me to write this top 10.

The Best Saskatoon Coffee Shops

Going for coffee is perfect for casual meetups with new acquaintances and catch-ups with old friends. If you’re not ready for the full night on the town with your new mate hit up a great local coffee shop and break the ice. Do Sask likes our coffee and tea local, and these are a few of the best according to my cousin.

1. Collective Coffee

It’s a beautiful day and we’re having fun. Come join the party!

A post shared by Collective Coffee (@collectivecoffee) on

Folks who co-work from The Two Twenty are in and out of Collective Coffee on 20th Street more times than they’d like to admit it on any given day. But did you know that they’ve just opened a new location across from St. Paul’s Hospital on Avenue P? Check it out today, so your addiction isn’t so obvious.

P.S. My cousin says their latte is the best in the city. Order it to taste for yourself!

2. Drift Sidewalk Cafe

Drift has an amazing local feel with a great view close to River Landing. It’s got one of the best hot chocolates by far, but their baristas and local focus on events keep us coming back. Plus, the interior decor makes you feel like you’re somewhere tropical – even in the middle of winter.

3. Citizen Cafe

From the look of this cookie, the Americano is almost a secondary reason why you’d want to go to Citizen! Make sure you plan your coffee date during the day because they aren’t open late.

4. City Perks

According to Saskatoon sub reddit user nlddancer, “City Perks on 7th Ave is incredible. They have drip coffee, french press, pour over and aeropress, as well as espresso based drinks. Their cappuccinos are the traditional six ounce size too, so it tastes great and not too milky.” City Perks also has a location in Stonebridge.

5. Calories

So it may seem unfair to add Calories to the Top 10 two times in a row, but you can’t deny that they’ve got a good thing going. Yes, their hot cuppa’s may be a few bucks more than average, but their creativity with flavour will take your taste buds to a whole new level that’s worth an extra loonie or two. That’s why they’re one the best Saskatoon coffee shops for a casual date.

6. Mystic Java

First pic of the year, hope your a good one 2017 ?

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You can skip coffee and order a milkshake to share with your date. That’ll take a casual coffee to a cute connection in an instant. Or, keep it cool with a quick black coffee. Your choice!

7. Museo Broadway

@brockfehr wants shorter cup, we make shorter cup.

A post shared by Museo Coffee (@museocoffee) on

Locally roasted beans with one of the best pour-overs in town set this cafe ahead of the pack. No need to say more.

8. The Underground Cafe

Go to the Underground for the coffee, stay for the karaoke. This joint is one of the few places I’ve been to that makes a seamless connection between fun and frappe.

9. d’Lish by Tish Cafe

One of the few local cafes with a patio for the nice, hot days we get here in the summertime.

10. Little Bird Patisserie

Again, the coffee is secondary to the French pastry chef’s amazing gastronomical achievements. Little Bird is the place to go to impress your date with a lavish slice of heaven while relaxing in a bright vintage setting.

Do you agree with these top picks, or did we miss your favourite cafe? Join the Do Sask Facebook group to have your say in the discussion on your favourite coffee shops in Saskatoon.

Become a contributor!

Contact Do Sask, or reach out on Facebook if you would like everyone to know your pick 10.