One of Vancouver's most loved summer events is a picnic in Vanier Park followed by an evening performance of Shakespeare. Plays are performed in huge open-ended tents overlooking the picturesque English Bay with a mountain backdrop. Plays of past seasons have included Twelfth Night, King Lear, The Tempest and Titus Andronicus. The plays are consistently well-performed and conceived, with good actors. The picnic setting makes it a laid-back and fun way to get to grips with Shakespeare, providing a good introduction for children.

Venue: Vanier Park

Date: 11 June to 20 September 2014

Website: www.bardonthebeach.org