Things to Do in Vancouver: Finding Fun Things to Do in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

**This is an archived page.  For current special events click here**
 

 

Special Events for December 2009
Dates may change, or events may be cancelled. Please confirm dates, times, and other particulars before attending by calling phone number and checking website listed.
 
Does your organization, club, or business have a family friendly event planned? For your free listing, send particulars to Kelmar.

 

December 1, 2009
Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival Fall Series presents Zoom on Pakistan. Featuring multimedia presentations and films from Pakistan, celebrating the natural beauties of the Northern Regions of Pakistan, hospitality of the locals, climbing and other outdoor adventures, and bringing peace to the other regions troubled by political unrest. Centennial Theatre, North Vancouver;  604-984-4484, https://www.centennialtheatre.com

December 1 - 6, 2009
Headlines Theatre presents: after homelessness... Director David Diamond leads a cast of six in this production of affordable and safe housing in Metro Vancouver. Created and performed by people who know homelessness, the play draws on real life experiences to produce affecting and thought provoking performances. Utilizing audience-interactive Forum Theatre, this project will produce a report to inform affordable housing and homeless policy across Canada. Tickets: $10. For more information, call 604.871.0508 or visit www.headlinestheatre.com, Holy Trinity Cathedral, 514 Carnarvon St., New Westminster

December 1 - 23, 2009
Heritage Christmas. Historic setting for Christmas activities. The village and farmhouse are beautifully decorated with lights and traditional ornaments for the festive season. A visit with Father Christmas is a must. Burnaby Village Museum, 604-293-6501, https://www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca

December 1 - 24, 2009
NORTH POLE BC swings open it's gates at a secret forest location in Belcarra near Port Moody, to a new and unique Christmas Adventure!  Young and old alike will be captivated by the numerous interactive settings including the Toy Factory, Elf Academy, story time with Mrs. Claus plus a private audience with Santa in his cozy cabin!  Daily 10AM to 8PM, Nov. 28th thru Dec. 24th.  Starting at $19.50. Info and booking at www.NorthPoleBC.com or 604.937.7888

December 1- 24, 2009
What better way to bring the magic of Christmas home that by taking a trip to the country to pick the best Christmas tree ever?  At M and H Evergreens (featured in the Vancouver Sun) you will find hundreds of trees from Funky to Fantastic.  All are herbicide and pesticide free. We have  Frasers, Nobles, Grand, Douglas and Norway Spruce too.  Grown from babies right on the farm, Each tree is an individual waiting for the right family.. Pets are welcome too!. Priced from $10- $150  604-826-2348 9140 Stave Lake Street, Mission, BC

December 1 - 27, 2009
Playhouse Theatre Company presents Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. Book by Jeffrey Lane Music and Lyrics by David Yazbek Based on the film Dirty Rotten Scoundrels written by Dale Launer & Stanley Shapiro & Paul Henning Directed by Max Reimer NOV 21 - DEC 27, 2009 The ultimate con is on and it’s been set to music! Lawrence Jameson cons ladies; Freddy Benson cons women. Both men are unscrupulous and they devise a frantic game of one-upmanship which takes us on a roller-coaster ride of hilarity.

December 1 - 31, 2009
Bright Nights in Stanley Park. It will be hard to avoid feeling the Christmas spirit amidst the over 1 million twinkling lights that transform the forest, train & Children's Farmyard. Explore the woodland paths leading to enchanting, animated displays & holiday sounds. This event is a fundraiser for the BC Professional Fire Fighters' Burn Fund. Closed Christmas Day. https://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/Parks/

December 1 - 31, 2009
Park & Tilford's Christmas Festival of Lights.  North Vancouver's favourite holiday tradition, Park & Tilford Garden's Christmas Festival of Lights is back bigger & better than ever for December 2009. Open daily, lights come on at 4:30 pm. Admission by donations with all proceeds going to charity. https://www.parkandtilford.ca

December 3, 2009
 14th Annual Seasonal Celebration  FREE!    5:30-8:30pm  Dance and music performances by Shadbolt Centre for the Arts students, Art Activities, Rovers, Gingerbread Decorating, Drum Circle , Caricature Artist, Ice Sculptor. Special presentation by Qué Bolá; magic and grand illusion Cuban style (free tickets available at Box Office during event). www.shadboltcentre.com

December 3, 2009
The Alpine Club of Canada - Vancouver Section presents Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. Ignite your passion for adventure, action, and travel! The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour will exhilarate you with amazing big-screen stories when it comes to the Centennial Theatre in North Vancouver on December 3rd & the Hollywood Theatre in Vancouver on December 4th & 5th, 2009. Journey to exotic locations, paddle the wildest waters, and climb the highest peaks. Be

December 3 - 5, 2009
MACHiNENOiSY: The Open Spaces Project. The relationship between architecture and gender, ideas of freedom and space, and constructs of masculinity inspire The Open Spaces Project, an ambitious and exciting new work created by MACHiNENOiSY Co-Artistic Director Daelik. Choreographed for a cast of six men - Clinton Draper, Alex Ferguson, Shay Kuebler, Brett Owen, Chris Wright and Daelik himself - the work is an international collaboration with set design and dramaturgy by the innovative Berlin-based Australian artist Paul Gazzola, and sound and video by Calgarys Adam Tindale. The audience moves around the space to experience multiple layers of movement, sound and visuals in an intense and illuminating performance which explores wide-ranging concepts of people and the spaces we inhabit. Scotiabank Dance Centre.  Performances at 8pm December 3-5 plus a 2pm matinee December 5. Tickets $26/$18 from 604 684 2787 or www.ticketstonight.ca; all matinee tickets $15.

December 3 - 20, 2009
PANTO WARS “May the Farce Be With You...” A twisted, musical comedy that is fun for everyone!  Presentation House Theatre, 333 Chesterfield Avenue, North Vancouver; 604-990-3474, www.holidaypantomime.com

December 4, 2009
Christmas Carol Sing-Along, 7:00pm.  Bring the whole family for hot chocolate, jingle bells and all of your favourite Christmas carols and winter songs! For more information: www.universitychapel.org or 604-222-0800. University Chapel, 5375 University Blvd.

December 4, 2009
General Rick Hillier: A Soldier First. Description: General Rick Hillier recounts his role and experiences with the Canadian military as he reads from the new book, A Soldier First: Bullets, Bureaucrats and the Politics of War. In the summer of 2008 Hillier retired as Chief of the Defence staff of the Canadian Forces. A Soldier First is a hard-hitting, honest account of Canada's most popular, and most controversial, military leader since the second World War. (Admission is free. Seating is limited). Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch 350 W. Georgia Street, 604-331-4040, www.vpl.ca

December 4, 2009
Mission Annual Candlelight Parade. Enjoy watching over 70 entries, holiday music, laughter of the little ones as they pass by. 604-826-6914, https://www.missionchamber.bc.ca

December 4, 2009
Vancouver Chamber Choir: A BAROQUE CHRISTMAS Bach, Vivaldi and more.  No music represents the joy and magnificence of the Christmas season better than the music of the Baroque masters: Bach, Vivaldi and Telemann. Join the Vancouver Chamber Choir with soloists and orchestra for A Baroque Christmas. An Orpheum Theatre event. Tickets available at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.ca / 604-280-3311)

December 4- 5, 2009
Christmas with AUGUST  8:00pm NEW!  Purchase tickets online at www.shadboltcentre.com, James Cowan Theatre. Wit, wisdom, womanhood, harmonies, hilarity and hips weave the musical tapestry known as AUGUST.  A Christmas concert and carol sing-along. Linda Kidder, Beverley Elliott, Rae Armour and Meg Tennant

December 4 - 23, 2009
Carol Ships Parade Of Lights. A uniquely Vancouver event where boat owners from around the waters of Vancouver harbour deck out their boats in the festive ornaments & decorations & participate in a water flotilla. 604-878-8999, https://www.carolships.org

December 5, 2009
Children's Christmas Party (2-10yrs). Join us for loads of craft making, entertainment, and of course there will be a visit from a very special guest... Santa Claus! Play area will be available for the younger siblings. Concession run by the Youth Coucil.Cost: $4/child. Renfrew Park Community Centre; 604-257-8388.

December 5, 2009
Christmas Bazaar.  Montecito Elementary School (2176 Duthie Ave, Burnaby) is having their 2nd Annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday December 5/09. It is for the whole family to come down and have some fun and see what unique gifts to buy for Christmas. There will be a concession, raffle ticket sales, door prizes, kids zone, and maybe a visit from Santa. If interested in selling your craft or product contact Vanessa email: burnabymcb@gmail.com or call 604-664-8766

December 5, 2009
Christmas Fair at St. Anselms. 10 a.m to 3 p.m. Lots of home-baking, crafts, good quality books, Gift Boutique, White Elephant. Enjoy a delicious lunch in our Tea Room and do your Christmas shopping at the same time. St. Anselm's Anglican Church, 5210 University Blvd, Vancouver. For more information, please call us at 604.224.1410 or visit us online at www.stanselms.ca

December 5, 2009
Koncert Kontinuum presents A Kickin' Kristmas Koncert . Come and see why Santa's Elves ain't got nothing on these gals!  A Kickin' Kristmas, presented in the beautiful Trinity United Church, is the kind of seasonal show that you have always secretly wanted to attend. Inspiring, uplifting and sometimes just plain fun!  The Koncert Kontinuum series co-directors, soprano Katy Hedalen and pianist Karen Lee-Morlang, are joined by the two talented mezzo-sopranos: Karyn Way and Jennifer Greenwood.  Together this unstoppable team of seasonally spirited Sirens will serenade you with their up-tempo swing and lush harmonies, Kickin' Kristmas style.  This show is a great night out for the whole family, ages 2-120, where sing-a-longs and participation are encouraged.  Come with friends, family, or come alone and kick your festive season into high gear! 604.684-2787.

December 5, 2009
Light up the Square! Heritage Square’s annual holiday event Light up the Square promises to be better than ever! Come and delight in lively professional entertainment, see our brand new lighting display, create festive arts & crafts, taste yummy seasonal fare and visit with Père Noël. Make a lantern and join the song procession led by Les Échos du Pacifique; take part in a puppet show at Mackin House and come watch Sharing Christmas, a short play with songs by G2. Light up the Square is festive fun for all ages! 1120 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam. Visit www.placedesarts.ca or call 604.664.1636 for more information.

December 5, 2009
Montreal Massacre Memorial. Montreal Massacre Memorial Event Vancouver Rape Relief and Women's Shelter invites you to participate in a day of action to end violence against women. All day conference open to the public on Saturday December 5th, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at the Central Library. All events are free. Learn and engage through a series of activities: - Listen to feminist engage with each other in roundtable discussion on key issues on violence against women - one hour feminist lectures on violence against women - all day film festival with discussion - A walk in her shoes, an interactive learning experience. www.rapereliefshelter.bc.ca

December 5, 2009
Young Naturalists’ Club of Stanley Park. This monthly FREE activity is a chance for children (with their parents) to enjoy two hours of outdoor fun. Activities include hiking, games, wildlife observations, outdoor art, and more! Registration required. 10am – 12pm, 604-718-6522  vcn@stanleyparkecology.ca 

December 5, 12, 2009
Baker's Market. where bakers & foodies unite! WHAT: to buy/sell delicious baked goods. Free parking. WHEN: Saturdays, Dec. 5 & 12. 11am - 3pm. WHY? Support your local, talented & creative bakers, who love to bake for customers like you! Come and join us at the Bakers Market. If you have a sweet-tooth, this is the place for you. Inspired by traditional farmers markets, this market is even better since it is indoors with lots of free parking too. You'll find talented bakers selling Xmas baked goods, cakes, cupcakes, cookies, muffins, scones, breads, pies, tarts and chocolates. Many bakers will be happy to take orders for corporate orders, wedding cakes and much more! BAKERS: if you are a baker of any kind, home baker, student baker, pastry chef, bakery owner, wedding cake decorator, cookie baker, this is the place to show-off and sell your baked treats. 118 - 408 E. Kent Ave. S., Vancouver; www.bakersmarket.com

December 5 - 19, 2009
Shiwasu Handmade Gifts Show and Sale.  Get ready for the holidays with gorgeous handmade crafts by local Japanese Canadian artists. Find perfect gifts with a Japanese flair for all ages! Enjoy some complimentary cider and cookies during extended hours on December 10, 5-8pm. National Nikkei Museum & Heritage Centre, 6688 Southoaks Crescent (corner of Kingsway & Sperling Ave) Burnaby; www.jcnm.ca

December 5 - 20, 2009
SANTA CLAUS IS HERE at International Village! Every Saturday & Sunday, 12 - 4pm;  International Village, 88 West Pender Street; 604-647-1137.

December 6, 2009
6th Annual Rogers Santa Claus Parade. The first Sunday in December is the official date of the Rogers Santa Claus Parade. Santas early visit to Vancouver on Sunday, December 6th, 2009 is the perfect kick off to the holiday season! This years Rogers Santa Claus Parade will feature its largest ever number of marching bands, dance troupes, festive floats and community groups, which entertain over 300,000 spectators. Produced by Rogers Retail, Rogers Wireless and Rogers Radio, the televised Parade is the Lower Mainlands biggest winter event lining the streets of West Georgia and Howe. A very special part of the Rogers Santa Claus Parade is celebrating the Spirit of Giving. Each year, Rogers volunteers collect non-perishable food items and monetary donations on behalf of the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society. In the past five years, more than 46,000 lbs. of food and $150,000 in buying power has been collected from generous Parade audiences. www.rogerssantaclausparade.com

December 6, 2009
8th Annual Danny Burns Memorial "Feed the Hungry Benefit". A night of merriment and cheer to share with family and friends (all ages!) featuring a great lineup of local Celtic entertainment all in one venue and everyone's invited! Acts appearing this year will include: The Rogues & Tinkers, Blackthorn, B.C. Regiment Irish Pipes and Drums, The Streels, Copper Sky, Three Row Barley, Pat Chessel, Ballyhooley, The Irish Wakers and so much more! Lots of surprises and door prizes. Admission is $10 with all proceeds going to the Union Gospel Mission, an organization that brings hope and help to many of our city's less fortunate. Wolf and Hound, 3617 West Broadway, Vancouver; 604-738-8909.

December 6, 2009
Christmas Nature Walk, 1 –3pm. Enjoy a brisk guided walk along forested trails and discover winter wildlife in the park. Then join Burnaby Lake Park Association volunteers at the Nature House for complementary refreshments and to talk about the park’s natural history. This is a FREE family event with crafts available for children. Burnaby Lake Nature House – 4915 Piper Ave. (off Winston). 604-520-6442 or bbylakeparkassn@hotmail.com

December 6, 2009
FUSIÓN LATINA, Vancouver’s Latin American Choir conducted by Fabiana Katz, presents “NOCHEBUENA, A Christmas Celebration” with traditional folk music from Argentina, Perú, Puerto Rico and Venezuela, accompanied by some typical Latin American instruments. As special guests, KALLISTO TRIO with Fabiana Katz, Karen Mang and Edette Gagné, an incomparable a cappella trio experience for listeners everywhere, will delight the audience with new interpretations of some old familiar songs for the holiday season. Performances are at St. Mark's Anglican Church in St. Mark's Ocean Park, 12953 20th Avenue, Surrey, Sunday Dec 6th at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $15 and $18 at the door or $12 in advance/online at www.coralfusionlatina.ca

December 6, 2009
RETRO DESIGN & ANTIQUES FAIR. 175 tables and booths of fun, fabulous finds for you and your eclectic abode! Mid-century Modernist decor, vintage & estate jewelry, pop culture classics, boho & shabby chic accents, French country collectibles, old toys & dolls, retro glam accessories, decorative art pottery & glass, funky 50's kitsch, Art Deco & Art Nouveau, ephemera, paintings & prints, antiquarian books, textiles & linens, memorabilia, period lighting & fixtures, and much, much more...Plus Drop-In Appraisals All Day -- Call or Visit www.21cpromotions.com/antiques_fair/index.html for Full Details

December 6, 2009
The Host City Reads Joins the Rogers Santa Claus Parade. Come and wave to One Book, One Vancouver authors Linda Bailey and Janet Love Morrison as the Vancouver Public Library concludes its Host City Reads program with a special entry in the Rogers Santa Claus parade. Kids can convort with characters from Linda Bailey's 'The Farm Team' and some lucky parade watchers will receive a commenorative gift that will be lots of fun during the 2010 Winter Games to celebrate Janet's book 'The Crazy Canucks: Canada's Legendary Ski Team'. Library Board Trustees and staff look forward to seeing you all at the parade! Central Library Promenade, 350 W. Georgia St., 1 pm.

December 6 - 31, 2009
Christmas at Canada Place 2009: Making Spirits Bright. Canada Place's 3rd annual "Donate & Win" Holiday Contest helps feed kids in need. For every online donation of $5 to Strathcona Community Centre's Food Security for Children program, you are entered into the contest to win a trip for two to Jamaica from Air Canada Vacations & Sandals. Catch Canada Place's spectacular Christmas Light Show on the iconic sails from December 6 - 31. Breakfast with Santa on December

December 7, 2009
Jerry Wasserman. Vancouver Public Library and Blackbird Theatre present Professor Jerry Wasserman for a lecture speaking to the themes of self-deception disillusion in 20th-century American theatre. The lecture will look at instances where individuals and families find themselves let down, disillusioned or betrayed by "The American Dream", in works by playwrights such as Albee, Williams, O'Neill, Miller, Shepard and Mamet. Jerry Wasserman's anthology "Modern Canadian Plays" has become the major textbook in the field. He reviews plays for The Province newpaper and on his website www.vancouverplays.com. Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch 350 W. Georgia Street, 604-331-4040, www.vpl.ca

December 8 - 12, 2009
Sensation of Magic is back! From ordinary objects levitating through the air, to a paintbrush drawing your thoughts by itself, be prepared to witness the impossible from just a few feet away! Highlights include Vitaly’s attempt to escape from chains using only mind power and to read from an unfamiliar newspaper from 50 feet away! The feats in the show are entirely unique and cannot be seen anywhere else. They combine incredible illusions with story, music and audience participation. Five shows only. Space is limited to 60 people per show. Havana Theatre, 1212 Commercial Dr. Tickets are available online at www.sensationofmagic.com  as well as at Highlife Records - 1317 Commercial Dr.

December 9, 2009
Delta Nats Casual Birding Walk, 9am – 12pm. Join Tom Bearss and his informal birdwatchers for a 2 ½ hour ramble through the beautiful natural regional park overlooking Boundary Bay. Enjoy the abundance of resident and migratory inhabitants, including shorebirds, waterfowl, raptors, and smaller birds. Bring binoculars, if you have them. The outing will end with beverage and snack at the historic Cammidge House. 604-940-9296 or tom.bearss@dccnet.com

December 9 - 12, 2009
First Nations Stories - Newly Dramatized! Join First Nations Storyteller-in-Residence Amanda Nahanee and members of the Native Youth Artists Collective for their final rehearsal and performance of local Coast Salish legends and history. Ms Nahanee has been coaching and collaborating with these young artists throughout her residency, to convert and dramatize the stories into plays. This promises to be a one-of-a-kind presentation! (Admission is free. Space is limited. Co-sponsored by the Vancouver Foundation). Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch 350 W. Georgia Street, 604-331-4040, www.vpl.ca

December 9, 16, 2009
Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise. Slixer Entertainment & Vancouver Yacht Charters present their next interactive Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise around beautiful English Bay. Starring The Detective and six nefarious characters amongst your midst. The question is...who won't return!! Cruise, includes fun, mystery and a three course dinner. Tickets are $79 at Slixer.com, or call 604-737-1750.

December 10, 2009 to January 3, 2010
THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE. Gateway Theatre presents this 6-time Tony Award-winning musical featuring the energetic Millie, a cast of playful flappers, and a dragon-lady villainess! Tickets: $38 for adults/$25 for students/$35 each for groups of 10 or more. Call the Box Office at 604-270-1812 or visit www.gatewaytheatre.com for tickets. Dec.10-Jan.3. (Great for a family-friendly New Year’s Eve!)

December 10, 2009
David Suzuki: The Legacy Lecture. Based on the premise - if I had one last lecture to give, what would I say? - award-winning scientist and environmentalist Dr. David Suzuki presents a culmination of his life and work. David Suzuki: The Legacy Lecture is a fund-raiser for the David Suzuki Foundation and will be filmed live on location. Footage shot at this historic presentation will form a key part of a movie being made about Dr. Suzuki's life. The film is directed by Sturla Gunnarsson and produced by E1 and the National Film Board, in association with the CBC and Planet Green. In David Suzuki: The Legacy Lecture Dr. Suzuki will present the audience with a critical and candid exploration of our changed relationship with the planet and his ultimate hope for our enduring place in the future. Be part of the making of the movie, and Canadian film history, and support the great work of the David Suzuki Foundation. Tickets (at $50, $75, and $100) are available through the Chan Centre. www.davidsuzuki.org

December 10, 2009
Old Fashioned Musical Christmas at Fort Langley. Join in an evening of music and carols in a magical setting and relax with your friends around the bonfire. Enjoy the singing, share warm wishes with Santa, and sip hot chocolate. Please dress for the weather. Advance tickets available. For more info visit the website at https://www.pc.gc.ca/fortlangley.

December 11 - 12, 2009
Richmond Winter Hayride. When's the last time you've been on a community hayride? Can't remember! Well, run, don't walk - this is a very popular community event - to the Steveston Community Centre. The fee includes a mug of hot cocoa. Steveston Community Centre, 4111 Moncton St.; 604-718-8080.

December 11 - 24, 2009
The Vancouver Trolley Company’s Karaoke Christmas Lights Tour. The tour begins on December 11th and operates daily until Christmas Eve.  Upon pickup, guests will sing their way past the city lights of downtown before arriving at Bright Nights at Stanley Park.  After being given some time to walk through the light display and take in Stanley Park’s holiday magic, the tour will continue through local light displays on the way to the second stop of the evening, at VanDusen’s Botanical Garden.  Here guests will disembark once again to enjoy the Festival of Lights. 604.801 5515,www.vancouvertrolley.com

December 11 to 31, 2009
VanDusen Botanical Garden presents The Festival of Lights.  VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights is the best therapy we can think of to combat the winter blahs. It has proven effective in upping the fun quotient for extended families with multiple generations, dating couples as well as friends looking for something to do together. Running December 11th through January 3rd from 4:30 to 9 pm every night (except December 25th when the Garden is closed), Festival of Lights presents a dazzling wonderland illuminated by more than 1.4 million lights displayed over 10 acres of the Garden. https://www.vandusengarden.org

December 12, 2009
www.universal-laughter.com is bringing Laughology - the movie - to Vancouver for one day only!  Saturday, December 12th from 2:30 at Pacific Cinematheque (1131 Howe Street). Pay what you think it's worth, after the film. Because Laughter is hilarious!!

December 12, 2009
14th Annual Vancouver Farmers Markets Holiday Market.  The market takes place at the Croatian Cultural Centre on December 12 from 10am  6pm.  The venue will be filled with nearly 100 local producers, artisans and food preparers.  Admission is a $2 suggested donation and all proceeds benefit Vancouver’s Farmers Markets.  Market money is available on-site with a swipe of your debit card and market organizers also sell gift certificates valid for any of the Vancouver Farmers Markets. 604.879.FARM, www.eatlocal.org

December 12, 2009
Breakfast with Santa. Join us for a special breakfast, crafts, entertainment and best of all a visit from Santa himself. This event is an annual sell out so PLEASE purchase your tickets for adults and children in advance to ensure a seat. Sat Dec 12 9:00-11:00am, 15602.401WE $5/person. West End Community Centre, Auditorium; 604.257.8454

December 12, 2009
Home for the Holidays, 10am – 12pm. A winter’s day in Maplewood is always full on wonderful surprises as we search of waterfowl, shorebirds, and birds of the forest. Rain or shine. Free but donations are welcome.  Meet: The Conservation Area at Maplewood is located at 2645 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver – 2km east of the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge. Free!  Donations welcome! 604-538-8774

December 12, 2009
Santa Shops Sapperton & Wesgroup Christmas Tree Sale. Come join us Sat. Dec 12th 11am - 3pm for Wesgroup’s Christmas tree sale. All trees are freshly cut and are B.C. grown. The First 100 trees sold will include a free gift bag filled with items from sponsoring Sapperton businesses. There will be carolers, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, popcorn and Santa will be out for the event, greeting children & parents and visiting local businesses. Sapperton Plaza, 400 East Columbia St., New Westminster. For more information got to www.shopsapperton.com

December 12, 2009
Vancouver Philharmonic Orchestra Holiday Concert! Join the Vancouver Philharmonic Orchestra for our holiday concert -- www.vanphil.ca. Shaughnessy Heights United Church,  778-230-4027.

December 12, 2009
White Rock Horse & Carriage Rides. The BIA & the merchants offer gate crashing specials & carriage rides at 4 locations throughout the day. Starting Uptown & ending at West Beach. Free rides, entertainment all day, Santa hats & song books will be given away. 604-536-4958, https://www.whiterockbia.com

December 12 - 13, 2009
Yaletown Christmas Market. We will be showcasing unique and fun gifts for the holidays that represent Vancouver and Family from a diverse selection of vendors. Everything from handmade pottery to little fuzzy animal toys. Fun for everyone. 1268 Pacific Blvd. (LilliQ Cafe).

December 12 - 13, 2009
Holiday Market at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main St. Visit our ever popular Holiday Market. With nearly 100 vendors over 2 days, each day is unique and showcases the finest local craft, prepared food, and seasonal, fresh fare for all of your holiday needs. 604-879-3276, https://www.eatlocal.org

December 13, 2009
Birding with a Purpose, 1:30pm–3:30pm. Build your birding skills and witness the start of the fall migration as shorebirds, gulls and ducks begin to congregate in Boundary Bay. The trip will help with identification and counting techniques, and serve as an introduction to monitoring our bird populations. Bring binoculars if you have them. parking lot - corner of 12 Ave & Beach Grove Rd in Tsawwassen; free, 604-940-4696

December 13, 2009
Explore Sundays - St Roch.  Explore Sundays are an opportunity to take part in a special guided visit of a unique part of the Museum not normally open to the public. St Roch engine room tours is a guided tour of the engine room and main hold of RCMP Arctic Schooner. St Roch Tours are offered from noon to 4 pm and are included with admission to the Museum. 604) 257-8300

December 13, 2009
Free Family Christmas Concert, Laudate Singers. A lively and merry Christmas concert by Laudate Singers especially for young families. No tickets or "best behaviour" required!  St. Andrew’s United Church, North Vancouver. More information 604-729-6814 or www.laudatesingers.com

December 13, 2009
The Dance Allsorts 2009 season ends with a special treat - the Arts Umbrella Dance Company. This is a repertory company for select members of the professional dance program at Arts Umbrella. These young and upcoming professional dancers showcase innovative work by North America ’s leading choreographers. Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre; www.newworks.ca

December 13, 2009
University Community Children’s Choir Christmas Concert. Joyeux Noël: A Christmas Celebration with French Flair. Special Guest: UBC Women’s Choir. The University Community Children’s Choir (UCCC), under the direction of Charissa Bagan, hosts the UBC Women’s Choir for an enchanting evening of Christmas music with French flair. Hot chocolate and goodies will be served at intermission. Admission by donation. For more information: www.ucchoir.com or 778-737-1333. University Chapel, 5375 University Blvd.

December 16 - 17, 2009
CP Rail Holiday Train. The Holiday Train hits the rails in December visiting over 100 communities in 7 states and 6 provinces to raise food, money,$ awareness for local food banks. December 17, Agassiz 5:15 pm, Haney 7:45 pm, Port Moody 9:30 pm; 888-333-6370.

December 17, 2009
Barking Sphinx Performance and Coastal Jazz presents Peggy Lee's Film in Music . It was during the 2008 Time Flies series that Vancouver cellist and musical innovator Peggy Lee was inspired to create Film in Music. More specifically, it was the improvised solos by Evan Parker, Peter Evans and Mary Oliver on tenor sax, trumpet and viola respectively that started her thinking about the project.  Lee says, “I was struck by how, on one level such exploration can be so subtle and personal and yet on another level, be filled with such a sense of drama and suspense.” Ironworks Studio & Gallery. https://standingwave.ca

December 17 - 20, 2009
The Goh Ballet presents its World Premiere of The Nutcracker. Description: The Goh Ballet presents the world premiere of the beloved holiday classic 'The Nutcracker', December 17 to 19 at 7:30pm with a 2pm matinee on Dec. 19 & 20, 2009 at The Centre in Vancouver for the Performing Arts. The Nutcracker will feature Principal Dancers from the National Ballet of Canada, choreography by Anna-Marie Holmes, and new sets and costumes, all under the artistic coordination of Chan Hon Goh. Tickets start as low as $28, at Ticketmaster.ca, or 604-280-3311. Info: www.gohballet.com.

December 18, 2009
Celebrate the holidays with the 11th annual CP Holiday Train. Grab scarves, mitts and a non-perishable food item and head down to the 11th annual CP Holiday Train. Port Moody is the last stop on the train’s cross-Canada journey, which raises donations for food banks across the country.  Entertainment in the Queens St. Plaza starts at 8pm and kicks off with the big, brassy Port Moody Community Band. Last year, this ensemble braved -14 degree temperatures (with bare hands!) to play a great set of classic and contemporary Christmas carols. Following them are the Broadway Young Stars Advanced from Lindbjerg Academy , a musical theatre troupe that definitely knows their holiday tunes. We’ve also got Port Moody Fire and Rescue on board to light up the night with a crackling bonfire. Queens St. Plaza ( Clarke St. and Queens St. ) in Port Moody. 8pm, 604-469-4612.

December 18, 2009
Polar PJ Party. Put on your cosiest PJs and join us for our Polar PJ Party with a night of family adventure at TELUS World of Science. Explore our feature exhibition, The Geee! in Genome, then settle in with popcorn and juice in the Science Theatre for a showing of The Polar Express. 604-443-7500, www.telusworldofscience.com/vancouver

December 19, 2009
Birds Walk at the Mouth of the Little Campbell River, 9-11am. Discover the birds that make the mouth of the Little Campbell River home with naturalist Lynn Pollard. For beginners to intermediate birders. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them. Wear comfortable waterproof foot wear, dress warmly. Rain or shine. FREE. 604-501-5158.

December 19 - 31, 2009
Twelve Days of Christmas. During Twelve Days of Christmas, the Museum features a break from the busy holidays with self-guided crafts for kids and festive decorations. Celebrate the season with learning and sharing at the Vancouver Maritime Museum and help provide safe harbour for those in need. With a non-perishable food bank donation, children under ten receive free admission (maximum of two free children when accompanied by a paid adult). From Saturday, December 19 to Sunday, January 3, the Maritime Museum will be open every day from 10 am to 5pm. Exceptions are Sundays, open from noon to 5pm, December 24, open from 10 am to 2 pm and closed on December 2. (604) 257-8300.

December 20, 2009
Six Censational Sundays presents Charlotte Diamond & the Hug Bug Band - Holiday Delight Concert. For over 20 years, Charlotte Diamond has been charming North American audiences with her delightful sing-a-long concerts. One of the most popular children’s entertainers in Canada, Charlotte’s music is fun and sing-able, inspiring children to care for each other and to celebrate our diverse cultural mosaic. Centennial Theatre, North Vancouver;  604-984-4484, https://www.cente

December 20, 2009
Stories for Adults: Listen! Laugh! Enjoy. Too much! Stories of Gluttony, one of the Seven Deadly Sins. $7 on Sunday, Dec 20th at 7 pm. Featured tellers; book table; intermission: tea by donation; treats by pot luck. 1805 Larch / 2nd Ave; enter alley off St Mark's, Kits; 604-683-1575.

December 21, 2009
Winter Solstice Celebration. A time when friends and family gather, exchange gifts, eat, drink, and laugh into the night to mark winter ending and spring approaching. Follow the sea of hand-made lanterns and the compelling rhythms of drummers to our magical Garden. https://www.vancouverchinesegarden.com

December 21, 2009
Winter Solstice. Come celebrate Winter Solstice in the West End!The word solstice literally means sun standing still. On Monday, December 21st, at the moment of the winter solstice, the path of the sun in the sky over the past six months has reached its furthest southern position and now turns northward. Worldwide, interpretation of the event has varied from culture to culture, but most cultures have held a recognition of rebirth, involving holidays, festivals, gatherings, rituals or other celebrations around that time. How cultures interpret the solstice is varied, some people value the range of December celebrations, because it is evidence of diversity of belief within our common humanity. Come join us to celebrate with lanterns, music, dance and ice skating at our event. West End Community Centre, 604.257.8454.

December 25, 2009
Critical Mass in Vancouver; Critical Mass is a grassroots reclamation of public space -- a bike ride and skate -- held the last Friday of every month. You are invited to enjoy the safety and comfort in the car-free space that we create by simply riding together! Bicycles, skateboards, rollerskates, self propelled couches, and any other form of human powered locomotion are all welcomed! We ride around the city wherever people want to go - this is decided collectively - the length of the ride depends on enthusiasm and is also collectively decided. No one who comes is forced to or needs to break the law in order to participate.  Meet 5 to 5:30 at the Vancouver Art Gallery, leave at 6pm; Critical Mass in Vancouver (https://www.bikesexual.org/cm/)

December 26 - 31, 2009
The 29th Annual Richmond International Midget Hockey Tournament starts December 26th and ends December 31st, 2009. This six day Tournament is considered to be one of the premier Midget Tournaments on the west coast of North America. Six Days 60 teams 164 games. The Tournament is held at the Richmond Ice Centre, 14140 Triangle Rd, Richmond. Games daily start at 7:30AM and end at 10:00PM all games are free. For more information go to https://midgethockeytournament.home

Ongoing to December 6, 2009
Aladdin Panto Fun for the whole Family! Looking for a family friendly outing to begin the holiday season? Over the last 24 years the Fraser Valley Gilbert and Sullivan Society’s annual musical panto has entertained literally tens of thousands of youngsters and their families. This year’s magical production of Aladdin promises to be the group’s biggest and brightest yet. Will Aladdin save Princess So Posh from the evil Abanazar? What will happen to the Genie and his magic lamp? Join them, along with Widow Twankey, Wishee Washee, Swanki Poo and other hilarious panto characters, as they whisk you away to a whole new world of laughs, toe-tapping tunes, lively dancing and general panto mayhem. For more information visit the Fraser Valley Gilbert & Sullivan Society’s website at www.fvgss.org;

Ongoing to December 12, 2009
Christmas in Williams Park in the Township of Langley returns this year with a captivating display of lights, decorations, and displays set amongst the natural beauty of the park's greenery and walk-ways. Contact information: www.tol.bc.ca/ciwp or call 604.534.3211

Ongoing to December 13, 2009
Calvin Hunt Canoe at the UBC Museum of Anthropology.  A magnificent 38-ft canoe carved by Calvin Hunt will be on display in Gallery 3, adjacent to the Great Hall. Born in 1956, Hunt is the youngest son of Kwagu’l hereditary chief Thomas Hunt, and grandson of renowned carver Mungo Martin and grandmother, Abayah. Born into a wealth of traditional knowledge, Calvin started carving at the age of 12. He continues working with wood, as well as silkscreening, jewelry-making, and stone carving. https://www.moa.ubc.ca/exhibits/upcoming_exhibits.php

January 1, 2010
Polar Bear Swim. The Vancouver Polar Bear Swim Club is one of the largest and oldest Polar Bear Clubs in the world. Its initial swim was in 1920 when a small number of hardy swimmers took the plunge into English Bay on New Year's Day. Led by their founder, Peter Pantages, the swim has grown from around 10 swimmers in that year to the record number of 2,128 official entries in 2000. Today, the swim takes place at 2:30pm on the first day of each new year. Costumes and the Peter Pantages Memorial 100 yard swim race are the highlights of this event. 604-665-3418,https://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/parks/

Ongoing to January 2, 2010
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.  This splendidly theatrical invention preserves all the magic of the twentieth century's best-loved fantasy classic. 604.731.5518, www.pacifictheatre.org

Ongoing to January 31, 2009
Public Ice Skating at Robson Square. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Robson Square is British Columbia’s home for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Starting Tuesday, November 24, GE Plaza will be open for free public skating from Noon to 9PM every day. Rentals are $3 and include helmets for those 12 and under.

Ongoing until February 28, 2009
Museum of Vancouver presents Ravishing Beasts. Displaying the Museum’s extensive collection of taxidermy for the first time in decades, Ravishing Beasts investigates this provocative and strangely alluring practice. Whether a hoarding of exotic curiosities, a scientific archive, a hunting trophy, or a stuffed pet, taxidermy always exposes longings to capture animals and tell stories about their significance within human lives. www.museumofvancouver.ca

Ongoing
Beat Street Community Drum Circle.  Enjoy call-and-response songs from around the world, rhythm games and hand drumming with the freedom to try out a huge selection of percussion instruments and toys.Jericho Hill Centre, 4196 West 4th Ave.; Every Sunday 3-5 pm, www.lylepovah.com, 604 736-6487

Ongoing
Community Lunch.  A free lunch of soup and sandwiches is offered weekly in North Vancouver in a safe, friendly, wheelchair accessible place where you can share a free meal with children, youth and adults. All are welcomed!  St. Andrew's United Church, 1044 St. Georges, North Vancouver; 604-985-0408, www.st-andrews-united.ca1

Ongoing
For the last 12 years I've been running a non-profit organization in Delta called Air Time Canada.  We offer a free Aviation Camp where kids (and adults) learn how to co-pilot an airplane and get a chance to try it out for real.  It's completely free, in that we cover the cost of the ground school, food, flights, fuel, instructors, etc.  Participants do have to pay for their own classroom supplies.  You can find out a lot more at: https://www.airfun.org  David Black, Director, Air Time Canada;

Ongoing
MR DANCE in Vancouver - Social and ballroom dancing every Sunday and Tuesday.  We are teaching dancing since 1991.   Admission: $8.00 for a group lesson and a dance.  No partner required.  No membership.   Learn to dance like the Stars in 2009.  FREE ticket for new people every Tuesday.  Location: Vancouver, Astorino's Hall, 1739 Venables Street.  Visit www.MrDance.ca or call Esie at 604 436 4436 for more information.

Ongoing
The Deeley Motorcycle Exhibition is now presenting the “End of Empire”. This shows the rise and fall of the British motorcycle industry and what caused it. There are 60 antique and vintage motorcycle on display in an exhibition setting. It is open seven days a week. The hours are Monday to Friday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM and Sunday 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Tours are available on request. Admission is by donation. The Exhibition is located at 1875 Boundary Road and 2nd Avenue in Vancouver BC . For more information call 604 293 2221. www.deeleymotorcycleexhibition.ca

Ongoing
Totems - Silent Messengers of the West Coast.  Visit the largest and most diverse collection of totem poles Vancouver has seen and pay homage to this ancient icon in Pacific Northwest Coast native culture, known as the silent messenger. Coastal Peoples Fine Arts, 1024 Mainland St., Vancouver; 604.685.9248, https://www.coastalpeoples.com

Ongoing
Vancouver Public Library presents OPEN MIKE FOR TEENS.  Are you tired of singing in the shower or reading poetry to your cat? We are too and we're here to do something about it! On the first Monday of every month between October and June, teens are invited to come on stage in the Peter Kaye room at Central Library and do their thing!  Anything goes, from stories to poetry to songs. It can be your own material or someone else's. It doesn't matter who wrote it, we wanna hear it.  Library Square, 604.331.3691.










Questions about this site?
Submit an activity idea to us?
Send e-mail to: Kelmar

Back to top of page

copyright (C) Triple F Family Adventures 2009