holiday celebrations, parades, festivals and parties 2011
By jewel on November 18, 2011 | Filed Under events
Do you love all the holiday celebrations every year? From tree lightings, to Santa parades, to hay rides and parties, there’s so many special things to do. I love looking at all of last year’s photos and remembering all the events we enjoyed. This list will keep you in the know about all the parties and celebrations I’ve found in the lower mainland, so you can maximize your celebrations (and photo ops!).
You’ll find all of this year’s holiday events organized by date, in hopes that it will help you make all the best plans. And please, if you know of an event that I’ve missed, let me know and I’ll add it in!
Check out our other holiday events lists for breakfast with Santa, trains, lights, and other ongoing events, crafts, storytimes, and activities, craft fairs and markets, santas at a mall near you, and skates, swims, walks and other physical activities.
Please double check any events before you head out to them, because sometimes events get changed or canceled and we’d hate for you to make a trip somewhere and find no event!
Looking for updates listings? Keep your eyes out for this image:
Saturday, November 19th
Guess Who’s Coming to Central City
9 am – 1 pm, between The Brick and Tim Hortons, Central City Mall, 10153 King George Boulevard, Surrey
Santa is making his big arrival at Central City Mall this weekend. The celebrations starts with a pancake breakfast at 9 am, and there will be caroling, face painting, balloon animals, crafts and other fun stuff to occupy kids until Santa arrives at 11 am. The breakfast is by donation, with proceeds going to the Surrey Christmas Bureau’s Adopt-a-family program.
Santa Arrives at Lougheed Town Centre
10:30 am, Lougheed Town Centre, Austin Avenue & North Road, Burnaby
Santa is working his magic and also arriving at Lougheed Town Centre this Saturday. There will be stories and signing, letters with Santa, photos with Santa, and with some extra magic, it will snow in Santa’s wonderland!
Santa Arrives at Cottonwood Mall
11 am, Cottonwood Mall, 45585 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack
Join Cottonwood Mall as they welcome the big guy in red. Families can follow Santa into the mall for a visit. The first 300 visitors will receive a coupon to paint a candy dish at Color Me Mine.
Santa’s Arrival at Coquitlam Centre
Noon, Coquitlam Centre, 2929 Barnet Highway, Coquitlam
Santa’s Chief Elf is welcoming him to Coquitlam Centre. There will be a parade to Santaland with free treats and jingle bells. Coquitlam Centre will be donating $1 to charity for each child who visits Santa today.
Candy or Coal
Noon – 4 pm, Clayburn Comforts, 34866 Clayburn Road, Abbotsford
Enjoy live entertainment, sales, giveaways and complimentary reflexology (courtesy of Sole to Soul Holistics) and Colour Energy Analysis Treatments (courtesy of Lisa Ayres). This is a free event.
Sunday, November 20th
Cannor Nursery Annual Christmas Open House
Noon – 5 pm, Cannor Nursery, 34261 Marshall Road, Abbotsford
Come get some holiday inspiration while enjoying a mug of hot mulled cider or fair trade organic coffee. There will be decorating demonstrations at 1:30 om, 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm.
Thursday, November 24th
Lighting the Douglas Park Tree
5:30 pm – 7 pm, Douglas Park Community Centre, 801 West 22nd Ave, Vancouver
Bring the whole family to watch the annual lighting of the Douglas Park tree. You’ll make a lantern, carry it through a labyrinth, and then watch the lighting. Tickets required, please purchase in advance.
Turning On of the 2011 Lights of Hope Display
6:30 pm – 7 pm, Burrard Street between Helmcken and Davie, Vancouver
The Lights of Hope Display is aholiday tradition in Vancouver. Come celebrate as the lights are lit for the first time.
Friday, November 25th
Fort Langley Community Christmas Tree Lighting
6 pm – 8 pm, Fort Langley Community Hall, 9167 Glover Road, Fort Langley
Santa will make his arrival at the Bedford Landing dock, and you can meet him there and then walk with him to the community hall. There will be treats from Tim Horton’s, caroling, and the lighting of the Christmas tree. Oh, and of course you get to see Santa!
Saturday, November 26th
Santa Arrives
10:30 am, Brentwood Town Centre, 4567 Lougheed Highway, Burnaby
Rock and Roll children’s entertainer Tony Prophet helps celebrate Santa;s arrival. The fun starts at 10:30 am, and the Big Guy arrives at 11 am. The fun will be happening in the London Drugs Court.
Santa Arrives
11 am, Park Royal Mall, Corner Taylor Way & Marine Drive, West Vancouver
Park Royal Mall welcomes Santa and his elves, and there will be dancing and free face painting to celebrate. The first 100 kids to sit on Santa’s knee today get a free copy of ‘The Night Before Christmas.’ While you are there, check out the holiday colouring contest and Roger’s Chocolates holiday draw.
The Capilano Mall Sugar Festival
11 am – 3 pm, Capilano Mall, 935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver
Santa arrives to his Candy Wonderland home for the season, and the mall is celebrating There will be gingerbread cookies to decorate, face painting, crafts, and other activities. There will be musical guests at 11 am and 1 pm. The first 50 children to visit with Santa get a free large whirly pop.
Santa Arrives
Noon, Valley Fair Mall, 22709 Lougheed Highway, Maple Ridge
Children’s entertainer Ray Medway will be helping Santa magically appear in the mall. All children will receive a special treat (while supplies last).
Dundarave Christmas Fair
Noon – 6 pm, Dundarave Beach, West Vancouver
Come and enjoy a fabulously festive and free concert in the Longhouse at Dundarave beach. There will be hundreds of trees being decorated to create a magical forest of Christmas trees on the beach. All the trees will be lit at dusk.
9th Annual Edmonds Santa Claus Parade
1 pm – 4 pm, Richmond Park, 7435 Edmonds Street, Burnaby, BC
This parade is a big hit every hear. You’ll enjoy floats, lights, and Santa himself. After the parade there will be hot dogs, hot chocolate, crafts, games and more.
2nd Annual Edmonds Festival of Lights
2 pm – 5 pm, Edmonds Centre, 7282 Kingsway Burnaby
Bring the family to watch as the huge tree on the corner of Kingsway and Edmonds comes to light for the holidays. There will be cookies, cocoa, and entertainment for all ages.
Sunday, November 27th
Family Fun Day
Sunday, November 27th, 10 am – 2 pm, Krause Berry Farms, 6179 248 Street, Langley
Krause Berry Farms is not just a berry farm, it’s also a Christmas tree farm. They’re celebrating the season with a family day, so head out to enjoy the smell of pine trees, the sights of Mrs. Clause and a LEGO tree being built before your eyes, and the tastes of hot chocolate, cider, and goodies. Bring your camera for lots of holiday photo ops!
Wednesday, November 30th
Kid’s Shopping Night
5 pm – 8 pm, Coquitlam Centre, 2929 Barnet Highway, Coquitlam
This special shopping night is a great way for kids to have some Christmas fun and get a bit of their own holiday shopping done. Kids can come in PJs and enjoy holiday stations including cookie decorating, crafts, face painting, letters to Santa, and much more. The night starts with a parade and there will be opportunities to get photo with the mascots. There will be prizes all night for kids in PJs.
Lighting of Aberthau
6 pm – 7:30 pm, Aberthau Main Floor, West Point Grey Community Centre, 4397 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver
This free event will get your and hour family into the holiday spirit. There will be entertainment, snacks and crafts to help decorate Aberthau. The grand finale, at about 7 pm, is when everyone gathers outside to see the lights go on.
Thursday, December 1st
A Magical Christmas at the Mollie Nye House
Thursday, December 1st, 6 pm – 8 pm, Mollie Nye House, 940 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver
Head to Mollie Nye House for a magical evening including a lantern parade, stories, crafts, carols and fun. You will also see the lights switched on for the first time.
Santa’s Coming to Morgan Crossing
6 pm – 9 pm, The Shops at Morgan Crossing, 15765 Croydon Drive, Surrey
Celebrate Santa’s arrival to Morgan Crossing with liver entertainment, cookies and crafts. Kids can get photos with the Big Guy, and so can your pets!
Friday, December 2nd
Amacon Tree Lighting Celebration
5:30 pm, Vancouver Art Gallery (Georgia Street Side), Vancouver
Head down to the Art Gallery to celebrate the lighting of a fifty foot Christmas tree. There will be live music and special appearances from members of the BC Lions, Bro Jake from Rock 101, and even Santa Clause. This event is free.
A Pitt Meadows Christmas
6 pm – 8 pm, 12007 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows
Come celebrate the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree. There will be hot dogs, apple cider and hot chocolate, entertainment and activities. This event is free.
Tinsel, Trees and Treasure
6 pm – 8 pm, Parkgate Community Centre, 3625 Banff Court, North Vancouver
There will be crafts to do, cookies to decorate, hot chocolate to drink and games to be played at this all-in-one Holiday event. Carolers will serenade youre evening, and you can stroll through a craft fair put on by the Senior’s Centre and a pottery studio sale.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Children’s Christmas Parade
7 pm, corner of 48th Avenue & Delta Street, Ladner
Come enjoy carolers singing as the Christmas tree is lit for the first time at 7 pm. Stick around for the children’s parade that happens at 7:30 pm, and travels along 48th street and Delta street. Kids of all ages can participate in the parade by decorating their motor-free rides, from bikes to wagons to strollers. To participate, head to the parade meeting place (just off of 48th in front of Johnny’s Market) at 7:15.
Broadway Church’s Singing Christmas Tree
7:30 pm, Broadway Church, 2700 East Broadway, Vancouver
The singing Christmas tree combines choral singing, orchestra music, drama and dance in a Christmas performance unlike any other. This year’s piece tells the tale of a young couple who learns that there are blessings in everything in life, even those things that cause us pain. This performance is designed with the entire family in mind. Tickets are free, but pick them up soon before they are gone.
Saturday, December 3rd
Winter Celebration
9 am – Noon, 200 Newport Drive, Port Moody
Newport Village merchants are partnering with Make-A-Wish Foundation for a toy drive. Bring an unwrapped toy and receive a free pancake breakfast, take a photo with Santa, and stroll the village. You can also enter to win a shopping spree.
Santa’s Workshop
9:30 am – 11:30 am, South Arm Community Centre, 8880 Williams Rd, Richmond
Kids can visit Santa’s workshop where they will play games, decorate a cookie and listen to holiday music. The will also visit Santa where they will be given a goodie bag. Pre-registration is required.
Christmas Carnival
10 am – Noon, Coal Harbour Community Centre, 480 Broughton Street, Vancouver
Kids aged 2 to 6 can come for a magical winter wonderland where they will do holiday crafts play holiday games, and maybe see a special someone. Pre-registration and parent participation is required.
Sinterklaas
10 am – 3:30 pm, The Holland Shopping Centre, 141 East Columbia Street, New Westminster
Sinterklaas is visiting again this year, and you can bring the family for pictures and presents. Be sure to pre-register if you;d like your little ones to be given a gift.
Winter Wander in Vanier Park
10am–5pm, Vanier Park, 1000 Chestnut Street, Vancouver
The six cultural centres of Vanier Park have come together to creat an incredible experience for you and your family. For only $5 ( and kids under 16 free) you can visit Bard on the Beach, City of Vancouver Archives, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, Museum of Vancouver, Vancouver Academy of Music, and the Vancouver Maritime Museum. There will be vendors and performers in the park, and there are prizes to be had!
The ‘Wake Up Santa’ Party
10 am – 5 pm, Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall, 1299A 56th Street, Tsawwassen
Come right at 10 am for the offocial ‘wake up Santa’ ceremony. Then, use your own camera for photos with Santa until Noon, or wait until after 1 pm when professional shots will be on sale. There will be Christmas craft tent, gingerbread walk, and Christmas cartoons.
Cookies & Crafts
Noon – 4 pm, Grand Court, Capilano Mall, 935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver
Bring the kids for face painting, special holiday balloon creations, cookie decorating, a candy cane walk and a bouncy castle.
Dundarave Nativity and Paddle Songs
Noon – Dusk, Dundarave Beach, West Vancouver
There’s quite a line-up of live music for this Saturday at Dundarave Beach. You can listen to the music while strolling through a unique forest of Christmas trees on the beach. If you miss the music, you can still enjoy the trees nightly until January.
Imaginarius Fantasticus
Noon – 7 pm, 88 West Pender Street, Vancouver
It’s a Christmas Faire re-imagined and magical, complete with live entertainment, jugglers, contortionists, and more. There is a special kids area where your little one can make a Wizard hat, make a door sign (warning, guarded by dragons!) and much more. Unlike any other event you’ll find this Christmas, there will still be candy canes and Santa!
Pioneer Christmas
1 pm – 3 pm, Langley Centennial Museum, 9135 King Street, Fort Langley
Bring your littles ones for an afternoon of holiday celebrations. There will be cookie decorating, holiday crafts, stories, toys and a visit from Saint Nick.
Friends Christmas Party and Mini-Trees Sale
1 pm – 4 pm, White Rock Library, 15342 Buena Vista, White Rock
The library has a unique display of hand-decorated mini trees, and they will be sold via silent auction during this Christmas party. There will be entertainment and refreshments, too! All proceeds from the trees supports the library.
Community Christmas Party
2 pm – 4 pm, The Salvation Army Church, 15417 Roper Avenue, White Rock
Come one come all for Christmas games, music, food, and a visit from Santa. This is a free event open to everyone, and parent or guardians must attend with children.
City Centre Winter Carnival
2 pm – 5 pm, City Centre Community Centre, Anderson School location, 9460 Alberta Road, Richmond
Bring your kids aged 2 to 9 for games, crafts, live music, tasty treats and a photo with Santa. Parent participation and pre-registration is required.
Courtyard Christmas
2 pm – 5 pm, Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall, 1299A 56th Street, Tsawwassen
Choirs will be singing, there will be cookies to eat and decorations to make, and Santa will drop by. All of this is happening under the glass roof by Rona, but dress warmly because it is outdoors. There will be goodie bags and the first 100 children will get $5 free Tsawwassen Dollars.
Christmas in Steveston Village
2 pm – 6 pm, Steveston Village, Richmond
Santa arrives at Fisherman’s Wharf, nautical style, aboard a whale watching boat, while horse drawn carriages carry you around the village lit with lights. You’ll find unique holiday shopping in stores all decked for the season, and the day ends with the lighting of the tree in Fisherman’s Park.
Mayor Watt’s Tree Lighting Ceremony
2 pm – 9 pm, tree lighting at 5 pm, Central City Mall, 10153 King George Boulevard, Surrey
The largest Christmas tree in BC will be at Central City this year, on loan from the City of Surrey while the new City Hall is being prepared. This fifty foot tree has over 64,000 lights and a four foot star. Come see the official lighting ceremony with Mayor Watts. There will be live entertainment all afternoon and at 5 pm the mayor and city council will join Frosty and Santa to light the tree.
Light up the Heights Kick-Off
3 pm – 5 pm, Burnaby Heights Fountain Square corner of Hastings Street & MacDonald Street, Burnaby
Come kick off the season with carollers, warm drinks, kids activities and special guests, all under the beautifully lit Christmas tree in Burnaby Heights.
Broadway Church’s Singing Christmas Tree
3 pm & 7 pm, Broadway Church, 2700 East Broadway, Vancouver
The singing Christmas tree combines choral singing, orchestra music, drama and dance in a Christmas performance unlike any other. This year’s piece tells the tale of a young couple who learns that there are blessings in everything in life, even those things that cause us pain. This performance is designed with the entire family in mind. Tickets are free, but pick them up soon before they are gone.
Christmas Parade of Lights
4 pm, Columbia Street, Downtown New Westminster
Kick of the season with a parade of lights and stay to watch the tree lighting ceremony. This is a free event but you are encouraged to bring non-perishable food or an unwrapped gift to be distributed to local charities.
Maple Ridge Christmas in the Park and Santa Parade
4 pm – 6 pm, Memorial Peace Park, 11900 224th Avenue, Maple Ridge
Don’t miss this annual Christmas celebration in the park. You’ll find holiday lights, live music and caroling, free photos with Santa, and free hot chocolate. Dress warmly, and bring a lawnchair and a mug.
Collingwood Winter Carnival & Christmas Tree Lighting Festival
4 pm – 8 pm, Safeway parking lot, Corner of Tyne and Kingsway, Vancouver
There’s loads of fun to be had today in the big tent in the Safeway parking lot. There will be a tree lighting ceremony at 5 pm, photos with Santa from 5:30 pm – 7 pm, live performances all afternoon, and it all wraps up with a holiday movie and popcorn.
Light up the Square: A Lantern Affair!
4:30 pm – 7:30 pm, Carré Heritage Square, 1120 Brunette Ave, Coquitlam
Bring the whole family for arts and crafts, entertainment, and tast food. This annual, free event is hosted by Place des Arts, Mackin House Museum and Gare de Fraser Mills Station.
Christmas Festival
5 pm – 8 pm, The Shipyards at the foot of Lonsdale, North Vancouver
The shipyards will be a-glow with sparkling lights, live performances, activities and treats. Live music starts at 5 pm, the tree will be lit at 5:30 pm, and Santa will arrive at 6:30 pm. Kids can visit Santa from 6:45 om to 8 pm, and also take part in some fun activities like decorating a gingerbread man or making a bug lantern. Crafts are by donation. There will be free hot chocolate, coffee, and cookies.
Magic of Christmas Parade
6 pm, Fraser Highway between 56th avenue and 207 street, Downtown Langley
This annual Christmas Parade brings families and the community together to celebrate the holidays. Starting at the corner of 56th Avenue and Fraser Highway, the parade heads right through Downtown Langley, along Fraser Highway, and ends at 207th street. Last year there were over 50 entries, from floats to bands to dance troupes to horses, and this year will be even better!
Magic of Christmas Country Christmas
6:30 pm, Douglas Recreation Centre, 20550 Douglas Crescent, Langley, BC
Come visit with Santa and Mris Claus, then enjoy a hayride while enjoying some Christmas Carols.
Sunday, December 4th
Imaginarius Fantasticus
Noon – 7 pm, 88 West Pender Street, Vancouver
It’s a Christmas Faire re-imagined and magical, complete with live entertainment, jugglers, contortionists, and more. There is a special kids area where your little one can make a Wizard hat, make a door sign (warning, guarded by dragons!) and much more. Unlike any other event you’ll find this Christmas, there will still be candy canes and Santa!
Coast Capital Savings Christmas Square
11 am – 4 pm, Thurlow Street between West Georgia and Melville, Vancouver
While you’re downtown for the Santa parade to start, bring your kids to enjoy face painting, balloon twisting, and a gingerbread tent. They can also write letters to Santa, enjoy some live entertainment, and more.
Free Santa Photos in Yaletown
Noon – 4 pm, Yaletown Popup Shop, 1012 Mainland Street, Vancouver
Yaletown Photography is offering free photos with Santa for kids,a nd also for puppies! There will also be free gift wrapping and gingerbread cookie decorating.
Rogers Santa Claus Parade
1 pm – 2:30 pm, West Georgia St At Broughton Street, Vancouver
Kick off the holiday season with this annual parade of bands, floats, dance troupes, community groups, and of course, Santa. This is the lower mainland’s biggest winter event, attracting over 300,000 spectators plus those who watch it on television. Come early, and consider taking the bus, because parking will be scarce.
Christmas Open House
1 pm – 3 pm, Burnaby Lake Nature House, 4519 Piper Avenue, Burnaby
Come see what the Burnaby Lake Nature House has to offer. There will be a guided winter walk, followed by complimentary refreshments. Dress for the weather!
Santa Comes to Cammidge
1 pm – 3 pm, Cammidge House, Boundary Bay Regional Park, Delta
Bring the family (and your cameras) to enjoy some holiday treats and visit with Santa.
Abbotsford’s 22nd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
1 pm – 5 pm, Essendene and West Railway, Abbotsford
Hit up downtown Abbotsford to browse the shops and visit with Santa and Mrs Clause. Then stick around to enjoy the lighting of the tree.
Broadway Church’s Singing Christmas Tree
3 pm & 7 pm, Broadway Church, 2700 East Broadway, Vancouver
The singing Christmas tree combines choral singing, orchestra music, drama and dance in a Christmas performance unlike any other. This year’s piece tells the tale of a young couple who learns that there are blessings in everything in life, even those things that cause us pain. This performance is designed with the entire family in mind. Tickets are free, but pick them up soon before they are gone.
Santa Parade Lights Up Cloverdale
5:00 pm, Cloverdale Town Centre, Cloverdale
This parade includes traditional parade attractions like marchign bands and horses, but is joined by an amazing lighted truck parade unlike any other. Starts at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds parking lot, then heads down 176A Street, and along 58A avenue.
Osprey Village Christmas Tree Lighting
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm, Osprey Village, at the south end of Bonson Road, Pitt Meadows
Come for carols, crafts, and warm beverages while celebrating the lighting of the tree in Osprey Village. There will also be a visit from The Bug Guy!
Chanukah Celebration
7:45 pm, Vancouver Art Gallery, 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver
Chanuka is a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness, and it will be celebrated this weekend by lighting the tallest candelabra in Canada. Head to the art gallery, where there will be a 45-minute program, including the lighting of the candelabra, followed by a party on the 2nd floor including treats.
Monday, December 5th
Lighting the Fire Hall
3:30 pm – 5 pm, Hamilton Fire Hall, 22451 Westminster Highway, Richmond
The community comes together for an evening of holiday activities, entertainment and light refreshments, and wraps it all up with the turning on of the light display at the fire hall.
Tuesday, December 6th
Festive Tree Lighting
6:30 pm, tree lighting at 7:30, Dunbar Community Centre, 4747 Dunbar Street, Vancouver
Come to decorate, carol, drink hot chocolate and eat cookies. There will be Christmas crafts and other fun to be had. This event is free.
Christmas Concert
7 pm – 9 pm, Ladner Community Centre, 4734 51 Street, Delta
Come enjoy an evening of Christmas favourites with the Delta Concert Band, the Delta Music Makers and the Delta Secondary School Chamber Choir. Be prepared to sing along!
Wednesday, December 7th
Decorate Sunset
5 pm – 7 pm, Sunset Community Centre, 6810 Main Street, Vancouver
You can be part of transforming Sunset into a winter wonderland, as you help set up the 12 foot tree. There will be an artist to lead the decorating, and light refreshments will be served. Pre-registration is required.
Thursday, December 8th
Vancouver Italian Cultural Centre Society Christmas Concert and Market
5 pm market opens, 7 pm concert, Italian Cultural Centre, 3075 Slocan Street, Vancouver
Come celebrate the season and maybe get a little shopping done to at the Christmas market. Stick around for the inauguration of the Nativity Scene at 6:30 pm, and the Christmas concert at 7 pm. And don’t forget to pick up some panettone while you are there!
16th Annual Seasonal Celebration
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, 6450 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Celebrate the season with dance, music, and family activites. This event is free.
Friday, December 9th
Kinder Cafe Christmas Party!
Friday, December 9, 10am – 2pm, Kinder Cafe, 112-2020 Oxford Connector, Port Coquitlam
Holiday party season is upon us, and Kinder Cafe is helping you celebrate. Bring the kids for a live performance by Joyelle Brandr at aa am. There will also be ornaments to decorate, corals to sing, and candycanes to eat. There will also be cocoa and eggnog lattes. The event is only $7.99, and non-perishable food donations are gratefully accepted.
Vancouver Tree Lighting
5:30 pm – 7 pm, Jack Poole Plaza, Vancouver Convention Centre, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Heralded as the largest tree lighting ceremony in Western Canada, this evening of lights, signing, and special guests is not to be missed. You’ll see some members of the BC Lions, local radio hosts, and Canadian legend Rich Hansen.
O Christmas Tree Light Up Ceremony
5:30 pm – 7 pm, South-West corner of Kingsway and Broadway
Gather near the big tree on Kingsway and Broadway to watch it light up for the first time. There will be free hot chocolate and candy canes courtesy of the Mount Pleasant BIA, a visit from Santa, and live entertainment.
Winter Hayride
5:30 pm – 9 pm, Steveston Community Centre, 4111 Moncton Street, Richmond
You can hitch a ride on a hay wagon all around the Village of Steveston. There will be holiday music and light displays. Price includes hot chocolate and a photo with Santa. Kids under a year are free. Be sure to dress warmly and maybe bring a blanket. Trips leave every half hour.
Bloedel Conservatory Jewel Box of Lights Opening Event
6 pm – 9 pm, Bloedel Conservatory, Queen Elizabeth Park, 4600 Cambie Street, Vancouver
The Jewel Box of Lights opens tonight with a special visit from Santa and the sounds of a quartet singing.
Broadway Church’s Singing Christmas Tree
7:30 pm, Broadway Church, 2700 East Broadway, Vancouver
The singing Christmas tree combines choral singing, orchestra music, drama and dance in a Christmas performance unlike any other. This year’s piece tells the tale of a young couple who learns that there are blessings in everything in life, even those things that cause us pain. This performance is designed with the entire family in mind. Tickets are free, but pick them up soon before they are gone.
Saturday, December 10th
Old-Fashioned Musical Christmas
10 am – 5 pm, Fort Langley National Historic Site, 23433 Mavis Avenue, Fort Langley
Come enjoy an old fashioned Christmas in Langley. There will be crafts, wreath-making storytelling, and a visit from Father Christmas.
Light up the Heights
11 am – 1 pm, Burnaby Heights, Hastings Street between Boundary Road & Gamma Avenue, Boundary
There will be strolling carolers and surprise visits from Santa in the Burnaby Heights area for the two Saturday’s before Christmas. Get some holiday shopping done and enjoy the festive spirit!
Charlotte Diamond Concert and Santa Photos
11 am to 3pm City Square Mall, 555 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver
Santa will be at City Square this Saturday, and so will Charlotte Diamond! Come enjoy the free performance while you are visiting the Big Guy in read.
Christmas Open House
Noon – 4 pm, Historic Stewart Farm, 13723 Crescent Road, Surrey
Bring the whole family to celebrate the season as our ancestors once did. There will be treats baked on the woodstove, hot apple cider, traditional music, and holiday crafts. This event is by donation.
Cookies & Crafts
Noon – 4 pm, Grand Court, Capilano Mall, 935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver
Bring the kids for face painting, special holiday balloon creations, cookie decorating, a candy cane walk and a bouncy castle. This week there will also be a playdough table!
World Christmas at Dundarave Beach
Noon – Dusk, Dundarave Beach, West Vancouver
There’s quite a line-up of live music for this Saturday at Dundarave Beach. You can listen to the music while strolling through a unique forest of Christmas trees on the beach. If you miss the music, you can still enjoy the trees nightly until January.
Childrens Christmas Party
12:30 pm – 3:00 pm, Renfrew Park Community Centre, East 22nd Avenue and Renfrew Street (NE corner), Vancouver
Kids aged 2 to 10 can come to make some crafts, get their faces painted, and enjoy a visit with Santa Clause. There will be a concession run by the Youth Council. This event could sell out, so get your tickets early.
A Pioneer Christmas
1 pm – 3 pm, Surrey Museum, 17710 56A Avenue, Surrey
Come celebrate Christmas like they did in the pioneer days. There will crafts, treats, and Christmas punch. There will also be holiday films and vintage Christmas cards to see.
South Hill Presents Miracle on 47th Ave
1 pm – 3 pm, Fraser Street & 47th Avenue, Vancouver
The South Hill BIA is celebrating the season with live music, food, hot chocolate, along with Santa Claus and his wife!
Broadway Church’s Singing Christmas Tree
3 pm & 7 pm, Broadway Church, 2700 East Broadway, Vancouver
The singing Christmas tree combines choral singing, orchestra music, drama and dance in a Christmas performance unlike any other. This year’s piece tells the tale of a young couple who learns that there are blessings in everything in life, even those things that cause us pain. This performance is designed with the entire family in mind. Tickets are free, but pick them up soon before they are gone.
Winter Hayride
5 pm – 8:30 pm, Steveston Community Centre, 4111 Moncton Street, Richmond
You can hitch a ride on a hay wagon all around the Village of Steveston. There will be holiday music and light displays. Price includes hot chocolate and a photo with Santa. Kids under a year are free. Be sure to dress warmly and maybe bring a blanket. Trips leave every half hour.
Aldergrove Christmas Parade
6 pm, Parade commences at 273rd Street, Aldergrove
Come kick start the holiday season with the annual Christmas parade. There will be floats, bands, and of course, the Big guy in Red. Parade starts on 273rd and travels down Fraser Highway to 269th, with hot chocolate stations along the way:
Sailing Santa visits Rocky Point
7 pm, Rocky Point Park, 2800 block of Murray Street, Port Moody
Santa is arriving at Rocky Point on a magical light-adorned boat. Kids can visit with The Big guy and sign their names in the book he takes with them to the North Pole to help prepare presents. The shop is expected to dock around 7:30, but be there early to watch it arrive.
Sunday, December 11th
Kids Activities and Santa Claus
Noon – 3 pm, Lonsdale Quay Market, 123 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Kids can come to see Santa (Noon – 2 pm) and do a craft (Noon – 3 pm) at the market on the last two Sundays before Christmas. Crafts are by donation to the North Shore Christmas Bureau.
Broadway Church’s Singing Christmas Tree
3 pm & 7 pm, Broadway Church, 2700 East Broadway, Vancouver
The singing Christmas tree combines choral singing, orchestra music, drama and dance in a Christmas performance unlike any other. This year’s piece tells the tale of a young couple who learns that there are blessings in everything in life, even those things that cause us pain. This performance is designed with the entire family in mind. Tickets are free, but pick them up soon before they are gone.
Wednesday, December 14th
Christmas tree decorating
5 pm – 7 pm, West End Community Centre, 870 Denman Street, Vancouver
Come make two ornaments – one for the tree, and one to take home with you. There will be hot chocolate, goodies, music and a child-friendly movie. This event is free but please consider bringing a donation for the food bank.
Lakeside Carols
7 pm – 8:30 pm, Trout Lake Community Centre, 1661 Napier Street,Vancouver
Come enjoy a peaceful, seasonal evening with your family, friends, and community. Meet at the ice rink at 7 pm for a candlelight procession to the lake, followed by carol singing by the fire. Please pre-register.
Thursday, December 15th
Pancake Breakfast and Jingle Bell Walk
9 am – 11 am, Alexandra Neighbourhood House, 2916 McBride Avenue, Crescent Beach
Come enjoy this annual seasonal kickoff breakfast and walk for families of kids from birth to age 6. There will be breakfast from 9 am – 10:30 am, then the elf walk, and the morning will finish with singing at 10:45 am. Tickets must be purchased in advance, contact the camp directly.
The Littlest Angel and You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
Thursday, December 15, 2011 – Saturday, December 17, 1 pm & 7 pm, Evergreen Cultural Centre, 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
There’s a bit of holiday theatre magic happening at the Evergreen Cultural Centre this weekend Come to enjoy two classic Christmas stories adapted for the stage.
Rocking 80s Chanukah Zimriyah
Thursday, December 15th, 6:30 pm, Richmond Jewish Day School, 8670 Number 5 Road, Richmond
Come celebrate the festival of lights Rockin’ 80s Style. Refreshments will be served.
Friday, December 16th
Christmas in Williams Park: Walk and Celebrate
6 pm – 9 pm, Williams Park, 238 Street and 68 Avenue, Langley
Come enjoy a celerbatiogn of the season in the beautifully decorated Williams Park. There will be music, face painting, horse and carriage rides, and a visit from the Big Guy.
Carol Ships Parade of Lights
8 pm – 8:30 pm, Barnet Marine Park, Burnaby
The carol ships will be sailing past Barnet Marine Park tonight, so come keep warm by the fire, sip some cocoa, and watch this ships with your friends and neighbours.
Saturday, December 17th
Light up the Heights
11 am – 1 pm, Burnaby Heights, Hastings Street between Boundary Road & Gamma Avenue, Boundary
There will be strolling carolers and surprise visits from Santa in the Burnaby Heights area for the two Saturday’s before Christmas. Get some holiday shopping done and enjoy the festive spirit!
Christmas Wassail and Bonfire Night at Dundarave Beach
Noon – 9:30 pm, Dundarave Beach, West Vancouver
It’s the ultimate night of the festival at Dundarave Beach. There will be a bonfire, live music, and the carol ships will be passing by for your enjoyment. You can do all this while strolling through a unique forest of Christmas trees on the beach. If you miss the event, you can still enjoy the trees nightly until January.
CPR Holiday Train
The Holiday train travels across Canada and through the states, raising holiday spirits while also raising food and money for local food banks. The decorated car stops at several stations, and you can enjoy live music on a boxcar stage. All funds stay in the communities where there are raised. Here are the stops for the lower mainand:
- Agassiz – 2:00 p.m., west of Highway 9, across from Agra Centre, Pioneer Ave
- Maple Ridge – 4:15 p.m., across from Billy Minor Pub
- Port Moody – 5:45 p.m., on Queen St. at Clark Ave
Christmas in Williams Park: Walk and Celebrate
6 pm – 9 pm, Williams Park, 238 Street and 68 Avenue, Langley
Come enjoy a celerbatiogn of the season in the beautifully decorated Williams Park. There will be music, face painting, horse and carriage rides, and a visit from the Big Guy.
Sunday, December 18th
Kids Activities and Santa Claus
Noon – 3 pm, Lonsdale Quay Market, 123 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Kids can come to see Santa (Noon – 2 pm) and do a craft (Noon – 3 pm) at the market on the last two Sundays before Christmas. Crafts are by donation to the North Shore Christmas Bureau.
Chanukah Carnival
1:30 pm – 4 pm, Richmond Jewish Day School, 8670 Number 5 Road, Richmond
Young Israel of Richmond brings you Chanukah festivities including a bouncy castle, clown, face painting, cotton candy and many other yummy things. There will also be a raffle. tickets are $10 for children and $5 for adults, to a maximum of $45 per family.
Trinity Street Christmas Light Festival
5 pm – 9 pm, 2400 – 2900 Trinity Street, Vancouver
The Trinity Street light festival has one special night where in addition to the lights display there will be a concession stand. Brign your family and friends and enjoy this festive evening. The lights are best enjoyed by strolling down the street, so you are encouraged to use your feet instead of your car to tour the festival. remember you can vote for your favourite house for $2, with all proceeds going to Harbourview Daycare and St James Cottage Hospice.
Monday, December 19th
Polar Express Night Ride
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Alouette Tree Farm, 23083 132nd Avenue, Maple Ridge
Dress the kids up warm and snug for a train ride to Santa’s Workshop, where they’ll be treated to cookies and cocoa, a reading of ‘The Polar Express’ and a visit from the Big guy in Red.
Tuesday, December 2oth
Polar Express Night Ride
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Alouette Tree Farm, 23083 132nd Avenue, Maple Ridge
Dress the kids up warm and snug for a train ride to Santa’s Workshop, where they’ll be treated to cookies and cocoa, a reading of ‘The Polar Express’ and a visit from the Big guy in Red.
Celebrate the Season
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm, Port Moody City Hall Galleria, 100 Newport Drive, Port Moody
Celebrate the season with neighbours and friends alike. This free drop in program includes stories, carols, and refreshments.
Wednesday, December 21st
Family Chanukah Party
5 pm – 6 pp, Community Kollel, 1965 West Broadway, Vancouver
This family Chanukah celebration includes arts and crafts, chocolate molding, Mernorah lighting, delicious food, music and games and so much more. This is a by donation (suggested @ $20 per family) celebration.
Polar Express Night Ride
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Alouette Tree Farm, 23083 132nd Avenue, Maple Ridge
Dress the kids up warm and snug for a train ride to Santa’s Workshop, where they’ll be treated to cookies and cocoa, a reading of ‘The Polar Express’ and a visit from the Big guy in Red.
Thursday, December 22nd
Sweet Soul Gospel Christmas
7:30 pm, Saint Andrews Wesley Church, 1022 Nelson Street, Vancouver
Come listen to a six-part, energetic, toe tapping, soulful harmony sung by women and men crossing all ages, ethnicities, and religions. They sing songs of love, joy, peace and hope this holiday season, with a goal of uniting people of different cultures and beliefs.
Monday, December 26th
Chanukah on Ice
5 pm – 7 pm, Sunset Ice Rink, 390 East 51st Avenue, Vancouver
There will be hot dinner, latkes and donuts to eat, dreidels for the kids, music, entertainment, and fun for everyone at this Chanukah celebration. Tickets just $5, including skate rental. Please RSVP.
