Ho ho holy moly! There’s a lot of festive events going on around town! Musical performances galore, an abundance of stage works, oodles of kid-friendly activities, and of course a plethora of places to cover your gift-giving needs. Have a look at what Toronto has planned this month for holiday-season revellers. (more…)
The busy and festive Vancouver Christmas Market
November 24 to December 24
The holidays are just around the corner, and to help kick off the season the Vancouver Christmas Market sets up shop in bustling downtown. Peruse the Bavarian-style wooden booths for everything from hand-knit sweaters to German tinker toys to elaborate glass ornaments. Afterwards chow down on a bratwurst or schnitzel, then warm up with a cup of glühwein—warm, spiced wine—or imported beer.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET (Nov 24-Dec 24). 11 am-9 pm. $5, 7-12 $2, under 7 free. Early-bird admission $2, 11 am-4 pm M-F. Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza, 600 Hamilton St. 604-924-4506. www.vancouverchristmas
market.com
By Misa Kobayashi.
While the traditional carol offers up lords-a-leaping and swans-a-swimming, we bring you 12 ideas for fun outings and events to take you through the holiday season (no partridge required). (more…)
"Lost to the Wind" by Carole Arnston at Van Dop Gallery
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and to celebrate, the appointment-only Van Dop Gallery is throwing open its doors to the public on Saturdays from Nov. 12 to 30 for Spirit of the Season. You’ll have lots of choices for your holiday gift list with pieces by over 100 Canadian artists, including Carole Arnston‘s “Lost to the Wind” (pictured).—Kristina Urquhart
More information:
VAN DOP GALLERY 421 Richmond St., New Westminster. 604-521-7887. www.vandopgallery.com
This fun ornament offers a touch of Canadiana to any tree.
For all those eager beavers out there (ha ha) who are planning ahead, ornaments by Whigby are the ultimate souvenirs. Brightly coloured in “Canada red,” each of the ornaments feature an iconic symbol of our home and native land. There are nine shapes in total, which include a goalie, a polar bear, and a bush plane ($16.95). Get yours at Paper Papier, a boutique in the ByWard Market that’s also known for carrying unique stationery, writing instruments, and personal organizers. 18 Clarence St., 613-241-1212.
Winter Harp's beautiful melodies will take you away Dec. 18
Be transported to a bygone era with harps, flutes and medieval instruments in the spectacular setting of St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church, as Winter Harp performs poetry and song on a stage softly lit by candles (Dec. 18).—Sheri Radford
Charm your way into your loved one's heart with these winter charms by Thomas Sabo
From stars and snowflakes to sleighs and boots, Thomas Sabo’s winter-themed charms make great little gifts. These beauties come as singles, or buy a bracelet or necklace chock-full of them. This Christmas don’t just decorate the tree, decorate yourself. Available online at www.thomassabo.com.—Sarah Rolling
Lights of Hope photo by KK Law
Making spirits bright—and illuminating Burrard Street—this holiday season: the Lights of Hope (to Jan. 7) at St. Paul’s Hospital, right downtown. This colourful annual display raises money for the hospital.—Sheri Radford
On a chilly evening, ask for a seat close to the fireplace in Bacchus. Photo by KK Law
These local hotels pull out all the stops to celebrate the season.
1 The Wedgewood Hotel features one of the city’s most festive lounges, Bacchus (pictured), which sports a blazing hearth and modern French, West Coast–influenced cuisine such as AAA tenderloin of Alberta beef or herb-crusted filet of Queen Charlotte halibut.
2 Fairmont Hotel Vancouver gets all decked out with a dazzling lighted roof, tree-trimmed lobby, hot toddies and a Kris Kringle Christmas Day Buffet in Griffins.
3 Four Seasons Vancouver features a holiday brunch in dazzling Yew, and every year bakes a highly coveted stöllen.
4 In the Sutton Place Hotel, Fleuri highlights the holidays with deluxe buffets both savoury and saccharine, including the much-celebrated Chocoholic bar every Thursday, Friday and Saturday to satisfy even the sweetest tooth.—Tim Pawsey
You can't beat the view at Salmon House. Photo by KK Law
Vancouver’s oldest holiday tradition turns 50 this year when the annual Carol Ships Parade of Lights sets sail Dec. 3 to 23. Book early for a window seat at the restaurant of your choice. Numerous tasteful vantage points include the North Shore’s Salmon House (pictured), Bridges in False Creek, The Teahouse in Stanley Park, and Lift Bar-Grill-View, which overlooks Coal Harbour. Sightings vary according to schedules.—Tim Pawsey
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