It was November 19, 1971 that the Burnaby Village Museum was opened by Governor General Roland Michener. The 1920’s village combines heritage and replica buildings in a typical “tram-stop community along the BC Electric Railway.” Costumed townfolk give demonstrations in homes, shops, and at the blacksmith’s, there’s a self-guided tour, and the restored 1912 C.W. […]

United Way of the Lower Mainland (“UWLM”) has launched their Imagine online gift catalogue that allows you to purchase gifts that have a lasting impact in your community. The “gift catalogue” campaign has been used before by global organizations and I had the chance to speak with UWLM’s President and CEO, Michael McKnight, about how […]

The Vancouver Christmas Market is returning this year to the QE Plaza downtown with traditional German holiday market staples. From November 24th until December 24th, enjoy some mulled wine, live music, shop for ornaments, grab some baked goods, and check out the kids’ activity area (where my niece made decorated her own candle last year). […]

I love attending the theatre in Vancouver during the holidays. Wrapped in a scarf, boots crunching down on the salted sidewalk, ducking for cover under the Stanley’s marquee. Entering the lobby, cheeks rosy-red, taking my seat for the holiday production of the year. Not only are the shows colourful and classic, but giving the gift […]

The Central City Plaza will be illuminated December 3rd with a tree lighting ceremony and festivities to kick off the holiday season. The City of Surrey’s Tree Lighting event is moving to the plaza (from Holland Park) to accommodate more activities such as road hockey, curling, and a performance stage. Mayor and Council, Frosty the […]

Decorations are up, the local slopes are ready for ski season, and Santa’s parade route is set. The holidays are here already. Before the long check-out lines, arms full of bags, and jockeying for parking spaces run you down, there is relief in sight. Park Royal is once again hosting Starry Nights. On November 22nd […]

The 4th annual West Coast Christmas Show and Marketplace returns to the Tradex in Abbotsford, December 2nd to 4th. Photos courtesy: Middle Child Marketing The presentation stage will feature local chefs, the Dairy Farmers of Canada will host cheese seminars, there will be an on-site nursery, photos with Santa, local artisans and crafters, and a […]

The 8th annual Rogers Santa Claus Parade will once again brighten up the streets of downtown Vancouver on December 4, 2011 but with a slightly different route this year. Photo credit: kiwi_cam on Flickr – from the Miss604 Flickr Pool According to a press release that I received from the organizers, the Vancouver Art Gallery […]

The very popular Circle Craft Christmas Market returns for its 38th year this month at the Vancouver Convention Centre West. I have still never been but everyone I have talked to (even during the summer months) says that they can’t wait for Circle Craft. From knits and ornaments to unique kitchen wares and gift ideas, […]

A post on Twitter yesterday asked: “Interested in volunteering or adopting a family this Christmas?” If so, the Surrey Christmas Bureau wants to hear from you. The Surrey Christmas Bureau assists hundreds of low-income families with children under the age of 16. Through the Hamper and Adopt-A-Family programs these families receive food certificates, toys, gifts, […]