by Gregory Adams
December brings the holiday cheer! Whether it’s taking in a play between holiday parties or standing in awe of bright light displays, here are just a few must-sees in Vancouver that prove it’s the most wonderful time of the year. [Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver/Coast Mountain Photography]
Don’t miss METZ at The Cobalt
The stream of touring bands coming to town tends to slow down in the winter months, but luckily METZ, a Toronto trio, are making up for it with their poppy-but-punky noise. Signed to legendary Seattle indie rock label Sub Pop, the group will be hitting The Cobalt on December 8th to plug their latest LP, Strange Peace.
Experience booming beats on Boxing Day
Some people will spend Boxing Day waiting in line for a big sale, but EDM fans will be standing outside of B.C. Place to see masked DJ Marshmello and more at the annual Contact Winter Music Festival. Once the doors open, the two-day event (December 26-27) will have over a dozen acts delivering big beats and bass drops.
See a 604-take on Snow White
Snow White and the Seven Dwarves is getting a West Coast makeover this season. The Theatre Replacement’s annual East Van Panto at The Cultch finds the fairy tale heroine taking refuge in the PNE instead of the enchanted forest. Injected with Vancouver-centric humour, audience participation and a few familiar pop songs, the twisted-up classic runs November 29th to January 6th.
Catch the flash at the Chinese Lantern Festival
It’s a given that lights will be twinkling around town all month – and the PNE will be no different. From December 15th to January 21st, you can marvel at brightly lit lanterns set up at Hastings Park for the Chinese Lantern Festival. Each night there will be a variety of Chinese cultural activities, including acrobatic performances, plate spinning, concerts and craft making for kids.
Support the local arts at Toque Craft Fair
If you’re looking for locally sourced stocking stuffers, pop into longtime arts hub Western Front for their annual Toque Craft Fair. The three-day (December 1-3) event will host a number of local artisans’ work, from jewelry and toys to Vancouver-made sodas. All proceeds from Toque Craft Fair go towards funding Western Front’s year-round art and music programming.
Listen to holiday favourites during Yule Duel
Locals are caroling for charity this year as part of Gastown’s annual Yule Duel. The two-hour evening event on December 6th will find competing choirs singing holiday favourites by the waterfront – with the winning team crowned by the crowd. Donations made at the event will go towards non-profit hospice May’s Place, which aims to helps vulnerable and marginalized people in the Downtown Eastside.
Ice skating at Robson Square
Whether you’re making figure eights on your own or circling around with your sweetie, ice skating is one of winter’s most idyllic activities. If you’re ready to lace up your skates, the covered outdoor rink at Robson Square is once again free from December to February (they also have rental skates for $5 a pair).
See a cheapie Christmas movie
Cineplex Odeon theatres are showing more than the latest blockbusters this month. All across the Lower Mainland, they’re screening certified Christmastime classics like Elf (December 2nd) and The Polar Express (December 9th). The matinees come with a $2.99 ticket price, so treat the family to a little extra holiday cheer.
