Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet Presents the Nutcracker (December 14 to 16)
With only three days to take in a holiday tradition with a twist, be sure to catch the latest choreographed creation courtesy of Galina Yordanova and Nina Menon with music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Take in the timeless tale, elaborate costuming all in a storybook-like setting with a decidedly Canadian angle audiences will love… right down to the hockey puck. For info visit here. 677 Davie Street.
The Blim Annual Holiday Market (50 Pender Street East)
Back for another month and taking place at the Chinese Cultural Centre on Saturday, December 15th, is Blim. It features more than 60 vendors featuring handmade pottery, accessories, gifts and jewellery well timed for Christmas shopping and last-minute gifts. This event is unique in that it helps support Vancouver’s Chinatown and its burgeoning artistic community, a worthwhile weekend stop. For more info and complete vendor listings visit here.
Opening soon: Beaucoup Bakery and Cafe (2150 Fir Street)
Just in time for the holidays (pending final inspections), Beaucoup Bakery (owned by Jackie Ellis) is almost ready to open the doors to its quaint and sweet-smelling shop. Open for breakfast and lunch, be sure to taste test one of everything on the delectable menu (éclairs, macarons, croissants, savoury baguette sandwiches) and more. Learn more here.
East Van Bazaar (1489 Hastings Street East)
On Sunday, December 16th, break away from the crowded mall scene and head over to support a new community market taking place at the Waldorf Hotel. Find truly unique artisan items – perfect for gifting over the holidays and take in some live music while you shop. When you’ve had enough retail therapy, catch a bit of ‘Bad Santa’, which will be on the big screen at the Tiki Bar. Visit here for details.
Love It Events: 1st Annual Christmas Ball (December 15) 415 W. Esplanade
Pull out your party-dress and gear up for a night guaranteed to get you into the holiday spirit – on a massive boat, no less. The 1st Annual Love It Events party is set to sail at 6PM until late aboard the Celebration on Water and will offer stunning 360-degree views of Vancouver’s cityscape, a gourmet buffet, fully-stocked bar and plenty of live DJ music to keep you on your feet and busy networking. Visit here for more details.
Coming Up: John & Roy Holiday Special (December 21)
Pencil this one into your agenda – it’s the return of popular holiday special that sees a top-notch collection of performing artists take the stage at the intimate Vogue Theatre for one night only. Catch noteworthy acts courtesy of Vince Vaccaro, Wake Owl, Frazey Ford and Kim Churchill for a night that will definitely help you get your groove on. The show takes place at 918 Granville Street and doors open at 7PM.
Photo courtesy Beaucoup Bakery