Last Chance: Goh Ballet’s Nutcracker (until December 23rd)
Always a sure sign of Christmas, The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts (777 Homer St) welcomes the Nutcracker to the stage for one weekend only. Set to Tchaikovsky’s stunning score, get lost in the world of the Sugar Plum Fairy in this unforgettable production that will have you on the edge of your seats and awe-inspired. Runs from December 19th to 22nd at 7:30pm, and at 2pm on December 22nd to 23rd.
Just opened: The Parlour Restaurant (1011 Hamilton Street)
Located in Vancouver’s Yaletown neighbourhood, The Parlour Restaurant features a stylishly-laidback atmosphere, spacious lounge and dining area. An extensive bar area plays host to a DJ booth (goes live from Thursday to Saturday), innovative cocktails, craft beer and seven wines on tap. Their menu boasts a dozen different styles of wood-stone fired pizza and a tasty array of classic comfort cuisine and share plates.
Screening: The End of the World Part III: 2012 (December 21st at 8PM)
Did the Mayan’s really get it right? Are we all upon the end of the world, or is it all a bunch of hype? Whatever your take is on subjects pertaining to the end of civilization, lighten things up with a Hollywood-style screening of Columbia Pictures’ own ‘2012’. The H.R. Macmillan Space Centre is hosting part three in their series this Friday and admission to the flick is only $10.75.
Winter Solstice Lantern Festival (December 21st from 6 – 10PM)
Celebrate the season and officially welcome winter by attending the 19th Annual Winter Solstice celebration (dong zhi) taking place at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden (578 Carrall Street). Artists re-create the beauty of the gardens through the creation of whimsical pieces. Enjoy Dragon Spice tea and live entertainment courtesy of an interactive drumming demo and performances by the Black Bear Rebels and the Real Treble Makers.
The Original Ugly Christmas Sweater Party (December 21st at 8PM)
If you’re looking for an excuse to dust off that knitted holiday treasure, this Friday’s Original Ugly Sweater Party is a definite must-do. Now celebrating 11 years, this annual event has become a global trend – and a festive (if not fashionable) fun time. Takes place this Friday at the Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville Street).
Bright Nights – Stanley Park Christmas Train (daily until January 1st)
Board the decked-out holiday train and tour Stanley Park at its festive best or simply tour your way around the sparkling village. More than two million twinkling lights set the seasonal stage as animated displays come to life. Enjoy the sound of classic Christmas tunes as you sip hot cocoa and are dazzled by the wintery scene. Partial proceeds from ticket sales support the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund.