The Ugly Sweater Run (November 23rd, 1299 Pinetree Way)
This Saturday, dig out your most putrid threads and join thousands of runners and walkers for the Ugly Sweater Run taking place in Vancouver. This is the ultimate festive and fun 5k race that gets you into the seasonal spirit. Register for the race online and grab your ugliest sweater for a day of fun for a worthy cause (that’ll also land you a Sam Adam’s Winter Lager treat at the finish). The Ugly Christmas Sweater Day Fundraising Campaign is in support of The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada. For more information, visit www.theuglysweaterrun.com.
Recently opened: Odd Society Spirits (1725 Powell Street)
Head over to East Van’s latest and greatest distillery to set up shop and taste your way through a selection of craft-made spirits such as vodka, gin and whiskey. Meet the founder and distillery team as you learn all about the makings behind the bottle. Complimentary tours take place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday starting at 4pm, with their Tasting Room open Thursday to Sundays (1 to 7pm). For more info visit, www.oddsocietyspirits.com.
CandyTown: A Yaletown Holiday Festival (November 23rd)
Back for another festive year, be sure to check out Yaletown’s CandyTown that sees the bustling Mainland Street transformed into a winter wonderland. Lights and candy canes will adorn lamp poles and costumed characters will parade down the street. Holiday shoppers are invited to start their seasonal gift buying in Yaletown with local merchants as well as a specialty market carrying unique gifts and holiday treats. You’ll also find Mainland Street filled with local artisans, street performers and live music. Last year saw more than 15,000 people cruise through – this year promises to be bigger and better. For more info visit: www.yaletowninfo.com.
Coming Up: Make It! Vancouver (November 28th to December 1st, 2901 W. Hastings)
Make a serious dent in your holiday shopping list and be sure to pop by Make It! Vancouver. This one-of-a-kind handmade extravaganza features the goods of more than 250 of Canada’s hottest urban artisans, designers and crafters. Make It! is the ultimate shopping experience and guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. Look for unique pieces, artwork, fashion accessories, household décor items, children’s wear, jewelry and more. For more details visit: http://makeitproductions.com.
Coming up: Great Canadian Craft Christmas Edition (November 29 to December 1st)
Be sure to head out the Cloverdale Agriplex (17798 62nd Ave) to check out the finest showcase of independent artisans from around the Lower Mainland, from handcrafted jewelry to delectable chocolate and everything in between! What a fantastic way to enjoy unique handmade creations in time for the holidays. Show your support for local crafters and artisans and peruse the goods of more than 200 exhibitors. Free swag bags will be given to the first 50 shoppers each day. For more info, visit: www.greatcanadiancraft.com.
BCATA 35 Years (November 23rd, 808 Richards Street)
Celebrate 35 years of art therapy at the BCATA’s annual gala event. This special evening will feature plenty of entertainment, the opportunity to meet a number of artists, enjoy great food, wine and more. Set within the ArtStarts Gallery exhibit ‘Sound Play’, it’ll be an interactive evening fueled by an opportunity to help raise awareness and funds for this worthy cause. You ‘ll also have the opportunity to purchase unique pieces for your own collection. More info here: www.bcarttherapy.com.
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Top photo courtesy Odd Society Spirits