We’re almost halfway through the month already and schedules are more than packed with holiday happenings, new openings, special seasonal performances and other reasons to stay close to the city for a weekend full of fun. Young professionals will definitely want to do so when they see what this edition of our Vancouver Weekender has to offer…
Do some good this weekend and plan on attending the final girlie gala of the year in support of Beauty Night Society. The Christmas Angel Gala will host a silent auction, feature special product samplings and one on one consults for the ladies (as well as offer great deals to help chip away at your gift giving list). Get a free consultation and support a worthwhile cause that helps less fortunate women get back on their life track. For additional info click here.
If you haven’t yet been over to the Vancouver Christmas Market, Friday night is a great time to peruse row upon row of holiday offerings at this unique European-style Christmas festival. Enjoy sipping cider, mulled wine or hot chocolate as you take in live music, carols and the festive scene that unfolds.
Before heading home, pop by Gingerbread Lane at the Hyatt Regency Hotel (just off Burrard Street). Your sweet tooth will be awakened by the more than 30 different gingerbread creations on display (proceeds raised from the project go to Make-A-Wish BC & Yukon). Jaws will drop at the sight of competition centerpiece: Chef Thomas Heinrich’s 11-foot tall, 16-foot wide masterpiece – it’s a must-do that happens to be free too!
Saturday or Sunday, make your way over to check out the 14th Annual Got Craft! that takes place at the Maritime Labour Centre (1800 Triumph Street). Fuelled by the creativity of local artisans, crafters and creatives from throughout the Lower Mainland, it’s a DIY dream that will help you make a serious dent in holiday shopping. Aside from handmade goods, partake in workshops, nosh on treats, score some swag, and groove to tunes courtesy of a lineup of DJs.
Get in on the seasonal celebrations and add a bit of a classic touch to the mix by attending The Vancouver Bach Choir‘s performance (conducted by Leslie Dala) at the Orpheum on Saturday night. Tickets are still available for this one-night performance – and it’s the perfect way to get you into the holiday mood.
Come Sunday, make it a lazy day (that is unless you’ve still got plans to hit up one of the many markets around town). Our noteworthy suggestion is that you fuel up with some brunch at the newly opened Yolk’s on E. Hastings. They’ve migrated from a four-wheeled food truck to permanent bricks and mortar location at the corner of Clark and East Hastings. Try one of their free-range egg sandwiches with all the fixings, oatmeal, beignets, or go all out with French toast.
Be sure to grab fresh fish and swing by The Fish Counter (owned and operated by the former Executive Chef at C Restaurant). This is one of the city’s first 100% OceanWise one-stop shops for sustainable seafood and has already garnered quite the buzz. Since opening last weekend, the 1200-square foot space has been packed with savvy seafood-lovers looking for everything to create a fishy feast; they’ve got shelves stocked with the latest culinary fixings, spreads, seasonings and more.
Before winding down on Sunday, squeeze in a stop at the recently launched Van Dusen Garden Festival Of Lights (open in time for the weekend). This is always a great way to fit in a little outdoorsy culture while experiencing the magic afforded by 1.4 million twinkling lights. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a fully loaded weekend of festivities.
Top photo courtesy Hyatt Regency
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