60 things to do in Vancouver in December

Thanks for the memories, 2019. There’s still time to make some new ones with our checklist of 60 fun things to do in Vancouver in December, including Robson Square Ice Rink, Yule Duel, and more.

For more things happening around town, check out our events section.

Fun events around town

Vancouver Santa Claus Parade

What: One of Vancouver’s largest holiday events — the 16th annual TELUS presents the Vancouver Santa Claus Parade — is happening on Sunday, December 1. More than 300,000 spectators are expected to show up for this year’s event, with the parade including over 2,500 participants, 40 floats, marching bands, dance troupes, choirs, and community groups. There will also be a Breakfast with Santa at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Christmas Square at the Vancouver Art Gallery plaza square, and TELUS Photos with Santa happening throughout the day.

When: December 1, 2019
Time: 8:30 to 10:30 am (Breakfast with Santa), 10 am to 12 noon (Christmas Square at the Vancouver Art Gallery), 12 noon (parade), 2 to 4 pm (TELUS Photos with Santa)
Where: Downtown Vancouver
Admission: Free

Robson Square Ice Rink

What: The provincial government’s Robson Square Ice Rink is open for the 2019/2020 season, and as per tradition, skating is free for all ages. Wedged under the covered outdoor plaza at Robson Square, the rink is operated seasonally by the government when temperatures begin to dip.

Skating is free for all ages for those who bring their own skates. Those without skates can rent a pair on-site, for a fee. An on-site concession stand will also serve warm drinks and snacks.

When: Daily until February 29, 2020
Time: Sunday to Thursday from 9 am to 9 pm; Friday and Saturday from 9 am to 11 pm. Holiday hours vary
Where: 800 Robson Street, Vancouver (Robson Street and Howe Street)
Price: Free for all ages, if you bring your own skates. (Skate rentals are $5, and rentals end 30 minutes before closing time.) Robson Square Ice Rink accepts cash only. Helmets are mandatory for children 12 years and under.

#WhatWorks: Mental Toughness with Sean Bacon and Reception & Publication Launch

What: BC Tech Association presents a morning talk by Sean Bacon on mental toughness as part of their #WhatWorks: Women in Tech series. Sean is a Canadian Armed Forces veteran and founder of Dynamic Shift Consulting Inc. Then in the evening, attend the #WhatWorks Reception & Publication Launch, with speakers, networking and more. Attendance to the evening event is by donation to support Actua, facilitated by Charitable Impact.

When: December 4, 2019
Time: 8:30 am to 12 pm (Mental Toughness with Sean Bacon); 5 to 7 pm (Reception & Publication Launch)
Where: BC Tech Hub – Suite 101, 887 Great Northern Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online for Mental Toughness with Sean Bacon and Reception & Publication Launch

Winter Hayrides in Steveston

What: Enjoy a winter hayride around Steveston Village, complete with a seasonal sing-a-long and viewing of local, holiday displays.

When: December 5 to 6, 2019
Time: 6 to 8:30 pm, hayrides leave every 30 minutes.
Where: Steveston Community Centre – 4111 Moncton Street, Richmond
Price: $7 per person, pre-registration is required at Steveston Community Centre or by calling 604-238-8080

Gingerbread Village 2019

What: The Downtown Surrey BIA’s third annual Gingerbread Village is a charity event that raises money for the Surrey Christmas Bureau. The gingerbread creations will be on display at Central City Shopping Centre near the Winners, and attendees can vote for their favourite with a cash donation to Surrey Christmas Bureau to help them support low-income families during the holiday season.

When: December 7 until December 15, 2019
Time: Regular Mall Hours
Where: City Central Shopping Centre — 10153 King George Boulevard, Surrey
Admission: Free

Cineplex Community Day

What: Cineplex wants you to treat yourself to a free movie day on December 7. For the ninth consecutive year, Cineplex Community Day will treat guests to a selection of popular movies. All proceeds from donations and select concession sales will go toward supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Canada. Popcorn, drinks, and select candy will be available to purchase at $2.50, a reduced price. Film this year include: A Christmas Story, Elf, Gremlins, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and The Polar Express.

When: December 7, 2019
Time: Doors open at 9 am
Where: Participating theatres across Canada
Price: Movies are free, concession snacks at $2.50

Movies in the Morgue

What: Vancouver Police Museum presents a variety of cult classic horror films, thrillers, and comedies in the Old City Morgue. Attendees are welcome to bring pillows and blankets to cozy up in the morgue. There will be fresh popcorn and pop for sale.

When: December 10, January 14, February 11, March 10, and April 14
Time: Doors 6:30 pm, show 7 pm
Where: Vancouver Police Museum and Archives – 240 East Cordova Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Make It! The Handmade Revolution

What: The Make It! Holiday Show features more than 260 vendors selling beautiful items made by hand, with love. With handmade clothing, art, accessories, gourmet goodies, home decor, children items, and more — conscious consumers will be sure to find gifts for everyone on your list. This year’s event also features food trucks and a beer garden to get you in the festive spirit. PNE Forum will be fully licensed so you can sip and shop. And don’t forget to leave your mark on the giant collaborative paint-by-numbers mural hosted by Paintillio.

When: December 11 to 15, 2019
Time: Wednesday, 5 to 9 pm; Thursday and Friday, 11 am to 9 pm; Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm
Where: PNE Forum – 2901 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Available online at makeitshow.ca. Get 50% off early bird tickets until show day. Then it’s $10 at the door during the show. Kids 12 and under are free

In the BAG Family Sundays

What: Visit Burnaby Art Gallery for a different family-friendly art project this fall. December’s project is Wayfinding with Water.

When: December 15, 2019
Time: 1 to 4 pm, beginning on the hour and half-hour mark with the last at 3:30 pm
Where: Burnaby Art Gallery – 6344 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
Admission: Free

The Night Tree Celebration

What: PoCo Heritage TREES hosts The Night Tree Celebration at Kinsmen’s Hall, with a storytime, nature-based activities, entertainment, and more for the whole family. Hot chocolate and treats will be served.

When: December 23, 2019
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 pm
Where: Kinsmen’s Hall — 2175 Coquitlam Avenue, Port Coquitlam
Tickets: Free, available online

Family First Night – New Year’s Eve at Mount Seymour

What: Ring in the New Year at Mount Seymour and their Family First Night. The event includes snowshoeing, laser tobogganing, acro fire entertainment, food vendors, live performances, and more. There will also be an early countdown and fireworks at 8:25 pm.

When: December 31, 2019
Time: 5:30 to 8 pm
Where: Mt. Seymour — 1700 Mt. Seymour Road, North Vancouver
More Info: Online

Cats and Dogs

What: Presented by White Spot, and created by La Cité des sciences et de l’industrie, in partnership with Le Musée de la civilization, the Cats & Dogs exhibition is the first “large-scale” exhibition dedicated to these animals, according to officials. Visitors will learn about the cognitive and sensory world of cats and dogs, in what’s described as an “immersive environment” that is meant to show people how their pets have a “completely different perception” of the world around them.

When: Now until January 5, 2020
What: Various times
Where: TELUS World of Science — 1455 Quebec Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Winter Ice Palace

What: The 22nd Annual Winter Ice Palace turns Cloverdale Ice Arena into a winter wonderland. Enjoy festive lights, decorations, and music while making laps on the ice.

When: December 20, 2019, until January 5, 2020
Time: Various times
Where: Cloverdale Ice Arena – 6090 176 Street, Surrey
Admission: $4.50/person, $3.25 for skate rentals, $1.75 for helmet rentals

Holiday Events

Yule Duel Vancouver: Carolling for a Cause

What: Hundreds of voices from dozens of Vancouver’s best choirs will sing at the North Plaza, Vancouver Art Gallery, during Yule Duel: BC’s largest outdoor carolling competition. Donations will be collected for May’s Place, which delivers hospice care to vulnerable and marginalized people in the Downtown Eastside.

When: December 5, 2019
Time: 5:30 to 9 pm
Where: North Plaza, Vancouver Art Gallery — 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver
Admission: Free, with donations to May’s Place being collected

2019 Santa Shuffle

What: A festive-focused fun run to help the less fortunate in the community. The 2019 Santa Shuffle 5 km fun run and 1 km Elf Walk takes place at 10 am in Stanley Park, beginning at Lumberman’s Arch. The coast-to-coast event raises money for the Salvation Army. Each runner will also receive a finisher medal.

When: December 7, 2019
Time: 8:30 am (check-in and late registration), 9:45 am (opening ceremonies), 9:50 am (warmup), 10 am (5 km run starts), 10:15 pm (1 km run starts)
Where: Lumberman’s Arch, Stanley Park
Tickets: Available online

Bah Humbug 2019

What: Jim Byrnes stars in the 10th annual and final edition of the modern re-telling of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, set in the Downtown Eastside. Scrooge, played by JUNO-award winning Byrnes, is a pawnshop operator and hotel landlord who renovicts his tenants. The production is part of SFU Vancouver’s 30th Anniversary.

When: December 5 to 21, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: SFU Woodard’s Goldcorp Centre for the Arts — 149 West Hastings Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Krampusmarkt

What: OH Studio and Strange Fellows Brewing are teaming up to present Krampusmarkt, an old-world-inspired festival. Attendees will find a unique take on holiday shopping with odd, exquisite, and eclectic work from local artists, with ceramics, textiles, decor, artwork, and skin products available. Seasonal artist-led workshops and tastings of vintage barrel-aged beers will also take place.

Visitors are encouraged to come dressed in their best goth or ugly Christmas sweater and take a photo with Krampus (by donation to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank) on Thursday night, or 1 to 3 pm on Saturday and Sunday. There’s also an opening reception on Friday, December 6. The $15 ticket price includes a beer, nibbles and a gift.

When: December 5 to December 8, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Strange Fellows Brewing — 1345 Clark Drive, Vancouver
Admission: $2 general admission, $15 for opening reception Friday

Fridays on Front Holiday Market 2019

What: New West’s Fridays on Front returns for a special Holiday Market on December 13. Marketgoers can head to the festivities happening under the parkade on Front Street and enter for free to enjoy a selection of delicious local eats and drinks available for purchase.

When: December 13, 2019
Time: 5 to 9 pm
Where: Under the parkade on Front Street in New West
Admission: Free

Weirdos Holiday Market 2019

What: The third annual Weirdos Holiday Market, presented by the folks behind local curio shop, This Monkey’s Gone to Heaven, showcases an eclectic array of unconventional gift ideas. This year’s market will also offer tarot card readings by East Van Tala & Ritual and Rose Hip, a “Puppyteeth” art installation, photos with Santa, music, games, a hot dog buffet, a sword-swallowing performance, and a bar.

When: December 14 and December 15, 2019
Time: 10 am to 6 pm
Where: Ukrainian Cathedral Hall – 154 East 10th Avenue
Admission: $2

CP Holiday Train BC 2019

CP Holiday Train/ Facebook

What: The 21st edition of the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will travel across Canada this holiday season and will be making its annual stop in Metro Vancouver this December. Bring non-perishable donations to support your local food bank, and enjoy live performances by Terri Clark and Dallas Smith.

When: December 16 and December 17, 2019
Time: Monday, Pitt Meadows between 8:55 to 9:35 pm, Port Moody between 5:20 and 6:15 pm; Tuesday, Port Coquitlam between 7 and 7:45 pm
Where: Pitt Meadows – Corner of Harris Road and Advent Road, at the railway crossing; Port Moody – ​300 loco Road, behind Arena and Rec Centre; Port Coquitlam – Port Coquitlam West Coast Express Station
Admission: Free

Improv Against Humanity: Christmas Special

What: The Fictionals and special guest Chase Padgett celebrate the Christmas Season with a Horrible Holiday Special at the Rio Theatre. Enter to play in the CAH tournament for your chance at Christmas gifts, enjoy hilarious comedy, and help crown the new Most Horrible Person in Vancouver. Plus wear your best Ugly Christmas Sweater for more chances to win prizes.

When: Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Time: 8 pm
Where: The Rio Theatre – 1660 East Broadway, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Goh Ballet Presents The Nutcracker

What: Goh Ballet, an internationally-renowned (but locally-owned) organization, is proud to celebrate its 11th-anniversary of The Nutcracker with five performances between December 20 and 22, featuring live music by the Vancouver Opera Orchestra. Follow along as Clara travels through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets where she meets the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy.

When: December 20 to 22, 2019
Time: Matinee and Evening Performances Available
Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre — 630 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Christmas with Chor Leoni: Angels Dance

What: Chor Leoni and the Arts Umbrella Dance Company team up for Angels Dance at the Orpheum on December 21.  Chor Leoni’s men’s choir will sing traditional Holiday music from the Southwest, Appalachia, Europe, and Canada, while the instrumental ensemble will provide accompaniment for the Arts Umbrella dancers.

When: December 21, 2019
Time: 4 pm and 8 pm
Where: Orpheum Theatre — 601 Smithe Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Public Menorah Lighting

What: Head to Richmond Public Library Brighouse Branch for the annual lighting of a 25-foot high steel menorah to celebrate Hanukkah. There will also be children entertainment and arts and crafts. Presented by The Ebco Group of Companies, Richmond Public Library and Richmond Cultural Centre, Chabad of Richmond, and The Bayit.

When: December 23, 2019
Time: 5 pm (children’s party), 6 pm (menorah lighting)
Where: Richmond Public Library – Brighouse Branch – 100-7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond
Admission: Free

Vancouver Christmas Market

What: The 10th annual authentic German-inspired Christmas Market features a selection of traditional food and beverages, vendors, children’s activities, live entertainment, and the opportunity to ride downtown Vancouver’s only Christmas Carousel.

When: Daily until December 24, 2019
Time: 11:30 am to 9:30 pm (November 20 to December 23), 11:30 am to 6 pm (December 24)
Where: Jack Poole Plaza – 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
Tickets: Online. Adult, $12.99; seniors, $10.99; youth $6.99 (online) / adult, $15; seniors, $13; youth, $9 (gate admission). There is also free admission for children six and under, $8 Early Bird Admission on weekdays before 2 pm (gate admission), and $10 admission all day every Tuesday (gate admission)

Merry Kissmas – A Royal Romance

What: Enjoy seasonal mirth and merriment at Vancouver TheatreSport’s Merry Kissmas – A Royal Romance. The show’s first half takes suggestions from the audience to parody well-known holiday TV specials and films. That’s followed by a completely improvised, audience-driven rom-com parody in the second half.

When: Now to December 24, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: The Improv Centre – 1502 Duranleau Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Ballet BC presents Alberta Ballet – The Nutcracker

What: Ballet BC presents Alberta Ballet in the holiday tradition, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Featuring choreography by Edmund Stripe and sets and costumes designed by Emmy Award-winning designer Zack Brown, The Nutcracker tells the story of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, the evil Mouse King, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Musical score performed live by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

When: December 28 to December 30, 2019
Time: 1 pm (December 28, 29, 30), 6:30 pm (December 28, 29)
Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre — 630 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Bright Nights at Stanley Park 2019

What: Bright Nights at Stanley Park features over three million dazzling lights decorating acres of the dark forest, reaching as high as the forest canopy for all to see and enjoy. The attraction in the heart of the park is also accompanied by a train ride, music, snacks, entertainment, and even visits with Santa and his elves.

The annual tradition, now in its 22nd year, is operated and installed by 800 firefighters – a task that requires 8,000 hours of set-up over three months. Bright Nights attracts 200,000 visitors every year, with all proceeds benefiting the Burn Fund, which provides life-saving, life-supporting, and life-enriching services to people in BC.

When: Now until January 1 (closed on Christmas Day)
Time: Various times
Where: Stanley Park Miniature Railway – Pipeline Road, Stanley Park
Admission: $8.40 – 12.60, available online

Heritage Christmas

What: Take a trip back to holidays past at Burnaby Village Museum with Heritage Christmas. See vintage-themed displays, listen to live music, and enjoy theatre performances. There will also be crafts for children, baking in the Farmhouse, and visits with Father Christmas. There’s even the option to have a full turkey dinner, or festive drinks or treats from the Ice Cream Parlour.

When: Now until January 3, 2020 (closed December 24 and 25)
Time: Various times
Where: Burnaby Village Museum – 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby
Admission: Free, carousel rides $2.65

Christmas Glow Vancouver

What: Christmas Glow will take place inside the Harbour Convention Centre until January 5, 2020. Visitors will be able to enjoy nearly 50,000 sq. ft. of enchanting twinkling lights and holiday activities.

When: Now until January 5, 2020
Time: Various times
Where: Harbour Convention Centre — 760 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Aurora Winter Festival 2019

What: The Aurora Winter Festival, now one of the largest events of its kind in Western Canada, is returning for the 2019 holiday season. The six-week, North Pole-inspired festival will be expanding its event to fifteen acres in size and relocating to Hastings Park.

Upgrades from last year include a larger surface for ice skating, a longer tube park, and double the number of rides and games. Other attractions include a light tunnel showcasing the Aurora Borealis, a story-time theatre with Santa for kids, a giant tube park, ice skating on a frozen pond, six amusement park rides, games, some of Vancouver’s best food trucks, and a market with 40 holiday-inspired vendors.

When: Now until January 5, 2020
Time: Various times
Where: Hastings Park – 2901 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
Tickets: General admission passes start at $17.99; senior and child passes start at $12.99; family passes start at $49.99; available online

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge 2019

What: The Canyon Lights features thousands of sparkling lights illuminating the iconic suspension bridge and other areas of the park. The 30-ton Douglas Firs of the Treetops Adventure will also be dressed in lights. Standing at an impressive 110 feet above the forest floor, the Douglas Firs that connect the suspension bridges are the eight tallest Christmas trees in the world, according to event organizers. Also returning to this year’s festival is the Snowy Owl Prowl scavenger hunt, gingerbread cookie decorating, and sing-along carols with a holiday band.

When: Now until January 26, 2020 (closed on December 25)
Time: 11 am to 9 pm daily; holiday activities run from 4 to 9 pm
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
Tickets: Available online, with annual passes (included with admission) available for BC residents

Cheer on the home teams

Vancouver Canucks

What: The Canucks continue their NHL season with games at Rogers Arena throughout December. Matchups include Edmonton Oilers on December 1, Toronto Maple Leafs on December 10, and LA Kings on December 28.

When: December 1, 3, 7, 10, 12, 17, 19, 21, 23, and December 28
Time: 7 pm (1 pm on December 7)
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Vancouver Giants

What: Vancouver Giants continue their WHL regular season at Langley Events Centre in December. Matchups include Spokane Chiefs on December 6, Prince George Cougars on December 17, and Kelowna Rockets on December 28. This year’s Teddy Bear toss will take place on December 8 in a special game at Rogers Arena against the Tri-City Americans.

When: December 6, 8, 17, and 28
Time: Various times
Where: Langley Events Centre – 7888 200 St, Langley; Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver (December 8)
Tickets: Online

Vancouver Warriors

What: The Vancouver Warriors continue the new National Lacrosse League season with home games against New York Riptide on December 14 and San Diego Seals on December 29.

When: December 14 and December 29, 2019
Time: 7 pm (December 14), 1 pm (December 29)
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Eat fresh with farmers’ markets

Riley Park and Nat Bailey Stadium Farmers’ Market

What: Each week you can look forward to finding locally grown vegetables and fruit, meat and seafood from local ranchers and fishermen, artisan cheese and bread, herbs and seasonal nursery items, baked goods, prepared foods, and artisanal crafts.

When: Open year-round on Saturday (except December 28)
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Riley Park Plaza — 50E 30th Avenue, Vancouver; Nat Bailey Stadium – 4601 Ontario Street, Vancouver
Admission: Free

Granville Island Public Market

What: Open year-round and boasting stalls of fresh, colourful produce, homemade products, and must-try eats. From the ocean, oven, or field — Granville Market has got it all. Grab items to-go or order some grub from one of the many established food vendors at this indoor market. You’re going to leave happy and full.

When: Open year-round, seven days a week
Time: 9 am to 7 pm
Where: 1661 Duranleau Street, Granville Island
Admission: Free

Richmond Country Farms

What: Family-owned and operated for nearly 40 years, Richmond Country Farms is the farm stand adjacent to Highway 99 off Steveston. Open from early spring to just ahead of Christmas, the market has a bounty of fresh local produce and prepared goods.

When: Open Daily
Time: 9 am to 7 pm
Where: 12900 Steveston Highway, Richmond
Admission: Free

Burnaby Artisan Farmers’ Market

What: Launched in June 2008, this open-air market, situated in the North Parking Lot of Burnaby City Hall, offers visitors an assortment of food and craft stalls to peruse on Saturday mornings every Saturday until “at least Christmas” and possibly longer.

When: Every Saturday
Time: 9 am to 2 pm
Where: North Parking Lot of Burnaby City Hall (4949 Canada Way at Deer Lake Parkway)
Admission: Free

Cannery Farmers’ Market

What: The Cannery Farmers’ Market is Steveston’s indoor winter market, held at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site. This unique market features local food and artisan merchants, as well as live entertainment, inside a historic cannery setting. Admission to the museum is free on market days.

When: December 1, 8, and 15; February 9 and 23; March 8 and 22; April 5 and 19
Time: 10 am to 3 pm
Where: Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site – 12138 Fourth Avenue, Richmond
Admission: Free

Port Moody Winter Farmers’ Market

What: Established in 2008, the Port Moody Winter Farmers’ Market began as a bi-weekly market in the lobby and courtyard of the Port Moody Rec Centre. Now a weekly market, shoppers can stop by every Sunday for local BC produce, artisan crafts, and delicious baked goods.

When: Every Sunday until April 26, 2020
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: Port Moody Recreation Complex – 300 Ioco Road, Port Moody
Admission: Free

New West Winter Farmers’ Market

What: The market features farm-fresh produce, plants, quality crafts from local artists and artisans, gourmet prepared foods, community information, live entertainment, and more.

When: December 7 and 21; January 4 and 18; February 1 and 15; March 7 and 21; April 4 and 18
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Where: Belmont Street, New Westminster
Admission: Free

Enjoy Arts and Culture

The Dinner Party Variety Comedy Show

What: The Experience’s first show is a three-course dinner served with a variety comedy show. Chef Jamie Lipe of Firefly Catering is providing the meals while headliner Ambika Vas along with Ryan Egan, Svetlana White, Andrew Huzar, Debra Sears, Dayleigh Nelson, and director Jackie Blackmore are providing the comedy.

When: December 5 to December 7, 2019
Time: Doors at 6 pm
Where: BC Artscape — 320 268 Keefer Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy

What: When disaster strikes at James and Jamesy’s Christmas tea party, the friends find unique and comedic solutions to keep things going. The duo are three-time IMPRESARIO Award winners (London) and have been named Best of Fest (Orlando, Toronto, Winnipeg, Ottawa), Most Outstanding Show (London), Best Comedy (Victoria), Patrons’ Pick (London), and more.

When: December 5 until December 7
Time: Thursday and Friday, 7:30 pm; Sunday, 2 pm
Where: Vancouver Playhouse — 600 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Girlfriend

What: Fighting Chance Productions presents the Canadian premiere of the pop/rock musical Girlfriend, based on the titular album by Matthew Sweet. Social outcast Will and popular football player Mik explore their relationship and discover that there is more to life than what high school taught them.

When: December 10 until December 21
Time: Various times
Where: The Nest — 1398 Carwright Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

What: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Catch the musical at Gateway Theatre in December and sing along to the biblical story of Joseph, Jacob, and the coat of many colours.

When: Various dates from December 12 until December 31, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Gateway Theatre — 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond
Tickets: Online

East Van Panto: Pinocchio

What: East Van Panto returns for their seventh year with Pinocchio, created by playwright Marcus Youssef, composer Veda Hille, and director Stephen Drover. When a lonely old ice-cream seller named Gelato is given a puppet by the mysterious Beckwoman of Commercial Drive, his dreams of having a child suddenly come true. Join a locally famous cricket, an angry orca, and a dastardly fox as poor Pinocchio does his best to tell everyone the truth and become a real boy. But why are Pinocchio’s limbs always growing?

When: Now until January 5, 2020
Time: Various times
Where: York Theatre – 639 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Out of Concealment – Female Supernatural Beings of Haida Gwaii

What: Bill Reid Gallery presents the Vancouver premiere of Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson’s solo exhibition Out of Concealment. Williams-Davidson honours Indigenous feminine power by re-imagining supernatural figures from Haida tradition. Her vivid portraits — which feature Williams-Davidson herself — use creative design, photographic collage, and subtle integration of designs by celebrated Haida artist Robert Davidson.

When: Now until April 5, 2020
Time: Various times
Where: Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art – 639 Hornby St, Vancouver

Wael Shawky: Al Araba Al Madfuna

What: For the first time in Western Canada, Egyptian artist Wael Shawky will be showing a collection of his latest work with Al Araba Al Madfuna. Shawky’s contemporary artwork gives visitors the chance to see how history and mythology blur together, or become interchanged as we search for meaning and narrative in real life.

Check out screenings of the multilayered film productions Al Araba Al Madfuna I and Al Araba Al Madfuna II, which will take place during the run of the exhibition on select days. Each explores how mythologies are recorded alongside our current narratives of uncertainty and change.

When: Tuesdays to Sundays from now until January 12, 2020.
Time: 10 am to 5 pm, closed Mondays
Where: The Polygon Gallery — 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Price: By donation

Transits and Returns at Vancouver Art Gallery

What: Transits and Returns is Vancouver Art Gallery’s newest exhibition and showcases local First Nations artists and those from communities throughout the Pacific region. Transits and Returns explores wide-ranging experiences that are inclusive of both global connections and ancestral knowledge.

Participating artists include Edith Amituanai, Christopher Ando, Natalie Ball, BC Collective with Louisa Afoa, Drew Kahuʻāina Broderick with Nāpali Aluli Souza, Hannah Brontë, Elisa Jane Carmichael, Mariquita Davis, Chantal Fraser, Maureen Gruben, Bracken Hanuse Corlett, Taloi Havini, Lisa Hilli, Carol McGregor, Marianne Nicolson, Ahilapalapa Rands, Debra Sparrow, and T’uy’t’tanat Cease Wyss.

When: Now until February 23, 2020
Time: Daily 10 am to 5 pm, Tuesdays until 9 pm, and the first Friday of each month until 9 pm
Where: Vancouver Art Gallery – 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Sing along to your favourites

Chantal Kreviazuk

What: JUNO Award winning singer songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk (Surrounded, Leaving On A Jet Plane, Before You) brings her Christmas is a Way of Life Tour to Clarke Foundation Theatre in Mission on December 4, and Centennial Theatre in North Vancouver on December 5.

When: December 4 (Mission), December 5 (North Vancouver)
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Clarke Foundation Theatre — 33700 Prentis Ave, Mission; Centennial Theatre – 2300 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver
Tickets: Online

The Dandy Warhols

What: Portland alt-rockers The Dandy Warhols come to Vancouver on December 4 on their 25th Anniversary Tour. Featuring special guest Mother Mariposa.

When: December 4, 2019
Time: Doors 8 pm, show 8 pm
Where: Commodore Ballroom — 868 Granville Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

The Chainsmokers

What: The Grammy Award-winning artist and producer duo The Chainsmokers bring their “WORLD WAR JOY” North American headline arena tour to Vancouver on December 6. They’ll be joined by 5 Seconds of Summer.

When: December 6, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: Pepsi Live at Rogers Arena — 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

A Traditional Christmas with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra

What: The VSO plays its annual Traditional Christmas concert in theatres across Metro Vancouver, including the North Shore, Burnaby, Surrey, Delta, and Vancouver this holiday season. Enjoy singing, storytelling, and holiday cheer with host Christopher Gaze and special guests.

When: December 10 to December 14, December 22, 2019
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations
Tickets: Online

Good Noise Gospel Choir

What: Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir (Good Noise) is back for the Christmas season with their hit concert series “Good Tidings! A Good Noise Gospel Christmas.” The iconic Christ Church Cathedral sets the stage for these much-loved holiday concerts, Dec. 13 at 8 pm and Dec 14 at 3 pm and 8 pm. Joining Good Noise this year is the soulful and singularly talented West Coast favourite Katherine Penfold in a program of inspired gospel, soul and jazz arrangements of Christmas classics.

When: Friday December 13, 8 pm and Saturday December 14, 3 pm and 8 pm
Where: Christ Church Cathedral – 690 Burrard Street
Times: 8 pm on December 13, and 3 pm on December 14
Tickets: Online, or call 1-800-838-3006

Music for the Winter Solstice

What: A Music on Main tradition that celebrates the solstice in style with holiday merriment and luminous music. Enjoy performances by Caroline Shaw, Gabriel Kahane, and Rachel Kiyo Iwaasa. Featuring music by Arvo Pärt, Alfredo Santa Ana, Music on Main’s Composer in Residence Sabrina Schroeder, Caroline Shaw, Rodney Sharman, Gabriel Kahane, and the Wyrd Sisters.

When: December 11 and 12, 2019
Time: 8 pm
Where: Heritage Hall – 3102 Main Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Catfish and the Bottlemen

What: British indie rockers Catfish and the Bottlemen play the Vogue Theatre in support of their latest album, The Balance, on December 11.

When: December 11, 2019
Time: Doors 7 pm
Where: Vogue Theatre — 918 Granville Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Winter Blues

What: Winter Blues is a showcase of emerging Vancouver alternative and emo acts. Enjoy performances by Andrew Phelan, Altona, Seablush, and Evan Konrad, followed by a dance party.

When: December 12, 2019
Time: Doors 7 pm
Where: Biltmore Cabaret — 2755 Prince Edward Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Winter Breakout 2019

What: Timbre Concerts and Crescnedo1 present Winter Breakout 2019, a one-day concert at Pacific Coliseum featuring Schoolboy Q, DaBaby, Lil Tecca, and more.

When: December 13, 2019
Time: 7 pm
Where: The Pacific Coliseum – 100 North Renfrew Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Johnny Reid

What: Scottish-Canadian country musician Johnny Reid wraps up his “My Kind Of Christmas” tour in Abbotsford on December 14.

When: December 14, 2019
Time: 8 pm
Where: Abbotsford Centre — 33800 King Road, Abbotsford
Tickets: Online

Five Alarm Funk – Hometown Holiday Blowout Bash

What: Vancouver-based Five Alarm Funk celebrates the holidays with a Boxing Day show at Commodore Ballroom with guests Small Town Artillery and Rain City.

When: December 26, 2019
Time: Doors 8 pm, show 8:30 pm
Where: Commodore Ballroom – 867 Granville Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

CONTACT Winter Music Festival

What: Tiësto, Major Lazer, Kaskade, and Rezz will headline CONTACT Winter Music Festival’s seventh edition, taking place December 27 and 28 at BC Place. Presented by Blueprint and Live Nation Canada, CONTACT is Canada’s largest indoor music festival hosting more than 34,000 guests annually and featuring state-of-the-art technical production, pyro, and lighting across two stages.

When: December 27 and 28, 2019
Time: 5 pm to midnight
Where: BC Place — 777 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
Tickets: Online