27 things to do in Vancouver this weekend: December 7 to 9

Rev up your weekend with our picks of 27 fun things to do in Vancouver on Friday, December 7, Saturday, December 8, and Sunday, December 9. Childish Gambino, Vancouver Giants Teddy Bear Toss, and more.

And for more things happening around town be sure to check out our events section.

Friday, December 7, 2018

Childish Gambino

What: The incredible Grammy, Golden Globe and Emmy-Award winning, multi-talented recording artist, actor, and producer will be on tour with special guest Rae Sremmurd.

When: Friday, December 7, 2018
Time: Doors at 7 pm, show at 8 pm
Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

The Nutcracker

What: This production of The Nutcracker delights all ages with its beautiful sets and extravagant costumes that illuminate the magic of the toy soldiers, Sugar Plum Fairy, and a growing Christmas tree. More than sixty talented and enthusiastic young dancers perform to Tchaikovsky’s classic score with its favourites such as Waltz of the Flowers and Dance of the Mirlitons.

When: Friday, December 7 to Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: Various times
Where: Main Stage at Surrey Arts Centre – 13750 88 Avenue, Surrey
Tickets: Online

Steveston’s Winter Hayrides

What: Hop on board for this old-time favourite experience around Steveston Village that includes a sing-a-long and viewing of local, holiday displays. Trips leave at 30-minute intervals, snacks and hot chocolate available by cash donation. To register, please come in to Steveston Community Centre or call 604-238-8080. Pre-registration required.

When: Friday, December 7, 2018
Time: 6 to 9 pm
Where: Steveston Community Centre – 4111 Moncton Street, Richmond
Price: $7 per person. Children under one-year-old are free. 12-year-olds and under must be accompanied by an adult who also needs to register.

JP Maurice & Friends

What:  JP Maurice has been working since the smoke-filled days of summer on a 14-song Christmas album featuring his band with a number of very special guests. The album is almost ready and will be released just in time for Christmas but to celebrate the release of the first single and to give everyone a preview of the album, JP is hosting a Christmas concert featuring a number of guests from the album along with a few special surprises. The night will be kicked off with a set from Vancouver’s Healing Days.

When: Friday, December 7, 2018
Time: Doors 8 pm, show 9 pm
Where: Fox Cabaret – 2321 Main Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online, $10

Christmas at Canada Place 2018

What: Free Christmas attractions will be taking over the Canadian Trail, along the west promenade of Canada Place . This year’s festivities include giant light installations at the Canada North light display, the historic Woodward’s Windows, and the festive Avenue of Trees. Visitors will be able to enjoy the sounds of live Christmas performances along the west promenade of Canada Place from 12 to 2 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. For the whole of the Christmas celebrations, the iconic white sails of Canada Place will be illuminated with festive colours and designs.

When: Friday, December 7, 2018 to Thursday, January 3, 2019
 Time:  8 am to 11 pm. On December 31, Christmas at Canada Place will close at 6:00 pm
Where: The Canadian Trail, West Promenade – 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver
Admission: Free

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 form local artists, with ceramics, textiles, decor, artwork, and skin products available. Visitors are encouraged to come dressed in their best goth or ugly Christmas sweater and take a photo with Krampus. Seasonal artist-led workshops and tastings of vintage barrel-aged beers will also take place.

When: Now to Saturday, December 8, 2018
Time: 5 to 11 pm (Friday), 12 to 11 pm (Saturday)
Where: Strange Fellows Brewing – 1345 Clark Drive, Vancouver
Admission: Free

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

What: One rainy day, the Pevensie children discover that an old wardrobe is actually a doorway to the enchanted land of Narnia. A magical re-imagining of CS Lewis’s classic tale by Ron Reed of hope, change, and sacrifice in a world where it is always winter and never Christmas. Directed by Sarah Rodgers, featuring Rebecca deBoer and John Voth.

When: Now to Saturday, December 29, 2018
Time: Various times
Location: Pacific Theatre – 1440 W 12th Ave, Vancouver
Tickets: Online

Saturday, December 8, 2018

Vancouver Giants vs Victoria Royals – Teddy Bear Toss

What: Vancouver Giants 2018 Teddy Bear Toss takes place during a showdown with their 2017 playoff foes, the Victoria Royals. The Giants are inviting all fans in attendance that night to bring stuffed animals to the game, or purchase one from inside the venue. Then, when the Giants score their first goal, fans can throw their stuffed toys onto the ice! All toys and monetary proceeds from Teddy Bear Toss will be donated to underprivileged children across British Columbia.

When: Saturday, December 8, 2018
Time: 7 pm
Where: Pacific Coliseum, 100 N. Renfrew St
Tickets: Online

Vancouver International Puppet Festival’s Triple XXXmas Cabaret

What: Triple XXXmas Calabret is hosted by Phantom Signal’s Jayson McDonald and features performances by the Murderous Mindy the Mermaid, the Amorous burlesque stylings of Dandeelyon Wine & Fluffy 10th Street, irreverent musings & observations by the lovable monster Merv, an inappropriate edition of the hit game show The Mating Game (audience participation required), and more. A fundraiser for the Vancouver International Puppet Festival.

When: Saturday, December 8, 2018
Time: Doors 7 pm, show 8 pm
Where: Red Gate Revue Stage, 1601 Johnston St, Vancouver
Tickets: Online, $20

Got Craft? Holiday Edition

What: Got Craft? works to create a community supporting handmade and do-it-yourself culture. Since being founded in 2007, their bi-annual fairs bring together more than 75 designers and craft workshops, tasty treats, music, free bags, and a collective attendance of more than 5,500 per year.

When: Saturday, December 8 to Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: 10 am to 5 pm
Location: Maritime Labour Centre – 1880 Triumph Street, Vancouver
Admission: Admission costs $3

Bodyslams For Toys

What: All Star Wrestling presents Bodyslams for Toys to benefit the Surrey Christmas Bureau. Featuring Ring Of Honor Wrestling star, Frankie Kazarian vs Cougar Meat Kyle Sebastian, Adam Ryder with manager Gregory Sommers vs Artemis Spencer, Riea Von Slasher vs Nicole Matthews, and more.

When: Saturday, December 8, 2018
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Cloverdale Fairgrounds – Alice McKay Building
Tickets: Online, $20-$50

Heritage Christmas at Historic Stewart Farm

What: Taste fresh-baked festive treats, string popcorn and experience Christmas the Victorian way at Historic Stewart Farm. There will be a new craft to make each day of Heritage Christmas, plus check out the signature Christmas Open House on December 8 from 11 am to 3 pm, featuring live music and photos with Old Saint Nick.

When: Every weekend until Sunday, December 30, 2018
Time: 12 to 3 pm
Where: Historic Stewart Farm – 13723 Crescent Rd, Surrey
Admission: Free

Songs in the Snow

What: Gather friends and family to welcome the holiday season with the Songs in the Snow concert series in Steveston Museum’s Town Square Park. The series will showcase local professional and amateur performers. There will be vintage style crafts, refreshments and other activities offered.

When: Saturday, December 8, 2018
Time: 4 to 6 pm
Where: Steveston Museum – 3811 Moncton St, Richmond
Admission: Free

3rd Annual Port Moody Christmas Craft Fair

What: Browse over 40 vendors and craft tables and you may find that perfect Christmas gift for that someone special. Enjoy handcrafted items, snacks, raffle prizes, and entertainment. Admission by donation with all proceeds to Share Family Services Society.

When: Saturday, December 8, 2018
Time: 10 am to 4 pm
Where: Port Moody Civic Centre – Galleria 100 Newport Drive, Port Moody
Admission: Free

Fall For Local Holiday Market Vancouver 2018

What: Fall For Local is a one-of-a-kind “shop local” experience that brings local, curated vendors to a central hub for all to enjoy. At FFL, you’ll find everything from organic skincare products and candles, to vegan snacks and even gourmet hot sauces. This year, choose from 90 different vendors as well as gourmet food trucks and so much more. And if you’re one of the first 50 people in line, you’ll receive a canvas tote filled with goodies and treats.

When: Saturday, December 8 and Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: 11 am to 5 pm
Where: The Pipe Shop Building, 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Tickets: Early Bird Online $3 | Door $5 (cash only) | Free for kids 12 & under

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge 2018

What: Thousands of sparkling lights will illuminate 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, gingerbread cookie decorating, and sing-along carols with a holiday band.

When: Now to Sunday, January 27, 2019 (closed on December 25)
Time: 11 am to 9 pm
Where: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver
Tickets: $46.95 for adults, $42.95 for seniors, $34.95 for students, $27.95 for youth (ages 13 to 16) $14.95 for children (ages 6 to 12) and free for children under six

Weirdos Holiday Market

The Weirdos Holiday Market unites Vancouver’s most extravagant and out-of-this-world local artists and vendors. The result is a holiday market that’s anything but ordinary and an eclectic mix of the unusual. Find a selection of witchy wares, anatomical curiosities, jewellery, textiles, and one-of-a-kind art.

When: Saturday, December 8 to Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: 11 am to 6 pm
Location: The Hall – 1739 Venables Street, Vancouver
Admission: $2 admission

Sunday, December 9, 2018

Aurora Winter Festival

What: Escape into a hidden village by the North Pole filled with captivating light displays and magical characters, and enjoy the market huts, food gardens, amusement rides, live entertainment, and plenty of other joyful activities. From visiting Santa’s Workshop to lacing up your skates on the Frozen River, there is something for every age at the Aurora Winter Festival. The festival takes place at Vancouver’s Concord Pacific Place and runs from

When: Now to Sunday, December 30, 2018. Closed on select days
Time: 4 to 10 pm
Where: Concord Pacific Place – 811 Carrall Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Online, $14.99-$19.99. Infants three and under are free

A Red Holiday

What: Ring in the holidays and contribute to a worthwhile cause. Attendees will be treated to a mix of pop, Christmas and jazz music from the young performers of Vancouver-based O Music Studio, plus have the opportunity to participate in a silent and live auction. Presented by the Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, a multidisciplinary centre which supports state-of-the-art treatment and individuals who are living with HIV and/or HCV, led by President and Medical Director, Dr. Brian Conway.

When: Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: 5 to 10 pm
Where: Centre Stage at Surrey City Hall – 13450 104th Avenue, Surrey
Tickets: Online, $33

Christmas Tea on the Train

What: Climb aboard Port Moody Station Museum’s decorated 1920s passenger train car, the Venosta, and enjoy tea, hot chocolate, and scones while listening to Christmas music.

When: Sunday, December 9 and Sunday, December 16, 2018
Time: One hour seatings at 10:30 am, 1 pm and 2:30 pm
Where: Port Moody Station Museum – 2734 Murray St., Port Moody
Admission: $15 for adults and $10 for kids 12 or under ( Kids two or under free). Reserve at 604-939-1648 or email [email protected]

Mann Farms Christmas Market 2018

What: Now in its fourth year, the Maan Farms Christmas Market will feature themed markets to celebrate key elements of the Christmas season: Love, Taste, and Cheer. Along with each themed market, the Christmas Market will feature over 50 vendors, breakfast with Elsa and Anna, food trucks, photos with Santa, a cooking demo with Mama Maan, mulled wine, and many more festive activities.

When: Every Saturday and Sunday until December 9, 2018
Time: 10 am to 5 pm
Where: Maan Farms – 790 McKenzie Road, Abbotsford
Admission: A donation to the Fraser Valley Development Centre

Merry Makers

What: Create festive stocking stuffers, hand-crafted ornaments or anything else the special people in your life might enjoy. Drop-in from 1 to 4 pm.

When: Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: 1 to 4 pm
Where: Museum of Surrey – 17710 56a Ave, Surrey
Admission: By Donation

Reflections: A Celebration of Cultural Diversity

What: Place des Arts and the Coquitlam Heritage Society present a free, all-ages celebration of diversity. Reflections showcases how the city’s diverse cultural traditions and customs are entwined over the holiday season.

When: Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: 2 to 5 pm
Where: Place des Arts – 1120 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam
Admission: Free

Richmond Olympic Oval Community Legacy Day

What: Richmond Olympic Oval is celebrating it’s 10-year Anniversary with an action-packed family fun day with never-before-seen activities at the Richmond Olympic Oval. Taker part in indoor riding classes, check out the Olympic experience museum, decorate gingerbread, skate with Santa Claus, enter to win prizes, and more at this free family event.

When: Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: 10 am to 5 pm
Where: Richmond Olympic Oval – 6111 River Road, Richmond
Admission: Free

Shiny Fuzzy Muddy

Established in 2003, Shiny Fuzzy Muddy features all kinds of handmade goods and products for the holiday season. In addition, the market constantly aims to discover and develop new artists, as well as connect guests with gifted artisans in their community.

When: Saturday, December 8 and Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm; Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm
Location: Heritage Hall – 3102 Main Street, Vancouver, BC
Admission: $4 admission online or at the door

Gingerbread Village 2018

What: The Downtown Surrey BIA’s second annual Gingerbread Village is a charity event that raises money for the Surrey Christmas Bureau. The creations will be on display at Central City Shopping Centre from December 8 to 16 near the Winners and can be viewed during mall hours. Make a cash donation anytime during Gingerbread Village to vote for your favourite, and the creation that raises the most money will win. All donations raised will go toward the Surrey Christmas Bureau to help them support low-income families during the holidays.

When: Saturday, December 8 to Sunday, December 16, 2018
Time: Regular Mall Hours
Where: City Central Shopping Centre, 10153 King George Blvd, Surrey
Admission: Free

Old Forester Old Fashioned Face-Off

Vancouver’s Escobar restaurant will be throwing a bartending competition you don’t want to miss. Talented mixologist from across the city will be competing in an “Old Fashioned Face-Off” by producing the best cocktail they can with two ounces of Old Forester.

When: Sunday, December 9, 2018
Time: 7 to 9 pm
Where: Escobar – 4245 Fraser Street, Vancouver
Price: $20 entry

See also

• Vancouver Giants return to the Pacific Coliseum this weekend
• Just for Laughs Vancouver reveals first wave of 2019 festival performers
• Canyon Lights transforms North Vancouver into a magical wonderland (PHOTOS)