Stanley Park
The most popular guy in the world is returning to Stanley Park and, no, I’m not talking about the Courier’s Fred Lee.
Rather it’s the jolly old elf himself Santa Claus, who will be pulling double duty this Christmas with evening and daytime appearances at Bright Nights in Stanley Park, at the miniature train station, from Thursday Dec. 5 through Jan. 5. Matinees are offered every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday starting at 11 a.m.
The holiday train will be in full operation with partial proceeds, plus all donations gathered at the front gate, in support of the B.C.
Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, which has a fundraising goal this year of $400,000. Almost 4,000 professional fire fighters from 53 communities across the province dedicate their time and skills to support burn survivors and their families while increasing the public’s knowledge about fire and burn safety through burn awareness, research and prevention programs.
For a complete schedule and ticket information, visit burnfund.org or ticketstonight.ca. Same day tickets will also be available starting Dec. 5 at the Miniature Railway box office in Stanley Park starting at noon.
Call 604-257-8531 for more information.
Downtown
A Christmas concert at the Vogue Theatre offers not only the gift of music, but also an opportunity to brighten the holidays for a child not sure if Santa’s going to make it this year.
On Dec. 12, the Naden Band and the Royal Canadian Navy present the Christmas Concert in support of the Salvation Army’s Toy Drive, accompanied by the talents of vocalists Ken Lavigne and Stephanie Greaves. The show takes place at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12, at the Vogue Theatre, 918 Granville St. Tickets are available at the box office, by phone at 604-688-1975 or online at voguetheatre.com.
Mount Pleasant
Toque is back with a handful of new vendors joining the established artisans who make up the annual craft sale and fundraiser.
The brainchild of the artists at Western Front, Toque offers an eclectic mix of unique books, cards, jewelry, textiles, ceramics and one-of-a-kind art objects great for gifts for friends and family — or even yourself.
New vendors this year include Hanahlie Biese of Made by Kin, paperbacknote, Cocolico and Lemonni. Artist Jen Weih will be on hand making essential oil scents and limited-edition tea towels by Arvo Leo will be available for purchase. The sale takes place Dec. 6 and 7 at Western Front, 303 East Eighth Ave. For more information visit front.bc.ca/toque.
Mount Pleasant
I love holiday-themed craft and art sales, but for those not so keen, there’s the Shiny Fuzzy Muddy Collective offering.
Described as the “antidote” to large-scale craft sales, Shiny Fuzzy Muddy offers free admission and a “decided lack of holiday music,” making it an “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas-free zone.”
But holiday music or not, the show promises works by a collection of artists dedicated to the highest quality in design, craftsmanship and materials. Shiny Fuzzy Muddy runs Dec. 14 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main St.
For more information visit shinyfuzzymuddy.com.
