SEASONAL: FAMILY Knockout Punchlines: Improv and Standup Showdown Frankenstein, The DIY Panto
Bright Nights Christmas Train
During the holiday season, the Bright Nights Christmas Train and Stanley Park Train Plaza will sparkle with three million twinkling lights. Experience the lights, breathtaking displays, and live performers along the train route, or view the displays at the Train Plaza by donation ($5 suggested). Proceeds benefit the B.C. Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund. • Stanley Park Miniature Railway, Nov. 28-Jan. 1 • Advance tickets at ticketleader.ca
2019 Vancouver Christmas Tree Lighting
Watch four magnificent holiday trees, one of which is 76 feet tall, come alive with hope and light. This free family-friendly event features live entertainment and music plus free cookies and hot chocolate. • Robson Square, Nov. 29, the lights will remain on throughout the holiday season • Free, donations to the Vancouver International Children’s Festival Society are welcome, childrensfestival.ca
Cultus Lake Christmas
This family-friendly event showcases the lighting of the trees throughout the Park and a visit with Santa Claus. Other highlights include an artisan gift market, bonfire with marshmallows, live Christmas music and more. • Cultus Lake Park, Nov. 29 and 30, 5-8 p.m. • Free, cultuslake.bc.ca/visitor-events/
Lights at Lafarge
The largest free light display in Metro Vancouver turns Lafarge Lake into a magical, dazzling display of lights. Stroll the circle route around the lake and enjoy a variety of light installations. Opening night is Nov. 30 and will feature roving performers, activities, food trucks, a Holiday Market and more. • Lafarge Lake, Coquitlam, Nov. 30-Jan. 19, 5:30-11 p.m. • Free, coquitlam.ca
Shipyards Christmas Festival
The Shipyards will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with music, twinkling lights and lots of free activities. Enjoy ornament/lantern making, story time, gingerbread decorating, balloon creations and face painting. The Mayor will officially light the City’s Christmas tree at 4 p.m. and Mrs. Claus will stop by for a visit and photos. • Shipbuilders’ Square, North Van, Nov. 30, 4-7 p.m. • Free, vancouversnorthshore.com
Timberline Country Christmas
Leave the busy city behind, and enjoy the short trip to a 73 acre horse ranch in Maple Ridge that has been transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Here you will be enchanted by glorious lights, beautiful trees, interactive scenes, lovely music, and delightful activities that remind us of times when Christmas was a lot simpler. • Timberline Ranch, Maple Ridge, Nov. 30-Dec. 22 • $10$14, register online, timberlinechristmas.ca
VanDusen Festival of Lights
A magical winter wonderland with over one million lights decorating 15 acres of VanDusen Botanical Garden. Stroll with friends and family through interactive themed areas, watch the famous dancing lights show on Livingstone Lake, take a selfie with Santa and light a candle at the Make-A-Wish candle grotto. All tickets include a free ride on the carousel! • VanDusen Botanical Garden, Nov. 30-Jan. 5 • vandusenfestivaloflights.ca
Surrey Santa Parade of Lights
Enjoy a wonderful mix of antique vehicles, big rigs, boats, floats, marching bands, mascots, remote controlled vehicles, dancers, service clubs and sports teams. Please join us for an evening of fun that is held in the charming historic town centre of Cloverdale. • Dec. 1, parade begins at 5 p.m. • Free, surreysantaparade.com
Vancouver Santa Claus Parade
This annual parade features more than 40 marching bands, choirs, festive floats and community groups. • Downtown Vancouver, Dec. 1, the parade starts at noon • Free, vancouversantaclausparade.com
Christmas Glow: Abbotsford
Experience a magical family-friendly indoor wonderland as you help Santa and his elves find his reindeer. Enjoy interactive light gardens, illuminated structures, and daily live entertainment all under the twinkle of a million lights. • TRADEX, Abbotsford, Dec. 5-Jan. 4 • glowgardens.com/abbotsford-christmas/ Christmas Glow: Vancouver
This seasonal community festival, brings together the people you love to stroll, laugh and play under the twinkle of half a million lights. It’s the magic and wonder of an outdoor festival, hosted inside a cozy and spacious venue. • Harbour Convention Centre, until Jan. 5 • glowgardens.com/vancouver-christmas/ Soak up the Season at the Vancouver Aquarium
Make a splash this festive season at the Vancouver Aquarium. With over 60,000 creatures, and amazing shows daily, there’s something for everyone this holiday season. Highlights include Scuba Claus, and eel-powered Christmas tree and the new 4-D movie, The Polar Express 4D Experience. • The Vancouver Aquarium, Stanley Park, until Jan. 5 • vanaqua.org/holiday Aurora Winter Festival
The Aurora Winter Festival will illuminate its new home at the PNE with more than a million lights. Discover the four mystical worlds, the Land of Giants, Polar Passage, Luminous Gardens, and Whimsical Forest. Other highlights include the tube park, ice skating, amusement rides, live music, food trucks, and a market. • PNE/ Hastings Park, until Jan. 5 • aurorawinterfestival.com
Canyon Lights
Named one of the most spectacular holiday light displays in the world, Canyon Lights is an event set to dazzle and amaze, high above the forest floor. Experience the popular attraction in a whole new light while you explore the park as it transforms the suspension bridge,
Cliffwalk, Treetops Adventure, canyon and rainforest into a twinkling West Coast winter wonderland. • Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, North Van, until Jan. 26 • capbridge.com
Grouse Mountain’s annual Peak of Christmas
Immerse yourself in the festive season with visits with Santa and his real reindeer, wander along the enchanting Light Walk or watching Christmas movies in the Theatre in the Sky. Take a spin on the 8,000-square foot Mountaintop Skating Pond surrounded by trees adorned with glimmering lights. • Grouse Mountain, North Van, until Jan. 5 • grousemountain.com
Heritage Christmas at the Burnaby Village Museum
A season of old-fashioned fun and spectacular light displays. Stroll through the streets of the Village to see wreaths, cedar swags and vintage-themed displays will. Special entertainment is scheduled throughout the season. • Burnaby Village Museum, 6501 Deer Lake Ave., until Jan. 3 • Free gate admission, carousel rides $2.65/person • burnabyvillagemuseum.ca
The Polar Express
Take a ride on everyone’s favourite Christmas train. Passengers will be treated to a 50-minute train ride complete with hot chocolate, cookies, Christmas carols and stories. • West Coast Railway Heritage Park, Squamish • Saturdays and Sundays until Dec. 15 • wcra.org
SEASONAL: MUSIC The Magic of Yule
A joyful selection of traditional carols, lively gospel favourites and inspirational pop songs. The 70-voice Universal Gospel Choir will have you moved by the holiday spirit and dancing in the aisles! • Canadian Memorial United Church, 1825 W. 16th Ave., Nov. 29 and 30 • $15$30, universalgospelchoir.ca
Christmas Traditions Around the World
The Vancouver Men’s Welsh Choir presents their annual holiday concert. • Nov. 29: Christ Church Cathedral, 7:30 p.m. | Nov. 30, 2:30 p.m.: White Rock Baptist Church | Dec. 1, 2:30 p.m.: Massey Theatre, New West | Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m.: Centennial Theatre, North Van | Dec. 7, 7:30 p.m.: Shaughnessy Heights United Church | Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m.: Surrey Arts Centre | Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m.: Chilliwack Cultural Centre • vancouverchoir.ca
Early Music Vancouver: Handel’s Messiah
Early Music Vancouver invites you to celebrate the festive season with the return of Handel’s Messiah. Celebrated guest conductor Ivars Taurins leads the combined forces of the Pacific Baroque Orchestra, the Vancouver Cantata Singers, and four internationally acclaimed vocalists in a thrilling period instrument performance of this all-time seasonal favourite. • Chan Centre, UBC, Nov. 30, 8 p.m., • From $18, earlymusic.bc.ca
The Surrey City Orchestra: The Nutcracker
Come hear Tchaikovsky’s classic Nutcracker ballet featuring four local dance companies and the Surrey Children’s Choir. • Chandos Pattison Auditorium, Surrey, Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m. • $25-$35, surreycityorchestra.org
Richmond Singers Christmas Concert: A Festive Transition
Get into the holiday spirit with an afternoon of music and song that is sure to put you in a festive mood! • Fra
serview MB Church, 11295 Mellis Dr., Richmond, Dec. 1, 2:30 p.m. • $20/$18, richmondsingers.ca
Messiah at The ACT
In one of only three professional performances produced by Early Music Vancouver in the Lower Mainland this season, one of the most monumental and inspirational musical works of all time fills The ACT Arts Centre stage. • 11944 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, Dec. 1, 3 p.m. • $35-$59, theactmapleridge.org
Winter Harp
Classical and Celtic harps combine with flutes, violin/ fiddle, rare medieval instruments, percussion, poetry. Medieval carols, rare carols and familiar carols will have your heart singing. • Dec. 1, 2:30 p.m.: Massey Theatre, New West, ticketstonight.ca | Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m.: Chilliwack Cultural Centre, chilliwackculturalcentre.ca | Dec. 11 and 12, 7:30 p.m.: BlueShore Financial Centre for the Performing Arts, North Van, tickets.capilanou.ca | Dec. 15, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.: The ACT, Maple Ridge, theactmapleridge.org | Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m.: Holy Trinity Cathedral, New West, ticketstonight.ca | Dec. 20, 7:30 p.m.: Christ Church Cathedral • winterharp.com
Chantal Kreviazuk: Christmas is a Way of Life Tour
Multiple Juno Award-winning and Platinum-selling artist performs songs for the season. • Dec. 4: Clarke Theatre, Mission, ticketmaster.ca | Dec. 5: Centennial Theatre, North Van, centennialtheatre.com.
5th annual Yule Duel
In this fun-filled carolling competition onlookers get the chance to vote for their favourite choirs, helping carollers make it to the duelling sing-offs, where a panel of judges will decide the winner. • Vancouver Art Gallery plaza, Dec. 5, 5:30-9 p.m. • $5 to vote for your favourite, yuleduel.com
SEASONAL: STAGE Bah Humbug!
An Eastside Christmas Carol celebrating the spirit and humanity of Charles Dickens and the Downtown East Side community. Join us for the 10th annual and final season of this beloved holiday classic! Juno Award-winner Jim Byrnes leads this inspiring musical ensemble which reveals Vancouver’s pressing social issues showcased in a riveting rendition. • Goldcorp Centre for the Arts, 149 W. Hastings St, Dec. 5-21 • $39/$24, eventbrite.com
Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley
This festive Pride and Prejudice follow-up play is set after Lizzy Bennet has married Mr. Darcy and they come to live on his grand estate. Joining them for the holidays are her pregnant elder sister, Jane, and Mr. Bingley; her youngest sister, Lydia; and Mary, the often overlooked middle sister. While Mary starts to dream of a new life beyond her boisterous family, an unexpected visitor at the Darcy household could spell romance. • Arts Club Granville Island Stage, Dec. 5-Jan. 4 • From $29, artsclub.com
O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy
Combining British propriety with an unabashed love for the unexpected, London’s three-time Impresario Award-winning duo James & Jamesy steep an astonishing show reminiscent of classic British pantos. • Dec. 5-7: Vancouver Playhouse | Dec. 13: Chilliwack Cultural Centre | Dec. 14: Massey Theatre, New West | Dec. 15: Bell Performing Arts Centre, Surrey • jamesandjamesy. com
Merry Kissmas — A Royal Romance
Join Vancouver TheatreSports for seasonal mirth and merriment. This is the time of year when screens large and small are filled with sappy, warm-hearted romantic comedies, and the stage at The Improv Centre is no exception. VTS’ holiday special parodies all the inane clichés and tropes you would expect to see in any popular holiday TV special or film. • Improv Centre, Granville Island, until Dec. 24 • vtsl.com
Chilliwack Players Guild presents A Christmas Carol
One of the most beloved stories ever written, A Christmas Carol tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a flint hearted miser who is redeemed through the power of love and forgiveness. • Chilliwack Cultural Centre, until Dec. 7 • $25/$20, chilliwackculturalcentre.ca
It’s a Wonderful Christmas-ish Holiday Miracle
It’s a Wonderful Life meets Modern Family in this new Canadian comedy — a play that approaches the less camera-ready aspects of the holiday season with humour and a generous helping of whimsy. An Arts Club presentation. • BMO Theatre Centre, 162 W. 1st Ave., until Dec. 22 • From $29, artsclub.com
CLASSICAL/ CHORaL
Beethoven Trio
As the world marks the 250th Anniversary of Ludwig van Beethoven’s birth over the coming year, an international group of three virtuoso musicians has come together to celebrate the occasion with a repertoire of the Viennese master’s works for Piano Trio. With Andrew Sords violin, Luke Severn cello, and Cheryl Duvall piano.
• Evergreen Cultural Centre, Coquitlam, Nov. 29, 8 p.m.
• evergreenculturalcentre.ca
Music on the Point: Paolo Bortolussi and Fringe Percussion
Arrangements of works by Mozart and Telemann alongside newer works invoking sights and sounds of Bali, Japan and India. • Roy Barnett Recital Hall, UBC, Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m. • $20/$10, music.ubc.ca
United Voices Choir & Chamber Orchestra
Enjoy the choir’s presentation of the uplifting Gloria and dramatic Kyrie by Vivaldi. Join us on December 1 for our Sing-Along Messiah. • Pacific Spirit United Church, 2195 W. 45th Ave., Nov. 29 -Dec. 1 • $20, voiceschoir.ca
VSO: Sibelius 5, Night On Bald Mountain And Elgar Cello Concerto
Sibelius 5 — what more can we say than horns, horns, horns! You will leave the concert hall humming one of the simplest yet greatest themes ever created for orchestra. Plus, hometown superstar cellist Gary Hoffman, originally from Vancouver, provides a definitive interpretation of the Elgar concerto. • Orpheum Theatre, Nov. 29 and 30, 8 p.m. • $16.25-$115, vancouversymphony.ca
Capilano University Music: Handel’s Messiah
Capilano University Music welcomes you to its festive performances of Handel’s Messiah. A magnificent classic, still the most popular choral/orchestral work 260 years after the death of composer George Frideric Handel. • The BlueShore at Cap U, North Van, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 • $10-$35, capilanou.ca/centre
VPO Plays 20th Century Classics
Program: Copland: An Outdoor Overture, Abe: Prism Rhapsody, Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5. Conductor: Jin Zhang, Assistant Conductor: Jaelem Bhate, with
guest artist: Aaron Graham, marimba. • Shaughnessy Heights United Church, 1550 W. 33rd Ave., Nov. 30, 8 p.m. • By donation, vanphil.ca
The Tenors: Wonder of Christmas Holiday Tour
Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? Multi-platinum selling, Juno Award-winning group celebrate the holiday season with a selection of songs from their two Christmas albums, along with other festive favourites. • Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Dec. 3, 8 p.m. • From $50, ticketmaster.ca
VSO Chamber Players: Stravinsky, Cotton, and Shostakovich
Program: Stravinsky — L’Histoire du Soldat Suite; Jeffery Cotton — Meditation, Rhapsody and Bacchanal; Shostakovich — Piano Trio No. 2. • Pyatt Hall, Dec. 5 and 8 • $40, vancouversymphony.ca
ROCK/JAZZ/ETC. Daniel Caesar
Grammy Award-winning R&B singer, songwriter, and artist tours in support of his brand new full-length, Case Study 01. • Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sport Centre, UBC, Nov. 28 • From $38, ticketmaster.ca
Lisa Brokop: A Classic Country Christmas
This is the first time in Lisa’s 25+ year of touring that she’ll be doing a show primarily of holiday music. • Bozzini’s Upstairs Lounge, Chilliwack, Nov. 28, 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. • $29.50, bozzinisrestaurant.ca
Marin Patenaude | Mark Stuart
With favourably raucous and precious moments, Marin Patenaude deftly stitches together an urban edge with the waving grasses of country folk. Mark Stuart’s show consists of storytelling, flashy guitar chops, and songs that draw from his rock, blues, country, and folk music roots. • St. James Hall, 3214 W. 10th Ave., Nov. 28, 8 p.m. • $24/$20, roguefolk.bc.ca
Supertramp’s Roger Hodgson
Acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician co-founded the iconic rock band Supertramp. • Nov 28, 8 p.m.: River Rock Casino Resort | Nov. 29, 8 p.m.: Hard Rock Casino Vancouver • From $99.50, ticketmaster.ca
Tonye Aganaba
Singer-songwriter’s musical style combines soul, neofolk and R&B, earning comparisons to folks like Lauryn Hill, Ani DiFranco. • Shadbolt Centre, Burnaby, Nov. 28, 8 p.m. • $36, tickets.shadboltcentre.com
Hilltop Hoods: The Great Expanse Tour
Australian hip hop group tour in support of their new album, The Great Expanse. • Commodore Ballroom, Nov. 29, 9 p.m. • $32.50, ticketmaster.ca
John Lee Trio
New York City saxophonist Grant Stewart joins John Lee Trio for a performance filled with elegance and passion. • Frankie’s Jazz Club, 755 Beatty St., Nov. 29, 8 p.m. • $20, coastaljazz.ca
Mairi Rankin & Eric Wright
Mairi Rankin is one of the hugely influential Rankin Family — legends on the Canadian music scene. She plays fiddle, sings and also step-dances up a storm. Eric Wright, cellist of The Fretless fame, joins Mairi Rankin in an inspired pairing. • St. James Hall, 3214 W. 10th Ave., Nov. 30, 8 p.m. • $24/$20, roguefolk.bc.ca
Cory Weeds’ Birthday Bash
A swingin’ celebration with international guests galore! Jazz Impresario Cory Weeds is celebrating a birthday and he has organized quite a party. • Frankie’s Jazz Club, 755 Beatty St., Nov. 30, 8 p.m. • $25, coastaljazz. ca
Daniel Wesley & Band
Vancouver beach rocker performs songs from his ninth album, Beach Music. • Blue Frog Studio, White Rock. Nov. 30, 7 p.m., 9:15 p.m. • $52, bluefrogstudios.ca
Hanson
American pop rock band from Tulsa, Oklahoma, formed by brothers Isaac, Taylor, and Zac. • Vogue Theatre, Nov. 30, doors 6 p.m. • $39.50, eventbrite.ca
Illenium: The Ascend Tour
American musician, DJ and producer is known for his remix of Don’t Let Me Down, by The Chainsmokers. • PNE Forum, Nov. 30, 7 p.m. • $46.50-$104.05, ticketleader.ca
Le Vent du Nord
This award-winning and highly acclaimed band is a leading force in Quebec’s progressive francophone folk movement. • Harrison Memorial Hall, Harrison Hot Springs • Nov. 30, 8 p.m. • $25, harrisonfestival.com
Perfectly Petty: A Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Tribute
The look, the style, the sound! Dave Danylchuk embodies the spirit of Tom Petty and performs with a connection to the heart of rock and roll that Tom Petty was integral in cultivating. • Chief Sepass Theatre, Fort Langley, Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m. • $45 at ticketmaster.ca
SAINt JHN: i Ghetto Lenny’s IGNORANt Forever Tour
Shadowy, slow jam-oriented Brooklyn singer-songwriter / rapper and FVDED 2019 alumni SAINt JHN takes on Venue Nightclub • 881 Granville St., Nov. 30, doors 6:30 p.m. • $28.50, ticketweb.ca
Salt Thief
Duelin’ Viola brothers known as Salt Thief hold down a rare groove, with full baritone voices, shredding violas, and thunderous foot percussion. • Tractorgrease Cafe, 48710 Chilliwack Lake Rd., Chilliwack, Nov. 30, 7 p.m. • $15, eventbrite.ca
She Past Away
Turkish post-punk band’s music is often described as ‘new dark-wave. • Rickshaw Theatre, 254 E. Hastings St., Nov. 30, doors 9 p.m. • $22, eventbrite.ca
Show Me the Body
N.Y. hardcore band, on tour to support their latest release, Dog Whistle. With guests Urochromes. • WISE Hall, 1882 Adanac St., Nov. 30, 9 p.m. • $15, ticketweb. ca
The Offspring & Sum 41
The Offspring are a mega-platinum-selling rock band. With Canadian rock band Sum 41. • Abbotsford Centre, Nov. 30, 7 p.m. • $41.50-$83.50, ticketmaster.ca
Daughters
Experimental rock band from Providence, RI, tour to support their latest release, You Won’t Get What You Want. • Rickshaw Theatre, 254 E Hastings St., Dec. 1, 8 p.m. • $22, ticketweb.ca
Jazz Walk at the ’bolt
Cory Weeds and The Cellar Music Group take over the Shadbolt with international headliners. Travel from room to room and hear some of everything, or hang out in one room and enjoy a whole set! • Shadbolt Centre, Burnaby, Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. • $50, tickets.shadboltcentre.com
High On Fire and Power Trip
Co-headlining show featuring American metal bands, with guests Devil Master, Creeping Death. • Rickshaw Theatre, 254 East Hastings St., Dec. 2, doors 6 p.m. • $26.50, rickshawtheatre.com
John Craigie
Renowned for his eloquent Americana style, engaging live shows, and off-the-cuff clever observations, John Craigie carries on the legacy of classic singer-songwriters, while blazing a trail of his own. • The Imperial, 319 Main St., Dec. 4, 8 p.m. • $22.50, livenation.com
The Dandy Warhols
Portland rockers tour in support of their 10th studio album, Why You So Crazy. • Commodore Ballroom, Dec. 4, 8 p.m. • $35, ticketmaster.ca
Close Talker
Indie rock band from Saskatoon tours in support of their brand new album, How Do We Stay Here? • WISE Hall, 1882 Adanac St., Dec. 5, doors 8 p.m. • $12, rickshawtheatre.com
Don McGlashan
This singer-songwriter is considered a national treasure in New Zealand. He performed in Blam Blam Blam, The Front Lawn and The Mutton Birds before embarking on his solo career. • Kay Meek Arts Centre, West Van, Dec. 5-7, 7:30 p.m. • $29-$42, kaymeek.com
John Reischman & The Jaybirds
Like the powerful mandolinist and composer at its helm, John Reischman and the Jaybirds fashion a stylish take on bluegrass that seamlessly blends original songs and instrumentals with Appalachian old-time music. • St. James Hall, 3214 W. 10th Ave., Dec. 5, 8 p.m. • $28/$24, roguefolk.bc.ca
Rich the Kid
Atlanta trap rapper and Rich Forever Music CEO. • Venue Nightclub, 881 Granville St., Dec. 5, doors 9 p.m. • $37, venuelive.ca
The Aquadolls
This all-female trio pack a punch with tongue-in cheek lyrics, hard-hitting licks, and soothing vocal harmonies. • Fox Cabaret, 2321 Main St., Dec. 5, 8 p.m. • $15, livenation.com
Van Django Cool Yule
Vancouver’s hottest swing string quartet present their sizzling hot Gypsy Jazz Christmas. • Blue Frog Studios, White Rock, Dec. 5, 7 p.m. • $47, bluefrogstudios.ca
JUST ANNOUNCED Antibalas
Brooklyn-based musical collective, on tour to support their latest release, Fu Chronicles. • Rickshaw Theatre, Feb. 21 • $30, ticketweb.ca
Joep Beving
Dutch pianist and composer. • WISE Hall, Feb. 21 • $30, ticketweb.ca
Drive-By Truckers
Southern rock band tour to support their new release, The Unraveling. • Commodore Ballroom, March 17 • $35, ticketmaster.ca
Wilco
American rock band tour to support their latest release, Ode To Joy. • Orpheum Theatre, March 21 • $55-$69.50, ticketmaster.ca
G. Love & Special Sauce
American hip-hop/blues band, on tour to support their upcoming new release, The Juice. • Venue Nightclub, March 22 • $38, ticketweb.ca
Colin James Blues Trio
With his 19th album, Miles to Go, Colin James is getting back to the blues. • Clarke Theatre, Mission, March 27 • $49.50, ticketmaster.ca
Oh Wonder
London-based alt-pop duo tour in support of their new album, No One Else Can Wear Your Crown. • Queen Elizabeth Theatre, April 11 • From $46, ticketmaster.ca
An Evening with Pink Martini
A little orchestra that crosses the genres of classical music, classic pop, Latin music, and jazz. • Orpheum Theatre, April 13 • $45-$89.50, ticketmaster.ca
Basia Bulat
Singer-songwriter from Montreal has brought together an intrinsic contemporary sound with a love of classic
folk, country and R&B songwriting. • Commodore Ballroom, May 11 • $22.50, ticketmaster.ca
Apocalyptica: Cell-O World Tour
Finland’s multi-Platinum cello-rock band tour in support of their new album, Cell-0. • The Imperial, May 15 • $45, livenation.com
Rockin’ River Music Fest
The 2020 edition of the annual music festival features an impressive list of distinguished country music alumni, including Keith Urban, Jon Pardi, Chris Janson, Travis Tritt. • Merritt, July 30-Aug. 2 • Early bird weekend passes start at $149, rockinriverfest.com
FILM
The Condor & The Eagle: Premiere Screening and Discussion
This timely film follows Indigenous leaders throughout the Americas engaged in critical actions to preserve their territories from environmental devastation. Following the film, Activists Audrey Siegl and Cecilia Point from the Musqueam Nation and Angela Sterritt (CBC) from the Gitxsan Nation will host a discussion. • The Museum of Vancouver, Nov. 29, 6:45 p.m. • $14-$15, facebook.com/thecondorandtheeaglethefilm
National Theatre Live: Fleabag
See the hilarious, award-winning, one-woman show that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series FLEABAG, captured live for cinemas from London’s West End. • Rio Theatre, until Dec. 8 • $15/$17, riotheatre.ca
Vancouver Irish Film Festival
VIRFF is Vancouver’s newest cultural event celebrates the best in Irish cinema. • Vancity Theatre, Nov. 29Dec. 1 • virff.org
TALKS/FORUMS
Lindy West in Conversation with Hannah McGregor
Lindy West has become a household name for her fierce, funny and forthright analyses of contemporary culture. She shares her newest book, The Witches Are Coming, with professor and Secret Feminist Agenda host Hannah McGregor. • Vogue Theatre, Dec. 3, doors 7 p.m. • $15-$50, eventbrite.ca
KIDS/FAMILY Christmas Bird Count for Kids
Use binoculars and a field guide to identify and report findings during this winter bird count. Learn basic birding skills and enjoy the open house afterward. A delightful Christmas tradition. Ages 8-14. • Burnaby Lake Regional Park, Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-noon • Free, registration required, metrovancouver.org/events
Cool Cats & Canines
Discover the remarkable ways that local animals survive the winter. • Kanaka Creek Regional Park, Maple Ridge, Dec. 1, 1-4 p.m. • Free, drop by anytime, metrovancouver.org/events
Winter Mosaic
This celebration of the winter season explores the different ways the people living in the Lower Mainland celebrate the cold months. Arts and crafts stations will set up in the Teekay Gallery, and there will be musical performances by Michael Viens of Blackthorn and fiddler Annie Brown. The West End Chamber Choir will be singing Christmas Carols, and free hot chocolate and cookies will be served. • Vancouver Maritime Museum, Dec. 1, noon-4 p.m. • By donation, vancouvermaritimemuseum.com
Disney On Ice: Mickey’s Search Party
This brand-new immersive ice skating experience brings the magic closer to fans than ever before through engaging elements that take place on the ice, in the air and in the seats. • Pacific Coliseum, until Dec. 1 • From $18, ticketleader.ca
OUTDOORS Robson Square Ice Rink
This winter, renew a classic Vancouver tradition and enjoy some old-fashioned fun. Robson Square’s outdoor skating rink is open, so celebrate winter in style with skating in the heart of downtown Vancouver. • Robson Square, Nov. 30-Feb. 29 • Free, skate rentals/$5, robsonsquare.com
Wednesday Wanderings: Exploring Eagles
Why are eagles now so abundant in our region in the winter? Discover some of the habitat components that allow them to thrive. • Deas Island Regional Park, Delta, Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-noon • $3, registration required, adults only, metrovancouver.org/events
CRaFT FAIRS/ MARKETS TOQUE Craft Fair
Held annually, this fair showcases the wares of 27 Vancouver-based artists and designers while raising funds to support Western Front’s ongoing program of contemporary art and new music. • Western Front, 303 E. 8th Ave., Nov. 29-Dec. 1 • Admission by donation, front.bc.ca
Kitsilano Winter Market
This one-day indoor event focuses on curating local, sustainable and eco-friendly craft and food vendors. • Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, 2305 W. 7th Ave., Nov. 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • $2 suggested donation, kitshouse. org/winter-market/
Semiahmoo Potters Christmas Show & Sale
Features a wide variety of one of a kind hand built and thrown vessels crafted by local potters. • South Surrey Rec & Arts Centre, 14601 20th Ave., Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free admission, semiahmoopotters.com
The Eastside Flea
Vintage, collectibles, handmade, and more! • Holiday Markets take place Nov. 30-Dec. 1, Dec. 7-8 and Dec. 1415 • Eastside Studios, 550 Malkin Ave., eastsideflea.com
Granville Flea: Black Sunday
Granville Flea returns with its winter edition of the vintage streetwear market place. • Venue Nightclub, 881 Granville St., Dec. 1, doors 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • $5, venuelive. ca
Retro Design & Antiques Fair
185 tables of vintage, retro and antique collectibles under one roof, plus on-site drop-in appraisals. • Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Dr., Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. • $5, 21cpromotions.com
Vancouver Christmas Market
The city’s authentic German market amplifies its festive offerings with more than 80 huts stuffed with sweets, treats, and treasures. • Jack Poole Plaza, until Dec. 24 • vancouverchristmasmarket.com
Rockin’ Holiday Craft Market
Local artisans showcase their handmade crafts and specialty food items. Proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Tri-City Transitions Society. • Hard Rock Casino Vancouver, 2080 United Blvd., Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. • Admission by donation, hardrockcasinovancouver.com
Italian Christmas Market
This unique market boasts traditional Italian Christmas treats, traditions and music alongside local artisanal products. • Italian Cultural Centre, 3075 Slocan St., Dec. 4, 4-9 p.m. • Free admission, italianculturalcentre.ca
LITERaRY Vancouver After Dark: Book Launch Party
Celebrate the launch of bestselling author Aaron Chapman’s latest late-night local history release After Dark: A Wild History of a City’s Nightlife. Features an evening of classic nightclub-style entertainment hosted by Les
Goodman and featuring musical guests Gene Hardy and the Vancouver After Dark Orchestra. • Central Studios, 856 Seymour St., Nov. 28, 8 p.m. • Suggested donation: $2-$10 to Friends of the City of Vancouver Archives, RSVP at: facebook.com/ events/541375269960047
STAGE
Sixteen comedians, four random teams, and one epic showcase of Vancouver Comedy. • Yuk Yuks Vancouver, 2837 Cambie St, Nov. 29, 10:30 p.m. • $15, yukyuks.com
A Comics’ Survival Guide to Christmas
Come out and laugh the night away with a wacky bunch of comics that all have their own twist on holiday survival. • Lafflines Comedy Club, New West, Dec. 5, 8 p.m. • $10, lafflines.com/
Festive family fun in the best pantomime tradition. Frankenstein’s castle is falling to pieces! A call goes out to Sherlock from Holmes on Homes, and his sidekick Dr. Watson to foil the evil contractor Strange Lestrange and his sidekicks Smash and Bash in a hilarious attempt to
Make it Right! Presented by the North Vancouver Community Players. • Theatre at Hendry Hall, North Van, Nov. 28-Dec. 15 • $12/$6, northvanplayers.ca
Where the Wild Things Are
The wild rumpus starts again with the return of our signature production. Jump right in and help Max transform his bedroom into the many landscapes of his adventures. Sail along together to the land of the Wild Things! This highly interactive production is a guided play experience, adapted from the timeless classic by Maurice Sendak. For ages 3-6 and their favourite grownups. • Presentation House Theatre, North Van, Nov. 29Dec. 15 • $12.50-$22, phtheatre.org
The Tragic Comedy of Macbeth
A group of Vancouver’s finest comedic, theatrical and improvisational minds come together for a new play: A comedic look at Shakespeare’s tragedy Macbeth, just in time for the holidays. Smashing together comedy, improv and the great words of the Bard, this show promises an entertaining evening for comedy and Shakespeare fans alike. Presented by Literary Larceny Collective. • Jericho Arts Centre, 1675 Discovery St., Dec. 4-15 • $15-$30, tickets.theatrewire.com
Cock
Untold Wants Theatre presents Mike Bartlett’s uproarious battle of wit and persuasion that centres around John, who, having left his seven year relationship with M, a man, falls in love with W, a woman. John’s choice becomes not only a choice between two people, but a larger choice of lifestyle, family, and identity. • The Cultch Historic Theatre, Dec. 5-15 • $20/$25, thecultch.com
The Sound of Music
The hills are alive! Journey along with the spirited Maria, who takes a governess position with the von Trapp family, falling first for the children and then the widower Captain von Trapp himself, all against the stirring backdrop of pre-WWII Austria. Presented by Arts Club. • Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage, until Jan. 5, sing-along performances on Dec 26 and Jan. 4 • From $39, artsclub.com
East Van Panto: Pinocchio
When a lonely old ice cream vendor named Gelatto 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. • York Theatre, 639 Commercial Dr., until Jan. 5 • From $26, 604251-1363, thecultch.com
Fado — The Saddest Music in the World
A tale of love and ghosts set in the back alleys and brothels of old Lisbon. Part concert, part theatre, the story of a young woman confronting her country’s Fascist past and her own identity is interwoven with the heartbreaking national music of Portugal known as Fado. • Firehall Arts Centre, 280 E. Cordova St., until Dec. 14 • firehallartscentre.ca
Forever Plaid
A quartet of male singers takes a detour to heaven on the way to their first big concert. They posthumously take the stage for one final gig in this goofy nostalgic celebration of the 1950s. • Deep Cove Shaw Theatre, North Van, until Dec. 7 • firstimpressionstheatre.com
Peter Pan
Pirates. Lost Boys. A ticking crocodile. And a child who never wants to grow up. With live folk and jazz music, this exuberant adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s classic tale reimagines Peter Pan for the new millennium. A Bad Hats Theatre production presented by Carousel Theatre for Young People. • Waterfront Theatre, Granville Island, until Jan. 5 • $18-$35, carouseltheatre.ca
GALLERIES/ MUSEUM
Burnaby Art Gallery
echoes: In this truly interdisciplinary exhibition, bodies of water and the physical remnants of stone, plastic and land become the houses for historical traces of change and continuity. As a group exhibition, echoes brings together the works of six artists: Scott Benesiinaabandan, Jeffrey McNeil-Seymour with Dayna Danger, Caroline Monnet, Nicole Preissl and Maika’i Tubbs. • Opening reception Nov. 28, 7 p.m., runs until Jan. 26, 2020. • 6344 Deer Lake Ave., Burnaby, 604-297-4422
Vancouver Maritime Museum
Ship’s Company: The Canadian Navy at Work and Play. Photographer Kathryn Mussallem portrays the lives of the men and women of the Canadian Navy, celebrating the diverse humanity of Canadian naval forces. The exhibit captures action-packed drills, sailors focused on their work, lighthearted antics at sea and on land, emotional homecomings and the everyday in-between moments. Mussallem’s work commemorates the lives of sailors who work hard, play hard and always return home. Opens Nov. 29, runs until May 10, 2020. • 1905 Ogden Ave, vancouvermaritimemuseum.com