THEATRE/STAGE
"Rapunzel: The Panto" staged at Surrrey Arts Centre's Main Stage by Fraser Valley Musical Theatre, to Dec. 1. "Written by Bradford & Webster, this hair-raising, 'hair-lariously' tangled take on the classic fairy tale promises a delightful blend of comedy, slapstick, and enough puns to keep you in stitches." Info and tickets: Call 604-501-5566 or visit tickets.surrey.ca.
"Cinderella" pantomime staged by White Rock Players from Dec. 4 to 29 at Oceana PARC Playhouse, 1532 Johnston Rd., White Rock. The show previews on Dec. 4 and 5 at 7:30 p.m.; regular performances are 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7, Dec. 11 to 14, Dec. 12 to 14, Dec. 18 to 21, and Dec. 26 to 28, with 2:30 matinees on Dec. 8, 15, 21, 22, 26 and 29. For more information, visit whiterockplayers.ca or call the box office at 604-536-7535.
"Knotted: Rapunzel’s Story": Royal Canadian Theatre Company returns with another original pantomime, a show promising "groan-worthy puns, creamy slapstick action and incredible choreography by this energetic cast," at Surrey Arts Centre (Dec. 20-22 & 26-29) and Massey Theatre in New Westminster (Jan. 3-5). Tickets: call 604-501-5566 or visit tickets.surrey.ca for Surrey dates.
FOOD
Santa4Seniors: Free breakfast for seniors at special event Tuesday, Dec. 10 at Fleetwood Community Centre, where seniors can register in person or call 604-501-5030. Starting at 9 a.m., the event includes food, gifts for everyone, entertainment and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Event co-presented by Fleetwood Business Improvement Association (BIA) and Fleetwood Community Association.
Breakfast with Santa events in Surrey include Dec. 7 at 9:30am to 11am at Fleetwood Community Centre, also Dec. 14 at 9:30am to 11am at Cloverdale Recreation Centre, Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre and Newton Seniors Centre. “Join your child in playing games and enjoying a variety of tasty breakfast foods with Santa! Price is $11 per person. Registration may be full. If registration is full, we encourage you to join the waitlist. Please ensure you register each individual in your group.” Info: https://www.surrey.ca/parks-recreation/activities-registration, call 604-501-5100.
FESTIVALS
Surrey Santa Parade of Lights: "Visit the Cloverdale Town Centre in Surrey on Sunday, Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. and celebrate the arrival of Santa with a magical, evening, lighted parade. Inspired by the most watched commercial of all time, the 1997 Coca Cola lighted truck commercial, was partially filmed in Downtown Cloverdale. The 17th Annual Surrey Santa Parade of Lights is organized by the Cloverdale BIA, with the help of local businesses, non-profit organizations like the BC Vintage Truck Museum, sports and car clubs, and many volunteers who believe in the magic of Santa. Please consider bringing a non-perishable food donation or gift item for the Cloverdale Community Kitchen, Surrey Food Bank & the Surrey Christmas Bureau." Info: surreysantaparade.com.
Noel Holiday Light Festival & Market at Cloverdale Fairgrounds from Nov. 28 to Dec. 23. This inaugural festival will feature over 1 million sparkling lights to transform 30,000 square feet of Cloverdale Agriplex into Noel Ville including Santa’s castle, Rudy’s reindeer stable, a Christmas Market, a lair for a Green & Grumpy guest, and interactive light displays. "The festival will include a 1 km outdoor, accessible holiday light walk featuring a 150-foot light tunnel, illuminated see-saws, a frosty forest, and much more." Tickets and info: noelfestival.com.
WinterFest at Museum of Surrey, to Dec. 21 at the facility in Cloverdale. “This festive celebration is packed with holiday cheer, hands-on activities, enchanting displays, and family-friendly fun.” Activities: Christmas Tree Fest Nov. 23 to Dec. 21 (“marvel at dazzling Christmas trees, vote for your favorite, and enter to win a holiday prize”), Special Scavenger Hunts until Dec. 21 (“explore the museum through fun holiday-themed hunts”), Merry Makers on Dec. 14, 1pm-4pm (“create holiday crafts, search for Santa and his elves, and more”). Info: surrey.ca/news-events/events/winterfest, or call 604-592-6956.
Christmas on the Peninsula from 10 a.m. till 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30, at White Rock Community Centre (15154 Russell Ave.) and other areas of Uptown White Rock. A throwback to times past, featuring carollers in traditional Victorian dress; a parade; a market; tree lighting and more. Visit christmasonthepeninsula.com
CONCERTS/MUSIC
Seniors Holiday Concert on Saturday, Nov. 30 at Surrey City Hall, 10:30 to 1 p.m. "Come celebrate the holiday season! Talented musicians will bring you a variety of uplifting and engaging performances that you are sure to enjoy including Langley Ukulele Ensemble and The Piano Men. Complimentary lunch and prizes. Visit our fun holiday theme photo booth. Pre-registration required." Tickets are $10, on surrey.ca/news-events/events/seniors-holiday-concert.
"Holly Jolly Christmas" concert Sunday, Dec. 2 at Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey starring Zachary Stevenson and the music of Buddy Holly. Hear all the big hits plus a sprinkle of your favourite seasonal tunes performed by the cast with backing provided by the Legends All-Star Band." Visit bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355. More Info & Video at www.legendsofrocknroll.com.
Let It Snow: Vancouver Welsh Men's Choir in concert Tuesday, Dec. 3 at Surrey Arts Centre Main Stage. A Surrey Civic Theatres Presentation. "Fans of Christmas choral music can expect these sensational seasonal singers to get the Yuletide party started once again. A Surrey holiday tradition for over 35 years, The Vancouver Welsh Men Choir’s show is always filled with joy, humour, and the magic of the season." Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.
An ABBA Christmas with ABRA Cadabra on Friday, Dec. 6 at Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey, 7:30 p.m. "Featuring a captivating live band, powerful vocals, engaging dancers, dazzling new costumes and multi-media, this interactive stage show will have you moving, laughing & singing along to your favourite ABBA hits as well as some holiday favourites." Visit bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355. Show info: www.iloveabba.com.
A Very 90s Christmas Volume 2: On Saturday, Dec. 7, Arts Rock Society hosts concert at 6:30 p.m. at Crescent Legion (2643 128 St.). All proceeds will be donated to Whole Way House's The Orchard (housing for low-income tenants). "Jim's Boutique (Jim Black), Richard Tichelman and his band and DJ Bob Rawz will be playing all the best music from the decade that brought us grunge, boy bands and so much more. Ugly Christmas sweater contest for prizes, photo booth, 50/50 draw. Tickets ($33.28) at available at eventbrite.ca.
Warrior Swing Dance Community presents a Christmas Lindy Hop Adventure on Sunday, Dec. 8. The fun begins at 12:30 p.m. with a beginner Lindy Hop dance lesson, followed by A Sparkle Swing Dance with Arntzen Family Band at the White Rock Traditional Jazz Society's session, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the legion. Cost for lesson and dance is $30 per person, sales close Dec. 1. Contact marielindyhop@proton.me or call 604-536-0195.
Solicitude: Music to Shine in the Darkest Winter concert by musica intima, on Friday, Dec. 13 at Centre Stage at Surrey City Hall. "Let the warm, bright light of choral music carry you through the holiday season and into the New Year. Features the voices of musica intima alongside Lil'wat composer and singer, Russell Wallace." Info: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.
Traditional Christmas concert with the VSO on Sunday, Dec. 15, with 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. performances at Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey. "Celebrate the holiday season with family and friends as you gather to hear your favourite carols and Christmas music sung by special guest soloists and performed live by the VSO. Beloved host Christopher Gaze will delight you with his characteristic antics and storytelling." Visit bellperformingartscentre.com, or call 604-507-6355.
DANCE
"The Nutcracker" by Royal City Youth Ballet: Five performances Dec. 6-8 at Surrey Arts Centre Main Stage. "Experience the magic of The Nutcracker this holiday season with RCYB's full-length ballet, featuring a cast of 100+ dedicated and enthusiastic dancers under the direction of Keitha Campeau." Info and tickets: tickets.surrey.ca, 604-501-5566.
ATTRACTIONS
Bear Creek Park Train and Mini Golf: Mini train rides through forest at Surrey’s largest park, 13750 88 Ave. Christmas train info: "From Sunday, Dec. 1 to Tuesday Dec. 31, daytime train will run 7 days a week from 10am to 4:30pm. Last train departs at 4:15pm. Ticket prices: $11.50 per person. Children under 2 are free. (ages 2 and up requires a ticket)." Info: call 604-501-1232, visit bctrains.com.
Surreys Heritage Rail: Rides from Cloverdale Station. Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to be able to enjoy all rides. Accessible. Parking is available at the station, at 17630 / Highway 10. Info: fvhrs.org. "Christmas in Cloverdale, 100 Years Ago" will take place Dec. 7-8 (sold out)."
NETWORKING
Surrey Board of Trade's Seasonal Sizzle Business Reception on Thursday, Dec. 5 at Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel. Live entertainment, networking, vendors, food, photo booth, prizes and more. Admission by food or cash donation to Surrey Food Bank. "If you would like to showcase your business or organization at this interactive event, contact heather@businessinsurrey.com. There are limited opportunities."
MARKETS/SALES
Winter Fantasy Market, from 10 a.m. till 2 p.m. every Sunday till Dec. 8, at the White Rock Elks Hall (1469 George St.). More than 30 vendors offering food, jewelry, crafts, Christmas decor and more.
Douglas Elementary PAC 1st Annual Holiday Tree Lighting & Market, 5-7:15 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29 at the 17325 2 Ave. school. Featuring vendors, food trucks, face-painting, music and more. Tree-lighting at 7:05 p.m. Free admission.
Vintage Holiday Market on Saturday, Nov. 30 at Ocean Park Hall (1577 128 St.), 10 a.m. till 3 p.m.
Clayton Holiday Marketplace at Clayton Community Centre on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. "Gather with your community and enjoy local artisans and food vendors. Live music, fun activities, and free-art making crafts will be available too."
stɑl̓əw̓ Craft Fair at the Museum of Surrey on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10am to 4pm. “Join us for a day filled with incredible vendors, showcasing unique handmade goods perfect for holiday gifting.”
Indigenous Christmas Market on Dec. 14 from noon to 4pm at Totest Aleng: Indigenous Learning House, South Surrey. “Join us for a unique holiday shopping experience. Co-ordinated by our Artist in Residence Joan Williams of Semiahmoo First Nation, this market offers hand-crafted goods, including jewellery, natural soaps and lotions and art. Take part in activities and crafts while onsite. Do your holiday shopping while supporting a local Indigenous business.”
West Coast Gardens Christmas markets: Trim & Gather, featuring seasonal decor, trimmed trees and music, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov 23-24; and Christmas Markets, from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. Nov. 30 & Dec. 1, Dec. 7-8, and Dec. 14-15. Located at 1420 172 St.
SAS (Self-Advocates of Semiahmoo) Holiday Craft Fair 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 1 at the Semiahmoo House Society treehouse building, 15306 24 Ave. Enjoy food and holiday fun, shop local vendors for unique gifts.
Semiahmoo Arts Society Winter Craft Market and Open House Friday, Dec. 6, from 3-7 p.m. in the Turnbull Gallery at South Surrey Recreation and Arts Centre (14601 20 Ave.). An opportunity to purchase goods made by local artists and artisans; free classes and activities to be offered in the Visual Arts Studio and Pottery Studio.
White Rock Museum & Archives Christmas Craft Market is open 10:30 a.m. till 4:30 p.m. every Tuesday to Saturday from now until Dec. 22, featuring 30 local artisans offering everything from decor to jewelry and more. Part proceeds to benefit the museum. Located at 14970 Marine Dr.
Christmas Market at The Church of the Holy Trinity, 15115 Roper Ave. in White Rock, on Nov. 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
HERITAGE
Christmas Drop-In events at Historic Stewart Farm on December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22 from 12pm to 4:30pm. “Drop-in each weekend for a different themed event, each highlighting a classic element of the holidays. Enjoy homemade refreshments, take in the holiday décor and watch some holiday heritage demonstrations.”
Victorian Christmas Evening: On Saturday, Dec. 7 at 4pm to 7pm at Historic Stewart Farm. “Drop-in for a special evening of music, treats, crafts and live performances by the re-enactors. Make a lantern to take on a caroling walk in the park and snap a photo with Father Christmas.
Evening Carol Sing at Historic Stewart Farm on Saturday, Dec. 14, 6pm to 7pm or 7pm to 8pm. “Sing your heart out during a festive evening of carols, treats and good company in the charmingly decorated Stewart Hall. Admission is $6.15 per session.”
SKATING
25th Annual Winter Ice Palace at Cloverdale Arena from Dec. 14 to Jan. 5. “Experience a winter wonderland in a Surrey arena with festive lights, decorations and music. Holiday fun for the whole family. $5 per person. Admission is free with an Annual Recreation Pass. Sign-up opens 72 hours in advance.” Info: surrey.ca/news-events/events/25th-annual-winter-ice-palace, call 604-501-5100.
ETC.
A Very Saltaire Christmas, presented by Clevelend Doan. A free, family friendly event from 1-3 p.m. on Dec. 7, at the corner of Johnston Road and Thrift Avenue in White Rock. Featuring carollers, cookie decorating at Hillcrest Bakery, gift-wrapping, candy canes and more.
Spectral Holiday: An Evening of Christmas Ghost Stories on Dec. 19 at Historic Stewart Farm, 7 p.m. “Experience a Victorian holiday tradition with Christmas ghost stories! Enjoy various holiday games in our festively decorated farmhouse. Appetizers and mulled wine included. Admission is $19.95 per session.”
LIBRARIES
Christmas Card Making at George Mackie Library in North Delta on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2 to 3:30 p.m. "Make some creative, handmade Christmas cards to give to family and friends. Then, in December, create a wreath, make some stocking-stuffer buttons and magnets, and design some pinecone gnomes to hang in the tree or stand on a shelf."
Holiday Wreath Wonderland: All-Ages Christmas Crafting at George Mackie Library in North Delta, on Monday, Dec. 2 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. "Join us at the library for a festive and fun-filled time at our Holiday Wreath Wonderland! This all-ages program invites families, friends, and individuals of all skill levels. Add your unique flair to your wreath with personalized decorations and creative touches. Whether you prefer classic elegance or whimsical designs, the possibilities are endless! Materials will be provided."
Christmas Pinecone Gnomes at George Mackie Library in North Delta, on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. "Come and design your own pinecone gnomes. Supplies provided. For all ages."
All Ages Stocking Stuffer Spectacular: Button & Magnet Making at George Mackie Library in North Delta, on Moday, Dec. 9 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. "Get ready for a creative holiday adventure at our Stocking Stuffer Spectacular! This all-ages program invites families, friends, and individuals to come together and craft delightful buttons and magnets. Add your personal flair to each creation. Material will be provided."
Christmas Storytime at George Mackie Library in North Delta on Friday, Dec. 6 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. "Christmas is coming, so time to get festive. Join us for a fun-filled, special Christmas Storytime filled with Christmas stories, songs, and rhymes."
