Holiday festivities are in full swing in New West – which means there’s no shortage of things to do around town. Here are some of our top pics for the first weekend in December
Friday, Dec. 1
Wishing Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Wishing Tree Lighting Ceremony in Moody Park is kicking off this year’s Shine Bright New West, which includes activities and light displays throughout the city all month long. Tonight’s event includes includes free giveaways, warm beverages, fire pits, and live entertainment. Make a wish, and the tree lights up magically and generates a $10 donation towards the protection of parkland in B.C.
- When: Friday, Dec. 1, 5 to 8 p.m.
- Where: Moody Park, 600 Eighth St. (The Wishing Tree is beside the playground, near Eighth Street and Sixth Avenue – not to be confused with the lit tree in front of Century House.)
- Details: The opening ceremony is tonight from 5 to 8 p.m., but the tree will be open for wishes until Jan. 28, 2024.
Shine Bright Downtown
Shine Bright Downtown’s holiday lighting event kicks off with brief speeches, holiday music and activities. Hot drinks are available by donation, with proceeds going to Don’t Go Hungry: A Food Support Program.
- When: Friday, Dec. 1, 4 to 6 p.m.
- Where: Fraser River Discovery Centre, 788 Quayside Dr.
- Details: www.downtownnewwest.ca
New West Swing and Social
Uptown Swing Collective presents the NWSS Jazz Jam – New West Swing and Social. This all-ages event includes live music by Tim Sars and Friends, as well as a special performance by New Westminster Secondary School’s jazz band. Everyone is welcome; no dance experience is necessary.
- When: Friday, Dec. 1. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., beginner swing dance lesson is at 7 p.m. and live music for listening and social dancing is from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
- Where: Grand Commons of New Westminster Secondary School, 820 Sixth St.
- Details: Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door.
Saturday, Dec. 2
Vintage Christmas Market
The first Vintage Christmas Market features 24 vendors from New West and the Lower Mainland who will be selling a variety of vintage Christmas decorations and winter décor, along with vintage and upcycled gifts for sustainable-minded shoppers.
- When: Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: Centennial Lodge in Queen’s Park
- Details: Admission is $2, or free with a donation of a non-perishable food item
Queensborough fire hall Christmas lighting
The annual lighting of the fire hall for the holidays returns, with this year’s lights to be unveiled.
- When: Saturday, Dec. 2, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Where: Queensborough fire hall, 1011 Ewen Ave.
- Details: Free, but attendees are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the food bank.
Holiday Night Market
New West Craft: Holiday Night Market is a curated market that showcases the work of local makers and artisans. Presented by Arts New West.
- When: Saturday, Dec. 2, 3 to 9 p.m.
- Where: River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.
Sunday, Dec. 3
Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir and Winter Harp
Christmas Magic with the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir and Winter Harp returns to New West. The Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir will share the stage with Winter Harp and do some performances on its own. Winter Harp will perform a collection of carols ranging from the familiar to Celtic and medieval.
- When: Saturday, Dec. 3, 2:30 p.m.
- Where: Massey Theatre, 735 Eighth Ave.
- Details: Tickets at shop.ticketsnw.ca.
