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8 things to do in New West on the Dec. 20 to 22 weekend

The final weekend before Christmas is a perfect time to shop, take in some festive entertainment, celebrate the Winter Solstice, and enjoy some family fun in New Westminster.
Theresa McManus
Theresa McManus
nutcracker-gallery-8
Royal City Youth Ballet performs Nutcracker at the Massey Theatre on Dec. 21.Jennifer Gauthier/The Record

Singing, dancing, skating, and shopping are among the festive activities you can enjoy in New West this weekend.

Whether you need to do some last-minute Christmas shopping or get away from the hubbub of the season, there’s a lot going on in New West. Here are the Record’s top picks for the Dec. 20 to 22 weekend.

Friday, Dec. 20

Winter Solstice

Celebrate the longest night of the year with music, art, storytelling, and light. This free family event includes winter-themed rituals and activities.

Friday, Dec. 20 to Sunday, Dec. 22

The Dimes Christmas Special

Sit back and enjoy a performance by The Dimes, who are bringing their Christmas Special concert to New West. Vagabond Players, in collaboration with Dimes Entertainment, presents a show that features music, choreographed dance moves and costume changes.

  • When: Friday, Dec. 20 to Sunday, Dec. 22. Friday and Saturday shows are at 8 p.m. shows and Sunday’s show is a 2 p.m. matinee.
  • Where: Bernie Legge Theatre in Queen’s Park
  • Details: Tickets are $25 and available online or by calling 604-521-0412.

Saturday, Dec. 21

New West Craft Café

Shop for unique items at New West Craft Café, which features a curated collection of more than 30 artisans and local makers.

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: River Market, 810 Quayside Dr.

The Nutcracker

Enjoy a holiday tradition when Royal City Youth Ballet performs it full-length ballet, The Nutcracker, with a cast of 100 dancers. This festive production features beautiful sets, colourful costumes and music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Ukrainian Christmas Market

Experience Ukrainian food and culture at Holy Eucharist Catholic Church’s Ukrainian Christmas Market. You’ll find arts and crafts, authentic Ukrainian food, and festive drinks (including hot chocolate and mulled wine), and a holiday photo booth. The market also includes workshops where folks can engage in hands-on experiences and explore Ukrainian holiday traditions.

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 21, noon to 7 p.m.
  • Where: Holy Eucharist Catholic Church, 501 Fourth Ave.

Shine Bright: Light up the Night Family Skate

Lace up your skates and hit the ice at Moody Park Arena, which will be decked out for the holidays. The Light up the Night Family Skate includes games, crafts and fun. Special treats will be available at the concession.

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 21, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
  • Where: Moody Park Arena, 701 Eighth Ave.
  • Details: Regular admission rates apply. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

21st Christmas Reprise

Listen to traditional carols and contemporary Christmas compositions when the Vancouver Cantata Singers present their 21st Christmas Reprise concert in New West.

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.
  • Where: The Sanctuary on 6th, 529 Queens Ave.
  • Details: Tickets are available online.

Saturday, Dec. 21 to Tuesday, Dec 24

Winter Discovery Days 2024

Enjoy some family-friendly fun at Fraser River Discovery Centre’s Winter Discovery Days.

  • When: Saturday, Dec. 21 to Tuesday, Dec. 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Fraser River Discovery Centre, 788 Quayside Dr.
  • Details: Regular admission fees apply.