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by Julie Bull
I had the great privilege to chat with Brian Markham the morning after they were endowed with the Leo Cheverie Cultural Connector Award at the PEI Arts Awards Ceremony in Charlottetown. The award is a testament to Brian’s ethos: connecting people, nurturing community, and building spaces for people and community to thrive.
With a background in hospitality and culinary arts, Brian lived and worked in Toronto’s vibrant Kensington Market for nearly a decade before moving to PEI in August 2020. “I loved working in open kitchens where I could see patrons enjoying the food that was prepared for them.” As a vibrant arts and culture neighbourhood, Kensington Market brought out Brian’s creative and curatorial
have undergone many challenges and changes during my time at The Guild, and we are proud to have completed our first strategic plan with the support of the arts and culture community.” Brian has built a team with a non-hierarchical structure as The Guild continues to grow and evolve.
He is a dreamer and a doer who has been instrumental in making important changes at The Guild, including bringing This Town Is Small into the Hilda Woolnough Gallery. Brian has been working tirelessly to bring the community into the entire building, and they have many big ideas of how they may grow into the future. Arts and culture tenants occupy the upper floors of the building, and many areas of The Guild are available for community members to rent. “My main focus is always on uplifting the community, while also building a sustainable model to ensure our doors stay open.”
Bringing his skills, talents, and passions from the culinary arts into the wider arts community, Brian has a strong desire to cultivate spaces that create joy. “Cooking brings joy and so does creativity in all its forms.” The Guild is a perfect environment for Brian to be immersed in a variety of artistic forms, from visual to written to performance arts. “We are cultivating a space that empowers people to create really cool art while amplifying the community.”
If you’ve ever been to The Guild, you have likely seen Brian bopping around in the background, ensuring that everything is running smoothly, and everyone is feeling comfy. With a strong connection to the natural world, Brian is also keen to find more ways to build sustainable infrastructure within and around The Guild. “We hope to make Hilda Woolnough’s vision of a rooftop garden come to life in the coming years.”
interests, which would later serve them well in their work on PEI.
When they first moved to the Island, they lived in a 200-year-old farmhouse near Montague. After living in Canada’s largest city, the change of pace was both welcomed and challenging. “Because it was during the times of lockdowns and we were living in a rural area, we didn’t get to meet many people at first. Moving to Charlottetown and into the Coop was a game changer and we quickly became part of the community.”
With a longstanding interest in art curation, Brian became the Gallery and Events Manager at The Guild in Charlottetown in 2021. He has since gone on to hold various roles there and is currently the General Manager. “We
With such a vibrant arts and culture community on the Island, Brian envisions ongoing partnerships and collaborations with prominent arts organizations to continue building The Guild as an artist hub for many. “We are also excited to get back to producing some shows in-house and we have a really fun lineup coming for Summer 2026.”
Brian is a champion for the arts community on PEI and is deeply committed to continue building on all the work of their predecessors. He is part of building space that allows people to see themselves reflected in the programming, on the walls, and on the stage. “Having a deeply profound impact on one person is as important to me as smaller impacts on many.” Building strong community connections is built into Brian’s character. “I approach all my work and life with love.”
Artistic Director Robert Tsonos has announced Watermark Theatre’s 2026 Summer Season, featuring Alan Ayckbourn’s Relatively Speaking and Kristen Da Silva’s Sugar Road, two productions that will bring plenty of laughs and a touch of romance to North Rustico next summer.
In 1960s London, Greg is paying a visit to Ginny’s parents to ask for her hand in marriage. The only thing is, they’re not Ginny’s parents. Blithely misinformed, he arrives at the home of Philip and Sheila hoping they’ll give their blessing, but no one is quite what they seem and nothing quite goes to plan. Alan Ayckbourn’s Relatively Speaking is a well-crafted, funny, and perfectly-paced comedy of misunderstandings that weaves an entanglement that will leave audiences guessing to the last minute.
A country singer and a young woman meet in a magical chance encounter before being separated by his rise to fame. Now it’s 12 years later, he’s at the top of his career, she’s keeping the lights on at the family business, and they’re about to meet again. Kristen Da Silva’s Sugar Road is filled with laughter, romance and a little country music about the one that got away.
As the playwright behind Sugar Road, Kristen Da Silva is no stranger to creating heartfelt comedies. Da Silva, a playwright, actor, and director based in Ontario, began her writing career in 2014 and has since become one of Canada’s most produced playwrights. She is best known for her comedic plays—including Where You Are (which has been translated into four languages and produced across Canada, in the United States, and Europe), Hurry Hard, Beyond the Sea, The Rules of Playing Risk, and Sugar Road. She is also a two-time recipient of the Playwrights
Guild New Comedy Award.
The Watermark Music Series also returns for another series of concerts by local PEI musicians interpreting the works of famous songwriters. Full details will be released next spring. Season ticket passes are available at tickets.watermarktheatre.com or by calling the box office at 902-963-3963.
Feast Dinner Theatres production
The Feast Dinner Theatres production Fairytale of New York continues this holiday season, with performances on select dates until December 20 at the Rodd Charlottetown and Brothers 2 in Summerside. feastdinnertheatres.com
New version at Harbourfront Theatre—Dec 4
SUBMITTED
Brookes Diamond Productions presents Christmas in Cape Breton at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on December 4 at 7:30 pm.
The show stars Bette MacDonald, Maynard Morrison, and a cast of performers including Beolach members Mac Morin and Wendy MacIsaac, and Jordan Musycsyn. The group has been putting their talents to work to create a riotous new version of the show for the season.
The characters—Mary Morrison, Beulah Claxton, Martin MacKinnon, Wayne Tomko, and their island friends—will be decking the halls as the cast shows off their musical and comedic chops. harbourfronttheatre.com
Christmas production at Morell Fire Department
The Morell and Area Development Corporation, in cooperation with the Morell Volunteer Fire Department, will present this year’s Christmas dinner theatre, a production of Sir Alfred’s Christmas Extravaganza, in support of the Morell Fire Truck Replacement Fund. Performances will take place at the Morell Fire Department at 1 pm on November 30 and at 7 pm on December 1, 2, 5 , 8, and 9.
Directed by Eamon Dooley, the cast features Sheila Fitzpatrick, Thomas Hogan, Breanna MacAdam, Roderick MacDonald, Louise MacKinnon, and Vera Teschow, with costumes by Jenny Dunn.
Tickets include a three-course Christmas meal provided by Holy Cow. The Morell Firefighters will provide a cash bar and offer a 50/50 draw. Tickets are available by e-transfer to morell. area.dev.corp@gmail.com or in person (cash only) at the Morell Credit Union. When ordering, indicate if a gluten-free meal is required. For more information, contact Darlene Doiron at 506-381-8255 or Cletus Dunn at 902-853-7648.
Watermark Theatre is once again celebrating the season with storytelling and song in The Gift of the Magi and Other Festive Stories to Warm the Heart. This year, the production will be touring to Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on December 13 and 14 followed by the Watermark performances December 17 to 21.
Drawing inspiration from O. Henry’s classic tale and other beloved holiday stories, the play weaves together themes of love, kindness, and the true spirit of giving.
Returning to the stage is Rebecca Parent, joined by Brandon Stafford, familiar to audiences from
Improv comedy at The Guild— Dec 13
Side Hustle, PEI’s only all-women improv troupe, brings a night of improv comedy to the Black Box Theatre at The Guild in Charlottetown on December 13 at 7:30 pm.
Six fearless performers with festive spirits and plenty of holiday mischief will take the stage to unwrap madeup-on-the-spot shenanigans. Will there be elves? Maybe. Reindeer? Possibly. Visit theguildpei.com for tickets.
Watermark’s summer productions Dear Jack, Dear Louise and The Woman in Black. Directed by Alan Kinsella, the production blends live performance with music to create an intimate, nostalgic atmosphere.
“The show reminds us that the simplest gifts often mean the most,” says Watermark’s Artistic Director Robert Tsonos. “It’s a beautiful way to reflect on the season and the things that truly matter.”
Part of the North Rustico Christmas festivities, The Gift of the Magi offers a fun night out for audiences of all ages. Tickets and details are available at watermarktheatre.com.
Popalopalots at The Guild— Dec 12
The Popalopalots Xmas Show will be on stage December 12 in the Black Box Theatre at The Guild in Charlottetown. Showtime is 8 pm.
The Popalopalots’ live improv comedy will get audience members in the Holiday HaHa mood with a hilarious night of making stuff up. A Pops night of comedy is always unpredictable and fun to experience. Admission is cash-only at the door.
Students of dance umbrella at Sobey Family Theatre
The Nutcracker: Remixing the Magic will be performed by students of dance umbrella in the Sobey Family Theatre at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown on December 13. Showtimes are 2 pm and 7:30 pm.
The first act features the classic ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s original score,
Dufflebag Theatre in Summerside and Georgetown
Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside will welcome its annual family favourite, DuffleBag Theatre, with their whimsical, interactive production of Cinderella on December 28 at 6:30 pm. The show will also be on stage at Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on December 29 at 2 pm, and at Souris Show Hall in Souris on December 29 at 5 pm.
DuffleBag Theatre presents hilarious adaptations of fairy tales and classic stories starring members of the audience in the main parts. Since 1992, DuffleBag Theatre has toured
including familiar scenes such as the snowflakes and the Mouse King. The second act introduces new choreography and contemporary dance styles, incorporating elements of hip-hop and community-inspired movement. Visit confederationcentre.com to purchase tickets.
extensively throughout Canada and internationally and was awarded the 2018 Artistic Company of the Year by the BC Touring Council. Visit harbourfronttheatre.com or kingsplayhouse.com for tickets.
Cast members announced for 2026 at Confederation Centre
The Charlottetown Festival has unveiled three cast members for its flagship production of Anne of Green Gables – The Musical™, returning in 2026 alongside Come From Away As the world’s longest-running annual musical, this Canadian classic continues to capture hearts and imaginations.
Taking centre stage as the spirited Anne Shirley is Berkley Silverman, making her Charlottetown Festival debut. Best known as the voice of Everest on Nickelodeon’s PAW Patrol, Silverman brings to the role a dynamic blend of charm, depth, and authenticity. Her acclaimed credits span stage and screen, including Ride: The Musical (WJT), Beetlejuice (NCL), The Prom (Drayton Entertainment), Murdoch Mysteries (CBC/UKTV), and Workin’ Moms (Netflix).
Joining her as Diana Barry is Ha’Keena Maneso, returning to the
production after a celebrated turn in 2024. A rising Canadian triple-threat, Maneso’s past performances include Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and Shrek The Musical (Drayton Entertainment), Bring It On! (Globe Theatre), and Groundhog Day The Musical (YES Theatre).
Rounding out the cast announcement is Joema Frith as Gilbert Blythe, marking his Charlottetown debut following standout roles in Disney’s The Lion King (Mirvish), Mary Poppins (Rainbow Stage), and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Drayton Entertainment). More cast members will be announced in 2026.
Now celebrating 57 years of performances in 2026, Anne of Green Gables – The Musical™ remains a beloved production of The Charlottetown Festival. Tickets for the 2026 Charlottetown Festival are on sale now at confederationcentre.com.
Christmas comedy dinner theatre at Mill River Resort
The Hilda and Herbert Christmas Comedy Dinner Theatre will be presented this holiday season at Mill River Resort. The night of comedy and music runs weekly on Thursday and Friday evenings at 7 pm until December 19. Doors open at 6 pm.
Hilda and Herbert stars PEI singer, songwriter, and actor, Chad Matthews and his partner in adventure, Cheryl Banks.
At 83 and 85, Hilda and Herbert are living proof that laughter doesn’t have an expiration date. This charming couple has captured hearts with their homemade comedy show—a mix of classic banter, everyday hilarity, and the kind of chemistry that only comes from decades of marriage, mismatched socks, and mutual mischief.
This holiday season, audiences can expect to laugh a lot and sing along to some favourite Christmas classics at this holiday season at Mill River Resort, 180 Mill River Resort Road,
Matthews and Cheryl Banks are
Route 136, Woodstock.
Tickets include a turkey dinner and dessert. Overnight rates are available. Visit bit.ly/473orFI or call 902-859-3555 for tickets and more information.
Improv drama classes for kids
Improv drama classes for kids—encompassing the triple threat of singing, dancing, and acting—take place on Saturdays from 10:30 am–12:30 pm in January and February at Beaconsfield House, 2 Kent St, Charlottetown, beginning January 3. Contact Ruth Lacey at rlacey688@gmail. com to register or for more info.
A six-week adult improv workshop led by storyteller and improv performer Cameron MacDonald of The Popalopalots takes place at the Confederation Centre of the Arts beginning January 7. The program is designed for adults interested in exploring improvisation through interactive games and storytelling exercises. The workshop focuses on creativity, confidence-building, and connection in a relaxed group setting. No previous experience is required. Visit confederationcentre.com to register.
The Adult Musical Theatre Class, instructed by Adam Brazier at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, begins January 13 and runs for six weeks. The class focuses on singing, dancing, and acting, with an emphasis on teamwork and ensemble performance. Students will develop performance skills and explore new exercises in a supportive and collaborative environment. Visit confederationcentre.com to register.
Teens can level up their social skills and funny bone with a six-week improv class at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, starting January 16. The class focuses on instant scenes, creating characters, and building self-confidence—where the ultimate rule is: there are no mistakes. Participants are asked to just bring their energy; the class will create the laughs together. Students can get ready to play and find out just how quick and creative they really are. Visit confederationcentre. com to register.
Havenwood Studios production at Carrefour Theatre
Havenwood Studios presents two matinee and evening performances of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical this month at the Carrefour Theatre in Charlottetown.
Shows take place on December 13 at 2 pm and 7 pm, and on December 14 at 1:30 pm and 4 pm.
Visit grinchmusical.ca for tickets and more information.
The Body & The Belvedere at Haviland in February
Following sold-out previews earlier this year, The Body & The Belvedere returns to the Haviland Club in Charlottetown on February 12 at 7 pm.
This multimedia murder-mystery play features real and historical characters and is based on unsolved puzzles from the past.
Whodunnit? The cash-starved railway magnate hiding the scandal that nudged PEI into Confederation? The charming sea captain hoping to be more to ship owner Esther Lowden than just her employee? The mason who built the gorgeous Charlottetown mansion where the play is performed, or the livid architect who lost the contract?
Threads of the past are presented where the story unfolds—audiences are invited to work it out and share their theories in discussion with the cast after the show.
Tickets will be available in the new year by emailing thehavilandclub@ gmail.com or calling 902-330-0889.
Review by Sean McQuaid
Love Sick
The Guild, Charlottetown November 6, 2025
In any theatre community, one sees patterns in people’s projects. Up-andcoming director Alyssa Malone, for instance, impressed me last February with Drawstring Productions’ shoestring production of Venus in Fur, an edgy 2010s play in which a perhaps preternatural, possibly imaginary seductress beguiles the protagonist; and Malone’s November follow-up Love Sick is an edgy 2010s play in which, among other things, a perhaps preternatural, possibly imaginary seducer beguiles the protagonist. Like I said, patterns.
To be fair, these are two very different plays, and Love Sick is more ambitious—more characters, more plot threads, more settings, more tones, more spectacle—but I liked Venus in Fur better than Love Sick, mostly because the latter play’s script and its main character strike me as somewhat less coherent.
Penned by American playwright and Drama Desk nominee Kristina Poe in 2011, Love Sick is the story of Emily (played here by Jenna Marie Holmes), mired in self-pity since her husband Jeff (Colin Hood) left her for younger woman Lexi (Abbigail Buchan). Emily’s downward spiral drives her to murder, blackmail, cigarettes, group therapy and cathartic medicinal disco (often my drug of choice), all to little avail until an intense reunion with Jeff brings Emily some hard-won clarity.
Poe’s script boasts a real grabber of an opening (the aftermath of Emily’s first murder), a black comedic streak with a sly sense of the absurd, perceptive observations on the nature of romantic relationships, and some genuinely moving emotional moments— but it’s never fully clear what kind of story Poe’s trying to tell, or what kind of character Emily’s meant to be.
Act One has a darkly cartoony vibe with its gun-toting, cavalierly murderous Emily; her all-consumingly hedonistic mother (a sunnily vulgar Sara Underwood); sleazy therapist
Submissions and advertising booking deadline for the January issue Friday, December 12
Jerry Fortuna (Noah Nazim at his silkily saturnine best); Jerry’s cultishly sheeplike group therapy pawns Shelly, Chris, and Inez (played with pathetic aplomb by Kailea Switzer, Lucas Panizzi, and Mireille Poirier); and a smoothly charming Malachi Rowsell as Emily’s anonymous advisor/admirer and self-appointed fairy godmother “The Man,” full of eerie insights and unsubtle come-ons like some Harlequin Romance version of the Phantom Stranger.
The closest thing to a regular person in Act One is Emily’s ill-fated lone friend, Don (a twitchy Mike Mallaley); irrationally blaming Don for not preventing Chris from leaving her, Emily threatens to kill Don on a whim but ultimately settles for framing him for murder and blackmailing him into helping cover up her crimes.
The text’s handling of Don is part of why Act Two doesn’t quite work for me. When Emily pivots back in the general direction of sanity, she expresses regret about some of her actions—but not so much the murders, nor her betrayal of Don. This helps make the play’s semi-happy ending feel both implausible and unearned, not to mention some serious tonal whiplash. That said, there’s fun to be had on the way to that problematic ending. Some of it comes from Emily’s unhinged thrill-killer phase, campily drunk on her newfound capacity for sensation like murderous alien menace Sylvia from Star Trek episode “Catspaw” (1967); and some of it comes from Emily’s softer, saner side, since in a play packed with big, broad characters she often seems like the least crazy person on stage. Holmes plays this expertly, hilariously radiating Bob Newhart levels of quiet awkwardness as she reacts to Poe’s parade of weirdos; but she also nails bigger moments of rage, anguish, glee, you name it, a great showcase for an adroitly versatile performer. Another cast standout is Hood, who starts off a bit stiff but musters enough searing, visceral emotion to make the Emily-Jeff confrontation a memorable highlight.
Malone has a bigger sandbox to play in here, this being an ACT production (part of that august company’s 30th anniversary) staged at The Guild. There are occasional hiccups—the gunplay’s not always convincing, and a theoretically climactic moment in Act Two feels muted—but Malone’s ensemble is strong, veteran stage manager Sharon MacDonald’s crew is admirably able, and the show makes solid use of the venue’s capacity for projected backgrounds. Love Sick is another feather in ACT’s anniversary cap and another success for its talented director.
DEC. 12 / 7:30PM
DEC. 28 / 6:30PM
Hilarious family fun!
FEB. 27 / 7:30PM
Featuring Catherine MacLellan and JP Cormier!
Supported by Explore Summerside
with Harbourfront Ticket Trunk! Only $10 to enter! Visit harbourfronttheatre.com/ticket-trunk
We’re delighted to invite you to become part of our history, by engraving your name (or that of a loved one) on a plaque affixed to the back of one of our seats!
A Holiday Variety Showcase in support of the PEI Transgender Network will be held on December 20 from 6–9 pm at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown.
The fundraising event will feature Denim from Canada’s Drag Race, alongside talented local trans and 2STGNBGD+ performers.
Denim was born and raised on PEI before moving to Montreal in 2018 to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Intermedia and Cyber Arts at Concordia University. Through her practice of performance, fashion, makeup, digital media, video, and textile art, drag became the best outlet to encapsulate all of her passions into one medium. She is known for her otherworldly looks and performances.
Visit eventbrite.ca for tickets.
A
Moncton-based theatre and drag artist CJ Norris is bringing their latest holiday cabaret, Mrs. Ruby Claus in Jingle Belle: A Cabaret That Sleighs, to The Guild in Charlottetown on December 5 at 8 pm.
In this fresh version of Jingle Belle, Norris transforms into Ruby Claus—a spicy, drag take on Mrs. Claus who’s tired of living in Santa’s shadow.
Ruby is touring the Maritimes before jetting back to the North Pole to make sure Santa’s ready for the big day. Each stop features a guest star who showcases local talent and brings a new twist to the Ruby experience.
This year’s production features holiday classics and pop hits, including selections from Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Ariana Grande, and Kelly
Clarkson. This youth-friendly holiday favourite blends sparkly sass, campy comedy, and live vocals into a theatrical experience celebrating the women who keep the holiday spirit alive.
Jingle Belle continues Norris’s mission to create accessible, uplifting performances that celebrate diversity and community. LiveBait Theatre calls it “full of heart and positive energy.” Visit stagesofcj.com for tickets.
Family Owned Local Business Featuring a Kids Playroom & Espresso Bar!
Island Pro Wrestling at PEI Brewing Company—Dec 20
Island Pro Wrestling (IPW) will kick off the holidays with Snow Mercy, a night of high action at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on December 20 at 6 pm.
The event features Giant Orion defending the IPW Heavyweight Championship, local tattoo artist Sharky Jones facing DemoniK, and Kayden debuting“My Time” an in-ring interview segment. The Shadow Agency will face Dudes Doing Things
in a six-man battle and IPW Women’s wrestling will see “The Vandal” Chantal take on a newcomer making her IPW debut. Other performers include Alex Silva, “The Muscle Beast” Wesley Pipes, Dominic Warrior, “The Philippine Dream” Teejay Miguel, “Bad” Thad Howett, “The Mauler” James Manning and more. Card is subject to change.
Doors open for VIP at 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm for general seating. Visit islandprowrestling.com for tickets.
Comedy with Ava Val at The Guild—Dec 3
The Fool Tour: A Night of Comedy with Ava Val is coming to the Black Box Theatre at The Guild in Charlottetown on December 3 at 8 pm.
The evening of community, inclusion, and comedy will feature local performers Rachel Matheson, Tanya Nicolle, and Britt Campbell, along with headliner Ava Val—a high-energy, John Candy Award-winning comedian known for sharp, personal stand-up that delivers big laughs.
Doors open at 7 pm. Visit theguildpei.com for tickets.
Art exhibtion by Zoe Novaczek at Breadalbane Gallery
The December opening at the Breadalbane Gallery will feature life drawings by Zoe Novaczek.
Soft pastels offer great texture, vivid colours, and are very expressive. One can achieve fine or hard lines, and both soft and hard edges. They are the medium Novaczek has chosen for figure drawing. On December 19, those pastels will come to life as she demystifies drawing from life and using colours. Novaczek has practiced her art for many years in an illustrative style and is unabashed in her subject matter.
In December, two new artists— Patrick MacDonald and Lyneth Sausa—will have work on display.
The not-for-profit community gallery is located at 4023 Dixon Road in Breadalbane. Follow @ BreadalbaneGallery on Facebook.
Kensington Artist Co-op and Remembrance Day
The Kensington Artist Co-op One More Row is on view until December 19 at Eptek Art & Culture Centre in Summerside. Co-op members were challenged to create their own interpretations of the theme “one more row.” A range of mediums—including acrylic, oil, watercolour, and mixed media— will be featured.
Also on view until December 19, the annual Remembrance Day exhibit. Each autumn, Eptek collaborates with local historians on a lobby exhibit focusing on local veterans and their stories. This year’s exhibit highlights Tyne Valley’s Flying Officer Vincent MacCausland, and Kelvin Grove’s Lt.
Samuel Leaman Caseley, as well as the 81st anniversary of D-Day. Artifacts and stories were provided by Greg Gallant of the PEI Regiment Museum and local historian Randy Ross.
Visitors are also invited to explore the new Gallery of Kindness and share something that brings them joy, using prompts for inspiration.
For updates, follow @eptek.centre on social media.
The Better Art Market will take place in the Black Box Theatre at The Guild on December 14 at 11 am.
This alternative market is centred around local, unique art, and everyone is welcome. 111 Queen St, Charlottetown. Info: theguildpei.ca
The holiday season always seems to arrive before I feel ready for it. One day, the air has that damp November chill, and the next, I’m catching the smell of cloves drifting from someone’s kitchen window. It’s funny how quickly the holidays settle in. People start stocking up on baking ingredients, digging out old recipes, and planning the kind of meals that take all afternoon. This time of year tends to wrap itself around us whether we plan for it or not. But while many of us are filling our cupboards for the weeks ahead, some neighbours here on the Island are hoping they can put together something simple for supper. Winter makes that gap feel sharper.
Food insecurity is not a headline for most Islanders. It’s quieter than that, almost hidden, sitting behind closed doors where people try to stretch what they have. I have heard stories from friends who only found out months later that someone on their street was skipping meals to make sure their kids ate first. This Island is small, but the challenges many families face are very real. When the cold sets in and heating bills climb, groceries can quickly become the thing people try to cut back on, even when they can’t afford to.
The part that gives me hope is how many people here step in without fuss or spotlight. Local food banks and community fridges stay busy all year, but winter brings out an extra level of care. Volunteers pack hampers, arrange rides for seniors, and show up in the early morning to prepare warm meals. In some towns, the smell of soup drifting from a church kitchen tells you someone is cooking for more than their own family. These are the kinds of efforts that rarely make the news, but they matter to the people who rely on them.
Helping does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s as ordinary as picking up a few extra items during your weekly shop or dropping off produce from your own kitchen. Some people choose to donate money because they know it goes straight into fresh food for the week. Others find meaning in giving their time, even if it’s just an hour here and there. I remember a few years ago, working with other volunteers, laughing our way through packing hampers on a stormy afternoon. We worked fast, but we also cared about the details, making sure each box felt thoughtful. That care shows up in ways that are hard to measure but easy to feel.
Food has a way of grounding us. A warm bowl of chilli on a cold night, a slice of homemade bread, a simple meal shared with someone who needed company. These are small moments, but they stay with people. When you give food, you are not just filling a fridge. You are offering comfort, dignity, and a reminder that someone is paying attention.
As the holidays unfold, it helps to look around your own community with a bit more intention. If you can give, even in a small way, your contribution can do more than you might ever hear about. A few groceries dropped off at a food bank, a warm meal prepared for a neighbour, an hour spent helping pack hampers, or even checking in with someone who might be alone, can ease another person’s winter. These gestures don’t have to be perfect or grand to matter. They simply have to be offered. If you feel moved to help this year, reach out to a local food program or volunteer group in your area and lend whatever you can. It could be the difference that carries someone through the season. Happy Holidays!
A Charlottetown Christmas Festival signature event, the Victorian Christmas Market takes place on Queen St in downtown Charlottetown from November 28–30. This 11th annual open-air market is reminiscent of European Christmas markets and features over 50 Island artisans, crafters, and food vendors— plus hot cocoa, fire pits and seating, live carolling, horse and wagon rides, ice sculpting, and more.
Spring Park United will host a holiday market on November 29 from 9 am–12 noon. Vendors will offer baked goods, jams, jellies, pickles, games, puzzles, jewelry, scarves, crafts, Christmas décor, festive greenery, and new-to-you gifts. Admission is by donation. 65 Kirkwood Dr, Charlottetown.
The Belfast Historical Society will host its annual Christmas in Belfast Craft Fair at the Belfast Recreation Centre on November 29 from 10 am–2 pm. Local vendors and artisans will offer a range of crafts, baked goods, and gifts. Admission is a small fee, with proceeds going to the Belle River Church of Scotland Restoration Fund. 3033 Garfield Rd, Belfast. Info: @ BelfastHistoricalSociety on FB
The 11th annual Holiday Atlantic Maker Market—featuring artisans, makers, and food vendors from across Atlantic Canada—will take place on November 29 and 30 from 9 am–4 pm at the Eastlink Centre, 46 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown. Info: @Holiday Atlantic Maker Market on FB
As part of the Festival des Fêtes, the Village Christmas Market will take place
at Village musical acadien in AbramVillage on November 29 from 9 am–5 pm and November 30 from 9 am–4 pm. Browse products from local artisans, holiday foods, and décor in a festive setting. Santa Claus will also make an appearance. There is a small admission fee. 1745 Rte 124, Wellington.
Holiday Extravaganza Market will be held at Beaconsfield Historic House on December 5 from 10 am–4 pm and December 6 from 10 am–5 pm. The weekend will feature a wide variety of craft, vintage, baked goods and holiday gifts, with many other activities taking place throughout the day. 2 Kent St, Charlottetown
As part of Christmas in the Villages 2025, the Murray Harbour Farmers Market will showcase a wide range of creations from local artisans, farmers, and community organizations across two venues—the Murray Harbour Community Centre and the historic 10 Mariner Drive—on December 5 from 7–9 pm and December 6 from 9 am–2 pm. A weekend highlight is the unveiling of the brand-new Memorial Buoy Christmas Tree, which will be lit at 6 pm on December 5 at the Murray Harbour Wharf. Rumour has it the “jolly ole soul” may make an appearance—and an elf might be on hand to collect Santa letters. Info: @Christmas in the Villages Down East PEI or @Murray Harbour Farmers Market on FB
Marché de Noël will be held at the Centre acadien Grand-Rustico on December 6 from 10 am–3 pm. The market features local artisans and crafters, a canteen bistro, an art session with Lynn Gaudet, raffle tickets for Christmas baskets, and spruce Christmas trees. Admission is free; donations to the Food Bank are encouraged. 2244 Church Rd, New Glasgow.
Smith’s Christmas Tree Farm will host its Holiday Market and Tree Fest on December 6 from 10 am–4 pm. The European-style market will take place in a decorated barn featuring balsam fir Christmas trees, wreaths, and festive gifts from 25–30 vendors. 340 Toronto Rd, Mayfield.
Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Women’s League will host its annual Christmas Bazaar on December 6 from 10:30 am–12:30 pm. The event features home-baked goods, fudge, preserves, crafted items, used books, puzzles, greenery, Christmas decorations, gift basket draws, silent auctions, and a Wheel of Names 50/50. There is no admission fee and complimentary tea and coffee will be provided. 151 Stratford Rd, Stratford.
The Festive Fair in Fortune will be held at the Fortune Community Centre on December 6 and 7 from 10 am–4 pm. There will be over 40 tables of crafts, baked goods, and gifts to explore. Admission is a small fee, with free entry for children 12 and under. 220 Fortune Wharf Rd N, Souris.
The Sherwood Parkdale Skating Club is hosting a Christmas Craft Fair in the Maple Wood Room at the Cody Banks Arena on December 7 from 9 am–4 pm. Attendees can browse handmade crafts, one-of-a-kind gift items, and holiday treats while supporting local artisans and the skating community. There is no admission but donations are welcome. 58 Maple Ave, Charlottetown.
Part of the Charlottetown Christmas Festival, Founders Food Hall & Market will offer free family-friendly programming for its Deck the Hall Holiday Market over the first three weekends in December. Enjoy local vendors, festive food, live music, and ice carvings by Provincial Credit Union. 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.
Stop by and see what local craftspeople and artisans make at the Charlottetown Farmers Market this holiday season on December 7 and 14, from 10 am–3 pm. Admission and parking are free. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown.
A Neurodiverse Craft Fair will be hosted at St. Paul’s on December 12 from 5–8 pm. The small event will feature neurodiverse vendors from the community. There will be crafts, treats, and art for purchase. There is a small admission fee. There is no cost for those who wish to be a vendor (must be neurodiverse). 101 Prince St, Charlottetown. Info: @ Neurodiverse Craft Fair on FB
The PEI Witch Market: Queer Christmas Edition will take place at The Guild in Charlottetown on December 20 from 12–5 pm. The market will showcase Island queer and ally crafters, along with palm readers and psychics—bringing art, magic, and community together under one roof.
The third annual Mistletoe Market pop-up boutique offers a festive setting to shop for local holiday gifts on weekends until December 21 in Boulder Park. Enjoy whimsical huts, local artisans, live music, horse and wagon rides, Santa visits, hot chocolate, and Who-ville inspired décor. Corner of Grafton and Church Sts, Charlottetown.
Art exhibitions continue this month at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery in Charlottetown, showcasing work from Island and visiting artists.
Undergrowth, curated by Christinana Myers, is open until January 11. This group exhibition blends ecologies, fictions, and the poetics of transmission.
TRASH! by the Charlottetown Comics Club is open until January 11. Curated by Pan Wendt, this exhibition features the subversive wit of ten Prince Edward Island artists whose work draws upon—and twists—comic book tropes and traditions.
A New Definition of Home, curated by Paula Kenny and Linda Berko, is open until January 16. The work of each artist and artisan in this exhibition signals a change or a new reality.
Together With Time, curated by Pan Wendt, continues until April 5. The works selected for this exhibition embody art’s capacity to bring past and present together in imaginative ways. confederationcentre.com/artgallery
PEI’s economy continues to benefit from the dedication, creativity, and contributions of its professional artists. Since 2023, as part of PEI’s Renewed Action Plan for Arts, Culture and Creative Industries, the Province has organized the PEI Arts Awards to recognize the important economic, social, and cultural contributions of artistic and creative professionals to PEI. This year’s winners include: Brenda Whiteway (Father Adrien Arsenault Senior Arts Award); Brian Markham, Julie Bull, and the Charlottetown Zine
Fest (Leo Cheverie Cultural Connector of the Year Award); Confederation Centre Art Gallery: Erica Rutherford Retrospective (Premier’s Award for Stand-Out Project of the Year); Indigenous PEI (Organization of the Year Award Winner); Inn Echo (Artist of the Year Award); and Jessica Sheppard (Gertie & Henrie Purdy Emerging Visual Arts Bursary).
Learn more about provincial financial supports for PEI’s arts and culture sector at innovationpei.com/ business-supports/arts-and-culture.
The December 19 opening will feature life drawings by Zoe Novaczek. Other participating artists this month include Patrick MacDonald, Lyneth Sausa, Denise Livingstone, Laura Bain, Joan Parker Sutton, Will Baker, Lily-Anne Hein, Sabine Nuesch, Xin Liu, Lisa Theriault, Vian Emery, Haley Lewis, Erin Veitch, Yuzhu Yang, Silver Frith, Zora Wendt, Marianne Janowicz, and Rick MacDonald. Open Tuesday 11 am–3 pm, Wednesday 9 am–1 pm, and Thursday 4–8 pm. 4023 Dixon Rd, Breadalbane. Info: @Breadalbane Gallery on FB.
Current exhibitions on view include: TRASH! by the Charlottetown Comics Club until January 11; Undergrowth until January 11; A New Definition of Home until January 16; and Together With Time until April 5. The Gallery is closed on Mondays this winter. Admission is by donation. 130 Queen St, Charlottetown. confederationcentre.com/artgallery
Young artists who live in Cornwall and surrounding small communities
are participating in December’s Youth Art Show. The show opens December 2 with a reception at 7 pm and runs until January 2. Contact the library at 902-629-8415 for details. Open Tuesday–Wednesday (1–8:30 pm) and Thursday–Saturday (9:30 am–12:30 pm and 1–5:30 pm). 15 Mercedes Dr, Town Hall, Cornwall. library.pe.ca
The Kensington Artist Co-op exhibition One More Row is on view until December 19. Also on view until December 19, the annual Remembrance Day exhibit. Visitors are invited to take a tour through the Gallery of Kindness. A permanent exhibition on the history and architecture of Summerside is also on view. Admission is by donation. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside. peimuseum.ca
The PEI Art Bank exhibition is open until December 4. 115 Richmond St, Charlottetown. Info: thistownissmall.com
Over 100 artworks by local artists, including original paintings, photography, handmade knits, mosaics, digital art, and more, adorn the library walls across three wheelchair-accessible levels, with an elevator for easy access. This ongoing exhibition changes throughout the year. 57 Central St, Summerside.
Seniors Art Activities are offered at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown. The next sessions will be held on December 4 and January 8 from 10 am–12 pm. Explore and discuss diverse works from current exhibitions through a guided tour, followed by refreshments and a relaxed art and craft session in the Michael S. Schurman Family Studio. Visit confederationcentre. com/artseducation to register.
Kids are invited to make decorations in the food court at the Confederation Court Mall in Charlottetown on December 13 from 1–3 pm. This free, hands-on workshop will allow kids to use pipe cleaners and colourful beads to create their own unique Christmas ornaments. Info: confedcourtmall.com/ festive-events
Drop-in life drawing sessions with a nude model will be held on December 7 and 14 from 2–4 pm at the Gertrude Cotton Art Centre (57 Bunbury Rd, Stratford). Sessions will resume in the new year on January 4. All skill levels are welcome. Doors open at 1:30 pm. Participants are encouraged to arrive early for setup and must be 18+ or have
The winter session of pottery classes at the PEI Potters Studio, located in Victoria Park in Charlottetown, will begin the week of January 5. Perfect for beginners as well as those with previous experience, classes are taught by professional Island potters and designed to be fun and educational. Classes are small in size and relaxed and informal in style. The class covers the basics of clay preparation, wheel-throwing techniques, and glazing and decoration. Hand-building techniques can also be explored depending on interest. Adult beginner classes will be held on Mondays and Thursdays (choose one) from 6:30–9:30 pm for 10 weeks beginning the week of January 5. Kids classes (ages 9–14) will be held on Saturdays starting January 10 from either 9–11 am or 11:30 am–1:30 pm for an eight-week period. Registration is online and will be open on December 8 from 7–9 pm. Once registration closes, all adult registrants will be entered into a software program that will randomly select participants. Those selected will be contacted as soon as possible. Kids’ classes are filled based on registration time. Info: peipottersstudio.ca, registration@peipottersstudio.ca
Adult members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community are welcome to drop in at the PEERS Alliance Office (250B Queen
Free arts activities continue this month at the Summerside Library (57 Central St). On December 2 at 3 pm, kids can choose their own adventure with rotating activities in science, technology, crafts, and art. Crafternoon for Kids takes place as a drop-in session on Saturdays and Sundays from 1–3 pm. From December 14–23 during open hours, everyone is welcome to stop by and make holiday greeting cards using supplied materials. Teens can create holiday-themed fidgets on December 14 at 2 pm. The Creative Corner runs on December 15 at 6:30 pm and December 17 at 2 pm; call 902-4367323 to register. On December 30 at 1:30 pm, kids can make slime, and on December 31 at 11 am, there will be party hat and noise-maker activities before ringing in the New Year at noon.
Confederation Centre of the Arts is offering an eight-week Exploring Visual Arts series for young artists from January 10–February 28. Students will explore the elements of art through a series of drawing, painting, and sculpting activities. Through exercises and lessons, students will develop their visual literacy and technical abilities. Activities will be supplemented by gallery visits where students will explore a range of contemporary and historical artworks. Register: confederationcentre.com
Lively and laughterfilled workshop with Cam MacDonald. Create unforgettable moments together - no experience needed. Ages 13-16. STARTS JAN. 16
A guided tour of current exhibits, followed by refreshments and a relaxed art and craft session. SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.
MUSICAL THEATRE
6 week series with Centre Artistic Director Adam Brazier. Focus on singing, dancing, and acting, with emphasis on teamwork and ensemble performance. STARTS JAN. 13 TEEN IMPROV
ADULT IMPROV
A welcoming session for adults of all ages. Explore and embrace the unexpected through the joy of improvisation, with Cam MacDonald. JAN. 7 - MAR. 4, 2026 SENIORS ART ACTIVITIES
Premier’s Award for Stand-Out Project of the Year Confederation Centre Art Gallery: Erica Rutherford Retrospective
Organization of the Year Award Indigenous PEI
Leo Cheverie Cultural Connector of the Year Awards
Brian Markham, Julie Bull, and the Charlottetown Zine Fest
Artist of the Year Award Inn Echo
Gertie & Henry Purdy Emerging Visual Arts Bursary
Jessica Sheppard
Father Adrien Arsenault Senior Arts Award
Brenda Whiteway
In conversation with Robbie Doherty
Bookmark, Charlottetown’s independent bookstore, welcomes Olympic champion Jennifer Jones to PEI for the launch of her new book Rock Star: My Life On and Off the Ice on November 29 at 7 pm. The event, held at the Cornwall Curling Club, will feature a conversation between Jones and Robbie Doherty about her life on and off the ice. This free, ticketed event is open to all. Tickets are available at bookmarkreads.ca.
A weekly writing group for kids (ages 6–12) is held on Tuesdays at 3:30 pm at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St). The group includes story prompts and challenges, and gives writers space to work on their own projects.
The Poetry Club meets at 10 am on the first Saturday of each month at the Voluntary Resource Centre (81 Prince St) in Charlottetown. The next meeting is December 2. Members share a favourite poem by another writer and, if they wish, one of their own. Open to PEI Writers’ Guild members. To join, visit peiwritersguild.com.
The Queer Poetry Club meets on the first Saturday of each month from 2–4 pm at the PEI Transgender Network office (Rm 505, 119 Kent St, Charlottetown). The next meeting is December 2. The club offers members of the queer community an opportunity to write, read, and listen
Join members of the arts and culture community for an informal gathering at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, in partnership with Innovation PEI. This casual networking event takes place on December 9 from 4–6 pm in Mavor’s Lounge at the Centre, 130 Queen St, Charlottetown. The event offers an opportunity for artists and arts professionals to connect and share ideas in a relaxed setting with a holiday party twist. RSVP at confederationcentre.com.
River Clyde Arts (RCA), the organization behind the River Clyde Pageant, is calling on Islanders to help find a new permanent home in the New Glasgow area. A property must be secured by March 2026 to ensure next summer’s Pageant can proceed. Since its founding in 2016,
to poetry in a supportive environment. Snacks and materials are provided, and no poetry experience is needed. Info: queerpoetryclub@proton.me.
The PEI Writers’ Guild (PEIWG) invites writers of all genres to a free, drop-in social at bar1911 in Charlottetown. Meet other writers, share ideas, and build community over tea or coffee. The Writers’ Social happens on the second Saturday of each month at 1 pm. The next meeting is December 9. 113 Longworth Ave, Charlottetown. Info: peiwritersguild.com
The Afternoon Book Club will meet at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) on December 15 at 1 pm. Pick up this month’s selection at the circulation desk.
The next Book Lovers Book Club meeting at the Charlottetown Library (97 Queen St) is on December 16 at 6 pm. Join an informal, conversation-style chat about books. No registration required.
A creative writing group meets at bar1911 in Charlottetown on the third Saturday of each month at 10 am. The next meet-up is December 16. Hosted by the PEI Writers’ Guild, the group offers a supportive space for writers to share work, receive feedback, and develop their skills. 113 Longworth Ave, Charlottetown. Info: peiwritersguild.com
RCA has engaged over 3500 people annually through its signature programs: the River Clyde Pageant, Sharing the Field, and the River Clyde Solstice Walk. The organization is nationally recognized as a leader in community-engaged arts through workshops, programs, and events that promote environmental stewardship and shared creativity in rural PEI. Although all suggestions are welcome, the ideal property would be within the New Glasgow area—or within a 5–10 minute drive—and include at least five acres (ideally 10–20), trees for shade, geographic features suitable for outdoor performance, and space to accommodate about 100 cars on-site or nearby. RCA is open to purchasing property or entering into a long-term lease. Having worked toward a land acquisition project since 2022, RCA has investment partners available to support a purchase but needs help identifying suitable properties. The organization is asking community members to share information about potential properties, connect them with landowners, and spread the word through social media and personal networks. Property leads can be submitted through RCA’s website at riverclydearts.com/our-home.
Exhibition on display in Confederation Centre lobby
The public is invited to view and enjoy the Festive Wreath exhibition at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown this season.
A project of the Friends of Confederation Centre, the exhibition is an annual tradition and features wreaths created by community members and groups of all ages using a variety of materials and themes (traditional, Dunes off the wall, and green living).
The festive wreaths are displayed throughout the Centre’s lobby during the month of December.
The River Clyde Solstice Walk celebrates the promise of light on the darkest day of the year. On December 21 from 6–8 pm, the 2025 River Clyde Solstice Walk returns to the Gardens of Hope in New Glasgow. Community members are invited to step into the darkness with a flame, light, or lantern and walk to invoke the return of the sun.
The winter solstice reminds us of the cycles of renewal and the potential for change as we emerge from darkness. In the midst of the climate crisis, the Solstice Walk highlights our capacity for change through attention to—and presence with—our community and the natural world.
In the weeks leading up to the Solstice Walk, River Clyde Arts will host a series of free workshops spanning arts, crafts, and culinary experiences.
Workshop spots are limited. To sign up for workshops, book tickets for the main event on December 21, and to learn more, visit riverclydepageant. com/solstice-walk.
UNTIL JANUARY 11
Curated by Pan Wendt
Curated by Christiana Myers This exhibition features the subversive wit of ten Prince Edward Island artists whose work draws upon and twists comic book tropes and traditions. A group exhibition that blends ecologies, fictions, and the poetics of transmission.
UNTIL JANUARY 16
Curated by Paula Kenny and Linda Berko
UNTIL APRIL 5
Curated by Pan Wendt
TUESDAY
music, theatre, dance, comedy...
Mondays | 8 pm
Rat Tales Comedy Night Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
›› until Dec 19 | Thu & Fri, 7 pm
Hilda and Herbert Christmas Comedy Dinner Theatre Mill River Resort, Mill River
›› until Dec 20 | select dates
Feast Dinner Theatres: Fairytale of New York Rodd Charlottetown and Brothers 2, Summerside
Nov 28–29 | 8 pm
Country Roads
Craig Fair Productions. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 28–29, Dec 5–6, 12–13, 19 | 7 pm
Dec 7, 13, 20 | 2 pm
Elf: The Musical
Revolution Dance Studios. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 29 | 7:30 pm
Derek Seguin: Life of Leisure The Mack, Charlottetown
Nov 29 | 7:30 pm
Lady Soul
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Nov 29 | 9 pm
Roving Picture Shows & Island Jazz: Charlie Chaplin’s The Gold Rush
Silent movie with live musical accompaniment by Natalie Williams Calhoun. The Guild, Charlottetown
Nov 29 | 7 pm, Nov 30 | 2 pm
Together Again for Christmas: Carols & Comedy
Ft. Bruce Rainnie, Kendra MacGillivray, and Kevin “Boomer” Gallant. St. Francis of Assisi, Cornwall
Nov 30 | 2 pm
Island Jubilee Old Time Radio Music Show
Ft. Shane Pendergast, Meaghan Blanchard with Thomas Webb, and step dancer Alexis MacLaren. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Nov 30 | 2:30 pm
Sorensen Family: Lights of Christmas
South Shore United, Tryon
Nov 30 | 7 pm
Carols for Advent
St. Peter’s Choristers. St. Peter’s, Charlottetown
Nov 30 | 7 pm
York Christmas Sing-a-long York United, York
Nov 30 | 1 pm
Dec 1–2, 8–9 | 7 pm
Sir Alfred’s Christmas Extravangaza
Morell Fire Department, Morell
Dec 1 | 7:30 pm
Jill Barber
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 1 | 8 pm
Swift Kick
Taylor Swift tribute. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 2 | 7:30 pm
Holidays in Hollywood: Christmas Movie Music
Ft. Holland College Community Band. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 2 | 8 pm
Tara MacLean with The Bayfield String Quartet: On This Winter’s Night
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 3 | 8 pm
The Fool Tour: A Night of Comedy with Ava Val The Guild, Charlottetown
Dec 4 | 7:30 pm
Christmas in Cape Breton Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 4 | 8 pm
Island Jazz: SOPA Improv Students
Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Dec 4–7 | 8 pm
A Trailside Christmas
Ft. Patrick Ledwell and Mark Haines. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown.
Dec 5 | 7 pm
Slay! Ride
Hosted by Boof and Lottie Max. Ft. Miz Majestix, Hexx, Opal Debris, and Moe Mustacherides. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 5 | 7:30 pm
High Voltage: Back In Black
Full album and greatest hits of AC/DC. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 5 | 7:30 pm
Tip Er Back Christmas Concert
Irish Cultural Centre, Charlottetown
Dec 5 | 8 pm
Jingle Belle: A Cabaret That Sleighs
The Guild, Charlottetown
Dec 5, 6 | 7:30 pm
Lawrence Maxwell & Nudie with The Turks: Deck The Halls
Dec 5: Tracadie Community Centre, Tracadie
Dec 6: Murray Harbour Community Centre, Murray Harbour
Dec 5–6 | 7:30 pm
Super Trouper: A Night of ABBA
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 6 | 10 am
Definitely Not The Symphony Holiday Concert
Jack Blanchard Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 6 | 2 pm
Confederation Singers & Youth Chorus: Singing Through the Storm
A choral concert for Winter. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 6 | 3 pm
Island Choral Society: Carols and Lullabies
St Paul’s, Charlottetown
Dec 6 | 7:30 pm
Men of the Deeps: Coal Miner’s Christmas
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 6 | 7:30 pm
Celtic Christmas: Generations
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 6 | 7:30 pm
The Grand Tour - With A Dash of Christmas
Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 6–7 | 7:30 pm
A Very Victorian Christmas: A Musical for World Vision
Ft. New Glasgow Christmas Choir. New Glasgow Christian Church, New Glasgow
Dec 7 | 2 pm
Joyful Sound Christmas Concert
Ft. Joyful Sound Choir. Souris Show Hall, Souris
Dec 7 | 2 pm
Stadacona Band: Sleigh Bells in the Sun
With special guest Jah’Mila. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 7 | 2 pm
Memorial Carol Sing
St Paul’s, Charlottetown
Dec 7 | 6 pm
Festival des Fêtes: Christmas Dinner and Show
Ft. Josée Boudreau & Le Groupe Maz. Village musical acadien, Abram-Village
Dec 7 | 6:30 pm
Danny Drouin
St John’s Anglican, St. Eleanor’s
Dec 7 | 7 pm
Kendall Doherty and Friends Christmas Concert
St. Mark’s Presbyterian, Charlottetown
Dec 8 | 7 pm
Brass The Halls: Christmas Music the Way You Remember It
Featuring the Great George Street Brass Band. Zion Presbyterian, Charlottetown
Dec 8–9 | 7:30 pm
Holiday Hootenanny Watermark Theatre, North Rustico
Dec 9 | 8 pm
Holland College SoPA presents: Rock & Country Night
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown.
Dec 9, 13
A Canadian Christmas: Songs of Winter, Songs of Home
Ft. the PEI Legion Choir.
Dec 9, 7 pm: Carrefour Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 13, 2 pm: St Paul’s Anglican, Charlottetown
Dec 10 | 7 pm
Stars On Ice Holiday Tour
Credit Union Place, Summerside
Dec 10 | 8 pm
The Once
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown.
Bren Simmers, publication coordinator at the Island Studies Press, the publishing arm of the Institute of Island Studies at UPEI, was awarded the Latner Griffin Writers’ Trust Poetry Prize during the Writers’ Trust of Canada’s annual awards ceremony in Toronto on November 13.
Valued at $60,000, the Latner Griffin Writers’ Trust Poetry Prize is awarded annually to a Canadian poet in mid-career who has published at least three collections of poetry that demonstrate mastery of the art. Poets are recognized for a remarkable body of work and for their anticipated future contributions to Canadian poetry.
Simmers is the author of five books, including the poetry collections Night Gears (2010); Hastings-Sunrise (2015); If, When (2021); and The Work (2024), and her first book of non-fiction, Pivot Point (2019). She won the League of Poets’ 2025 Pat Lowther Memorial Award for The Work, which was also nominated for a 2024 Governor General’s Literary Award. She also won CBC’s 2022 Poetry Prize for her collection of poems Spell World Backwards, which
Simmers has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Victoria and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing degree from the University of British Columbia. She has received grants from the Canada Council for the Arts, BC Arts Council, Innovation PEI, and the Squamish Arts Council.
The Charlottetown Farmers’ Market is open year-round from 9 am–2 pm on Saturdays. Local farmers, crafters, artisans, and hot food vendors sell local, organic produce, fish, meats, baked goods, preserves, roasted coffee, specialty teas, and more. 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown. charlottetownfarmersmarket.com
Find local produce, baked goods, meat, fish, prepared food, cheese, artisans and more at the Summerside Farmers’ Market. Open weekly on Saturdays from 9 am–1 pm at 250 Water St, Summerside.
Creative fundraiser for Island Bloom’s community project
Island Bloom Organization is launching its first fundraising initiative — an illustrated PEI-themed colouring book created by local artist, designer, and co-founder Junko Suzuki. Designed for both adults and children, the book features detailed line drawings of Island landscapes, including quiet coves, lighthouses, rolling fields, and familiar coastal scenery.
Proceeds from book sales will help support Island Bloom’s inaugural community event—a Family Celebration in December. The gathering aims to bring joy, connection, and a warm holiday atmosphere to local mothers and their children, featuring holiday activities, gifts, and creative experiences in a supportive, welcoming environment.
A newly established non-profit on PEI, Island Bloom’s mission is to support women’s well-being, empowerment, and inclusion through community spaces, creative projects, and skill-building opportunities. This colouring book reflects that mission, combining creativity, local culture, and community collaboration.
By purchasing a colouring book, Islanders can contribute to a celebration rooted in warmth, togetherness, and the spirit of the season.
More details are available at islandbloom.ca (live December 1) or island. bloom.org@outlook.com.
Weekends from November 15 - December 21
Sip something sweet, shop something local, and celebrate t he people behind PEIʼs holiday magic.
Plan your festive stops & see what ʼs open in Central PEI!
Alma Phillips
West Prince writer Alma Phillips will soon release her debut poetry collection, Poetry From The Heart
Born in Pictou, NS, she married in West Point, PEI, and raised her family across Canada. She now lives at The Willows in O’Leary, PEI.
Phillips’ poems were inspired by her efforts to come to terms with personal loss and have blossomed into reflections on her youth and everyday experiences. Her first poem, “Covid Socks,” was written during the pandemic in 2020. Three years later came her second—“Gone but Not Forgotten.”
“After that one came The Willows, and the rest just seemed to happen,” adds Alma.
Through local contacts, Alma learned that writer and poet Kevin Porter might help get her book to print. “She was persistent,” says Porter. “From the beginning, Alma was passionate about her poems. I could tell
that she would be committed to getting them published.”
Poetry From The Heart will be published by Three Boy Publications, Porter’s side project in West Devon, PEI, with financial assistance from the West Prince Arts Council. It is expected to launch in December. For launch details or to purchase a copy, contact the author at alma.mcln@gmail.com.
Local photographer John Morris has released Spirit of PEI, a hardcover book featuring 100 pages of some of his favourite images taken across Prince Edward Island over the years.
The award-winning landscape photographer showcases his love of PEI as he takes those exploring the book on an Island tour of his favourite locations.
“I’d love showcasing the best of Prince Edward Island’s every corner” says Morris. “It’s magical to get out, enjoy our beauty around every corner which is always changing. ”
This marks the fourth book in six months released by John. Spirit of PEI is available in bookstores and gift shops across PEI, as well as on Amazon, Etsy, and via his website, lensmakeapicture.com. The book was printed near Quebec City.
Lens Make A Picture is the
publishing arm of Morris’ photography, producing books, calendars, jigsaw puzzles, stickers, and other products based on his imagery, sold in stores across Canada.
John
The Islander’s Almanac: Charlottetown 2026 is a new locally produced non-fiction book by John O’Hanley. It can be seen as a PEI alternative to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
The 138-page paperback features daily information on local tides, weather norms, and astronomical events, and was created and printed on PEI. Weather norms are calculated using daily data from Environment Canada for the Charlottetown Airport from 1962 to 2011 inclusive. Tide information—shown weekly and daily—is specific to Charlottetown Harbour, while astronomical phenomena are calculated using Charlottetown’s latitude and longitude.
Designed for ease of use, the book lays flat and displays a full week of data across two facing pages. A tidal curve is shown for both the whole week and for each day, along with times for high and low tides. Example pages can be viewed at github.com/ johanley/almanac.
Volume 39, remarking, “Would you look at that, we’re darn near 40!”
The issue features another all-star ensemble of storytellers for readers’ enjoyment.
There is no better way to get down to RED earth than by digging into The Island Story Book.
Copies are available for purchase across the province.
The Island Storybook Christmas Stories Special Edition, Volume 5 Tangle Lane
The book can be purchased in Charlottetown at Bookmark (111 Kent St) and The Bookman (117 Queen St).
The Island Story Book
Volume Thirty-Nine 2025
Tangle Lane
RED editors have announced the launch of RED: The Island Story Book
RED extends wishes of peace, joy, and a cozy chair by the fire to Islanders as they settle in with the latest special edition of RED Magazine—a volume fully dedicated to Christmas stories.
RED: The Island Storybook Christmas Stories offers 100 percent Christmas content, designed to spark the spirit of carols, mistletoe, and chocolate peanut butter balls.
This very special holiday edition of RED is available now.
Time to harvest my belle lavender the fragrance of Provence I travel in an armload of perfume.
It hangs to dry from a pine beam to make sweet lavender pomanders full of summer thoughts, tender mornings with bare feet and coffee on the porch hummingbird on delphinium.
On the serious side of the season change is my luminous portion where summer gives to autumn a windy circle into winter— coffee served in a slower dawn warmth from the fire in the stove
lavender lingers in the linen chest and I wonder if the hummingbird is safe in South America.
—Catherine Edward
Catherine Edward (1948–2025) is the author of The Brow of Dawn – One Woman’s Journey with MS, which won the PEI Book Award in 2006. This poem is reprinted with permission from the whither poems (Acorn, 2019).
Each month Bren Simmers selects a poem by an Island poet for The Buzz
The Acorn Press invites submissions for an anthology of holiday writing by PEI writers, with a focus on holiday seasons such as Christmas, Yule, Thanksgiving, Hannukah, Eid, Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Kwanzaa. This will be a successor to the 2015 anthology Snow Softly Falling: Holiday Stories from Prince Edward Island. There is no requirement for “Island” content; stories may be set anywhere. Writers may submit unpublished short stories, poems, and/or creative non-fiction (for example, personal essays). Potential contributors must have a significant PEI connection, for example: born or raised in PEI, lived in PEI for six months of the past two years, or another strong connection, such as a summer residence. Submission guidelines for fiction and/or creative non-fiction: a maximum two submissions (maximum 3500 words per story). For poetry: a maximum of five poems (10 pages total). All submissions must be typed and submitted by email as a Word document: prose double-spaced; poetry single spaced. Include a cover letter that states the PEI connection, an
Commemorative edition produced for festival’s 30th anniversary
Under the Spire has released a commemorative 2026 calendar—now available for holiday gifting.
Produced for the festival’s 30th anniversary, the 13-month calendar showcases the beauty and history of Historic St. Mary’s Church—designed by Island architect William Critchlow Harris and opened in 1902—as well as highlights the 30 years of musical and artistic experiences that have been held in the space.
A limited printing is available at farmers’ and Christmas markets until the end of December. It can also be purchased at underthespire.ca. This is the festival’s major fundraising project for the winter.
email address, and a phone number. Send submissions by email to co-editors Lee Ellen Pottie and Richard Lemm at lpottie@upei.ca. The deadline for submissions is February 20, 2026.
The UPEI Arts Review is an annual student-run publication that has showcased both creative and academic work by UPEI students for the last fifteen years. They have opened their call for submissions for Vol. XV and are seeking new work for the upcoming edition. A skilled team of editors is ready to support writers throughout the process. Submissions are welcome in many forms, including poetry, short stories, flash fiction, academic papers, memoirs, scripts, novel chapters, paintings, sketches, cartoons, photographs, and digital art. Written submissions should be sent as a Google Doc to artsreview@upei.ca, formatted in Times New Roman, 12-point font, with poetry double-spaced and prose single-spaced. Visual works should be submitted as JPEG files, precisely framed and with proper lighting. AI-generated work will not be accepted. The deadline for submissions is December 20. Questions may be directed to artsreview@upei.ca or @upei.artsreview on IG.
The Law Society of PEI is offering a free online lunchtime session, “Understanding Employment Law on PEI,” with lawyer Maggie Hughes from Cox & Palmer on December 1 at 12 noon. This accessible and practical overview will cover workplace laws for Island employers and employees alike. Attendees will learn what laws apply to PEI workplaces, the difference between employees and contractors, how unionized and non-unionized workplaces differ, and where to seek legal help for workplace issues. Register at events. teams.microsoft.com to reserve a spot and receive the webinar link.
UPEI’s Research on Tap brings another edition to the discussion series with guest speaker Dr. Malcolm Murray, a philosophy professor, presenting “Can Morality Accomadate Supererogation?”
The event will take place at the Salvador Dali Cafe in Charlottetown on December 3 at 6 pm. There will be a short talk followed by a discussion period. Dr. Murray’s talk will focus on how a supererogatory (or super nice) act goes beyond moral duty, is morally approved, and carries no moral condemnation for failure to comply. This demarcation raises the following puzzle: How can we morally praise an action that is not morally required? Conversely, we may wonder how acting outside the set of morality is still moral. Research on Tap is free and open to the public. All are welcome to attend.
music, theatre, dance, comedy...
…continued from page 20
Dec 11 | 7 pm
Underneath The Tree: Three Oaks Holiday Show
Ft. TOSH Music Department. Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 11 | 8 pm
Island Jazz Christmas with Kelley Mooney Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Dec 11 | 8 pm
Deck The Halls! A Country Christmas
Ft. Lawrence Maxwell and Nudie and the Turks. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown.
Dec 12 | 7 pm
The Jimmy Swift Band, Grand Theft Bus, and Slowcoaster: The Trifecta Tour
PEI Brewing Company, Charlottetown
Dec 12 | 7:30 pm
Winter Wishes Holiday Show
Ft. Fiddlers’ Sons and Salt Water Dollies. Trinity United, Summerside
Dec 12 | 7:30 pm
The Irish Descendants Christmas Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 12 | 7:30 pm
Swing AGAIN Christmas
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 12 | 8 pm
Popalopalots Xmas Show
Improv Comedy. The Guild, Charlottetown
Dec 12, 13 | 7:30 pm
Lawrence Maxwell & Nudie with The Turks: Deck The Halls
Dec 12: Afton Community Centre, New Dominion Dec 13: Fortune Community Centre, Fortune
Dec 13 | 1 pm
Island A Cappella Confederation Court Mall, Charlottetown
Dec 13 | 2 pm, 7:30 pm
The Nutcracker: Remixing the Magic Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 13 | 5 pm
Dinner & Show Fundraiser
Ft. Ceilidh in the City and Alan Buchanan. Jack Blanchard Centre, Charlottetown
Dec 13 | 6:30 pm
Christmas in Bonshaw Bonshaw Hall, Bonshaw
Dec 13 | 7 pm
Harmonia Youth Choir: Glow Park Royal United, Charlottetown
Dec 13 | 7:30 pm
Meat Pie Festival Grand Finale Kitchen Party
Ft. Keelin Wedge, Brendon Peters, Megan Bergeron, Mélina pi Gélina, Richard Wood, Sheila MacKenzie, and Tom Gammons. Cymbria Lions Club, Rustico
Dec 13 | 7:30 pm
An Evening with Elvis
Ft. Jonah Anderson with The Fabulous Blue Suedettes (Jennifer Carson and Marylynn Côté). Milton Community Hall, Milton
Dec 13 | 7:30 pm
Yule Laugh with Side Hustle Improv Comedy. The Guild, Charlottetown
Dec 13 | 2 pm, 7 pm
Dec 14 | 1:30 pm, 4 pm
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch
Stole Christmas! The Musical Presented by Havenwood Studios. Carrefour Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 13 | 2 pm, 7:30 pm
Dec 14 | 2 pm
The Gift of the Magi and Other Festive Stories to Warm the Heart
Watermark Theatre production. Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 14 | 2 pm
Ceilidhs of Crapaud Christmas Ceilidh
Crapaud Community Hall, Crapaud
Dec 14 | 2:30 pm
A Very Forte Christmas
Ft. Forte Men’s Choir. Kirk of St James, Charlottetown
Dec 14 | 7 pm
Central Queens Musical
Friends Christmas Concert
Central Queen united, Hunter River
Dec 14 | 7 pm
Journey to Bethlehem Concert
Ft. Summerside Presbyterian Church Choir and guests. Summerside Presbyterian, Summerside
Dec 14 | 7 pm
Tip Er Back Christmas Concert
West River United, Cornwall
Dec 14 | 7 pm
Park Royal United Church
Choir: Light of Peace Concert
Park Royal United, Charlottetown
Dec 14 | 8 pm
Ashley MacIsaac Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 15 | 7:30 pm
Choir! Choir! Choir! Un-Silent Night Epic Holiday
Sing-Along
Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 16 | 7 pm
St. Dunstan’s Basilica Christmas Concert
Ft. over 50 choristers from across the Island with a 35-piece orchestra. St. Dunstan’s Basilica, Charlottetown
Dec 16 | 8 pm
Còig Christmas
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 17 | 7:30 pm
A Brass Choir Christmas Fundraiser for PEI Kiwanis Music Festival. Park Royal United, Charlottetown
Dec 17–20 | 7:30 pm
Dec 20–21 | 1 pm
The Gift of the Magi and Other Festive Stories to Warm the Heart
Watermark Theatre, North Rustico
Dec 18 | 8 pm
The Night Social
Ft. Remi Arsenault, Nick Gauthier, Tian Wigmore, and Rich Knox. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 18 | 7:30 pm
The Grand Tour: With A Dash of Christmas
Scott MacAulay Performing Arts Centre, Summerside
Dec 18 | 8 pm
Island Jazz Christmas Quartet Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Dec 19 | 7:30 pm
Barra MacNeils East Coast Christmas
Celebrating 25 years. Sobey Family Theatre, Charlottetown
Dec 19 | 8 pm
Ben Caplan
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 19 | 8 pm
A Very Random Holiday Show The Guild, Charlottetown
Dec 20 | 6 pm
A Holiday Variety Showcase Fundraiser for PEI Transgender Network ft. Denim and local performers. Beaconsfield Carriage House, Charlottetown
Dec 20 | 7:30 pm
Country Boys Christmas Edition
Tribute to Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Brad Paisley and George Strait. Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Series celebrates diverse voices and local directors
The PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation has launched season four of Hidden Island, continuing its celebration of diverse storytellers from communities across the province. The season runs from October to March, with a new episode each month.
The first episode, Sukwi’sim (Auntie’s Place), is now available at islanddigitalvoices.ca. Each video explores a unique part of the Island and features local directors such as Omar Broderick, Eric Cerisano, Heather Harris, Walker MacDonald, Judith Mendiolea, and Hanna Wylie.
“It’s been rewarding to watch this series evolve over the years and to have the creative flexibility to push season 4 even further into new territory,” says Daniel Brown, series producer. “Whether it’s the history of a community dinner theatre, a deep dive into a local monster legend, or the personal story of a local, my hope is that Hidden Island becomes a place for all Islanders. We are always open to story pitches.”
Hidden Island launched in 2021 as Island Digital Voices. It is a Government of PEI initiative, led by the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation, to share stories about Islanders and Island life—and to support new local storytellers.
To suggest a story for future seasons, email mhpei@gov.pe.ca. For more information and to watch all released content, visit islanddigitalvoices.ca. Follow the foundation on social media at @heritagepei.
Roving Picture Shows + Island Jazz at the Movies
Roving Picture Shows presents ciné-concerts co-presented with Island Jazz. On November 29 at 9 pm, cellist Natalie Williams Calhoun will perform live musical accompaniment to Charlie Chaplin’s The Gold Rush at The Guild in Charlottetown. For tickets, visit theguildpei.com. On December 28 at 8:15 pm, pianist Max Keenlyside will perform live musical accompaniment to a presentation of the original Lumière brothers’ films from the inaugural screening of December 28, 1895—including shorts such as The Sprinkler Sprinkled, Workers Leaving the Lumière Factory, and Baby’s Breakfast—at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. The Phantom Carriage (1921) will also be screened. Tickets can be purchased at linktr.ee/ rovingpictureshows.
The PEI premiere of Why We Dance takes place in the auditorium of the Charlottetown Library on November 30 from 2–4 pm. See the remarkable film diary of a web-based dance class of mostly women in their 40s–80s who come together during the pandemic for comfort and stay together for joy. Talk with the filmmaker, Michal Goldman, and stay to dance with Reequal Smith of Oshun Dance Studio. All ticket proceeds go to Women’s Network PEI. Tickets/ Info: wnpei.org/en/current-news
SUBMITTED
The Friends of Eptek Centre’s Lunchtime Film Series runs on Thursdays at noon in the main gallery until the end of April. The lineup includes both new films and selections from the late Friend Blanche Hogg. There is no charge for admission. Upcoming selections include Rick Steves’ Europe: Art of the Baroque Age on December 4, Rick Steves’ Europe: Art of the Modern Age on December 11, Talking Pictures: Christmas Classics on December 18, and The Nature of Things: Making the Wild Canadian Year on January 8. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
The new, four-part documentary series on PEI’s forest ecosystems, Vital Forests, will screen at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown on December 17 at 7 pm. Created by Eric Edward, director of the MacPhail Woods Ecological Forestry Project, Vital Forests explores coastal, riparian, wetland, and upland forests. Combining interviews with experts and stunning footage, each film guides the audience through one unique ecosystem— showcasing the best examples that remain, the species at risk that call them home, their beauty and abundance, and the challenges they face. A panel discussion will follow, with the experts featured in the film offering space for questions, dialogue, and community conversation. The event is presented in collaboration with Macphail Woods Ecological Forestry Project, Nature PEI, and PEI Woodlot Owners Association.
Teens are invited to the Summerside Library at 57 Central Street for a free screening of Dr. Suess’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas (G) on December 22 at 6 pm. Snacks will be provided.
Families are invited to the Charlottetown Library at 97 Queen Street for a free screening of The Mitchells vs. The Machines on January 2 at 10:30 am.
Roving Picture Shows and City Cinema will co-present a screening of Ingmar Bergman’s Fanny and Alexander at City Cinema on December 3 at 6:30 pm. For tickets, visit linktr.ee/ rovingpictureshows.
The Summerside Library at 57 Central Street is hosting a free screening of Holiday Inn (G) on December 4 at 2 pm.
Charlottetown’s Confederation Court Mall and Tivoli Cinema partnered to host a free screening of Elf in the mall food court on December 6 at 4 pm. Snacks and drinks will be available at reduced prices, and guests can enter to win Tivoli movie tickets. Details: confedcourtmall.com/ festive-events
Charlottetown Edition returns for two nights in January
The Banff Mountain Film Festival Tour— Charlottetown Edition, presented by the PEI Adventure Initiative, will be held at the UPEI Performing Arts Centre on January 30 and 31. Doors open at 6:30 pm with the screenings starting at 7 pm. Tickets will be available for purchase at Sporting Intentions in Charlottetown beginning December 1. Follow @ Charlottetown Edition Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour on FB, @Banff_film_fest_chtown on IG, or visit banffmountainfestival. ca/worldtour, for more information.
Holiday Viewing by Sean McQuaid
I love mysteries, I love Christmas stories, and I love it when they get smooshed together. For 12 days of cool Christmas TV mysteries, check out these enigmatic episodes …
The Twilight Zone – “Five Characters in Search of an Exit” (S3E14-1961) No detectives, no cops, no crimes, and barely any holiday content until its bizarre final twist – but this surreal gem is indeed a mystery, albeit one about five random people trapped in a cylindrical limbo realm.
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes –“The Blue Carbuncle” (S1E7-1984)
A lost Christmas goose and an infamous stolen jewel lead Holmes and Watson (Jeremy Brett & David Burke during Brett’s classic 1984-1994 run as Holmes) into a tangled mystery to save a wrongly accused man.
Poirot – “The Theft of the Royal Ruby” (S3E9-1991)
Agatha Christie’s Belgian sleuth Poirot (during David Suchet’s definitive 1989-2013 run as the character) reluctantly spends his holidays helping an arrogant Egyptian prince recover a pilfered gem.
Poirot – “Hercule Poirot’s Christmas” (S6E1-1994)
Diabolical diamond tycoon Simeon Lee hires elite detective Poirot to attend a fractious Christmas gathering of the Lee family, whose toxic quarrels lead to a locked-room murder mystery.
Batman: The Animated Series – “A Bullet for Bullock” (S4E4-1995) When obnoxious police detective Harvey Bullock is targeted for death during the holidays, his vigilante frenemy Batman must determine which of Bullock’s many enemies is the culprit.
A Nero Wolfe Mystery – “Wolfe Goes Out” (S1E6&7-2001)
Aired in Canada as two wintry episodes (“Door to Death” & “Christmas Party”), armchair detective Nero Wolfe leaves his comfortable office on a snowy countryside quest for an orchid expert, then solves a murder at a holiday soiree attended by his rakish right hand man Archie Goodwin.
Veronica Mars – “An Echolls Family Christmas” (S1E10-2004)
The titular teenage gumshoe spends her holiday season solving a robbery case tied to a high stakes poker game at the Echolls mansion while her father Keith unwraps some sordid Echolls family secrets in this witty, cynical Christmas noir.
Monk – “Mr. Monk Meets His Dad” (S5E9-2006)
Brilliant but troubled detective Adrian Monk spends the holidays on a reluctant road trip with his long-lost, long-estranged father, trucker Jack Monk, who is unwittingly entangled in a murder.
Psych – “The Polarizing Express” (S5E14-2010)
When a case goes wrong, fake psychic and gifted detective Shawn Spencer has “It’s a Wonderful Life “-style dream visions of how life might be for his friends, family and colleagues without him.
Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! – “Scary Christmas” (S1E14-2015)
Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! isn’t the best version of Scooby—that would be the late, great Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated—but it does have Scooby’s oddest, funniest Christmas tale, in which Fred’s obsession with solving the perfect Christmassy mystery is complicated by a rogue Pterodactyl.
The Twilight Zone – “A Traveler” (S1E4-2019)
A Christmas party at an Alaskan police station gets weird when an extra prisoner (played with creepy charm by Steven Yeun) turns up in their jail; but can Sgt. Yuka Mongoyak discover what this mystery man really wants before it’s too late?
Elsbeth – “Gold, Frankincense, and Murder” (S2E6-2024)
When the secretly rocky marriage of a couple of “celebrity Christmas curators” ends in sudden death, the authorities investigate—including Elsbeth Tascioni, the quirky lawyer from The Good Wife and The Good Fight, reinvented in this delightful spinoff as a Columbo-style crime solver.
Hawkeye (S1-2021)
For a 13th day of Christmas mystery, circle back to the MCU’s seasonal sleeper hit Hawkeye. Yes, it’s a superhero action dramedy; but it also has mystery elements (including a murder to solve) and is loads of heartwarming fun regardless as Marvel’s ace archer fights to get home for the holidays.
Dec 28 | 2 pm
Island Jubilee Old Time Radio Music Show: Hank Williams
Dec 20–21 | 8 pm
A Kenny & Dolly Christmas
Ft. Kelley Mooney, Christine Cameron, Keelin Wedge, and Roland Beaulieu. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown.
Dec 21 | 3 pm
See Amid The Winter’s Snow
Ft. Summerside Community Choir. Trinity United, Summerside
Dec 21 | 6 pm
Ukrainian Christmas Night fundraiser
Charlottetown Firefighters Club, Charlottetown
Dec 21 | 7:30 pm
The Starlings Choir & Guests Harbourside Theatre, Summerside
Dec 22 | 6:30 pm
Nativity: Night of Music
Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Tribute
Ft. Nudie, Mike Dixon, Lester MacPherson, and Gordie MacKeeman. Florence Simmons Performance Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 28, 29
Dufflebag Theatre: Cinderella
Dec 28, 6:30 pm: Harbourfront Theatre, Summerside
Dec 29, 2 pm: Kings Playhouse, Georgetown
Dec 29, 5 pm: Souris Show Hall, Souris
Dec 28 | 8 pm
Liam Corcoran Band with Newbridge and The Meds
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 30 | 8 pm
Nice Boys
Tribute to Guns N’ Roses. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 31 | 7 pm, 10:45 pm
Dec 22 | 8 pm
Dennis Ellsworth and Jordan Cameron
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 23 | 7 pm
Festival des Fêtes: Christmas Show
Village musical acadien, Abram-Village
Dec 23 | 8 pm
Tibb’s Eve
The Guild, Charlottetown
Dec 23 | 8 pm
Big Shiny Tunes Big Tribute Show: The Ultimate 90’s Throwback Experience
Craig Fair Productions. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Dec 26 | 8 pm
Boxing Day Bash with Logan
Richard & Friends
Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown.
Dec 27 | 8 pm
blink-902
Blink-182 tribute show. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
NYE with After Hours Band Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown.
Jan 1 | 8 pm
Island Jazz: Season 11 Launch Baba’s Lounge, Charlottetown
Jan 3 | 8 pm
NEBO
With Sweet Gale. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 7 | 8 pm
Songs For Shelter: An Evening of Music & Meaning
Ft. Alicia Toner, KINLEY, and Tara MacLean. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
Jan 9 | 8 pm
Groove Company
QEH fundraiser. Trailside Music Hall, Charlottetown
City Cinema is owned and operated by our non-profit Society. We welcome donations, and can provide tax receipts. We will continue to present a diverse mix of films and welcome your suggestions and support. Become a member, bring friends, and share feedback!
Please visit our website at citycinema.ca, we accept all major credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema. Seating may be limited, advance tickets are strongly recommended.
Film availability and showtimes are subject to change. Please check our website and book tickets in advance.
City Cinema is available for rent for private film viewings! We provide the projectionist and will have the canteen and bar open for your group. Please check the Venue Rental on our website and send us an email! We’ll respond with information and rates.
Admission
Regular $12
Member $9
65 and over $10
14 and under $ 8
We now accept credit cards online and both debit and credit at the cinema
Annual membership - $30.00
until December 2
Drama. PG, coarse language. Dir: Richard Linklater, France/US, 2025, 105 in. Zoey Deutch, Guillaume Marbeck, Aubry Dullin. In French and English with English subtitles.
“Linklater’s elegant love letter to the influential era in French cinema would be a towering achievement even if it did no more than generously invite budding cinephiles to film history without intimidating them. But [he] accomplishes a lot more with his joyously beautiful telling of the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s game-changing Breathless. In stunning black and white, and with the grainy sound quality of the era, he gives new life to the period picture, making it romantic, exquisitely detailed, and timeless. With Guillaume Marbeck and Zoey Deutch’s enthralling and uncannily exacting performances as Godard and Jean Seberg, the list of masters Nouvelle Vague honors is as rich as the film that surrounds them. Linklater loves this period, and he wants to make you a lover, too.” —Tomris Laffly, Elle
Roving Picture Shows and City Cinema present:
December 3
Drama. 14A, sexual content. Dir: Ingmar Bergman, Sweden, 1982, 188 min. Kristina Adolphson, Börje Ahlstedt, Pernilla Allwin. In Swedish and German with English subtitles.
Winner of 4 Oscars including Best Foreign Language Film
“The warmth, humour and compassion of this wonderful turn-of-the-century family saga make it one of the most accessible movies ever made by Sweden’s greatest director. The story, which covers two years in the life of a well-to-do household as seen through the eyes of a small boy, is rendered all the more fascinating by the autobiographical elements that Bergman has included and by Sven Nykvist’s Oscar-winning photography. The film takes us on a magical mystery tour of the child’s encounters with his oppressive, puritanical father, his God-fearing mother and his loving family in an atmosphere that is both cosy and scary. The result is an unmissable experience from a master film-maker. 5/5”
—Tom Hutchinson, Radio Times (UK)
The 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity (The World’s Best Commercials)
December 5–9
Rating TBA. Dir: Various, International, 2025, 108 min.
See how creativity sells — and moves us. The 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity gathers the world’s best commercials: funny, fearless, and wildly original. From viral sensations to cinematic storytelling, this annual global showcase spotlights the bronze, silver, gold and Grand Prix winners from the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity — the Oscars of advertising.
December 10–14
Historical Fantasy Romance. PG, sexual content, language, some bloody images. Dir: Julia Jackman, UK, 2025, 90 min. Safia Oakley-Green, Richard E. Grant, Josh Cowdery.
“A cool, feminist fable that turns traditional fairytales on their head... Based on Isabel Greenberg’s graphic novel – itself a take on Middle Eastern folktale One Thousand and One Nights – the story concerns Cherry, who, once upon a time in an alternate kingdom, has been married off to the handsome Jerome. But the newlywed couple is yet to conceive an all-important heir... So they are given 101 nights to get pregnant.... Meanwhile, Jerome’s dashing friend Manfred arrives, throwing everything into chaos... But Cherry’s devoted maid Hero sniffs out potential danger for her mistress, protecting her from Manfred by spinning enchanting stories each night of a defiant group of sisters... who insist on living by their own rules. 100 Nights of Hero is a gothic-tinged fantasy... Jackman has created an off-beat, deadpan film tying meaning and whimsy together smoothly... While addressing some pretty dark topics such as misogyny at its heart, everything is done with a light touch.” —Tori Brazier, Metro (UK)
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
December 15 & 20
Christmas Comedy. PG, language, mature content. Dir: Jeremiah S. Chechik, US, 1989, 97 min. Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Juliette Lewis.
possible mishap snowball into holiday mayhem. A beloved comedy classic.
December 16
Fantasy Adventure. G. Dir: Robert Zemeckis, US, 2004, 100 min. Tom Hanks, Leslie Zemeckis, Eddie Deezen.
a
Meet Me in St. Louis
December 17
Musical Comedy Drama. G. Dir: Vincente Minnelli, US, 1944, 113 min. Judy Garland, Margaret O’Brien, Mary Astor.
Judy Garland shines in this warm, nostalgic musical about a family facing big changes on the eve of the 1904 World’s Fair. Filled with unforgettable songs and heartfelt moments, it remains one of the most cherished classics of Hollywood’s Golden Age. “A heavenly slice of brassy Hollywood romanticism that’ll still have you swooning all the way to the trolley stop.” —David Jenkins, Time Out
December 18–23 & 26–28
Romantic Comedy. PG, coarse language. Dir: David Freyne, US, 2025, 112 min. Miles Teller, Elizabeth Olsen, Callum Turner.
“A refreshingly original romantic comedy that makes you laugh, cry, and reflect on the cosmic weight of love and memory…Eternity is one of the most unexpectedly moving films of the year.. Set in a surreal version of the
afterlife, the story centers on Joan and Larry, a long-married couple who die within days of each other and reunite in a transitional space between life and whatever comes next. Every soul here is given one week to decide where and with whom they want to spend eternity with, a choice that’s a bit complicated when Joan’s first husband and war hero Luke reappears after decades of waiting for her. At first glance, it feels like a classic rom-com setup with a love triangle, but the twist that the stakes are eternal adds a complex layer. The performances are excellent… The screenplay is a gem, sharp and funny with a delightful streak of sarcasm that keeps the sentimentality in check… This story of eternal love (and eternal decisions) will find a place in your heart.”
—Louisa Moore, Screen Zealots
Elf
December 20 & 21
Comedy. G, language, comic violence. Dir: Jon Favreau, US, 2003, 97 min. Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart, Zooey Deschanel.
December 21
Comedy. PG. Dir: Bob Clark, Canada/ US, 1983,
Darren
December 26—January 1
Horror Thriller. 14A. Dir: Bryan Fuller, US, 2025, 106 min. Mads Mikkelsen, Sophie Sloan, Sigourney Weaver.
“Experiencing the film Dust Bunny is a little like falling into the greatest children’s book ever. The visually stunning modern fairy tale is all about Aurora, a 10-year-old plagued by a monster under her bed. Late one starry night she sees her mysterious neighbour (Mads Mikkelsen) slay a dragon, so she decides to hire him to dispatch that thing lurking under her floorboards. The monster may well have eaten Aurora’s parents… The mysterious neighbour - he’s an assassin - agrees to help Aurora, although like most adults, he does not believe in monsters under the bed… Dust Bunny is told from Aurora’s perspective, so everything looks fresh and dazzling and beautifully detailed…. The world looms large to children, something writer-director Bryan Fuller obviously never forgot… The assassin, meanwhile, has his own monsters to deal with, and as he explains to Aurora, these monsters are mostly all men…. This is macabre fare - funny, frightening and fantastical... May we all live happily ever after.” —Liz Braun, Alliance of Women Film Journalists “Dust Bunny feels like a family classic in the making. Yes, it’s spooky, but it reminds us that we can always overcome that which frightens us.” —MovieWeb
Be sure to follow us on our social media pages for up-to-date reminders and updates to our schedule.
Email info@citycinema.ca to sign up for our newsletter and stay in the know with all the goings on!
Nouvelle Vague
Nouvelle Vague
Nouvelle Vague
Nouvelle Vague
7:00 7:00 6:30
Nouvelle Vague
Nouvelle Vague Fanny and Alexander
PRIVATE EVENT
Cannes Reel
Cannes Reel
Cannes Reel
PRIVATE EVENT
Cannes Reel
Cannes Reel
100 Nights of Hero
100 Nights of Hero
100 Nights of Hero
100 Nights of Hero
100 Nights of Hero
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Polar Express
7:00 2:00 4:15 7:00 7:00 7:00 4:00 7:00 9:15 2:00 7:00 9:30 4:15 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00
Meet Me In St. Louis Eternity Eternity National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Elf Eternity Elf A Christmas Story
All Your Holiday Shopping in One Store, + FREE Gift Wrapping!
Sunday, December 7th, 1:45 - 2:45 pm
Sunday, December 14th, 3:00 - 4:00 pm
& Council
Holiday Tea &
Saturday, December 6th, 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Entertainment by Phase II & Friends
Family fun and events at three venues in February
Jack Frost Winterfest presented by Island Coastal returns February 13–16, 2026, promising family fun, exciting entertainment, three unique festival venues, and a brand-new live stage show inspired by the global popularity of KPop.
Jack Frost once again teams up with Craig Fair Productions for an original and exclusive children’s show. In this year’s production, Winter Forever: A KPop Tribute!, winter has disappeared. The snow is gone, and the once picture-perfect world— like scenes inside a snow globe— is no more. The story follows a quest to uncover who took winter away and to bring its magic back. The show invites audiences on an upbeat KPop adventure across the Island to track down the evil-doer who expelled the magic of winter, and to dance and sing their way back.
In 2026, Jack Frost Winterfest will feature three key venues, creating a more connected and convenient festival experience while continuing to offer both free and ticketed programming.
Snowtopia, the snow-covered outdoor activity zone, returns to the Mark Arendz Provincial Ski Park Nordic Site in Brookvale. Families can enjoy tube runs, ice slides, horse and sleigh rides, buskers, face painting, live music, and ice sculptures daily (Feb 14–16). A ticket is required for admission.
Frosty Funland at the Delta Prince Edward features the indoor kids zone for family fun features inflatables, games, Jack Frost meet-and-greets, character appearances, and Winter Forever: A KPop Tribute! Open daily for general admission (Feb 14–16). A ticket is required for admission.
Warm and Glow Zone at Founders’ Food Hall & Market is now home to
all of Jack Frost’s free programming, creating a festive, family-friendly hub with an outdoor skating rink, fireplaces, food vendors, and local shopping. Weekend highlights at the Warm and Glow Zone include a Friday night DJ Skate Party under the lights. On Saturday night, families can enjoy ice sculpting, buskers, horse-drawn wagon rides, live music, and a fireworks show. Islander Day Monday features the character skate on the outdoor rink, and throughout the whole weekend, visitors can take in live music.
The celebration officially kicks off Friday at 7 pm with Swift Kick, an allages Taylor Swift tribute concert at the Delta Prince Edward. A separate ticket is required, with early-bird pricing available until December 31.
The Jack Frost VIP hotel package and budget-friendly hotel deals are on sale now. For the schedule of events, hotel packages, and to buy tickets, visit jackfrostfestival.com or follow @ jackfrostpei.
Ceremony and candle lighting for victims of violence—Dec 5
The PEI Advisory Council on the Status of Women will host its annual Charlottetown Memorial Service in Memorial Hall at Confederation Centre of the Arts on December 5 at 12 pm.
The ceremony and candle-lighting will take place in remembrance of women lost to gender-based violence, including the 14 victims of the 1989 Montreal Massacre, 10 Island women killed since, and thousands of missing and murdered Indigenous women.
Alyssa Coghlin, a therapist with the PEI Rape and Sexual Assault Centre, will be the guest speaker. The program will include a musical performance by Catherine MacLellan, piano accompaniment by Todd MacLean, and an Indigenous ceremony.
This is a public event. All are welcome to attend.
Visit peistatusofwomen.ca/purple-ribbon-campaign/montreal-massacre-memorial-service for more information.
Annual ceremony at Skmaqn – Port-la-Joye – Fort Amherst National Historic Sight
The public is invited to the Acadian Remembrance Day ceremony taking place at Skmaqn – Port-la-Joye – Fort Amherst National Historic Site on December 13 at 2 pm. This ceremony is held annually to honour the victims of the Deportation of Island Acadians in 1758, “one of the largest and deadliest of the Acadian deportations that took place between 1755 and 1762,” according to Parks Canada.
There are no reservations required this year, all are invited to attend. In case of inclement weather, the cancellation would be announced on the Acadian Museum of PEI’s Facebook page, and a smaller ceremony would take place once the weather permits.
This event is a partnership between SAF’Île, Parks Canada, Fédération culturelle, Acadian Museum of PEI, and the Department of Education, with the assistance of historian Georges Arsenault. For more information, contact the Acadian Museum at 902-432-2880.
DECEMBER 11, 2025 | 4:30 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.
DELTA HOTELS PRINCE EDWARD (18 QUEEN STREET, CHARLOTTETOWN)
PICTURES WITH SANTA KIDS CRAFTS TABLE COOKIE DECORATION DELICIOUS FOOD
LIGHT CARRIAGE RIDES with Emerald Isle Carriage Tours
12, 17, 19
This holiday season, the Black Cultural Society invites the community to come together in joy and gratitude at Kijiji Celebration: Honoring Our Village—a heartwarming gathering that celebrates unity, culture, and togetherness. Taking place on November 29 from 1–4 pm at St. Peter’s Hall in Charlottetown, this vibrant afternoon will be filled with thanksgiving, appreciation, and connection. Attendees will share food, laughter, and cultural reflection as they embrace the beauty of belonging and give thanks for one another. This event is sponsored by Innovation PEI. Follow @blackculturalsocietypei on social media for updates and more.
The PEI Spelling Bee will be held in Charlottetown on April 18, 2026. Winners receive $500 and will have the chance to attend the Championship in Toronto. Registration is open for students aged 6–14 until December 31. Visit spellingbeeofcanada.ca/registration to register online. Info: coordinator.pei@spellingbeeofcanada.ca
Tech help is offered at the Summerside Library, 57 Central St, on Thursdays at 3 pm. Call the library in advance at 902-436-7323 to register for a one-on-one session.
Journey Through Bethlehem, a live drivethrough event, takes place at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Stratford on December 20 and 21 from 6–9 pm. The storm date is December 22.
Chances is offering free playgroups for children 0–6 in Charlottetown, Cornwall, and Stratford. Caregivers and their children can join Chances staff for sensory and active play, art, and socialization. There are infant-specific playgroups and parent sessions as well. Info/register: chancesfamily.ca, 902-892-8744
Light the Way, a Christmas House Tours fundraising event, takes place in Vernon Bridge on December 13 from 4–7 pm. Attendees will visit four homes, all within a five-minute drive from each other, all decorated in different styles—from Victorian, country, log, and modern. Tour participants can finish the evening at St. Andrew’s United to see the beautifully decorated church and enjoy a festive treat while listening to Christmas music. There is admission. For tickets, call 902-651-2009 or email cheryl@ saintandrewsunited.ca.
The next Lymphedema Education and Support Group’s monthly meeting at Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown takes place on January 11 at 12:30 pm. Facilitated by Rose Goulet, these meetings are open to anyone interested in preventing lymphedema or living with it, and can be attended in person or online. Info: rlygoulet@yahoo. ca, 902-940-6780
The Canadian Home Builders’ Association is offering free virtual sessions on energy efficiency for homeowners through December. Each session explores specific topics to help make homes more comfortable and efficient. Info: chba-pei.ca
Volunteer gift wrappers from the Autism Society of PEI will wrap Christmas gifts this holiday season on the main level of the Confederation Court Mall from December 20–23, 12–3 pm daily. The public can bring in any gifts they’d like to have wrapped, whether purchased from a mall store or elsewhere. Donations to this registered charity are greatly appreciated. 134 Kent St, Charlottetown. Info: confedcourtmall.com/festive-events
The City of Charlottetown’s Holiday Home Decorating Contest registration is open until December 7. Participants will show off their holiday cheer with festive decorations on the exterior of homes or property. Entries will be judged the week of December 8 based on the use of natural materials, use of lighting, creativity, and overall design. Residents can register by email to jedoucette@charlottetown. ca or call 902-566-5548. Info: charlottetownchristmasfestival.com
Their Honours the Honourable Wassim Salamoun, Lieutenant Governor of Prince Edward Island and Marie SalamounDunne, welcome all to view the decorated splendour of Government House on December 3 from 3–6 pm. The creative and talented work of Damien Packwood of Damien Morris Designs is sure to inspire the festive spirit. All are invited and there is no admission charge.
The not-for-profit organization Gifts From The Heart is hosting its annual Project Love program, providing Christmas hampers, gifts, hygiene items, and toys to those in need. Donations of
food, toys, gift cards, volunteer hours, or cash are greatly appreciated. Contact Betty Begg at 902-393-0171 or bettybegg@ gmail.com for more info.
The Cat Action Team (CAT) is currently seeking board members who will join and help plan the future of the organization. For 25 years, CAT has been the Island’s only organization exclusively focused on feral, stray, and barn cats. The team runs a trap-neuter-return program to limit the community cat population and also monitors colonies of feral cats across the Island. Info: cats-pei.ca, islandcatactionteam@gmail.com
Immigrant and Refugee Services Association (IRSA) is hosting a Christmas Social at the Delta Hotels Prince Edward in Charlottetown on December 11 from 4:30–7 pm. The family-friendly festive space will be decorated to resemble Santa’s workshop. Children can visit the elves’ village to decorate ornaments and cards, write letters to Santa, or colour. There will be a candy cane corner, a cookie decorating table, a toy shop with games, and a photo booth for families to get pictures taken with Santa. There will also be hot chocolate, food, and live music. Celebrate the season and share the spirit of community. There is no admission or registration, and everyone is welcome.
Seniors Cafés take place at the Charlottetown and Summerside libraries. The next Seniors Café at the Summerside Library (57 Central St) is on December 12 at 11 am, where seniors can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a friendly discussion. Guest Wendell Feener will share knowledge about clocks. The Charlottetown Seniors Cafés run from 1–3 pm on the third Thursday of the month at 97 Queen St. Harpist Jill Harris will perform at the next Café, on December 18. Upcoming events include cooking demos and needle felting. Food, coffee, and tea are provided.
The PEI Museum & Heritage Foundation is hosting a Holiday Extravaganza at Beaconsfield Historic House in Charlottetown from December 5–7. Festivities include a house-lighting ceremony, live music, family activities, Victorian Christmas tours, performances, a holiday market, and more. Info: peimuseum.ca
The City of Charlottetown has partnered with Founders’ Food Hall & Market to host Capital New Year. On December 31, celebrate New Year’s Eve in Charlottetown with free, family-friendly activities from 4–8 pm at Founders’ Hall (6 Prince St). The evening will include live music headlined by Iconix: Pop Hits
from Past to Present, a photo booth, giveaways, and a 7 pm fireworks display. Info: charlottetownchristmasfestival.com
Teens are welcome to join the teen advisory group on Mondays at 3:30 pm at the Summerside Library (57 Central St). Meetings start with an opportunity for teens to share their voices and opinions, followed by assisting staff with various tasks. Participation allows teens to earn volunteer hours toward the Community Service Bursary.
PEI Autistic Adults is an online and in-person peer-support group for autistic adults and seniors on PEI to talk about autism, share experiences of navigating PEI as autistic adults, and support each other. The website, peiautisticadults.com, has a public blog where members can share their views, a private discussion forum, private chat functionality, and links to their social media. PEI Autistic Adults was started by an autistic senior and currently has over 160 members ranging from students to seniors. Those who wish to participate in the meetings but who do not wish to interact online can email peiautisticadults@gmail.com. PEI Autistic Adults is not affiliated with any organization.
PEI Sociable Singles is a social group for members aged 50 and over that meets weekly on Tuesdays at 7 pm at the Hillsborough Community Centre in Charlottetown. This is not a dating group—just friends getting together for meals, dances, outings, screenings, and games. Become a trial member and attend any activities for four weeks before deciding to join. After that, the membership fee is paid annually and members can attend as many activities as they want. If interested in attending a Tuesday meet-and-greet, email sociable_singles@yahoo.com.
The Charlottetown Thrift Market will be held in the cruise ship building at the Charlottetown Seaport, 1 Weymouth St, every Sunday starting November 30 from 9 am–2 pm. Over 100 tables and booths will offer household products, baked goods, collectibles, antiques, vintage clothing, crafts, jewelry, and more.
But First, Let’s Woo is an Island-based podcast by a couple of 40-something Islanders in their “woo-woo” era—think tarot cards in one hand and coffee in the other—available on most platforms. Each episode explores woo-woo topics and practices from an amateur perspective. It’s equal parts silly, informative, and fun. Upcoming episodes include “Our official woo-woo holiday gift guide” on December 5 and “An enchanted chat with the creators of The Mystic District (MysticDistrict.co)” on December 19. Follow @butfirstletswoo on IG or visit butfirstletswoo.com for details.
Now underway, the Charlottetown Christmas Festival, presented by Discover Charlottetown, runs until January 2, transforming the city into a holiday wonderland.
Visitors can experience holiday magic throughout the city with festive decor, sparkling lights, and joyful sounds. New this year, Discover Charlottetown has partnered with the City of Charlottetown to create a charming Christmas Tree Trail featuring seven uniquely decorated trees around the city, as well as a light tunnel in Rochford Square.
The open-air, boutique pop-up Mistletoe Market returns to Boulder Park on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until December 21, offering 12 stalls filled with locally crafted gifts.
In addition to the craft markets taking place throughout December, Founders’ Food Hall & Market has been transformed with more than 40 decorated Christmas trees, nutcrackers, holiday selfie stations, and more. Weekend festivities include ice sculpting, an outdoor cinema night, visits with Santa, and fire pits. They will also play host to Capital City New Year on December 31, which includes free, family-friendly fun: live music from The Last Forevers – A Pop Icon Tribute Band, ice carvings, face painting, and a 7 pm fireworks display.
Throughout the six-week celebration, families and visitors can enjoy
Community candle lighting in Charlottetown—Dec 14
In celebration of the first night of Hanukkah, the PEI Jewish Community (PEIJC) is hosting a candle lighting of the Hanukkah menorah in front of the Coles Building in Charlottetown, at Richmond Street and Church Street, across from the Murphy Centre.
The candle lighting will take place on December 14 at 4:30 pm and marks the fifth annual display of the Hanukkah menorah on the grounds of the Legislative Assembly.
An additional light will be added on each of the following seven nights, culminating on Sunday, December 21.
All are welcome to attend.
For more information, contact peijcinfo@gmail.com or visit peijc.org.
the Island-wide Hot Chocolate Trail, breakfasts with Santa, horse and wagon rides, children’s entertainment, and live performances.
For the full schedule of events and activities, visit charlottetownchristmasfestival.com
Charlottetown celebration in January
The PEI Chapter of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women and the PEI Sikh Association Inc., in collaboration with the World Religion Day Interfaith Committee, are hosting a World Religion Day 2026 event on January 18 at 2 pm at the Malcolm J. Darrach Community Centre in Charlottetown.
The event celebrates the beauty, unity and oneness of the world’s religions. This year’s theme is “One Light Guiding All.” The celebration is open to the public, and all are welcome. Refreshments will be served at the end of the program.
To RSVP, contact Farida Chishti (wastigb@hotmail.com, 902-388-5370) or Gagandeep Kaur (gagan.kittu@ gmail.com, 782-377-6834).
63rd annual event in January
The 63rd annual Lebanese Levee will take place at the Delta Hotel in Charlottetown on January 10. Presented by the Canadian Lebanese Association of PEI, the event celebrates community and heritage with a feast of Lebanese flavours and live cultural performances. Visit clapei.ca for tickets or more information.
2:00 - 5:30 PM
Family fun at Veteran’s Memorial Park, Lefurgey Cultural Centre, & McNaught History Centre.
6:00 PM
The Santa Claus Parade
7:30 - 8:30 PM
Official tree lighting followed by a visit with Santa, Exhibits, and more!
Ukrainian Christmas Night, a fundraising event hosted by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – PEI Branch in support of vital medical equipment for the QEH and rehabilitation care in Ukraine, will take place on December 21 at the Charlottetown Firefighters Club. The event begins at 6 pm, with doors opening at 5 pm.
The evening will feature authentic Ukrainian Christmas dishes—from kutia to varenyky (pierogi)— along with live music and performances, including Jazz Avenue and volunteers from PEI’s Ukrainian community. Event highlights include: Dance of Light, a captivating performance with glowing wings that brings the spirit of Christmas to life; a family ornament painting workshop for children and adults to make their own Ukrainian-inspired ornaments; traditional Vertep, a joyful Ukrainian Christmas play filled with folklore and
festive spirit; a sing-along flashmob of “Shchedryk/Carol of the Bells;”and a candlelight ceremony of unity.
All proceeds will support two meaningful causes: the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and rehabilitation care in Ukraine.
Tickets are available via eventbrite. ca at Ukrainian Christmas Night.
Celebrating the holiday season throughout December
The holiday season will be in full swing in Summerside with the city’s Yuletide Festival, taking place throughout December.
Santa Claus is coming to town on December 6 with family fun at Veteran’s Memorial Park, the Lefurgey Cultural Centre, and the McNaught History Centre starting at 2 pm. That evening, the Santa Claus Parade begins at 6 pm, followed by an official tree lighting, visit with Santa, exhibits, and more at 7:30 pm.
Families can enjoy activities, gifts, and prizes for their furry friends at Bark! The Herald Angels Sing on
Dinner and a show
Fundraising event at Jack Blanchard Hall—Dec 13
The St. Mark Malankara Orthodox Congregation of PEI is hosting a Dinner & Show Fundraiser on December 13 from 5:30–9 pm at the Jack Blanchard Hall in Charlottetown. Guests will enjoy a turkey dinner
December 13 from 4–8 pm, taking place at Veteran’s Memorial Park, the Lefurgey Cultural Centre, and the McNaught History Centre.
Christmas in the City, on December 20, features a holiday brunch hosted by the Loyalist Country Inn, kicking off a day of partnered events throughout the city. More details to come.
Family New Year’s Eve at the Dome on December 31 from 4–8 pm will feature family programming with an early countdown, inflatables, games, food and bar service, and more. Visit summerside.ca for the full schedule of events.
buffet prepared by 4S Catering, live music by Ceilidh in the City (Kendall Docherty, Peter Burke, Blair Coughlin, and Brian Knox), and entertainment by Alan Buchanan.
The evening is a celebration of community and a chance to come together, give back, and enjoy a festive night with friends and family.
Funds raised will help support youth outreach programs and initiatives, as well as the Alzheimer Society of PEI.
Limited tickets are available. Call 902-388-8130 to register.
The Cove Journal by JoDee Samuelson
Melda is a well-loved matriarch in the Cove. When I stopped in recently to ask her to share some of her Christmas memories, she put down her knitting and told me the following.
I was born in the PEI Hospital in 1937. Mom was a farm girl from a big family in Crossroads and Dad was a country boy from Alberton. His mother died when he was a small child and Dad was taken in by an aunt and uncle. His four sisters went to live with his mother’s relatives and his brother went to Mt. Herbert Orphanage.
Mom and Dad married, I came along, and World War II started. Dad joined the army, training at Debert, NS before being shipped “overseas” to Newfoundland. Newfoundland was considered a foreign country in those days. On his return he received $2000 from the government that went towards building a house on land near my grandparents’ farm in Crossroads. That’s where I grew up. It was a beautiful property with a grove of trees, perfect for children.
Dad was a labourer. Over the years he worked for a fox farmer, for Maritime Electric… here and there wherever he could find work. I have no idea how my parents made ends meet. Children weren’t in the know about such things. They were told, “Go outside and play.”
Mom and Dad never owned a vehicle. When they wanted to go somewhere they walked or hitchhiked. I didn’t like this situation, so in my teens I bought a car—before I even learned to drive!
Our Christmases were modest by modern standards. The whole family would sleep over at my grandparents’ house on Christmas Eve. My little sister and I would hang our long brown stockings on something—the end of the bed? Christmas morning we’d dig
down into the stockings for an apple, orange and some nuts in the shell. Then we’d open the presents under the tree: new winter boots from Dad, pajamas from Mother, maybe a doll or some little dollhouse furniture, maybe a knickknack from an aunt.
Dinner in late afternoon consisted of chicken, or a goose if my uncle brought one, stuffing (bread, potato, onion), turnip, carrots, gravy, mustard pickles. Adults ate their dinners first, not like today! When they were good and full the children would be called indoors and served their meal, everything washed down with generous glasses of milk.
I can’t remember everything that happened 88 years ago, but I do remember the November when Freda was two and I was six and we had our tonsils out. In the operating room as they started towards me with the black ether mask I clamped my hands determinedly over my face: no one was going to touch me with that thing! But my hands were pried off and out came the tonsils.
To reward us for our bravery my parents gave each of us a new doll—a major expenditure. So my big gift that Christmas was a simple clay piggy bank, which I have to this day! Who knows, maybe that’s why I started working in the bank at age sixteen… and marrying a banker.
That good enough? [She picks up her knitting and smiles.] Don’t know why anyone would want to read about me. Oh well. What do you think, is it going to snow tomorrow?
“Humans, not places, make memories .”
—Ama Ata Aidoo
Bird watchers (birders) will assemble for their annual Christmas Bird Counts (CBC) between December 14–January 5. Islanders and visitors can participate either at their home feeder—if they live within one of the 24 km diameter circles—or in the field as part of a count team. This year, four counts are scheduled for PEI: East Point CBC on December 14; the PEI National Park Count on December 20; the Hillsborough CBC on December 27; and the Montague CBC on January 4. As the counts take place in winter, they are weather dependent and may be rescheduled if storms occur. If interested in a particular count, contact the volunteer coordinator for that area through Nature PEI at naturepei. ca. The number of birds of each species seen or heard during the four counts will be published in Island Naturalist, Nature PEI’s newsletter. Data for the first three counts will also be submitted to Bird Studies Canada and the National Audubon Society for online access. This year’s data will be added to 125 years of previous survey results, forming an invaluable data set on bird population trends in North America. Locally, the Hillsborough Count has run for 54 years, the PEI National Park Count for 53 years (stormed out one year), the Montague Count for 41 years, and East Point for 22 years (stormed out one year). Many people travel during the Christmas Bird Count period; to participate outside PEI, visit birdscanada.org/volunteer/cbc.
The Immigrant & Refugee Services Association of PEI offers EAL conversation circles for adults this month at the Summerside Library on Tuesdays at 6 pm, and on Saturdays (Dec 6 and 13)at 10:30 am. Conversation circles are also offered this month at the Charlottetown Library on Thursdays at 6:30 pm and Saturdays at 10 am. Adults looking to improve their English skills are welcome to join for informal conversation. No registration required.
Businesses and organizations across PEI can access funding to improve accessibility in commercial and nonprofit spaces to create more inclusive environments for employees and clients with disabilities. The provincial government’s Workforce Adaptation Fund is coordinated through ResourceAbilities, a local non-profit, to ensure fair and effective support is provided for accessibility improvements. Organizations are eligible for up to $50,000 annually to cover 80 per cent of eligible expenses. For more information and to apply, visit PEI Workforce Adaptation Fund at resourceabilities.ca/pei-workforce-adaptation-fund-grant-program.
This holiday season, the public can give gifts that make a difference for farm families and school children in Kenya through the Farmers Helping Farmers annual holiday campaign. This year’s gifts include washable, reusable menstrual kits for girls and ongoing favourites such as vegetable seeds, water tanks, chickens, and school books—each helping families access food, education, and clean water. General donations can also be made, allowing FHF to direct support where it is needed most. Donations can be made by e-transfer to farmershelpingfarmerspei@gmail.com (include a mailing address for a tax receipt and note if selecting a specific item), online at farmershelpingfarmers.ca via the Donate button, or by cheque. All donations are eligible for a tax receipt and a holiday card of thanks to share with family, friends, or clients. To receive a card in time for Christmas, send a donation by December 15. This year marks the organization’s 45th anniversary.
Drop in to the Charlottetown Library at 97 Queen Street for a story, dance party, and a New Year’s balloon drop on December 31 at 11:30 am.
Teens interested in earning volunteer hours and joining the Teen Volunteer Club at the Charlottetown Library are invited to weekly meetings. The meetings are held on Mondays from 4–5 pm in the community kitchen, where members brainstorm and discuss new library programs.
A monthly discussion for people interested in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is held at the Charlottetown Library. The next meeting is December 17 at 7 pm. This is a supportive space where peers can share personal experiences, seek advice on specific topics, or simply connect with others who understand the challenges of living with ADHD.
Health PEI has launched the Island’s first French Adult Day Program (ADP)—a community-based home care service designed to support older Francophone and bilingual adults and their caregivers. It will operate at the Abram Village Community Centre in Wellington, Monday–Thursday from 8 am–4 pm. The ADP will offer a safe, structured, and culturally rich environment where Francophone and bilingual older adults can participate in meaningful, person-centered activities—all
in French. From physical exercise and cognitive stimulation to arts, crafts, and social interaction, the ADP is tailored to promote health, dignity, and well-being while providing much-needed respite for caregivers. To apply, complete a Home Care Referral Form (in English or French) at princeedwardisland.ca/sites/default/ files/forms/home_care_referral_form. pdf and submit it to the Prince Home Care Office. Referrals can be made by individuals, family members, health care providers, or family doctors.
Teens interested in developing leadership skills and helping their community can join the keystone leadership program in the Charlottetown Library Board Room every Thursday from 3–6 pm. Participants can drop in to work on a volunteer project from start to finish and make a valuable impact in the community.
West River United is hosting its seventh annual Online Cake and Goodies Auction featuring homebaked treats just in time for Christmas. To bid on items, visit the @West River United Church page on Facebook from December 4 at 12 noon through December 11 at 5 pm. The successful bidder will receive a message to pick up the item(s) at the church, located at 10 Church St, Cornwall, on December 13 between 11 am–12 noon.
Presented in partnership with Central Coastal Drive and the Town of North Rustico, Festive Weekends in North Rustico take place at Seawalk Park on December 12, 17, and 19 from 4:30–8 pm. The family-friendly event includes a 15-minute carriage ride through twinkling lights with Emerald Isle Carriage Tours, a scavenger hunt, kids crafts, pop-up vendors, entertainment, and more. Activities are first come, first served and may vary by date and availability. There is admission, with payment on site. 106 Riverside Dr, North Rustico.
Charlottetown Mayor Philip Brown and members of City Council invite the public to City Hall, 199 Queen St, for the annual New Year’s Levee on January 1 from 10:30 am–12 noon. Info: charlottetown.ca
A Seniors Holiday Tea and Social will be hosted by Charlottetown Mayor Philip Brown and members of City Council at the Jack Blanchard Hall on December 6 from 2–4 pm. Entertainment will be provided by Phase II and Friends. 7 Pond St, Charlottetown.
Charlottetown Mayor Philip Brown and members of City Council invite the public to one-hour family skates at Simmons Arena, 170 North River Rd, on December 7 at 1:45 pm and Cody Banks Arena, 58 Maple Ave, on December 14 at 3 pm.
The Cornwall Run Club hosts a social run every Wednesday at 6 pm, covering approximately 5 km. Runners of all skill levels are welcome. The run starts and ends at Village Green Brewery (30 Church St, Cornwall). Follow @ CornwallRunClub on FB.
A new campaign from the province aims to attract new foster families and respite providers. Recently launched, Every Open Door Fosters Futures focuses not only on the positive impacts foster families can have on children in need, but also on the benefits to the family providing care. Right now, there are 86 foster families active on the Island. Of these, 51 are available to accept full-time placements. Approximately 70 children are living in full-time foster care, while approximately 40 children reside in nine group homes located throughout the province. While foster homes and provincially run group homes each play an important role in supporting children in care, foster homes often offer a more personalized and family-like environment. For more information, visit beafosterparent.ca.
Island residents can now access a new secure online service called MyPEI Account that gives them access to a variety of government supports digitally, including components of their personal health information. MyPEI Account is part of the Government of PEI’s initiative to modernize service delivery and give Islanders the flexibility to receive information in a secure way. MyHealthPEI is the first service offered through MyPEI Account, with additional services to come. Developed in collaboration between Health PEI and the Government of PEI with flexibility and convenience in mind, MyHealthPEI allows Island residents to have easier access to their personal health information through their MyPEI Account. Features include immunization history, recent lab results and diagnostic imaging reports, self-entry tools for tracking personal health data, integration with select smart devices, and a library of educational health resources and links to health services. Additional features such as medications, expanded lab results, and new self-entry tools will be introduced gradually. Residents can still access their health information in person or over the phone. Island residents requiring technical support can call 1-800-372-3588, or email mypei@gov. pe.ca or request support online. Info: princeedwardisland.ca/MyPEI
Making informed choices about your sexual and reproductive health is important!
Did you know? Most prescription contraceptives are FREE, thanks to National Pharmacare, for PEI residents with a valid health card. No application is needed, and many options can be prescribed by a pharmacist.
Learn about your contraception options and how to access them at the Women and Gender Diverse People’s Health Hub.
Possibley made by a plant-eating Pareiasaur
A remarkable fossil footprint has been discovered in PEI by a local and it shines a new spotlight on the province for its world-class Permian Period fossils.
Found along the shore of Hillsborough Bay, the fossil footprint dates back about 290 million years. The footprint is 25 centimeters wide and may have been made by a Pareiasaur, a heavily built, knobby-skulled plant eater that could weigh up to one tonne, the largest animal to roam the equatorial regions of Pangea at the time. This discovery adds to the growing number of fossils from reptiles and amphibians that once roamed the province millions of years ago.
“This one footprint is a mindblower, in its sheer size and due to the fact that nothing quite like it is known from this time, in the earliest Permian,” says Dr. Calder. “PEI will soon be seen as one of the most important sites for fossil footprints of life on land during this unique time in the earth’s history.”
“This is the biggest footprint I’ve ever found, for sure,” says North Rustico resident, Patrick Brunet, a selftaught scientist with a skilled eye for finding fossils. “I knew immediately it came from a really big animal, and it was really important.”
A team of international scientists including Patrick Brunet, and led by Dr. John Calder, lead investigator and advisor to the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation, will work together to confirm what type of animal made the footprint.
Nature PEI presentation by Dr. Kathy Martin and Diane Griffin
“Birds, Gorillas and Nature Travel in Uganda” will be featured in an illustrated presentation by Dr. Kathy Martin and Diane Griffin at the next Nature PEI meeting on December 2 at the Beaconsfield Carriage House in Charlottetown. The meeting starts at 7:30 pm and includes sharing nature sightings, a raffle, and the presentation at 8 pm.
Kathy and Diane travelled to the equatorial African country with a view to seeing interesting wildlife and spending some time with mountain gorillas. They observed the interaction of people with wildlife, as well as the increasing importance of nature travel to the local economy.
“Spending some time with the prehistoric-looking bird, the Shoebill,
Findings may show that this is the oldest known example of this type of fossil footprint ever discovered. When the study is complete, the fossil will return to the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation where it will join the provincial collection.
Fossils and trackways from the Permian Period discovered across PEI have grown remarkably over recent years and now rank alongside world famous sites in the southwestern USA and in Europe. PEI’s red rocks hold the best record in Canada for the Permian Period. peimuseum.ca
a large, stork-like bird, was an absolute thrill,” says Griffin. They noted that while there was excitement over the Cardinal Woodpecker, the Gray Parrot, and five species of Kingfishers, nothing could compare to the family of gorillas they spent an hour with after trampling through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Nature PEI meetings are free and all are welcome. For more information, visit naturepei.ca or follow @ NaturePEI on FB, where the presentation will be livestreamed at 8 pm.
The Nature of PEI by Gary Schneider
One of the highlights of the winter season for me is taking in some of the Christmas Bird Counts. I’ve been participating in these events for four decades and they still get me excited about having an excuse to spend a day outside birding with friends.
The practice of counting birds at this time of year began in 1900 with 25 counts. Today, there are thousands of counts that take place across the globe. The counts are citizen science at its best. They paint a very accurate picture of the trends in bird populations, especially for migratory species.
Winter birding is a different beast—we don’t have the colourful warblers that highlight our spring efforts. But there is no shortage of wonderful species that we rarely see at other times of the year.
I’ve written about birding trips to the Earnscliffe area, where we can pick up large flocks of snow buntings, horned larks, and Lapland longspurs. It is also one of the best places in the province to watch rough-legged hawks, another regular winter visitor.
During winters where there is a lot of fruit on shrubs—such as there is this year—we have found huge flocks of American robins, bohemian and cedar waxwings, and pine grosbeaks around Georgetown.
Within the count areas, you can usually find many species of inland ducks, including blacks, mallards, and gadwalls. Offshore, there might be scoters, eiders, and long-tailed ducks, and, if you’re lucky, some colourful harlequins. While you’re looking at the ocean, keep an eye out for other seabirds such as gannets, black guillemots, razorbills, and even redthroated loons.
There is something incredibly special about being outside with friends on a cold, still day with hardly a bird around, and then to see hundreds of birds in mixed flocks come in to feed
on whatever fruit and seeds have attracted them to the area.
What else can people see in the count areas? There could easily be a leftover great blue heron if there are any open waterways. Will the cardinals that are becoming more and more common across the Island show up to be counted? Will the loud and lovely pileated woodpeckers come out and be counted? Or will a barred owl add its plaintive hooting to the winter sounds?
These counts are not without their challenges. I recall one memorable Montague count where we wouldn’t even get out of the car in some places, it was that nasty out. And while East Point is always beautiful, you want to be sure you’re dressed for the weather as it can best be described as uber-invigorating.
Everyone is welcome to participate, whether you are a novice, an expert birder, or something in between. It is a great way to meet other people interested in birds and wildlife in general.
The four Island bird counts are coordinated through Nature PEI and take place at East Point on December 14; PEI National Park on December 20; Hillsborough on December 27; and Montague on January 4.
If you are interested in participating in any of the counts, please contact the local coordinator: East Point (Dwaine Oakley, dwaine.oakleyATgmail.com); PEI National Park and Hillsborough (Dan McAskill, jdmcaskillATpei. sympatico.ca); and Montague (Scott Sinclair, scottcscinclairAThotmail.com).
Another way to get involved is to report birds that might be visiting your feeders during the count period (which actually includes three days on either side of the actual count).
Please get in touch with the coordinator for your area if you would like to be involved in any of the counts.
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Chef Michael and Chastity Smith, along with The Fire Brigade, will host the Interactive Festive Feast Dinner Party on December 5 in the ballroom at Delta Hotels by Marriott Prince Edward in Charlottetown. The evening begins with a 6 pm reception and oyster bar, followed by an interactive multi-course dinner at 7 pm. Guests will enjoy live music from Chastity Smith, Got Blues, and Todd MacLean, along with themed décor, games, and entertainment throughout the night. For every table sold, one turkey will be donated to local food banks. Individual tickets and tables of eight are available. The dress code is business attire to semi-formal. For tickets, visit innatbayfortune.com/product/ an-interactive-festive-feast.
Seniors are invited to a free community meal at West River United, 10 Church St, Cornwall on December 12 between 12–1 pm. The menu will consist of shepherd’s pie, salad, garlic bread, strawberries and ice cream, and tea and coffee. Funding for this project is provided by the Seniors Community Meal Grant Program through the Deptmartment of Social Development and Seniors.
The fourth annual Meat Pie Festival du pâté, presented by the Farmers’ Bank of Rustico & Doucet House Museums, is underway. The festival celebrates the rich history of the traditional Acadian meat pie—a delicacy that dates back hundreds of years and is still served in Acadian homes, as well as in many Island households today. First-place winners from the regional competitions held
across three Acadian and Francophone regions of PEI will gather for the Grand Finale on December 13—Acadian Remembrance Day—at the Cymbria Lions Club in Rustico for the provincial competition. The festival features two categories—Traditional Acadian Meat Pie and Non-Traditional Meat Pie—embracing both cultural tradition and culinary creativity. Winners in both categories will be crowned at the final event. The Grand Finale will also include a kitchen party featuring Keelin Wedge, Brendon Peters, Megan Bergeron, Mélina pi Gélina, Richard Wood, Sheila MacKenzie, and Tom Gammons. Visit farmersbank.ca for more information.
A Christmas tea at the Kirk of St. James in Charlottetown will be held on December 14 at 3 pm. The afternoon will feature quality tea served in fine china, scones with preserves and Devonshire cream, assorted tea sandwiches and sweets, Christmas cake, mincemeat tarts, a brief Tea Talk with sommelier Katherine Burnett, and seasonal music. Info/tickets: fundraiser.support/Kirk2025
Dawson House, located at 122 North River Road in Charlottetown, will host a Victorian Afternoon Tea on Saturdays and Sundays from 1–3 pm until December 21. Call 902-628-3886 to reserve.
The Hot Chocolate Trail continues until December 21, inviting Islanders and visitors to sip, shop, and stay their way across PEI—from Tignish to Souris—while discovering indulgent and imaginative hot chocolate creations from local cafés, restaurants, and chocolatiers. This year’s expanded trail features 35 participating locations, each serving an exclusive hot chocolate—from rich and creamy classics to inventive, photo-worthy creations that capture the warmth and whimsy of a PEI winter. The annual celebration of cocoa and community has become a local tradition and includes accommodation packages, cocoa-inspired products, a fan-favourite voting program, and curated itineraries. Info: hotchocolatetrailpei.com
2025 edition features four events to celebrate Christmas
Village musical acadien in AbramVillage is organizing a series of four events as part of its 2025 Festival des Fêtes. Everyone is welcome to participate and discover—or rediscover—the musical, artisanal, artistic, and culinary talents of the Evangeline region’s Acadians.
The Acadian Christmas Party on November 28 at 8 pm will kick off the festivities. Party-goers can expect a mix of popular Christmas songs by singer-guitarist Nick Arsenault, accompanied by Rémi Arsenault on bass, Riel Arsenault on electric guitar, and Shane Arsenault on drums.
The Village Christmas Market, featuring artisanal creations, local food, and a visit from Santa Claus, will run from 9 am–5 pm on November 29 and from 9 am–4 pm on November 30.
This year’s Christmas Dinner and Show takes place December 7 at 6 pm and features a turkey dinner with entertainment by Josée Boudreau & Le Groupe Maz—Mont Carmel’s Josée Boudreau with Jean-Marc O’Brien, Alexandre O’Brien, Isabelle Bourgeois, Ginette Caissie, Denise Guitard, Guy Mazerolle, and Mathieu Brun, all from New Brunswick. The group will perform classics from midnight mass alongside modern Christmas hits. Tickets must be reserved in advance by phone (902-854-3300) or online at villagemusical.com.
The final Christmas Show on December 23 at 7 pm will feature artists from the Evangeline region, including Caroline Bernard, Patricia Richard, Marcella Richard, Rémi Arsenault, Jonny Ray Arsenault, Louise Arsenault, Jeannita Bernard, and Wayne Robichaud. A few stepdancers and young artists will also perform.
Adult and student admission prices are available, and admission is free for preschoolers.
Tabletop Gaming Convention at Charlottetown Library—Dec 6
InclusiCon is PEI’s free Tabletop Gaming Convention taking place at the Charlottetown Library on December 6. Registration opens at 9:30 am, with games and activities running from 10 am to 4:30 pm.
Tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPG) and geeky workshops will have scheduled time slots, while board games will be supported through a volunteer-run “Board Game Library,” with some facilitators helping drop-in players find and join games.
The event welcomes special guest Jan Martin, a Mi’kmaw TTRPG designer known for their work on UNCONQUERED TTRPG, Monster Care Squad, Starfinder Society: Into the Veskarium, Thirsty Sword Lesbians: Advanced Lovers & Lesbians, and more. They are currently developing two flagship games—Jellyfish Station
Meat Bingo takes place at the BordenCarleton Legion every Saturday at 2 pm. 240 Main St, Borden-Carleton.
The Charlottetown Duplicate Bridge Club promotes duplicate bridge for all ages, particularly encouraging seniors to engage in the social game. The club meets at the Irish Cultural Centre in Charlottetown on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons year-round. From September to June, instruction and coaching for novice players are offered in a noncompetitive learning environment on Tuesday mornings. Everyone is welcome. Info: charlottetownbridge.ca
Ray Malone will teach the Defence in the 21st Century bridge course from 9:30 am–12 noon, January 8–February 26, at the Irish Cultural Centre in Charlottetown. The course follows an adult learning model and covers opening leads against no-trump and suit contracts, second- and third-hand play, defensive signals, developing defensive tricks, and interfering with the declarer. To register or for details and fees, email ray.teaches.bridge@gmail.com.
The Charlottetown Library will host an old-fashioned bingo social on December 9 at 6:30 pm. Participants are asked
and Wildfighter. They also play music with Ranger Thin and perform as Little Stone Crow.
Volunteer and registration forms are available at forms.gle/zomZqAMtCsENTBfn9. For the full schedule, visit peersalliance.ca/inclusicon-2025 or follow on social media.
Mayor Philip Brown, and members of City Council, invite the public to City Hall (199 Queen Street) for the annual New Year’s Levee from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. (noon) on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
to bring their own rotary bingo cards. Seasoned bingo players will be on hand to offer tips and help players know when they are set. Dummy cards will be available for anyone who wants to try for free and play along for fun. The library will not have rotary cards for sale; they must be purchased in advance. Complimentary refreshments will be provided.
The Seniors Active Living Centre in Charlottetown will host crib tournaments on December 4 and 18 at 9:30 am, a Euchre tournament on December 9 at 1 pm, and a Christmas party on December 17 at 10 am. All seniors are welcome to attend any event.
The Charlottetown Scrabble Club meets weekly on Tuesdays from 5–8 pm at the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. Scoresheets, strategy tips, and cheat sheets are provided. All skill levels are welcome, and it is free to attend, with prizes and snacks.
Visitors of all ages are invited to test their skills in Eptek Art & Culture Centre’s scavenger hunt. Try to find all 20 images. 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside.
Drop in to play crokinole on December 10 at 2 pm at the Summerside Rotary Library (57 Central St).
www.charlottetown.ca
Harmonia Youth Choir at Park Royal United—Dec 13
Harmonia Youth Choir invites the public to Glow on December 13 at 7 pm at Park Royal United in Charlottetown. This joy-filled December tradition brings audience members together to share in the light of the season. What began as a simple year-end concert has become a cherished moment to pause, gather, and be reminded of the brightness music brings to our lives.
This year’s program invites audiences to sink into that familiar warmth: the sparkle of youthful voices, the shimmer of seasonal melodies, and the quiet glow that lingers long after the final note. Featured pieces include “Heart of Earth” by Shruthi Rajasekar, an enchanting take on “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” and the hopeful “Dum Spiro Spero” by Daniel Brinsmead. Through timeless carols and songs that celebrate light, hope, and togetherness, Glow reflects both the spirit of the season and the hearts of the young singers who bring it to life.
Admission is by recommended donation with a pay-what-you-can option available. Tickets are available in advance at sirenschoir.com/ concerts. Admission may also be paid at the door on the night of the performance (cash and e-transfer accepted).
Christmas concert at Park Royal United—Dec 14
Light of Peace, a special Christmas concert, will be performed at Park Royal United in Charlottetown on December 14 at 7 pm.
The evening will feature the Park Royal United Church Choir and Quartet, joined by special guests: fiddler Allison Ling Giggey, flutist Sam Lantz, bodhrán player Machaela Osowski, and pianist Sharon Cameron.
At the heart of the program is “Light of Peace,” a choral suite by composer Karen Marrolli. This Celticinspired work weaves together familiar Irish and Scottish folk melodies, beloved carol tunes, and newly written texts that speak to hope, compassion, and peace. The piece reimagines the Nativity story through a lens of social justice and community, inviting listeners to embrace the message of light that transcends the season.
Alongside this centerpiece, the concert will include other uplifting selections from the choir and ensembles—and a joyful sing-along.
Attendees are invited to stay after the concert for a cup of apple cider and conversation.
An Epic Holiday Sing-Along at Sobey Family Theatre—Dec 15
– An Epic Holiday Sing-Along is a Live at the Centre presentation taking place on December 15 at Confederation Centre of the Arts.
Choir! Choir! Choir! is a Canadian musical group founded by Nobu Adilman and Daveed Goldman, known for its participatory, non-traditional approach to singing. Instead of a traditional choir with auditions, they turn audience members into the performers in an interactive show where anyone can join in and sing along with popular songs. Participants of all skill levels are welcome as the group guides the crowd through well-known songs in a collaborative and engaging format.
Tickets are available at confederationcentre.com.
50 choristers accompanied by a 35-piece orchestra
St. Dunstan’s Basilica’s annual Christmas concert takes place on December 16 from 7–9 pm. The concert is an annual gift to the City of Charlottetown, and has become a holiday tradition featuring over 50 choristers from across the Island accompanied by a 35-piece orchestra conducted by Leo Marchildon.
Saint-Saëns’ “Christmas Oratorio” will be coupled with David Hamilton’s “The Wonder of Christmas” for an evening of Christmas music, including the singing of “Silent Night” by candlelight.
Admission is by donation. It is recommended to arrive early as this event fills up quickly. St Dunstan’s is located at 45 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Choral Society Christmas concert at St. Paul’s—Dec 6
Conrad Susa’s “Carols and Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest” will be performed by the Island Choral Society at St. Paul’s in Charlottetown on December 6 at 3 pm.
It’s the annual Christmas concert of the Island Choral Society, the 40-voice choir that has impressed audiences with major classics such as Vivaldi’s “Gloria,” Fauré’s “Requiem,” Mozart’s “Requiem,” Bach’s “Magnificat,” and more— most recently Karl Jenkins’ “The Armed Man: a Mass for Peace.” The group is led by Dr. Margot Rejskind, noted for her leadership of the professional Luminos Ensemble and Chamber Orchestra, and the Forte Men’s Choir. The instrumental accompaniment is added by a brass ensemble from the Luminos Chamber Orchestra and pianist Timothy Luk.
there’s much more to this concert, with pieces ranging from Gabrieli’s “Hodie Christus natus est” and Mendelssohn’s “There Shall a Star” to the contemporary “Do You Hear What I Hear?” and “Ding Dong Merrily on High.” There will also be an audience sing-along for a number of familiar carols.
Imagine a Spanish-American piñata party to celebrate the birth of the baby Jesus: songs for festive dancing and for gently rocking the infant to sleep. The Susa work is the principal feature, but
Admission is by cash only at the door or purchase online at islandchoralsociety.ca. For information, email islandchoralsociety@gmail.com or call
I have no affiliation with, nor do I receive any special treatment from, the Charlottetown Library Learning Centre. It’s just a fact that lots of really stellar and fun things happen to take place there. I actually spent two full days last weekend attending functions in the Rotary Room, one of which was for the fourth annual Zine Fest.
I’ve been to every Zine Fest, either as a patron, a tabler, or as a tabler’s guardian. One of my wee folk is super into making zines, predominantly at the time featuring talking foods. This is the beauty of the zine (pronounced zeen): they are lawless! The origin is slightly debated but generally agreed to have originated with sci-fi fans in the 20s or 30s. They made pamphlet-like stories to share about characters and other aspects of the genre that they liked. This is the main consistency across the various categories that have since emerged: the creator cares about, likes, or believes the topic to be important to share. This is why I believe there is in fact a zine out there for every preference. They can be silly or political, hyper specific or vaguely conceptual, and the people making them span just as much of the spectrum too.
There are way too many cool things in that room! It is a merging of a variety of artists, all with independently produced creations and content. You end up in a sort of time warp because there is so much to look at and consider. Of course, there are the zines themselves, in various shapes, sizes, and folds, but also art, buttons, stickers, shirts, crochet, and undeadies. You might not be familiar with that last one, but they are these unique upcycled stuffed animal creations. They come from the
Jimmy Swift Band, Grand Theft Bus, and Slowcoaster at PEI Brewing Company
The Jimmy Swift Band, Grand Theft Bus, and Slowcoaster—three Atlantic Canadian bands that helped inspire a scene and create a community— will be on stage together for the first time ever. Their music helped
imagination of a child and are brought into existence by their father. We came home with one we are dubbing a “snakemingo”—head and tail of a snake, body and legs of a flamingo. Frankly, I think it would be quite a useful body structure to inhabit.
The first hour is always a bit more sparsely attended in case you happen to not be a big fan of crowds or may require some more space for mobility. Midday the attendance can get as thick as a Slowcoaster show at Baba’s circa 2007 though. This is another reason not to be in a rush when coming out to see what’s up for sale or perhaps trade. There are a few folks I’ve seen each time, but I would guess the majority are different every year.
The low barrier entry ensures a fun variety of attendees and participants where you get to experience a broad range of art forms and viewpoints, the culmination of which is truly inspiring. You might come away with an empty wallet, but your brain will be pleasantly saturated, as will your walls and shelves. It’s like being immersed in a revolving cabinet of curiosities. I love this not so little fair celebrating DIY publishing.
Farmers Helping Farmers, an Island organization, works to help Kenyan farm families to produce enough food for their families and to educate their children. Gift cards will be sent to you for your family, friends or clients in time for the holidays along with a tax deductible receipt
online has never been easier! Send an e transfer to farmershelpingfarmerspei@gmail.com or click donate at www.farmershelpingfarmers.ca
ignite a movement in the 2000s and became the soundtrack to a wild era of unforgettable nights and musical exploration.
The Trifecta Tour hits four cities across Atlantic Canada this December, stopping at the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown on December 12. Doors open at 7 pm, and the show starts at 8 pm. This is an all-ages event.
The PEI Brewing Company is located at 96 Kensington Road, Charlottetown. Tickets are available at peibrewingcompany.com.
General donation (please fill in amount) Washable, reusable menstrual kits for 2 girls Gift Suggestions
Solar light for children to study at night
School books and school supplies
Five Chickens to produce eggs for a family
Milk for 10 school children for 3 months
Help a student complete high school
Help build a humane donkey cart
Fuel saving stove with chimney to cook family’s food
Rainwater storage tank for a family’s clean water
Dairy cow for a family (revolving credit)
Biogas digester for cooking gas
Support a vegetable garden for a school
Please check your gift item(s),
The annual service of lessons and Carols for Advent, presented by St. Peter’s Choristers under the direction of Clement Carelse, will take place at 7 pm on November 30 at St. Peter’s Cathedral in Charlottetown. The program includes music by Palestrina, Bach, Willan, Advent hymns, and more. All are welcome.
The Confederation Singers and Youth Chorus present Singing Through the Storm: A Choral Concert for Winter in the Sobey Family Theatre at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown on December 6 at 2 pm. A part of Live at the Centre, this intergenerational winter
concert features seasonal choral works and new arrangements by PEI artists. The program highlights themes of connection and resilience, presented through a varied selection of traditional and contemporary music. confederationcentre.com
The New Glasgow Christmas Choir will present the musical drama, A Very Victorian Christmas, to raise funds for World Vision at the New Glasgow Christian Church on December 6 and 7 at 7:30 pm. Attendees can experience a Victorian Christmas and meet some of the famous Victorians who changed the world for the better.
Admission is free, but the choir hopes to raise enough money through donations to send a stable full of farm animals to a
World Vision village—helping transform some of the world’s neediest communities. The Victorian-era church is located at 617 Rte 258, New Glasgow.
The annual Memorial Carol Sing at St Paul’s in Charlottetown takes place on December 7 at 2 pm this year. The event has become an Island tradition, featuring an hour of collective seasonal sing-along with a few performed pieces and readings. It is also an opportunity for thoughtful remembrance: attendees may honour a loved one by having that person’s name inscribed on a star and placed on the Memorial Tree in the sanctuary, with a donation at the door. Contributions help maintain the church’s 1936 Casavant organ. Donations aren’t necessary, however, as the event is for fellowship, memories, and the joy of traditional music for Advent and preparation for Christmas. Refreshments are provided. stpaulschurch.ca
The PEI Legion Choir will celebrate the holiday season with two Charlottetown performances of A Canadian Christmas: Songs of Winter, Songs of Home at the Carrefour de l’Isle-Saint-Jean on December 9 at 7 pm and at St. Paul’s Anglican on December 13 at 2 pm. Islanders are invited to gather in song and celebration to honour the music, traditions, and the diversity of voices that make up a Canadian Christmas and shape Canadians’ shared story. From the early settlers who carried carols from their villages and chapels to the diverse voices that now fill the communities, A Canadian Christmas explores how music has always been a meeting of worlds. Each melody—whether born in the snow-covered hills of the Maritimes, the heart of the frigid plains, or far beyond— has found a new home here, woven into the harmony that defines Canada’s spirit. Tickets are available at the door or online at PEILegionChoir.ca
Mall on December 13 from 1–2 pm. Everyone is welcome to watch them sing. 134 Kent St, Charlottetown.
The Forte Men’s Choir will perform the 10th anniversary edition of their annual Advent concert, A Very Forte Christmas, at the Kirk of St. James in Charlottetown on December 14 at 2:30 pm. The concert features music for ringing the bells, scorning the Grinch, and toasting the new year with the rich blend of TTBB male voices, traditional carols and contemporary Christmas tunes, a hum-dinger of a bell song, a peppy “Auld Lang Syne,” plus audience sing-along, including the blend of “Peace, Peace, Peace” with “Silent Night.” Info: islandchoralsociety@gmail. com, 902-628-6778, or follow @Forte PEI Mens Choir on FB.
The Summerside Presbyterian Church Choir and guests will present Journey to Bethlehem on December 14 at 7 pm. The evening will consist of seasonal choral, vocal, and instrumental music and readings, under the direction of Ruth Ann Read-Clay. A freewill offering in support of the PEI Cancer Centre will be received. All are welcome. 130 Victoria Rd, Summerside.
Choral singers Island A Cappella will perform popular holiday songs on the main level of the Confederation Court
See Amid the Winter’s Snow Celebrating its 46th year, the Summerside Community Choir presents its Christmas concert, See Amid the Winter’s Snow, at Trinity United in Summerside on December 21 at 3 pm. Under the direction of John Wervers, and accompanied by Tanya Bernard, the program features arrangements of both traditional and contemporary pieces, including the playful medley “Merry Christmas Mozart.” Special guest performers feature RuthAnn Read-Clay on the pipe organ and the Island Brass Quartet accompanying the opening classic “Joy to the World.” Lacey Gauthier, harpist, and Adia Laueijs, flutist, will perform solo and as a duet on “What Child is This?” With 75 voices joined by these instrumentalists, the concert aims to give a rich and joyful celebration of the season. Tickets available at the door of 90 Spring Street or from choir members. There is no cost for children under 12. Follow @ Summerside Community Choir on FB.
Last two shows of 2025
The Island Jubilee Old Time Radio Music Show presents its Christmas Special on November 30 at 2 pm at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown. The festive showcase will feature Island performers Shane Pendergast, Meaghan Blanchard with Thomas Webb, and step dancer Alexis MacLaren.
The Jubilee returns to the performance hall venue on December 28 at 2 pm to celebrate the 76th anniversary of Hank Williams’ Grand Ole Opry debut. In 1949, Hank stepped onto the Opry stage for his first-ever performance— broadcast live on WSM radio— and his rendition of “Lovesick Blues” brought the audience to its feet six times. His artistry remains among the most iconic contributions to American music. His songs, expressed the shared emotions of love, loss, faith, and redemption. With rare honesty, he translated the human condition into song, creating a timeless body of work that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
Seventy-six years later, the Island Jubilee will rekindle the spirit of that evening with special guests Nudie, Mike Dixon, Lester MacPherson, and Gordie MacKeeman.
Nudie leads the lineup of special guests with a tribute inspired by his desire to honour Hank’s legacy on New Year’s Eve—the anniversary of Hank’s passing. This Jubilee performance brings that vision to life and celebrates Hank’s enduring influence. A seasoned performer, Nudie has traveled extensively across North America and currently fronts a Gordon Lightfoot tribute show.
Cardigan’s Lester MacPherson, the Island’s Country Gentleman, will also perform. Influenced from a young age
The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) and Holland College have formalized a music transfer agreement providing a degree pathway for graduates of the Holland College School of Performing Arts (SoPA). Students will study two years at Holland College and two years at UPEI, earning a Bachelor of Music. The music transfer agreement allows for a smooth transition from Holland College to UPEI and gives students access to a unique combination
by Hank Williams’ southern sound, his extensive country music collection reflects his appreciation for Hank’s legacy. Lester released nine albums, including a heartfelt tribute that celebrates Hank’s enduring influence.
Summerside’s ECMA Awardwinning singer-songwriter Mike Dixon makes his Jubilee debut. A longtime Island music historian, he’s spent over 30 years performing his signature Roots and Americana style—both solo and with groups like Rattlesnakin’ Daddies and Saddle River String Band. For this show, he has chosen a heartfelt selection of Hank’s most iconic tunes and beloved gospel favourites.
The spirit of Jerry Rivers—fiddler with Hank Williams’ Drifting Cowboys—will be revived through Island musician Gordie MacKeeman, who joins the Jubilee All Stars (Bobby McIsaac, Johnny Ross, Jason Burbine) and co-hosts Janet McGarry and Serge Bernard. The show will be emceed by Randy Geddes of Tantramar FM, who will weave Hank’s stories throughout the performance.
Visit islandjubilee.com for tickets.
of specialized training at both institutions. The streamlined process allows SoPA graduates with a 70% average to receive up to 60 credit hours towards the Bachelor of Music degree. Info: upei.ca
The Cornwall Community Choir is planning a winter session starting in January, 2026. The choir practices traditional and contemporary music that is fun to sing on Wednesdays from 12:30–2:15 pm under the direction of Lisa Stead at the West River United Church, 10 Church St. New members are welcome and no experience is necessary. Those interested should contact Nancy Jack at 902-675-3838.
With The Fabulous Blue Suedettes—Dec 13
An Evening with Elvis at Christmas returns to the Milton Community Hall in North Milton on December 13 at 7:30 pm.
Starring Jonah Anderson as Elvis and featuring Jennifer Carson and Marylynn Côté as The Fabulous Blue Suedettes, this tribute to the King of Rock and Roll includes holiday hits, professional backing tracks, harmonies — and yes, real hair and sideburns.
The hall is located at 7 New Glasgow Road, Route 224, North Milton. Advance tickets can be booked by e-transfer to miltoncommunityhall@ gmail.com (include your name in the subject line). Tickets can also be purchased at the door (cash only).
Sobey Family Theatre—Dec 6
Men of the Deeps
Cape Breton’s Men of the Deeps bring their Coal Miner’s Christmas show to Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown on December 6 at 7:30 pm. Special guest vocalist Jenn Sheppard joins the stage, along with her alter ego Ellsa, adding a pinch of cranky Christmas chaos to the festivities.
For nearly 60 years, this choir of retired coal miners has wowed audiences worldwide, sharing the music and stories of their lives as Canadian cultural ambassadors. This holiday season, the men return with stories, re-imagined classics, and brand-new originals from their December Coal Christmas album.
confederationcentre.com
House of Dolores returns with Men of Such Constancy, a collection of eight original pop songs written, performed, and recorded in Charlottetown by Nick Grant between February and September 2025.
The album was released on November 3 and is available to stream or download through houseofdolores. bandcamp.com.
Luka Hall and Brooke MacArthur
PEI artists Luka Hall and Brooke MacArthur recently released the Christmas duet “Maybe Next Christmas” on all major streaming platforms.
Hall’s rich, old-country voice and
MacArthur’s smooth harmonies combine for a nostalgic, heartfelt performance that captures the cozy warmth and profound longing of the season.
The musicians who made it merry include Luka Hall (vocals, violin, lyrics, composition), Brooke MacArthur (vocals, lyrics), Colin Buchanan (acoustic/slide guitar, bass guitar, lyrics, composition), and Todd MacLean (keyboard).
The song was produced and mixed by Colin Buchanan Productions and mastered by John McLaggan at Parachute Mastering. Photography is by Sam Payne.
PEI-born and based singer-songwriter and guitarist Logan Richard has already built an impressive catalogue of sync placements in his young career, including Hudson & Rex, Ruby and
the Well, Ginny & Georgia, Children Ruin Everything, Diggstown, and Workin’ Moms. Now he’s created the holiday original single “Stay In This Moment” (distributed by ADA Worldwide), which appears in the latest season of Hallmark’s Mistletoe Murders. The song channels the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season while also standing out as one of Richard’s most personal recordings.
Written with the hopeful intention of landing in a holiday production, “Stay In This Moment” was inspired by Richard’s childhood memories of waiting for his brothers to return home for Christmas.
The track was written and recorded over two days in Richard’s PEI home studio, features PEI cellist Natalie Calhoun, was mixed by Adam Gallant, and mastered by Heather Kirby.
JUNO Award-winning group The East Pointers (Tim Chaisson and Jake Charron) released the single “She Got Away,” a kitchen-party-inspired break-up song with a danceable twist— and a wink to their East Coast roots. The new single will be featured on their forthcoming album Schoonertown, due out January 23, 2026, on Nettwerk.
The track takes its name and spirit from Colville Bay, a small community near where Tim and his late cousin Koady Chaisson grew up on the eastern end of PEI—home of the world-famous Colville Bay oysters.
Like the rest of Schoonertown, “She Got Away” was recorded in SpaceCamp Studios—Jake’s basement setup—with a focus on capturing the freewheeling feel of an East Coast kitchen party while blending in contemporary production. The track, mixed by producer Derek Hoffman, features fiddle, layered keyboards, synths, guitars, and nautical percussion recorded on Jake’s sailboat.
The song was written by Tim, Jake, and Koady; produced by Tim and Jake; and mastered by Adam Ayan. Jake plays keys, bass, bass synth, and backup vocals, while Tim performs lead vocals, fiddle, and kick drum.
The East Pointers will take the stage for their biggest-ever hometown show on April 25, 2026, at Eastlink Centre in Charlottetown.
St. John’s Anglican—Dec 7
PEI singer-songwriter Danny Drouin will perform in concert at St. John’s Anglican Church in St. Eleanor’s on December 7 at 6:30 pm.
Drouin has released two solo albums, with two of his songs making the top 100 in the CBC Searchlight Competition. He is also the winner of the inaugural East Coast Country Music Association’s Rising Star competition, held in 2024.
Doors open at 6 pm. Admission is by suggested donation at the door, with all proceeds going to the St. Mary’s and St. John’s parish Christmas Hamper program. The church is located at 62 South Drive, St. Eleanor’s.
Lawrence Maxwell & Nudie with The Turks
Acclaimed songwriters and honkytonk crooners Lawrence Maxwell and Nudie will present Deck The Halls at community venues across the Island this December. Backed by the Turks (Mark Geddes and Isaac King), they’ll dish out a festive night of countrified holiday staples, down-home Christmas carols, and plenty of laughs to keep spirits bright.
Shows take place at Tracadie Community Centre on December 5 at 7:30 pm, Murray Harbour Community Centre on December 6 at 7:30 pm, Trailside Music Hall on December 11 at 8 pm, Afton Community Centre on December 12 at 7:30 pm, and Fortune Community Centre on December 13 at 7:30 pm.
Tickets and information are available at deckthehallspei.ca
The Bell Main Stage lineup for Bell Presents Cavendish Beach Music Festival, taking place July 9–11, 2026, will feature headliners HARDY, Tucker Wetmore, and Cody Johnson, along with performances by Dylan Gossett, Muscadine Bloodline, Ashley McBryde, Avery Anna, Margo Price, Jade Eagleson, and more.
Warming up the stage for two-time CMA Award-winner HARDY will be The North Sound, SaskMusic’s Indigenous Artist of the Year, Chase McDaniel, and rising star Avery Anna. Platinumcertified singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Dylan Gossett will also perform on Thursday.
Friday’s lineup features Tucker Wetmore with Anna Graves, Quebec country trio Blue Ridge Band, and rising Canadian country artist Matt Lang. Singer-songwriter Margo Price will perform ahead of southern rock-country band Muscadine Bloodline.
Saturday will close with a headlining performance by Cody Johnson but fans are encouraged to arrive early to be entertained by Music Nova Scotia’s Entertainer of the Year Terra Spencer, Canadian songwriter Dave Sampson, and internet sensation Julia Cole. CCMA Male Artist of the Year Jade Eagleson will perform ahead of Grammy Award winner Ashley McBryde.
Tickets are on sale now at cavendishbeachmusic.com.
Olde Dublin Pub launches new afternoon party series
Saturday afternoons at the Olde Dublin Pub in Charlottetown are set to become a new weekend tradition. Starting on December 27 the pub is launching Saturday Sociables, a weekly series that will bring high-energy entertainment, and community connection to the capital city’s weekends.
After hearing from people of all ages who were looking for more daytime entertainment, organizers are answering the call with a lively threehour Saturday series packed with live music, games, prizes, food and drink specials, and surprise musical guests each week.
Every Saturday from 2–5 pm, two of Charlottetown’s most popular party bands—Vintage 4.0 and The Wannabeez—will alternate as house bands, ensuring the energy stays high and the dance floor full. Each week
will also feature short performances by special guest musicians, adding fresh variety to every show. There will also be a rotation of Island hosts, recognized for their experience and ability to keep crowds entertained throughout the afternoon. The inaugural event on December 27 will feature Vintage 4.0 with host Rob Barry. The special guest will be announced soon.
Members of Vintage 4.0 and The Wannabeez shared their enthusiasm about the new concept: “We were hooked as soon as we were approached to help plan this concept. Everyone involved in the planning has felt the demand to create an event like this for the past few years. We aren’t bringing a typical matinee to Charlottetown—we’re bringing a party with a variety of elements.”
Follow on social media for updates.
Bruce Rainnie, Kendra MacGillivray, and Kevin “Boomer” Gallant return in Together Again for Christmas: Carols & Comedy, taking place at St Francis of Assisi Church on November 29 at 7 pm and November 30 at 2 pm. The trio will be ready to start the Christmas season with laughs, music, and carols. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Karen at 902-393-6286, Alice at 902-218-3767, or Rosalind at 902-393-5035. Payment can be made by cash or via e-transfer to officemygs@gmail.com. If purchasing tickets via e-transfer, indicate in the message section: name, event name, and number of tickets. 5 Lowther Dr, Cornwall.
The Sorensen Family will present their Christmas concert, The Lights of Christmas, at South Shore United on November 30 at 2:30 pm. The concert celebrates the many lights of Christmas, symbolic of the holiday season, by music and verse. Proceeds by donation will go to the church. 85 Rte 10, Tryon.
York United will host its annual Christmas Sing-a-long on November 30 at 7 pm. The public is invited to join for an evening of singing a variety of Christmas songs. Admission is by donation. The church is located at 757 Rte 25, York.
The Holland College Community Band will present Holidays in Hollywood:
Simmons Performance Hall in Charlottetown on December 2 at 7:30 pm. Doors opent at 7 pm. The concert will feature the band and jazz band playing well-known tunes from Christmas movies such as Home Alone, When the Grinch Stole Christmas, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. Admission is free with food or cash donations gratefully accepted for the local food banks.
On December 6, DNTS (Definitely Not the Symphony) will host a holiday concert at the Jack Blanchard Centre, 7 Pond St, Charlottetown, at 10 am. Music from the classical and popular genres will be featured, played by this 40+ member community orchestra of all ages. Following the concert, a social gathering will take place with coffee and refreshments—a chance to share holiday cheer. Admission will be cash at the door, by donation.
The Great George Street Brass Band presents Brass the Halls: Christmas Music the Way You Remember It at Zion Presbyterian on December 8 at 7 pm. The concert offers a chance to hear nostalgic Christmas music performed by the Island’s only full brass band. The evening will feature well-known standards such as “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” and “Christmas Don’t Be Late,” as well as traditional works like “Infant Holy” and “The Sussex Mummers’ Carol.” Special guests, the Zion Presbyterian Choir, will also perform, and there will be an audience sing-along. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome, and admission is by voluntary donation at the door (135 Prince Street, Charlottetown). Follow @PEI Brass Band on Facebook for more information.
The annual Kendall Docherty & Friends Christmas Concert will be held on December 7 at 7 pm at St. Mark’s Presbyterian, 7 Tamarac Avenue, Charlottetown. For tickets, call Lois (902368-8246) or the church office (902-892-
Christmas in Bonshaw
The annual Christmas in Bonshaw gathering takes place at Bonshaw Hall on December 13 at 6:30 pm. There will be stories and songs, as well as hot cider and cookies. Admission is by donation at the door with proceeds going to the South Shore Food Share. Admission is free for children under 12. 9 Green Rd, Bonshaw.
A seasonal Christmas concert will be hosted by Central Queens Musical Friends at Central Queens United in Hunter River on December 14 at 7 pm. Featured performers include Chris DeRoche, Wade Campbell, Braidan Campbell, Sarah Weeks, Jodi Whitlock, Kirk Neville, Brad Trivers, Annika Trivers, and Ellen Davis. Attendees are invited to leave the commercial stress behind and enjoy an evening of seasonal music and favourite Christmas songs. Admission is by free-will offering.
Christmas classics and winter-inspired melodies come together to shape A Brass Choir Christmas, a fundraising concert in support of the PEI Kiwanis Music Festival. Eight of PEI’s finest brass musicians will perform on December 17 at 7:30 pm at Park Royal United, 11 Christie Drive in Charlottetown. Admission is by donation.
Tinsel, talent, and total unpredictability await at The Guild’s holiday bash, A Very Random Holiday Show, taking place on December 19 at 8 pm at 111 Queen Street, Charlottetown. The night delivers music, comedy, drag, storytelling, and festive chaos. Audience members can sip something merry, settle in, and enjoy a chaotic holiday spectacular. Visit theguildpei. com for tickets.
A celebration of Tibb’s Eve will take place at The Guild in Charlottetown on December 23 at 8 pm. Attendees can enjoy the festivities and sing, toast, sip, revel, and dance. Visit theguildpei.com for tickets.
Celebrating 25 years of touring their Celtic-inspired Christmas show, the Barra MacNeils will close out their national tour at the Confederation Centre of the Arts on December 19, presenting audience favourites along with special new material.
An East Coast Christmas features an entertaining mix of stories and dance, stamped with their harmonies and instrumental stylings, capped off with the energetic originality of the MacArthur Dancers.
The show brings a Celtic spin to traditional favourites along with their own original musical treasures. The group has also crafted some unique moments for their 25th anniversary celebration.
Says Stewart MacNeil: “It is hard to believe we’ve been touring this show
Returning to Watermark Theatre for two nights
Watermark Theatre in North Rustico is bringing back its Holiday Hootenanny on December 8 and 9 at 7:30 pm, featuring a lineup of Island talent.
The stage will come alive with performances by Leon Gallant, Olivia Blacquiere, Chris Gauthier, and Brendon “Spoon Man” Gallant, joined by special guests Laurie and Kaitlyn on December 8 and Taylor Buote on December 9. The evening promises a mix of classic holiday tunes, Island favourites, and spontaneous moments that make the Hootenanny feel like a gathering of friends.
“The Hootenanny is all about warmth and connection,” says Watermark’s Artistic Director Robert Tsonos. “It’s casual, it’s joyful, and it captures that community spirit that
for 25 years. Every time seems fresh and exciting, and each year, we can’t wait to come back to bring seasonal joy to our Maritime fans.”
Hailing from Sydney Mines, Cape Breton Island, the five versatile siblings —Sheumas, Kyle, Stewart, Lucy, and Boyd—are deeply rooted in Celtic music, culture, dance, language, and history. Their numerous critically acclaimed recordings include their own original songs and tried-andtrue standards, both instrumental and vocal. They are joined on-stage by long-time bass player Jamie Gatti.
The Barras’ long career has taken their music across the globe; their coast-to-coast Christmas tour been selling out since its inception and continues to grow new audiences every year. confederationcentre.com
The Stadacona Band with Jah’Mila—Dec 7
The Stadacona Band with special guest Jah’Mila will be on stage in the Sobey Family Theatre at Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown on December 7 at 2 pm.
Celebrate the season with a tropical twist at the Stadacona Band’s holiday concert, Sleighbells in the Sun. This year’s performance brings the warmth of the tropics to the Maritimes with JUNO Award-nominee Jah’Mila, one
Celtic tunes at Trailside Music Hall—Dec 16
Còig Christmas will be live at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on December 16 at 8 pm.
of Canada’s leading voices in reggae music. Blending festive favourites with island rhythms, this concert promises a joyful fusion of tradition and sunshine. confederationcentre.com
With the fiery Celtic high-energy style as its musical core, Còig easily shifts between century-old tunes of past generations to original and upbeat compositions, featuring the band’s range of over a dozen
Fiddlers’ Sons and Salt Water Dollies at Trinity Summerside
The first-ever Winter Wishes Holiday Show is coming to Trinity United in Summerside on December 12 at 7:30 pm. Fiddlers’ Sons and the Salt Water Dollies will perform lively music for a night filled with festive spirit and holiday cheer.
Island folk group Fiddlers’ Sons features Eddy Quinn, Keelin Wedge, John B. Webster, and fiddler Fiona MacCorquodale. They will play some of their Christmas favourites and popular requests.
instruments,
makes North Rustico such a special place at Christmas.”
The event is part of the North Rustico Christmas Festivities. Tickets are available at watermarktheatre.com or by calling 902-963-3963.
Salt Water Dollies is composed of multi-instrumentalist Keelin Wedge and vocalist Christine Cameron. Together, they will perform holiday selections and showcase their vocal harmonies.
Reserve tickets by calling 902-436-3155.
ceilidhs, dances, series, sessions...
The Blues Jam with the Plain Dirty Blues band runs on the last Saturday of each month from 5:30–8 pm at Baba’s Lounge. The next jam is on December 27. Admission is by donation. Follow Plain Dirty Blues Band on FB for updates. 189 Great George St, Charlotteown.
The 15th season of Ceilidh in the City concludes on December 3 with An Island Country Christmas featuring Terry Dunsford, in support of Toys for Tots, at the Jack Blanchard Centre, 7 Pond Street, Charlottetown. Doors open at 6:30 pm, with showtime at 7:30 pm. Admission is cash-only at the door. There will be a 50/50 draw, and bar and canteen service will be provided by 4S Catering.
The Crapaud Community Hall presents the Christmas Ceilidh of Crapaud on December 14 from 2–4 pm. The afternoon will feature music by the LeClair Family Band, with special guests Fullerton’s Marsh. There will be a 50/50 draw, and a light lunch will be provided. Admission is at the door. 36 Rte 13, Crapaud.
A ceilidh hosted by the Road Masters Band with guest entertainers is held at the Dunstaffnage School Centre on the first Sunday of each month. The December event will take place on December 7 at 7 pm. There will be a 50/50 draw, and coffee, tea, and juice will be served at intermission. Admission is at the door, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. 13529 St. Peter’s Rd, Dunstaffnage.
Got Blues, led by Chris Roumbanis with friends Mike Robicheau and Alan Dowling, hosts a weekly Saturday matinee from 2–4 pm at the Salvadore Dali Café. Each week, a special guest joins the first set, followed by an electric blues jam in the second. There is no cover charge; they pass the hat. The upcoming performances feature: singer/guitarist Anica (NB) & saxophonist/keyboardist Todd MacLean on December 6; singer Annette Corbett (NS) & saxophonist/keyboardist Todd MacLean on December 13; Little Big Band (Brian Langille, Jonathan MacInnis, Ross MacDougall, David Gordon & Alan White) on December 20; singer/guitarist Davis Ward on December 27. 155 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Jazz on Thursdays at Baba’s Lounge features top local musicians performing
original music, standards, jazz and pop favourites. Each show features a different group and two sets starting at 8 pm. The upcoming lineup includes: SOPA Improv Students on December 4; Island Jazz Christmas with Kelley Mooney on December 11; Island Jazz Christmas Quartet on December 18; no show on December 25; Island Jazz Season 11 Launch on January 1.. Admission is by donation. 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Sessions with Mark Douglas and friends take place weekly on Thursdays at 7 pm at The Old Triangle, 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Join The Blizzard Goat Band at Copper Bottom Brewing for the weekly Sunday Hootenanny from 3–5 pm. Free admission. 567 Main St, Montague.
A matinee kitchen party featuring classic country and old rock ‘n’ roll with Back in Tyme (Blair Coughlin, Peter Burke, George MacPhee, Bob Gagnon) is held at the Summerside Legion on Saturdays, December 13 and 20 from 2–5 pm. Admission is at the door. 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.
An afternoon Tune Session featuring traditional music and craic takes place weekly on Sundays from 2–4 pm at The Old Triangle. 189 Great George St, Charlottetown.
An Irish Trad Night is held every Thursday in the taproom at Village Green. Enjoy free, live music from 7–9 pm. Space is limited. Located at 30 Church St in the old post office/dental clinic in Cornwall.
Fundraising ceilidhs take place at Winsloe United every second Sunday at 2 pm. On December 7, host Jacinta MacDonald and the Winsloe United House Band welcome special guests The 4 Hearts and Jack (Jacinta MacDonald, Keila Glydon, Darlene Bradley, Steve Perry on fiddle, and Judy Lowe on keyboard). On December 21, a Christmas concert will showcase Dino and the Harmonies (Dino Dunsford, Keila Glydon, Sheila Dunsford, Steven Perry, Garth Proud, Judy Lowe, and Todd Gallant on percussion). The church is wheelchair accessible, and a light lunch will be served during intermission. Admission is at the door, which opens at 1:30 pm. 121 Winsloe Rd, Winsloe.
Tara MacLean with Bayfield String Quartet at Trailside—Dec 2
On This Winter’s Night, featuring Tara MacLean with the Bayfield String Quartet, will be on stage at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown on December 2 at 8 pm.
The evening will celebrate winter music and storytelling with one of Canada’s foremost award-winning vocalists and bestselling authors, Tara MacLean. Joined by the Bayfield String Quartet, MacLean will share a blend of classic, contemporary, and original songs. Through music and story, On
Irish Cultural Centre—Dec 5
Tip ‘Er Bank will take the stage at the Irish Cultural Centre in Charlottetown on December 5 at 7:30 pm. The band—Allan Betts, Clive Currie, and Wade Murray, with fiddler Steven Perry—will deliver a festive evening of music and holiday cheer. Doors open at 6:30 pm, and tickets are available at locarius.ca or at the door.
The band will follow up with a second concert at West River United in Cornwall on December 14 at 7 pm. For
Harbourfront Theatre—Dec 12
Celebrating their 35th anniversary this year, Newfoundland & Labrador folk group The Irish Descendants bring their annual holiday show, The Irish Descendants Christmas, to Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside on December 12. Concertgoers will be treated to Christmas songs and stories reminiscent of long-lived, old-time holiday celebrations from the “Rock,” all presented by seasoned storyteller and longtime frontman Con O’Brien.
The band includes Con O’Brien (lead vocals, guitar), Rowan Sherlock (mandolin, fiddle, piano, vocals), Jeff Kinsman (bass, vocals), and Madeline Carter (fiddle, vocals).
The Irish Descendants Christmas will feature songs from their two Christmas
this performance, they will be joined by guest fiddler Courtney HoganChandler, singer Addison Perry, and their “forever” guest Darlene Bradley. Light refreshments will be served at intermission. Tickets will be available at the door or in advance at the church office on weekday mornings. For more information about this concert, call 902-566-4052.
and
harbourfronttheatre.com
Music Arcade by Dennis Ellsworth
In 2009, a band called Solid Gold Workout emerged in the Charlottetown music scene. They released a single, played some shows, and changed their name to Coyote. Coyote is Josh Carter, Evan McCosham, Bradford Rooney, Bruce Rooney, and Mike Andy King. Their music leans in the indie pop-rock direction. It’s always melodic, catchy, and thoughtfully assembled.
In 2012, they released their first album called Tracks. They started touring and playing shows around the East Coast of Canada. They were focused and things were going well and feeling good.
In 2014, the Proof of Life EP was released. The band self-booked a 22-date Canadian tour that began in British Columbia and ended in Newfoundland. It was the quintessential independent band tour scenario. They crashed with friends, found efficient sustenance, spent a lot of time in a van, and at night they dropped into local music scenes to zap the crowds with their explosive live energy. They learned so much from that tour and grew musically, and though it was filled with ups and downs, the band returned with momentum.
In 2015, Coyote won an East Coast Music Award for Pop Recording of the Year, as well as Pop Recording and Group of the Year at the 2015 Music PEI Awards. They harnessed this and started thinking about their next moves. During their peak, they made appearances at Rifflandia (BC), Harvest Jazz & Blues (NB), Evolve (NS), Canadian Music Week and NXNE (ON), and Halifax Pop Explosion.
In 2016, they started working on new music. Oddly, things felt skewed. There seemed to be a collective lack of engagement, and what had propelled them in
the past was losing its lustre. Despite this, the band did carry on with writing new songs, more shows, and recording sessions with Colin Buchanan.
In 2017, the song “Freak Out” was released as a single, and following that release, the band decided to put the sessions on hold and eventually decided to split on pleasant terms. Their friendships never wavered.
Between 2017 and 2021, they all found other projects or settled into domestic lifestyles.
During Covid, the band reconnected and re-emerged with a show at Trailside Music Hall in Charlottetown. The energy felt renewed for the band and their audience. The pressure was off and the band settled into the joy of making music together again. Since 2021, the band has been selective but steady in their appearances. Their live shows focus on the full scope of the band’s output, including the unreleased songs they were working on when they went on hiatus. They rewound and revisited the abandoned 2016 recording sessions and to their surprise, discovered that there were some great recordings. In February 2025, the band spent a few weeks updating and fine tuning some of the abandoned tracks and the outcome is a brand new EP titled, Hope You Feel It
This past summer, Coyote played The East Pointers’ led Goolaholla Festival. They have just been nominated for the 2026 Music PEI Rock Recording of the Year Award and they are scheduled to play at Shivering Songs Festival in Fredericton, NB, this coming January.
Coyote is back on new terms. This time, they’ll be letting the joy of it all lead the way.
Bogside Brewing
Tuesdays (6:30 pm). 11 Brook St, Montague.
The Cave at The Factory
Thursdays with Darcy Campbell (7–9 pm); Fridays with Mark Cameron (8–10 pm). 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Churchill Arms
Saturdays (2 pm) with Wade Babineau. Reserve by calling 902-367-3450. 89 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Copper Bottom Brewing
Taproom Trivia with Dana Jones on Fridays (7 pm). Boxing Day Trivia with Dana Jones (7 pm). 567 Main St, Montague.
The Factory Music Bingo with Darcy Campbell on Saturdays (7 pm). 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Founders Food Hall
Christmas Trivia with Darcy Campbell on December 6 (5–7 pm). 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.
Hopyard
Wednesdays (8 pm) with Hank. 151 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Montague Legion
Thursdays (7 pm) with the Catch the King of Clubs draw. 15 Douses Rd, Montague.
Lone Oak Brewing Co
December 21 (7–9 pm). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.
Olde Dublin
Hurricanes Trivia on Mondays (7 pm); Trivia & Tunes with Wade Babineau on Thursdays (7:30 pm). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
Hunter’s Ale House
Entertainment Trivia with Darcy Campbell on Thursdays (9 pm); Name That Tune Trivia with Andrew Rollins on Sundays (9 pm). 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Tekila
Tuesdays (6 pm). 165 Prince St, Charlottetown.
Village Green
Saturdays (7 pm) with Bryan Carver. 30 Church St, Cornwall.
A sampling of performances on offer in December
Newfoundland’s The Once will take the Trailside stage on December 10
The Once
December 10 ›› 8 pm
The modern indie folk trio from Newfoundland has collected a trio of Canadian Folk Music Awards, numerous ECMA Awards, and was named Artist of the Year by the Newfoundland & Labrador Arts Council. They’ve earned two JUNO nominations for Roots Album of the Year and continue to take their music around the world.
Ashley MacIsaac
Dec 14 ›› 8 pm
Ashley Dwayne MacIsaac is a Canadian fiddler, pianist, singer and songwriter from Cape Breton Island. He has received three JUNO Awards— winning for Best New Solo Artist and Best Roots & Traditional Album – Solo in 1996, and for Best Instrumental Artist in 1997.
The Night Social
Rémi Arsenault, Nick Gauthier, Tian Wigmore, and Rich Knox
Friday, December 12
Dec 18 ›› 8 pm
The Night Social brings together some of the Island’s most accomplished and dynamic musicians: Remi Arsenault (Natalie MacMaster), Nick Gauthier (Matt Andersen), Tian Wigmore (War
and tasteful blues-tinged guitar licks make him one of the best up-and-coming artists in the country.
Blink-902
Tribute to Blink-182
Dec 27 ›› 8 pm
With two sets spanning 1994’s Buddha to 2023’s One More Time, blink-902 bring the punk rock nostalgia. After the show, the band is hosting the Pop Punk Dance Party next door at PonyBoat—admission is free with the Trailside ticket.
Horses, ECMA winner), and Rich Knox (Danko Jones). Longtime friends and collaborators, they reunite for a special one-night-only event. Audiences will be treated to an intimate acoustic set followed by a powerful electric performance.
Ben Caplan
With his deep, commanding baritone and electrifying stage presence, Caplan merges the raw energy of diverse folk traditions with modern innovation. His music isn’t just performed; it’s experienced. Now, with The Flood, Caplan takes his artistry to new depths, crafting an album that meditates on endings, resilience, and the art of carrying wisdom forward.
Boxing Day Bash
Logan Richard & Friends
Dec 26 ›› 8 pm
Logan Richard may just be the Canadian East Coast’s answer to John Mayer, Theo Katzman and Colin James all rolled into one. Spellbinding R&B grooves, pop hooks, a smooth voice,
Liam Corcoran Band, Newbridge, The Meds
Dec 28 ›› 8 pm
Emerging from the ashes of traditional music, Newbridge is a powerful blend of Americana, folk, and roots-rock from Halifax, Nova Scotia. The band features Keith Maddison (Maddison Avenue), Glen Nicholson (In-Flight Safety), Jeff Mosher (The Mellotones, Matt Andersen), Warren Robert (Myles Goodwyn, Pogey), and Robbie Crowell (Sturgill Simpson, Deer Tick, Midland, Matt Mays)—each bringing a wealth of experience and a drive to forge their own sound.
Liam Corcoran is the co-founder of the PEI indie-pop group Two Hours Traffic. Since the group disbanded, Liam has embarked on a solo career, releasing the mini-album Rom-Drom and full-length albums Nevahland, Giving Tree And Other Songs, and Hints And Traces
Trailside Music Hall is located at 155 Kent Street in Charlottetown. Showtimes are 8 pm, with doors opening at 6:30 pm. For tickets and info visit trailside.ca or call 367-3311.
And the nominees are...
Music PEI announced the nominees for the 2026 Music PEI Awards in mid-November, celebrating the outstanding achievements of Prince Edward Island’s music industry. The awards highlight the talent and dedication of local artists and industry professionals, showcasing a wide range of genres and contributions.
The 2026 ceremony marks the 25th anniversary of the Music PEI Awards. To commemorate the occasion, the gala will return to the Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside—where it began in 2001. Music PEI extends its appreciation to founding directors Charlie Hansen, Blaine Corckum, Wayne Walsh, Bob Stright, Brian Dawson, and Chris Roumbanis, who dedicated their time and passion to the first awards gala. This year’s early 2000s-themed branding will pay homage to the era of the award’s founding.
Logan Richard and Lennie Gallant lead the nominations with five each, followed by Diana Delirio, Richard WOOD, siddhu sneh, and Tiffany Liu with four apiece.
There will be special recognition for one honoree: Teresa Doyle will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award Presented by the City of Summerside for her enduring contributions to the Island’s music scene.
Public voting is open for two fan-favourite categories—the Ocean 100 and Hot 105.5 Entertainer of the Year and Club Red Productions Music Video of the Year. Vote online at ocean100.com/ music-pei until December 15. These awards are entirely fan-determined, making every vote count.
Music PEI Week runs from February 28–March 7, 2026, with events across the Island, including the awards ceremony. To purchase festival passes, visit musicpei.com.
Instrumental Recording of the Year:
Gammons & Knorr Bird’s Eye
Richard WOOD Richard WOOD Live! An Evening of Celtic Music
The Trio From Mars General Store
Tiffany Liu Spring in Tianshan
Lloyd Doyle New Artist of the Year Presented by Rising Tide Community Fund:
Dazey This is all i am i guess, Diana Delirio Felina
Michelle Bouey Butterflies siddhu sneh i am
Holland College Pop/Dance Recording of the Year:
Ava + Lily AFTERPARTY
Diana Delirio Azul
KINLEY Marrying Me
Morph EN UN CAFÉ
Receiver Coffee Co. Rap/Hip-Hop Recording of the Year:
C. Ruth Heart of David
Melvis & APEE MONKEY SEE MONKEY DO (MSMD) siddhu sneh i am
Dazey—“We haven’t spoke in years” (Directed by Hannah Bridger)
KINLEY—“Marrying Me” (Directed by Ashley Anne Clark)
Lennie Gallant—“Counting on Angels” (Directed by Matt Lodge)
Logan Richard—“The Grass Is Blue (Everywhere I Go)” (Directed by Bailey Dockendorf)
Pressed 4 Time, Print, Copy & Design
Recording Professional of the Year:
Adam Gallant
Brent Chaisson
Sam O
SpaceCamp
Craig Fair Productions Behind the Music Award:
Island Jazz
Live @ The Centre—Confederation Centre Winter Programming
Mango Street Trio
Richard WOOD Live!
Leo Cheverie Community Contributor Award Presented by Long & McQuade: Andrew Cormier
The nominees for the 2026 Music PEI Awards are:
Terra Nova Fund Achievement in Classical Music:
Charlottetown Improvisation Laboratory
PEI Symphony Orchestra
The PEI Regiment Band
Achievement in Global Music:
Diana Delirio
Inn Echo
Rightflow
Tiffany Liu
City of Charlottetown Achievement in Jazz/Blues:
Charlottetown Improvisation Laboratory
Charlottetown Jazz Ensemble
Dan Rowswell
siddhu sneh
SRL Solutions Album of the Year:
Absolute Losers In The Crowd
Lennie Gallant Counting on Angels
Logan Richard Character Traits
Shane Pendergast Winter Grace
Alternative Recording of the Year:
Dazey This is all i am i guess, Firing Squad Suspicious Individual
Oakdrive Grounder
Ryan Van Winkle Naught For Nothing
Dairy Farmers of PEI Country Recording of the Year:
Brooke MacArthur Bittersweet Surprise
Danny Drouin Five O’Clock Shadow
John Donovan Northern Moon
Lawrence Maxwell Blackout Curtain
PEI Mutual Folk Recording of the Year:
Lennie Gallant Counting on Angels
Logan Richard Character Traits
Richard WOOD Richard WOOD Live! An Evening of Celtic Music
Shane Pendergast Winter Grace
Cavendish Farms R&B/Soul Recording of the Year:
Mango Street Trio Fraggle’s Loft
NODACOB CANADA KO HIU siddhu sneh i am
The Trio From Mars General Store
Norton’s Jewellers Rock Recording of the Year:
Coyote It Could Be Worse
Hit the Coast Spewing Junk
Rick Sparkes + The Enablers There Is Nothing To Be Won But Distance Two Hours Traffic I Never See You Anymore
Maritime Electric Single of the Year:
Lawrence Maxwell—”Blackout Curtain”
Logan Richard—”The Grass Is Blue (Everywhere I Go)”
Tiffany Liu—”Spring in Tianshan” Two Hours Traffic—”Keep It Coming”
SOCAN Songwriter of the Year:
Diana Delirio
Lennie Gallant
Logan Richard
Shane Pendergast
Timber to Trim Carpentry Traditional Recording of the Year:
Gammons & Knorr Bird’s Eye
Richard WOOD Richard WOOD Live! An Evening of Celtic Music
Tiffany Liu Spring in Tianshan
Ocean 100 and Hot 105.5 Entertainer of the Year
Lawrence Maxwell
Lennie Gallant
Mango Street Trio
Richard WOOD
Todd MacLean
Club Red Productions Music Video of the Year:
Absolute Losers—”Star Sweeper” (Directed by Griffen O’Toole)
Todd MacLean isletunes
Al Kelly
City of Summerside Lifetime Achievement Award:
Teresa Doyle
The Buzz Visual Artist of the Year
Ashley Anne Clark
Hannah Bridger
Justin Rix
Mike Bernard
Timeless Events PEI Musician of the Year
Iván Garnica Lobato
Nicolás Romero
Ryan Van Winkle
Todd MacLean
Baba’s Lounge
Mondays (10 pm). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Factory
Thursdays (10 pm) with Jack Day. 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
The Guild
Lunchbox Karaoke with Jay & Grace on December 4 & 18 (12–1 pm). 111 Queen St, Charlottetown.
Montague Legion
Fridays (8 pm) with Gloria. 15 Douses Rd, Montague.
Razzy’s Roadhouse
December 27 (7–10 pm) with Jack Day. 161 St. Peters Rd, Charlottetown.
Albert & Crown Pub
Very Best of Up West (Nov 28 @7 pm); Sandra & Ricky Jones (29 @7 pm); Joey Doucette (Dec 4/11/18 @8 pm); Floyd Gaudet (5 @6 pm); Crystal Paynter & Wade Carragher (6 @7 pm). 480 Main St, Alberton.
Baba’s Lounge
Fridays & Saturdays (10 pm *unless noted): Jacob Reddin and the Striped Shirt Band (Nov 28); Blues Jam with Plain Dirty Blues (29 @5 pm); East Coast Emo Night (29); Dennis Ellsworth with guests (5 @8 pm); Dmayne Event (Dec 5); Teeth Out, The Sick Bandits, Record Year, Radio Roulette (6); Riptyde DJ Night (12); Merry Riffmas with Death Valley Driver, Vulgar, and Static Age (13); Javier & Diego (19); John Connolly with Nick Gauthier, Rich Knox, & Tian Wigmore (20 @8 pm); Revpocalypse 4 with Jeff Dee (20); DJ Hype (26); Plain Dirty Blues (27 @5 pm); Guffah DJ Night (27). Open Mic with KINLEY on Wednesdays (9 pm). Island Jazz on Thursdays (8 pm). 181 Great George St, Charlottetown.
Bogside Brewing
Fridays & Saturdays (6:30–9:30 pm): Rodd Perry (Nov 28); Keira Loane (29); Kevin Ryan (30); Michael Sigouin (Dec 5); Ryan Merry (6); Margarita Wayne (12); Brad Milligan (13); Marvin Birt (19); Barry O’Brien (20); Billy White (27). New Year’s Levee with Breakwater Acoustic on January 1 (3–6 pm). 11 Brook St, Montague.
Bogside Brewing
Johnn Ray on Dec 6 (9 pm). 240 Main St, Borden-Carleton.
Brothers 2
Thursdays (7–9 pm) & Fridays (7–10 pm): Danny Doiron (Nov 28); Claire Gallant (Dec 4); Crystal Paynter (5); Marc Coughlin (11); D’Arcy & Moe (12); Todd Gallant (18); Dan Doiron (19). 618 Water St, Summerside.
The Cave at The Factory
Live DJ on Saturdays (10 pm–2 am): DJ Jeremie (Nov 29); DJ Jada Kiss (Dec 6); DJ Novah (13); DJ Jeremie (20); DJ Purdy (27); DJ Derek (31 *Wed). 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Charlottetown Legion
Saturdays (9:30 pm–12:30 am): Kim Albert (Nov 29); Miller Creek (Dec 6); Wrecking Crew (13); The Rustlers (20); Kim Albert (27); Kim Albert (31 *NYE). Line dancing on December 1, 8 & 15 (5–7 pm). 99 Pownal St, Charlottetown.
Copper Bottom Brewing
Blizzard Goat on Sundays (3–5 pm). Live Christmas Vinyls with DJ Bob Scratchit on December 24 (12–3 pm). Boxing Day party (2–6 pm). Levee Day party (12–6 pm). 567 Main St, Montague.
Evermoore Brewing
Tuesdays (6–8 pm): Nick Doneff (Dec 2); Margarita Wayne (9); Jordan Cameron (16); Geoffrey Charlton (23); Dan Doiron (30). Irish Traditional Session with Geoff Charlton on Saturdays (1:30–4 pm). 192 Water St, Summerside.
The Factory
Live DJ on Fridays & Saturdays (11 pm): DJ Douce (Dec 5/13/20); DJ Method (6/19/27); DJ Derek (12/26); DJ Method (31 *Wed). Country Night Line Dancing with JJ on Fridays (10 pm). 189 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Founders’ Food Hall & Market
Fridays (5–7 pm), Saturdays (2:25–4:15 pm) & Sundays (2:30–4:30 pm): Day Paynter (Nov 29); Regiment Tuba Christmas (Dec 5); Tiantian & Vivian (6); Margarita Wayne (7); Ava & Lily Rashed (12); Carter MacLellan (13); Kelley Mooney (14); Brooke MacArthur (19); Dan Doiron (20 @2:15 pm); Adam MacGregor (20 @5 pm); Nathan Carragher (21). 6 Prince St, Charlottetown.
Gahan House
Fridays (9 pm): Ryan Merry (Dec 5); Nathan Carragher (12); Lawrence Maxwell (19). 126 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
Hunter’s Ale House
Crimson Clay (Nov 28); Neon Country (29). Magnolia (Dec 5); Gin & Tonic (6); Pretty Tragic (12); Brad Milligan Duo (Dec 11); Adam and a Foe (15); Isaac & Brad (16); Yakbak (19); Gin & Tonic (20); Liam & Jon (22); Love Junkies (23); NYE with The Soosh (31). Open Mic with Travis on Mondays (10 pm). 185 Kent St, Charlottetown.
John Brown Grille
Saturdays (2–5 pm): Saul Good Duo (Nov 29); Liam & Jon (Dec 6/27); Acoustic Brothers (13); Kim Albert Trio (20); Stratton & Kays on December 31 (6–9 pm). Live DJs on Saturdays (11 pm): Jérémie (6); DJ Purdy (13); DJ Möjö (20). 132 Richmond St, Charlottetown.
Lone Oak Brewing Co
Nathan Carragher (Dec 12 @7 pm); Boxing Day party (26). NYE with Down with Darby (31 *ticketed). 103 Abegweit Blvd, Borden-Carleton.
Lone Oak Brew Pub
Thursdays (6–8 pm): Kevin MacPhee (4); Mike Stratton (11); Brian Dunn (18). 15 Milky Way, Charlottetown.
Olde Dublin Pub
Fridays & Saturday (6–9 pm/10–2 pm *unless noted): Jon Matthews & Liam Kearney/Boney Oaks (Dec 5); Breakwater/Wannabeez (6); Ross Family/Gypsy Soul (12); Marvin Birt & Steve Szwarc/Crimson Clay (13); Carter MacLellan/Vintage 4.0 (19); Reed MacGregor/Vintage 4.0 (20); Tipsy Eve (23 *Tue @9 pm); Vintage 4.0 (27 @2 pm); Stratton and Kays/Neon Country (27); Gordon Butler (30 *Tue @7 pm); Boney Oaks (31 *Wed @10 pm). Celtic Tunes on Sundays (5–8 pm): Steve Szwarc (Dec 4); Reed MacGregor (11); Thatcher MacKay (18). Boxing Day Bash with Wannabeez on Dec 26 (4 pm–2 am). New Years Levee with Brad Milligan (Jan 1 @4 pm). 132 Sydney St, Charlottetown.
PEI Brewing Company
Acoustic Fridays (4–7 pm): Barry O’Brien (Nov 28); Wayne Gallant (Dec 5); Fraser McCallum (19); Ethan MacPhee (26). 96 Kensington Rd, Charlottetown.
PonyBoat
Live DJ on Fridays and Saturdays (11 pm). 157 Kent St, Charlottetown.
Razzy’s Roadhouse
Fridays (6–9 pm): Kevin Arthur (Dec 5); Rodney & Blake (12); Brian Dunn (19); Boxing Day with Margarita Wayne on December 26 (2 pm). 161 St. Peters Rd, Charlottetown.
Slaymaker & Nichols
Nick Gauthier on Fridays & Sundays (2–5 pm). 82 Fitzroy St, Charlottetown.
Summerside Legion
Johnny and the Legionaires on Fridays (9 pm). Back in Tyme on December 13 & 20 (2–5 pm). NYE with Back in Tyme on Dec 31 (9 pm). 340 Notre Dame St, Summerside.
Tekila
Jerry Laird on Fridays (5–9 pm). 165 Prince St, Charlottetown.
QEH Fundraiser at Copper Bottom Brewing—Dec 6
Tunes on Tap for Care at Copper Bottom Brewing in Montague will feature music by Nick van Ouwerkerk and Jessie Périard on December 6 from 3–5 pm.
Enjoy brews and tunes in support of a good cause—one dollar from every pint will be donated to the QEH Foundation.
There will be staff pricing for healthcare workers and admission is by donation at the door.
ORGANIC VEGGIE DELIVERY
New customers get $5 off first order. Home delivery (year-round) of fresh local organic veggies and more. Veggie Boxes or custom orders. Aaron Koleszar 902-659-2575, aaron@organicveggiedelivery.com, organicveggiedelivery.com
SHOP SUSTAINABLY WITH RECYCLED RUNWAY, offering size-inclusive thrifted and vintage women’s fashions. Follow us for Thrift Thursday drops on Instagram and shop in-person by appointment or at events! Instagram: @recycledrunwaypei
PRODUCTS If you are a serious painter, you need to shop here! Expert advice to go with perfect, professional products. ONLINE: professionalart.ca. STORE (Bailey Studio Gallery): In Little Sands. 902-962-3642.
ISSUE# 384 • DECEMBER 2025
Editor: Yanik Richards
Editor: Michelle Ollerhead Website: Nakeesa Aghdasy
Partners: Maggie Lillo (Ruby Square Graphic Design), Carly Martin (Hawthorne House Media)
Contributors: Julie Bull, Catherine Edward, Dennis Ellsworth, Alison Galley, Sean McQuaid, Takako Morita, Tara Reeves, JoDee Samuelson, Gary Schneider, Bren Simmers, Ashleigh Tremere
Office: 160 Richmond Street, Charlottetown
Mail: P.O. Box 1945, Charlottetown, PE
C1A7N5
Phone: 902-628-1958
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The Buzz is published monthly by Little Kit Bag Inc.
COVER:
Three in a Blue Bowl, oil on canvas, 10” x 10” by Alison Galley. Instagram @galleyalison
The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff. Compensation for errors in advertising copy which are the proven responsibility of the publisher is limited to a maximum of the cost of the placement of the advertisement.
Little Kit Bag Inc., operating as The Buzz, acknowledges that we are located on and operate on Mi’kma’ki, the traditional unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people who have lived here for many thousands of years, and who continue to live here.
