VANCOUVER ISLAND EDITION WINTER EVENTS & THINGS TO DO
WHATSONDIGEST.COM
t n e m n i a t En t e r
is Back!
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Winter 2021/22 What’s On Digest is produced by
See many more Events & Things To Do and submit your own on our website.
WhatsOnDigest.com Truly a season to celebrate. I was over joyed with entertainers, and organizers contacting us for the re-start of so many wonderful and traditional events that have been dearly missed.
able to deliver this collection of Christmas festivities traditional events and award winning performances in this much celebrated edition of the What’s On Digest. For more events visit our website or SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter for weekly updates.
This Winter edition features all the wonderful performers and theatres on Vancouver Island. A very Happy and Joyous Season From small community theatres to you all!. (and advertising ;) to city theatres, audiences and enCathy Kaardal - CEO / Publisher tertainers are eager to “Let the Show Begin”. It gives me great pleasure to be cathy@whatsondigest.com
COVID-19. All Events will operate with physical distancing and COVID-19 protocols for the safe and health of all. Please check before attending any events to see if it has changed.
Want to advertise? Contact us: P 1 (250) 202 2550 E info@whatsondigest.com What’s On Digest provides event information as a complementary service. Events listed or mentioned have been compiled from sources considered to be reliable. While reasonable efforts are made to ensure event information is accurate, please contact event/ activity organizers/venues for confirmation. No responsibility is taken for omissions or errors in event listings or articles.
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Entertainment is back on Vancouver Island
page 4 CAMPBELL RIVER NORTH ISLAND
page 24 COMOX VALLEY page 34 PARKSVILLE & QUALICUM BEACH AREA
page 38 NANAIMO
page 48 COWICHAN VALLEY
page 56
VICTORIA, BC
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CAMPBELL RIVER
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NORTH ISLAND • EVENTS • THINGS TO DO • FEATURES •
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CAMPBELL RIVER ROAD-TRIP The North Island presents a wild beauty with its wild storms, miles of forests and trails, and multiple pockets of lakes with frozen waterfalls. The north holds the best in Canadian wild adventures.
filled with decorated trees and craft markets, Christmas parties and shops are buzzing. Tree light ups, craft markets and virtual gatherings with some new twists will join the Christmas season for the North Island.
For the Holiday season, Campbell River traditionally celebrates with a giant Truck Parade that trails along the island Highway for an approximate 8kms. Museums and Halls are
Fishing, Hiking, Skating on Lakes in the Strathcona Parks and Outdoor Hockey are all part of what makes this area unique to the island.
O PE N R E LONG R S U HO
Sweet & Savoury Waffles
New Take Out Window
TRY US
Extended hours: Mon, Wed, Sun 9:30am- 3pm - Thu, Fri, Sat 9:30am - 6:30pm Serving your favourites later / 250-286-4575 220 Dogwood St, Campbell River www.whistlinwaffle.ca
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Vietnamese Cuisine
House Special Noodle Soup
House Special Vermicelli
Stir Fried Mixed Vegetables & Satay Chicken with Steamed Rice
ORDER ONLINE honeylemongrill.ca Open 11:30 am to 7:00 pm, Mon -Sat Take Out or Eat In SMALL CHRISTMAS PARTIES (up to 6 per table) CLOSED over the Christmas week: Dec 25 to Jan 9th. To avoid disappointment call for RESERVATION.
Pho, Rice Vermicelli, Rice Dishes, Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options
1090A Shoppers Row • 250.914.5491
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Campbell river & North Island • THINGS TO DO •
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Elk Falls Suspension Bridge: Hangs 64mtrs above the Campbell River canyon floor offering a top to bottom view of Elk Falls. Located 4kms on the Gold River Hwy 28. Turn into the John Hart Interpretive Ctr. Park at John Hart Interpretive Centre parking lot. Walk to the falls is 1.4km easy walk. There is a 74 step climb down to the bridge. Public toilet. Waterfall Chasing: Start at Elk Falls and drive to Gold River, there are 75 spectacular waterfalls to behold. Don’t miss Upper & Lower Myra Falls. Low is a scenic hike through an old-growth forest on the west side of Buttle Lake in Strathcona-Westmin Provincial Park. Leads to a lookout of a large horsetail waterfall. The Upper Myra Falls is one of the Biggest waterfalls in Strathcona Park. A longer and separate hike it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the viewing area of the
waterfall, the trail is moderate. 6.7ks. From Dwntwn, Hwy 23 for 50kms. As you approach the Buttle Lake campground. Follow Westmin Rd, for about 35km until you reach Westmin mine. Drive through the minesite. Check coordinates before going. BIKING Snowden Forest: (Many trails to choose from). Largest and most challenging trails. Suitable for beginners and advanced riders. Enter from Hwy 28. Beaver Lodge Forestlands: Ideal for beginner and intermediate riders. Enter from Dogwood Rd S. SWIMMING INDOORS POOLS Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex: Ice Skating, pond hockey, hockey leagues and everyone welcome skate now open. Indoor Leisure swimmming pool is now open. Exercise, Laps, and registered swims. Must register online. No drop-ins. during COVID-19 Health and Fitness programs are available with spacing regulations. 225 S Dogwood St. 250.830.6777.
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GOT POP PRESENTS
NOV / DEC Shows
DANIEL WESLEY (Full Band Show) with special guests. (Fri. Nov 26)
Daniel Wesley’s music has always been a call to live life to the fullest. And on Beach Music, the West Coast singer/songwriter’s ninth full-length album, that call rings out more clearly than ever. @ the Tidemark Theatre Campbell River
2021 Sat Nov 13
Themed Trivia Night: GREY’S ANATOMY Edition at The Queen’s (Nanaimo)
Fri Nov 19
An Acoustic(ish) Tribute to Coldplay at The Queen’s (Nanaimo)
Thurs Nov 25 Five Alarm Funk at The Queen’s (Nanaimo) Fri Nov 26
Daniel Wesley (Full Band Show) above
Fri Dec 3
Comedy Night at SoCal Restaurant with Patrick Maliha & friends (Campbell River)
Fri Dec 3
AC/DC Tribute (Full Band Show) at The Queen’s (Nanaimo)
Sat Dec 4
Comedy Night at The Queen’s with Patrick Maliha & friends (Nanaimo)
Tues Dec 7
Yukon Blonde with dwi at The Queen’s (Nanaimo)
2022 Wed Feb 16 Shaun Majumder at The Port Theatre (Nanaimo) Thur Feb 17 Shaun Majumder at The Sid Williams Theatre (Courtenay) Thurs Mar 3 Texas King with special guests, at the Queen’s (Nanaimo) Sun May 1
Hawksley Workman at The Waverley Hotel (Cumberland)
Mon May 2
Hawksley Workman at The Queen’s (Nanaimo)
TICKETS The Queens
The Waverley
Sid Williams Theatre
Tidemark Theatre
34 Victoria Crs. Nanaimo thequeens.ca
2692 Dunsmuir Ave. Cumberland waverleyhotel.ca
442 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay sidwilliamstheatre.com
Shoppers Row. Campbell River tidemarktheatre.com
All shows presented by GOT POP CONCERTS
9 Pool & Hot Tub: Anchor Inn & Suites. Call ahead, Open to the public in the mornings. 261 Isl Hwy, 250.286.1131.
Everything in store has a book theme
ON THE ICE Skating on the Lake: Echo Lake, and surrounding ponds. Always check depth, every year is different. Tempartures need to stay below minus for at least a week. Hwy 28. Strathcona parklands. CURLING: Practice times and Leagues have re-commenced. Only one sweep at a time. Burger and Beer nights are back. Register online or drop in. 260 Cedar St. Campbell River. 250.287.4200. HORSE RIDING Lessons, and recreational riding: Indoor & outdoor arenas. Balance Equestrian. Shetland Rd. or off Willis Rd, on Walworth St, Campbell River. 250.203.6042. GET ACTIVE Disc Golf: Free course at the Sportsplex. Bring your own disc or they can be purchased from the Sportsplex. 250-923-7911 Weiner Roast & Fires on the Beach: A slice of Canadian Culture, a favourite all year round. Echo Lake, Miller Creek, Loveland Bay, Stories Beach, Rotary Beach Park, are all great locations for a fire & wiener roast. Don’t forget the marshmallows! If you want to
Meet our Book Nerd Staff Right to left: Leah, Kolleen, Alice, Kate, Laetitia, Lynne & Kadence BOOKS
New Titles & Used book exchange
GAMES Games for all ages + Jigsaws
GIFTS
Booked themed, Wall Art, Bags, Socks, Candles
get really Wintery head up to the forzen lakes at Echo lake or Strathcona, Upper Campbell. Indoor Rock Climbing: Something for every age and skill level. On the Rocks Climbing Gym, 1980 N. Isl Hwy. 250.287.7625 rockgym.ca Archery: Play times on week day evenings
ORDER ONLINE Cohobooks.com
and weekends for drop in, leagues, birthday parties and tournaments. (indoor space available)West Coast Archery Tag. 250-830-3446. Galleries & Exhibits CR Art Gallery: Browse local art exhibits and art gallery on display. Open Tues-Sat Noon-5pm, entry by donation. 1235 Shoppers Row. 250.287.2261.
Campbell River’s Largest Book Store
Next to Tim Horton’s Willow Point Unit I-2092 S. Island Hwy 250-923-5121 Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm
t e k r a M s w o ll i W 10
ti o a i c e pr p A r e m o Cust 19, 3
, 8 1 , ov N da ys
WET COAST CLOTHING (778) 418-0888
Everything in store
15% 20% to
OFF 9AM to 6PM
THE COCONUT SHOP Skin care products 250-201-2200 Nature’s Best Skin Care
15% 20% to
OFF 9AM to 6PM
11
on Week
, 20, 2021
in Willows Market
DAVES’ BAKERY (250) 923-4000 davesbakery.ca Open 9am till 5pm (Sat 4pm)
15%
off everything in store and online Thursday to Saturday
“Cust.Apr.Day” 9AM to 6PM Use coupon code “DAVE15” at check out for online orders during “Cust.Apr. Day”
CHAMELEON HAIR LOUNGE
RAVENSONG
(250) 926-0439 Enter from the back above the bakery Open 9AM to 5PM
15% off all retail products
SOAP + CANDLE CO.
SOAP & CANDLES (250) 926-3228 ravensongsoap.com Open 9am till 5pm (Sat 4pm)
15-20%
off selected items
including Christmas gift sets
Redken, Olaplex Fri & Sat ONLY
103B - 2266 S. Island Hwy, Campbell River (inside Willows Market)
12 Crows Nest Gallery: View local & handmade
CR Museum:
art in the gallery. Partake in hands on
Tues to Saturday. 250.287.3103.crmuseum.
workshops/painting. Open Tues-Sat 10am-
ca. 470 Isl Hwy.
5pm. 2116F S. Isl Hwy.Willow Pt 778.348.2769.
Adventure Tours AIR
Direct Art Gallery: Tyee Plaza. Local Art
Helicopter Tours: See the. Discovery Passage;
and Photography. Downtown. 778-346-0676
(20mins) Magnificent flight along the Straight
First Nations Gift Shop: Wei Wai Kum House
of Georgia. Desolation Sound (45mins)
of Treasures, authentic traditional clothing
witness wildlife & natural beauty across
and gifts with local First Nations Artists.
105 lakes. Famous Comox Glacier (45mins)
Open 7 days a week 10am-5pm. 1370 Isl
stunning mountain flight over the beautiful
Hwy, 250-286-1440
Vancouver Isl mountain range. See more 49
Winter hours: 12pm-5pm
North Helicopter tours, 49northhelicopters. com, 250.926.9292.
T Training Day November 28,29 Opening Day Weather pending December 4-5th Christmas Break
December 24, 25, 26th CLOSED
Full Mountain Open Dec 19th to Jan 8th, 9th, 23rd. 29th,30th Cain Cup (tentative due to COVID) January 22nd Lower Mountain Open Jan 10, 17, 24, 31, Feb 7, 14, 28, Back Country Fest February 13th. February 5, 6, 19, 20 21, 26,27, Full Mountain Open Mar 12, 13, 26,27. Vikingfest/Blueberry Jam March 5, 6 Lower Mountain Only Open March 7, 14, 28 Spring Break March 19, 20 to 25th Kidsfest March 19th Retro Ski theme April 2 - April 3 Cypress Cup - Ski Patrol Fundraiser April 2nd Last day of skiing (public) April 9th Closing Day April 10th
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Where the pavement ends and the adventure begins Join us for a breathtaking scenic tour. 2-hour Working Scenic Mail Flight, $190/person. Private Scenic Tour of Friendly Cove & the Hesquiat Peninsula, $588 for 1-3 or $698.25 for 4-6 persons. Rates include tax & fees
GOLD RIVER | 1.877.795.2255 | AIRNOOTKA.COM Air Nootka: Let Air Nootka take you into
Weimar Caves: 5km southeast of Tahsis.
some spectaculat remote islands on their
Moderate to high risk. For experienced or
mail run. 1.877.795.2255 for info.
guided visitors.
CAVING - GOLD RIVER
Thanksgiving Ridge: Above Head Bay at
The Little Huson: Located on the Atluck
the end of Tlupana Inlet. Great for repelling.
Creek canyon that flow from the Little Huson
White Ridge Provincial Park Caving: East
Lake. Easy to moderate caving.
side of Gold River in the mountains. Some
Upana Caves: 5 caves to explore,
of Canada’s longest and deepest caves. For
waterfall, viewing platform. West on Head
experienced cavers.
Bay Forest Rd.
b
ORDER ONLINE NOW AVAILABLE
We have MOVED
als to go Lunch and me
Now at our temporary location until our new home is ready. At the Legion Club between 12PM - 4PM You don’t need to be a member to come in. Or order online for pick-up at our back door. 301-11 Ave (Campbell River Legion)
250-286-6711 bannersrestaurant.ca
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BREAKFAST CHrt & LUl RN iver Airpo
ONLINE ORDERING NOW AVAILABLE
See our new website fuelupcafe.ca Order online for delivery or pick-up
DINE-IN or TAKE OUT
at Campbel
Fresh baking daily Take & Bake Items • Best eggs benny Licensed • Counter Service Dining
OPEN EARLY EVERY DAY to 2PM
at Campbell River Airport
FUEL UP CAFE
250-926-0463 Great food in plane view
Rainbow Sunset Paint night: Learn basic techniques in acrylic and oil painting in this step by step landscape painting workshop! 6PM-8PM. Crows Nest Artist Collective. 2550 S Island Hwy, Campbell River.
season in Campbell River and Port Hardy/ North Island. Due to COVID and uncertainty instead of providing gift-filled shoeboxes this year, gift cards valuing $50 will be provided to women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Donat online, or create a Virtual Shoebox at www.shoeboxproject. com, select Campbell River as the designated fund, OR Drop off Gift Cards between Nov 12th to Dec 8th to Coastal Community Credit Union Discovery Harbour, Coho Books Willow Pt. Campbell River. Or in Port Hardy contact Marina at 250.230.7598. More info. www. shoeboxproject.com or follow our Facebook page, The Campbell River Shoebox project.
NOVEMBER 12
NOVEMBER 13
Couples Pottery: Bring out your inner Demi and Patrick in this couples pottery class !Students will learn pottery wheel throwing techniques that they will utilize in making each other a gift , together. Couples will get to enjoy a beverage of their choice and snacks. Also Nov 26, Dec 3, 4th. 6PM-8PM. Crows Nest Artist Collective. 2550 S Island Hwy, Campbell River.
Quilt & Sew: Free for 50 members and $3.00 for non members. Join this group all day every second Saturday of the month. Saturday is an all day workshop to sew on your own project. Co- Ed 16+ Community Ctr. 10AM -1PM. 401 11th Ave. Campbell River.
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CAMPBELL RIVER & NORTH ISLAND • LOCAL EVENTS •
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NOVEMBER 11 Rememberance Day: Downtown Campbell River. Spirit Square. 10;30am.
The Campbell River Shoebox: The shoebox project for women is back for another
Tap Takeover & Gourmet Hot Dog Day: Twin City Brewing showdown @ Session Tap & Grill, 926 Isl. Hwy. Campbell River.
Cont....
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Festival
of
Trees
People’s Choice Award
Open Every Day: 10-5 December 4th to 31st FREE ADMISSION
museumatcampbellriver crmuseumshop
16 NOVEMBER 14 PIGS -Pink Floyd Tribute: PIGS celebrate the long history of Pink Floyd by bringing to life countless fan favourites from the Floyd’s vast catalogue. Join them for an evening of deep cuts from records lost in the mists of time and gigantic hit songs from the crucial mid-70s years. 7:30-10:30PM. 1220 Shoppers Row, Campbell River. Tix tidemarktheatre.com Kids Learn the Wheel: In this workshop your little artist will learn how to create pottery on the wheel. 1PM-2:30PM. Crows Nest Artist Collective. 2550 S Island Hwy, Campbell River. NOVEMBER 17 Stained Glass Christmas Decorations: Pattern fitting and glass management (how to get the most out of your piece of glass), glass cutting, Grinding, shaping and fitting, Copper foiling, and Soldering! 6PM-9PM. Crows Nest Artist Collective. 2550 S Island Hwy, Campbell River. NOVEMBER 18 Willow Pt. Customer Appreciation Day: Big Savings, 3 Big Days, Thus - Sat Nov 18-20. 9AM-6PM. Ravensong Soap (New) 15-20%, Chameleon Hair Lounge (NEW) 9am -5pm -15% Retail Gift Packages, Willows Market Everything in store- 20%, 9AM - 6PM. Daves Bakery - 15% off 9am-6pm. Pharmasave 15% -20% off the entire store - 9am-6pm, Wetcoast Clothing 15% to 20% everthing in store, The Coconut Shop 15% off everything
in store. 9am - 6pm. Each year this event is huge. 2266 S Isl. Highway. Campbell River. NOVEMBER 20 Roots & Grooves + Tilly’s Folly: Incredible musicians, wonderful entertainers! Infamous folk artist Rick Scott and young keyboard wizard Nico Rhodes combine forces in an inter-generational smorgasbord of roots,blues, jazz and humour. 7:15PM -9:30PM. Live & Streamed. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. Noise Pollution: Few things in life keep giving time and time again. Happily, the music of AC/DC is one of those things. LA-based NOISE POLLUTION is the most authentic tribute to AC/DC currently touring the US. Now they are bringing THE AC/DC EXPERIENCE to Canada. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. Comedy Night: Make sure you reserve, our comedy nights are popular. @Sessions Tap & Grill, 926 Isl. Hwy. Campbell River. NOVEMBER 21 Double the Fun: Double your pleasure with these two works for Double String Quartet. Respighi’s work features ultra-romanticism at its best, while Mendelssohn’s Octet remains the absolute reference piece for this unusual instrumental formation. 2PM-3PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River.
Campbell River
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SHOP AT
THE
GOLF
CAMPBELL
&
COUNTRY
RIVER CLUB
GIFT IDEAS FORE EVERYONE
TWENTY FORE DAYS OF DEALS
Get someone a CRGolf gift card and receive a gift for yourself as well*. Gift Cards can be used for Green Fees, The Academy, Retail Shop, and The Velocity Lounge & Driving Range.
Why do just 12 days of Christmas when you can do 24. Stop by The Shop for great door crasher specials from December 1st to 24th. New door crasher are revealed every second day. Checkout our Instagram @campbellrivergolf for updates on these amazing deals.
HOLIDAY FUN
• $150 Gift Card receives a 1-hour free bay rental at Velocity • $250 Gift Card receives a 2-hour free bay rental at Velocity
It’s not too late to book your Holiday Party. With space for up to 90 people, the Velocity Lounge & Driving Range is a fun venue for your Holiday Party this year. Email or call today to reserve your date.
• $500 Gift Card receives 1 free round of golf & cart
*Promotion valid from 11/15/21 to 12/24/21
18 Beginners Stained Glass: In this class students will learn, Pattern fitting and glass management (how to get the most out of your piece of glass), glass cutting, Grinding, shaping and fitting, Copper foiling, and Soldering! 9:30AM - 3:30PM. Crows Nest Artist Collective. 2550 S Island Hwy, Campbell River. NOVEMBER 22 Ron James: Canada’s stand-out amongst ‘stand-ups’, award-winning comedian RON JAMES has been selling out theatres for over 20 years with his marathon, side-splitting performances. Marshalling a comedian’s eye for satire and a writer’s ear for language. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tixtidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. Tiki Night: Watch for more info. @Sessions Tap & Grill, 926 Isl. Hwy. Campbell River. 926 Isl. Hwy. Campbell River. NOVEMBER 27 Beginners Silk Screening: Using the photo emulsion technique students will learn to create their own silkscreens for t-shirt and paper printing. 2PM-5PM. rows Nest Artist
Collective. 2550 S Island Hwy, Campbell River. Toy & Craft Sale: Nov 27-28th. 10AM-4PM, @ Sportsplex. Handmade Toys, Unique Crafts, one-of-a-kinds. Vaccination not required. This is a flow thru event. Alder Rd. Willow Point Rd. Campbell River. Gigglin’ Gourmets: Have a laugh while you cook and bake each week. This 4-week program will teach you some kitchen skills, and leave you with delicious food to take home. You’re guaranteed to have fun! Join the Gigglin’ Gourmets. Community Centre Kitchen. 9:30am-10:30AM 11th, Ave. Campbell River. NOVEMBER 30 Keep Canada’s Lifeline going: Our team is ready to welcome you with cookies, juice and all safety measures in place. Appointments only at this time to enable us to adhere to public health guidelines. 1:30PM-7:30PM. Book an appointment, on our GiveBlood app, by calling 1-888-2DONATE (1-888-236-6283) DECEMBER 3 Truck Parade: Starlight shopping and the BIA Big Truck Parade. 5pm. Spirit Square activities.
Fresh West Coast Dining
The Perfect Gift for $100 the Perfect night out FOR RESERVATIONS 250-287-4143 DISCOVERY HARBOUR CENTRE Campbell River
Open from 5pm-10pm
Overlooking The Marina
19 DECEMBER 4 365 Pro Wrestling: “Quest for Glory”. 7PM10PM. Willow Point Hall. 2165.S. Island Hwy. Campbell River. Black Creek Winter Market: Local Artisans, One of a Kind and Handmade Gifts, Rustic Setting, Tasty Treats. 10AM-4PM. Black Creek Community Ctr. 2001 Black Creek Rd. Comedy Night: Patrick Maliha & Friends, @ SoCal Restaurant. 2231 Isl. Hwy. S Campbell River. Reserve your seat 250.923.7611. DECEMBER 5 Keep Calm and Corol On: And the trumpet shall sound! Celebrate the holiday season with fun, games and merriment, with brass fanfares and flourishes - courtesy of our own VIS Back Row Brass with special guests Festive Brass. 2PM-3PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. Clay Christmas Trees & Knomes: In this 1 day workshop students will learn the basics of hand building with clay. Techniques in rolling, cutting and attaching clay will be covered as
well as an over view of tools. Students will get to choose wether to create trees , gnomes or both. 2PM-4PM. Crows Nest Artist Collective. 2550 S Island Hwy, Campbell River. DECEMBER 6 Soda Pony + Joelle Rabu & Nico Rhodes: Fueled by the local drive-through, Soda Pony creates an explosion of sound reminiscent of a sci-fi, trailer-trash version of Simon and Garfunkel, sharing vocal leads that blend the earnest and the irreverent. 9PM-11PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. DECEMBER 9 Home for the Holidays: Acclaimed New York Actor & Singer, JAMES RICH brings an exciting and festive concert to Vancouver Island for the first time. Featuring over 2 hours of holiday favorites ‘Home for the Holiday’s’ will have you feeling the spirit of the season all through the evening.With special guest vocalist, 13-year-old Vancouver Island emerging artist, SAMANTHA MADILL. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tixtidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River.
as
Order Christm
& New Years
SEAFOOD PLATTERS before December 16th Various sizes made to suit.
L I V E E A S T C OA S T
LOBSTER & SCALLOPS PRE-ORDER BY DEC 16TH Live and Cooked Crab Tuna Loin Side Stripe Shrimp & Spot Prawns Fresh local Shellfish
Halibut,Cod, Sockeye Locally smoke Salmon & Black Cod Catering Menu Available Website: crabbybobs.ca
Crabby Bob’s on Fisherman’s Wharf Call 250-830-1155 • 250-204-6111 •
20 DECEMBER 18 A Valley Girls Christmas: Join us for an epic night out as Valley Girls Dance hosts their very first LIVE show! Valley Girls is a Heels Training & Performance Program that embraces all bodies, all levels & all ages (18+). 7PM-8:30PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. Comedy Night: Reservations recommended @Sessions Tap & Grill, 926 Isl. Hwy. Campbell River. JANUARY 1 Pola Bear Swim: Saratoga Beach, Dress up in some fun costume. Fire and Hot Chocolate. The pipers will be piping you into the water. See who can last the longest. Reg starts at 10AM. JANUARY 16 Wolf Castle + Les Hostesses: Live streaming Concert. Hailing from Pabineau First Nation in Mi’kma’ki (New Brunswick), the 24-year-
old Wolf Castle, aka Tristan Grant, is a true renaissance artist. Gifted with a DIY spirit thanks to being raised on the reservation by a family of artists, musicians, and filmmakers, Grant taught himself to write music and play piano at the age of 11, and has released new projects—written, recorded, and produced mainly by himself—every year since he was 17. Les Hôtesses d’Hilaire, a multi-awards winning Acadian band hails from New Brunswick. With their groovy psychedelicinfluenced rock, the band is known for giving a great show with a bigger-than-nature frontman. 7:20PM-8:50PM.Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. JANUARY 19 Snowed in Comedy Tour: The biggest comedy tour in C anada. Playing in 70 cities this year coast to coast. Recommended Ages is 19+. cont...
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Order Online at rockychoc.com
Put a tree under the tree ROCKY
MOUNTAIN
Campbell River, Discovery Mall 250-850-1199
ChristmasLunch+Dinner Christmas Turkey Buffet Luncheons for Businesses & Groups December Weekdays Reservations Only
NEW
Book your Christmas Parties, lunch or dinner, in the Tap&Grill or Acropolis Room
OPEN MONDAYS 4PM to 8:30PM
LUNCH & DINNER SUNDAYS 12PM to 8:30PM
Download our app fiftytapgrill.com
Hours: Mon, Wed & Thu 4PM-8:30PM | Fri-Sat 4PM-9PM | Sun 12PM-8:30PM | Closed Tues 428 South Island Hwy • (778) 420-5050
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THE BOOM BOAT SUITE A uniquely designed suite with artworks from Don Bastian. Across from the famous Telegraph Boardwalk.
1 Queen | Full Kitchen | Bathroom | Open year round Rates and more info. www.donbastian.com/accommodation 1.800.200.4665 or 1.250.514.5030 1605 Telegraph Cove Rd. Telegraph Cove North Island. Four international comedians come together to create one amazing show with each bringing a unique and hilarious take providing something for everyone. 8PM-10PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre. com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. JANUARY 22 Diyet+Jim Byrnes: Diyet is an alternative country, folk, roots, and traditional with catchy melodies and stories deeply rooted in Diyet’s Indigenous worldview and northern life. Jim Byrnes lives and breathes music. For nearly fifty years he’s crooned, drawled, belted, hollered and sweet-talked more songs into a microphone than most people ever get to hear in a single lifetime. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. Comedy Night: Reservations recommended @Sessions Tap & Grill, 926 Isl. Hwy. Campbell River.
JANUARY 26 Prelude to a Kiss: Under the creative direction of the National Stage Company of Canada comes an original west coast concert presentation memorializing the 25th Anniversary year since the passing of the legendary ELLA FITZGERALD. PRELUDE TO A KISS blends together an unforgettable evening of popular jazz standards and ballads made famous by the multi Grammy Award-winning ‘first lady of song’, Ella Fitzgerald. 7:30-9:30PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre.com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River. JANUARY 29 Speed Control + David Gogo: Hailing from Canada’s North in the Yukon, Speed Control is the rock band that can make you move even at minus 40! David Gogo has 6 JUNO Award nominations, has been named Guitarist Of The Year three times. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Tidemark Theatre. Tix- tidemarketheatre. com. Shoppers Row, Campbell River.
LEATHERS
Belts, Buckles, Hats, Boots, Jackets, Pants Mukluks & Moccasins Souvenirs & Accessories “A western store and so much more!”
Pier Street 920 Island Hwy Campbell River
250-286-3554
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•
COMOX VALLEY • EVENTS • THINGS TO DO • FEATURES •
COMOX VALLEY ROAD-TRIP The Comox Valley is often coined art and culture central for Vancouver Island. During the winter, art galleries, studio tours, theatres and culinary delights take the stage to celebrate the season. Nestled at the base of Mount Washington, Forbidden Plateau, and the Comox Glacier the city sees visitors from all over the world take a trip to the Comox
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Valley whether it is to ski or dine or take in the shopping. The Comox Valley will still see many of it’ usual Christmas events, however they will be stretched out over days with crowd restrictions. Parades and Moonlight madness will have to wait for another year, however many businesses are working on some wonderful surprises and treats for their shoppers.
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COMOX VALLEY • THINGS TO DO •
MUSEUMS. The Cumberland Museum and Archives: The extensive archives and artefacts of the community of Cumberland. The Museum is located in the heart of the historic Village, steps from #6 Memorial Mine Park. Provides Visitor Services for travellers. Current hours of operation are Tuesday - Saturday 11 am - 4:30, Comox Air Force Museum: See the history of the Snowbirds and other Canadian airforce artifacts. Corner of Military Row & Ryan Road 339.8162. www.comoxairforcemuseum.ca HMCS Alberni Museum: Experience the stories of more than a century of Canadian military history in times of war and peace. VIsit us as we celebrate our 21st year of our Remembrance programming. 625 Cliffe Ave, Courtenay, 250.897.4611. Walk the Air Park: Free great views. Courtenay, Off Cliff Ave, turn onto Mansfield Rd.
WINTER WINERIES 40 Knots Winery: Tastings & Tours. One of the largest Estate vineyards on the Island. 17 Estate wines. Tue-Sun 11am-5pm or book a Private Tasting, or Cellar Tour. Tastings by reservation. 2400 Anderton Rd, Comox. 250.941.8810 www.40KnotsWinery.com
ART GALLERIES Comox Valley Art Gallery: Check calendar for current exhibits, Book for small groups 250.338.6211. 580 Duncan Ave. Courtenay. Potters Place Gallery: The alchemy of earth, fire, water and air brings to you the magic of ceramic art. Each month a featured local artist will have their work on display. Open Thursdays to Saturdays 10am-3pm. 180 5th Street, Courtenay. 1.250.334.4613.
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Pearl Ellis Gallery: Showcases local artists. Promotes interest and study of the arts. 250.339.2822. 1729A Comox Ave. check hours. Art Alchemy Studio: A working studio and gallery where artists share the space and experience of art making. 250.218.2742. 250.218.
OTHER FUN SWIMMING INDOORS: 50ft swimming pool and wading pools are open, for laps, classes and leisure. Please check scheduled times for public swims. 250.338.5371 or .courtenay.ca/rec. Royston Ship Wrecks: At least 14 twicretired ships were sunk to make a lovely rusting breakwater in the Comox Harbour Goose Spit. Over the course of a few decades, ships which no longer served their sea-faring purpose were towed out into Comox Harbour, drilled full of holes, and strategically sunk to calm treachous waters for fisherman and loggers. 18th century ships can be seen. Located in Comox Harbour, Royston at the end of Hilton Rd. C o m o x Va l l e y F a r m e r ’ s M a r k e t : Have moved indoors for the winter to the Native Sons Hall. All visitors are to wear a mask and unlike any other year it’s “Shop not Stop”. Farmers fresh produce, artisan food products, craft beers, wine and spirits. Christmas faire. 360 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay. Mountain Biking: Cumberland is the unofficial epicentre for mountain biking in BC. Over 180 trails, a combination of beginner to advance riding levels. All year round. For maps and entry points visit Dodge city cycle. 2705 Dunsmuir Ave, Cumberland. www. dodgecitycycles
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COMOX VALLEY
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• LOCAL EVENTS •
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EXHIBITS Cover UP: Nov - Dec 24th. Tl’azt’en artist Damian John re-imagines new stories to be told; mystical, fantastical, imaginative, deeply intriguing new stories. An exploration of the cultural genocide perpetuated by church and state. Artfulthegallery, 526C Cumberland Rd. Courtenay.
EVENTS
SATURDAYS Saturday Bands: Listen (No Dancing) the afternoon away with us! All with a chance to win in our weekly Meat Draws. Net proceeds go to community Charities. Come and support your community.2pm. 367 Cliff Ave. Courtenay. November 17 Mini Christmas Craft Fair: We are inviting our Evergreen Club members and activity groups to donate
items for a mini craft and bake sale. We plan to have tables set up in part of the Rotary Hall so that members and guests can browse and shop. 411 Anderton Ave. Courtenay. November 18 O Christmas Tea: Fans of Monty Python, Mr. Bean, and Dr. Seuss Grab your teacups! Off-Broadway Comedians and 3-time IMPRESARIO Award-Winners (London) James & Jamesy present their outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive Christmas comedy classic O Christmas Tea — an astonishing show that delights thousands of hearts every holiday season. 7:30PM-9PM. Sid Williams Theatre. 442 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay. November 20 Stokefest Pre-Ski Season Show: We will be hosting a movie screening of the new 2021 Matchsticks productions film “Stomping Grounds” at the Waverley Hotel Pub in Cumberland. Join us as we reunite with our winter family, for a night of local ski video submissions, a season update from Mount Washington Staff, prizes, laughs, and more! Tickets are available for two showing times early show at 4:30 pm & 8:00 pm (age 19+). Tickets are sold in Tables
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TOUR OPERATORS CLEANING SHORELINES TO SAVE WILDLIFE It’s been just two months since the Campbell River Association of Tour Operators (CRATO) was awarded provincial Clean Coast, Clean Waters funding, to remove garbage that has washed up onto shorelines in the Discovery Passage, and Discovery Islands region. The funding is intended to provide work for tour operators that will lead a crew of young adults in an effort to clean up 350kms of shoreline between Campbell River and Comox Valley. CRATO operators have been able to utilize their tour equipment such as boats, helicopters, barges to perform the massive clean-up target to be completed by December. A dozen diverse youth, have been hired to help and train in marine safety and heavy equipment as they collect, sort, and recycle commercial and human debris. Each day, the crew of tour operators, youth, together with some dedicated volunteers head out to shorelines, rain hail, or shine to meet their tonnage target. Approximately 20,000kg has been collected recorded at end of October, and 225km of cleaned shoreline covered, that’s 88kg per kilometer. The terrain is difficult and rugged, to unload crew and to load garbage, is a combination of boats, pully’s and manpower, used to get the garbage to the landing craft, which is moved to a barge, then later sent to the sorting warehouse in Campbell River. A collection of styrofoam, ropes, steel, plastics, and tires is then sorted into 14 categories for recycling. Everything has to be stripped of contaminants then weighed and counted for reporting before it heads to either landfill or various recycling plants. Over the next couple of months, you will see the "CRAT GRIZZLY" downtown Campbell River, which will reflect how much the operators are collecting each week. CRATO wants the community to become more aware of how much waste and garbage is dumped into the ocean which is killing our whales, seals, dolphins, and other wildlife. To volunteer contact 250.202.2550. For more information on CRATO go to, www.campbellrivertours.com. CLEAN COAST CLEAN WATERS BC PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT INITIATIVE -In cooperation with the Campbell River Association of Tour Operators.
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of 1,2,4, or 6 for both showtimes. One purchaser/table, please arrive with your entire party. First come first serve for table choice! 2692 Dunsmuir Ave. Cumberland. Saturday Bands Litebrew: Listen (No Dancing) the afternoon away with us! All with a chance to win in our weekly Meat Draws. Net proceeds go to community Charities. Come and support your community.2PM-5PM. 367 Cliffe Av. Courtenay. November 23 Step into Wilderness: Known for their enthusiastic virtual presentations, the pair will present stories and images from the Courtenay and District Museum’s 2020 book Step Into Wilderness-A Pictorial History of Outdoor Exploration published with Harbour Publishing. Virtual Courtenay Museum. 7PM . 207 Fourth St. Courtenay. www.courtenaymuseum.ca November 26 RON JAMES: Canada’s stand-out amongst ‘stand-ups’, award-winning comedian RON JAMES has been selling out theatres for over 20 years with his marathon, sidesplitting performances. 7:30PM-9PM. Sid Williams Theatre. 442 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay. November 30 Parent & Tot Paint Party: This activity, for children 6 years and under accompanied by an adult, is for our little friends who are curious and ready to experiment and learn with art based materials. Each week children and their caregivers will complete a different project together. Participants are welcome to register for just one session or all of them! 1PM-2PM, 489 Old Island Hwy. Courtenay. www.valleychild.ca
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December 1 Gingerbread Village Charity Auction: Raising funds for local charities in our community. Contribute a gingerbread creation or teddy bear basket to auction off for charity. All Day, Online Event with Crown Isle. wwwcrownisle.com December 3 Holiday Resort Walk: Christmas at Crown Isle returns! The Holiday Resort Walk and Gingerbread Village are back for 2021. Thousands of lights, visits with Santa, s’mores, colourful displays, games, music, movies and more. 399 Clubhouse Drv. Courtenay. 5PM - 9PM.
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Keep Calm & Carol On - And the trumpet shall sound! Celebrate the holiday season with fun, games and merriment, with brass fanfares and flourishes – courtesy of our own VIS Back Row Brass with special guests Festive Brass. 7PM. Sid Williams Theatre. 442 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay. December 5 Comox Valley Concert Band: The CV Concert Band will be back for their annual December concert. Watch for details and ticket information www.evergreenclub. ca. 2PM. 411 Anderton Ave. Courtenay. Make Seasonal Wreaths: With Curly Hazel, Create a unique and beautiful seasonal wreath combining traditional basketry methods and natural, local materials. We will explore personalizing each wreath, learning to work with the natural asymmetry of the components. All materials will be provided, including seasonal winter foliage, and all participants will take home their own festive work of art! 1PM-4PM. Lupine Art Studio, 442 Duncan Ave. Courtenay. December 10 Opening Day: Alpine and Nordic operations are expected to open conditions permitting. Please contact us at 250338-1386 for more information at this time.Alpine Way, Mount Washington. December 11 Home for the Holidays: Acclaimed New York Actor & Singer JAMES RICH brings Nat King Cole to concert for
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the first time. Featuring 2 hours of holiday favorites, ‘Home for the Holiday’s’ will have you feeling the spirit of the season all through the evening. 8PM-9:50PM. Sid Williams Theatre. 442 Cliffe Ave. Courtenay. December 12 Christmas Market: Wrap up your holiday shopping (or buy some treats for yourself) with the Christmas Market at Crown Isle. Check out local artisans throughout the Clubhouse and shop for the holidays. 12PM - 8PM. 399 Clubhouse Drv. Courtenay. December 17 Night skiing: starts Friday, and runs daily throughout the Christmas break till January 2, 2022. Night skiing will then resume regular days and hours every Friday to Sunday evenings from 3:30 pm to 9 pm, January 3rd to March 27th. December 19 Breakfast with Santa: Enjoy a pancake breakfast with the big guy! 399 Clubhouse Drv. Courtenay. Check our website for final details. January 5 Comox Valley Children’s Choir: Calling all children who love to sing! Who: Ages 7-10 years. To register, visit www.comoxvalleychildrenschoir.com. January 17 Winter Bites Festival: 3 weeks, different venues around the area hold events under the WinterBites Festival name, all under the gaze of beautiful Mount Washington. Concerts are held through the entire stretch of the midwinter event, and pond hockey games and public skates are organized, some of which are hosted on a specially built outdoor rink. Additionally, deals with local ski mountains are in place, making this festival an excellent winter holiday destination. For more infor www. gowherewhen.com January 23 Electrifying Eroica: Our full orchestra returns to the stage. Powerful symbolism permeates the work, the most perfect example of resilience in face of adversity. Also on the program, a new VIS commission featuring the words of Nanaimo Poet Laureate Tina Biello, with music by Vancouver composer Katerina Gimon. 2PM - 3PM. Sid Williams Theatre. 442 Cliff Ave. Courtenay. January 24 PRELUDE TO A KISS: blends together an unforgettable evening of popular jazz standards and ballads made famous by the multi Grammy Award-winning ‘first lady of song’, Ella Fitzgerald. 8PM-10PM, Sid Williams Theatre. 442 Cliff Ave. Courtenay.
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X Port Hardy Port McNeill X
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north from Victoria Victoria to Duncan . . . 79km, 49-min Duncan to Nanaimo . . 50km, 38-min
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north from Nanaimo Nanaimo to Parksville 40km, 30-min Parksville to Courtenay 74km, 46-min Courtenay to Campbell River . . . . 50km, 37-min Campbell River to Telegraph Cove . . 201km, 135-min
West from Parksville Parksville to Port Alberni . . . . . . 56km, 40-min Port Alberni to Tofino 126km, 175-min
West from Campbell River Campbell River to Gold River . . . . . . 87.5km, 132-min
U
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South Coast to North Coast Victoria to Port Hardy 498km, 5hr 23min
N
East Coast to West Coast Nanaimo to Tofino 207km, 2hr 54min
X Quadra Island
ell River x
nt Washington X
e Beach X MiracL
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Cumberland X
X Courtenay & Co
X Hornby Island
DenmAn Island X
Qualicum Beach x
Port Alberni X
X Parksville
X Coo
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X Ladysmith
X Tofino
Ucluelet x
Lake Cowic
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X Bamfield
Duncan x nd X Salt Spring Isla
X Sidney
Saanich X
Downtown Victoria X Sooke X
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Parksville &
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Qualicum Beach Area
• EVENTS • THINGS TO DO • FEATURES •
PARKSVILLE ROADTRIP Parksville, Qualicum Beach and the Pacific Rim remain the beach paradise of Vancouver Island even in the winter. Christmas is a time that is filled with beautifully lit gardens and walking amongst the islands oldest trees. Beaches are still visited on crisp mornings for storm watching and diving. Surrounded by Resorts along the shores it is holiday season all year round. You will find
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magnificent full service spas, ultimate dining experiences, and facilities that will keep the whole family busy. Exploring waterfalls, wine and cheese tasting, wildlife viewing or for the adventurous, Horne Lake caves. Qualicum Beach and Coombs holds the baton on shopping experiences. If you have never seen it before, it was probably bought from Coombs or Qualicum Beach. Coombs market is open till Christmas, with no goats on the roof of the famous Market barn in the winter. (Photo Milner Garden)
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Parksville &
Qualicum Beach Area • LOCAL EVENTS •
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EXHIBITS Threads of Hope: Fibre Arts Network presents Threads of Hope. Threads of Hope is an exhibition of 52 artworks by 48 fibre artists, each personally interpreting hope for the future. These exhibition pieces flow from one to the other with a ‘thread of hope’ connecting them. Thus, completing a line of artists, joining forces to improve our world. November 9th to December 17th. 10AM-4PM. The old Schoolhouse Arts Centre. 122 Fern Rd. West Qualicum Beach. Oh the Places I have Been: Heather McAlister -Ever-shifting cultural norms shape our life’s timelines. At times, change is marked and remembered, other times the evolution is so incremental it develops unnoticed. Heather’s vast mixed media approach creates abstractions that are powerful and poignant. From forays into textiles, encaustic, and thick-bodied oils, her work delves deeply in layers to extract the very marrow of life’s moments and meanings. Her work creates colour stories that draw us into the complexity of our emotionality. The use of the encaustic process creates a luminous translucency that makes for peekaboo moments into various storylines. 10AM-4PM, The Old Schoolhouse Arts Ctr. 122 Fern Rd. West Qualicum Beach. Showing Nov 9th to Dec 17th. November 13th Fill the Boots for Food 2021: Once again, Parksville firefighters are asking the public to support the community in need with this year’s “Fill the Boots for Food Drive” to be held on Saturday, Nov 13 and Sunday, Nov 14 from 9 am to 5 pm. Due to the pandemic and like
2020, there will be no door-to-door collection in neighbourhoods. Physically distanced and masked, our firefighters will be at set locations in the City asking residents to generously support the Salvation Army food bank with cash donations. Parksville Fire will also accept donations of new unwrapped toys for the Society of Organized Services. Please watch our social media feeds and website for details and locations. 9AM-5PM. Kendra Konsorado, 250.248.3242.
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Pottery Sale: Arrowsmith Pottery, one day only Christmas Sale. 10AM-4PM. Bradley Centre. 975 Shearme Rd. Coombs. November 14th Mile Zero Brass -TOSH music: The Mile Zero Brass was formed in 2015 with a mandate to perform original works for brass instruments in various combinations - for this performance at The Old School House they have chosen works for brass trio. The group takes its name from the Victoria landmark that marks the beginning of the journey along the Trans-Canada Highway. The members of the group are all musicians of the Victoria Symphony: David Michaux, who has played trumpet with the VS since 2001, Alana Despins, principal horn since 2009, and Robert Fraser, bass trombone since 1990. 2:30PM-3:45PM. Qualicum Beach Community Hall. 644 Memorial Ave. Qualicum Beach. 250.752.6133. November 19 Oceanside Grandmothers’ 14th Annual Christmas Extravaganza: This 14th Extravaganza welcomes you in person with an abundance of unique homemade gifts from baking, crafts, jams, jellies, stocking stuffers and knitting, to Christmas decorations, swags and wreaths. Our local Oceanside Grans contributed over $500,000 to the Stephen Lewis Foundation’s
Grandmothers Campaign. Funds support the Grandmothers Campaign throughout sub-Saharan Africa to counter the impact that HIV/AIDS and now COVID have on African grandmothers and their orphaned grandchildren. Vaccine Verification & ID Required. 10AM4PM. Bayside Oceanfront Resort. 240 Dogwood St. Parksville. FREE. November 20 Knox Indoor Fall Fair: Men’s & Ladies’ Clothing, Accessories, Christmas Items, Jewellery, Books, a Quality Corner with specialty items, Home Baking, a Silent Auction. SILENT AUCTION: The Auction will include special merchandise primarily donated by our congregation and neighbours. CAFÉ: Unfortunately we had to cancel the popular Café, in order to protect the health and safety of our congregation and the surrounding community. CHILDREN’S PLAYROOM: Kids will enjoy a supervised playroom with books and games in a restful setting. INFORMATION + SOLD + HOLD. We offer a room for you to store your purchases while you shop for even more bargains. FREE ONSITE PARKING in the Parking Lot adjacent to the church. 8AM-2PM. Knox United Church, 345 Pym St. Parksville November 24 Toy Drive -Tigh-Na-Mara: Stop by our ‘Big Tent’ in our front parking lot, drop off a new unwrapped toy, gift card or cash donation and be a part of our community’s morning of giving. Coffee and a pastry to go is on us! All donations will be given to the Society of Organized Services’ Caring for Community at Christmas campaign. Salvation Army Food Bank – we would also welcome any donation of cash or non-perishable food items which will be delivered to the local Salvation Army Food Bank. If you can’t make the Toy Drive Drive Through, please consider the Toy Drive Breakfasts that occur November 1 - 23, 7:30am - 11:30am, Monday to Friday at Tigh-Na-Mara. Bring in a new unwrapped toy, gift card or cash donation during our Toy Drive Breakfast period, and receive a Traditional Breakfast of 2 eggs, bacon or sausage, breakfast potatoes & toast complementary. OR Purchase our Traditional Breakfast during this period and we will donate $10 from every breakfast sold to the Society of Organized Services for their Caring for Community at Christmas Campaign. 7AM-10:30AM, Tigh-Na-Mara Resort. 747 Jones St. Qualicum Beach. November 26 Qualicum’s Winterfest Craft Fair: A Celtic-themed event full of live entertainment, a local artist showcase, a Haggis Hunt for children, and more. This fair offers artisans who produce a wide range of high-quality products, from clothing and jewelry to art, clay and metal works, home decor, toys, children’s fashion, gourmet delicacies, and gifts. The organizers have added a dining area in front of the stage, so you can re-fuel to local musical entertainment without leaving the venue. Qualicum Beach Civic Ctr. Nov 26-28th. 9AM-5PM. 747 Jones St. Qualicum Beach. Elegant Threads: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Elegant threads is the annual fall show and sale of the Qualicum Weavers and Spinners Guild. It features one of a kind hand-spun yarns, unique clothing and accessories plus table linens and decor. All items are hand crafted by guild members. 10AM-4PM. The Commons, Qualicum Beach.. Nov 26-27. 744 Primrose St. Qualicum Beach. November 27 Parksville Light Up: Businesses and and the streets of downtown Parksville will Light up to welcome in the Christmas season. Quilt House Quilters 15th Annual Christmas Sale: Wide variety of hand crafted items for gift giving, home décor and more. Quilts,
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fabric gift ideas, ornaments, quilted clothing, fibre art, hand knits, placements, table runners, fabric bags and much more. Come and experience Christmas in the Village of Qualicum. 10AM-3PM. St Stephen’s Church. 250.248.2336. Novem ber 28 4th Annual A very Merry Artisan: A local artisan market located in downtown Qualicum Beach. There are 30 local artisans, Deb & Gord of Knockananna Grill will be there with their food truck (awesome eggs benny!), live music, a free raffle with artisan wares and a good vibe! Fundraising for Oceanside Hospice Society . With Winterfest at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre and Qualicum’s sweet downtown, makes for a perfect way to spend a day in Qualicum Beach! 10:30AM-3:30AM. Qualicum Beach Community Hall. 644 Memorial Ave. Qualicum Beach. ALL MONTH - DECEMBER Winter Wonderland Season: Returns for another season to the Oceanside Place Arena. Runs till Jan 4th. Look to the RDN website for dates, times and ever changing information. 8:00am at Oceanside Place Arena, 830 West Island Hwy. 250 248-3252. December 3 Home for the Holidays - A Nat King Cole Christmas: Under the creative direction of the National Stage Company of Canada comes an exciting west coast premiere holiday concert celebrating the iconic Nat King Cole.Set amongst a stunning holiday background, Home for the Holidays - the musical songbook of the season in the style of this beloved superstar. With his rich and velvety voice, natural charm and dynamic stage presence, James Rich captures the tone, feel, style and beauty of the season . 7:30PM-9:30PM. Knox
United Church, 345 Pym St. Parksville. 778.587.9488. TOSH Holiday Pop Up Market: Support Local artists this Holiday Season. Shop local artists and artisans for fibre art, jewellery, paintings, pottery and more. TOSH Resident Artists & TOSH Giftshop have a wide selection art and artisan goods available for purchase! 10AM-4PM. The Old School House. 122 Fern Rd. Qualicum Beach. December 4 Bradley Winter Artisan Market: Local artisan vendors, unique treasures, at our Winter Market. 10AM-3PM. Bradley Ctr. 975 Shearme Rd. Coombs Free to enter. December 9 Narnia: The Musical is a dramatization of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe It is a show for all ages - a family treat as we emerge from a trying time. Your spirit will soar with all those in the enchanted land of Narnia. 7:30PM-9:30PM. The Village Theatre. 110 West 2nd Ave. Qualicum Beach. Dec 9 & Dec 31. January 13-16 One Act Play Festival: Enjoy a daring, imaginative and diverse collection of one-act plays. The 16th annual Vancouver Island Juried One Act Play Festival is an affordable, enjoyable way to experience the pulse of Oceanside’s drama scene. The Village Theatre, 110 West 2nd Ave. Qualicum Beach. Jan 13 7:30PM. Jan 16 2PM.
We are thrilled to welcome theatre lovers back to the Village Theatre. Prepare to be spellbound this holiday season as we present the family-friendly
The Musical, PLAYING
December 9 - 31, 2021. From Feb 17-March 6, 2022. The poignant and hilarious, Sylvia by A. R. Gurney takes the stage.
The final production of the season will be the powerful Canadian play, How It Works, playing, April 21 - May 8, 2022. We look forward to the safe return to live theatre in Qualicum Beach and can’t wait to see you! More information at
echoplayers.ca
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THE PORT THEATRE PRESENTS
FOREV CIRCUS Friday, December 3rd at 7.30pm Featuring aerial hammock, contortion, juggling, diabolo, and more!
WINTER HARP A MAGICAL MEDIEVAL ADVENTURE Saturday, December 11th at 3.30PM Christmas begins here!
PIGS: Canada's Pink Floyd
Friday, November 12th @ 7.30PM Flawless performances of classic and rare Pink Floyd songs.
O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy
Sunday November 21st @ 3:00PM & 7:30PM James & Jamesy Christmas classic. Off-Broadway Comedians
RON JAMES - Back Where I Belong Thursday November 25th @ 7:30PM Canada's stand-out amongst 'stand-ups', award-winning comedian.
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Sunday, December 5th @ 7:30PM Celebrating NAT KING COLE starring JAMES RICH. With special gues SAMANTHA MADILL
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Call 250.754.8550, Buy online porttheatre.com or visit the Ticket Centre Downtown, Front Street, Nanaimo.
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•
N A N A IM O
• EVENTS • THINGS TO DO • FEATURES •
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NANAIMO ROADTRIP Nanaimo has three very distinct features, enveloping Old Town feel surrounded by cafe’s and restaurants along side the buzz of the harbour front and marina life to the newer contemporary Nanaimo that you find on the north end. Theatre life, music, comedy and shows are part of the abundant life that living on the path edge to the mainland brings to mainland travellers. Home too many craft breweries, history walks and local farmers, Nanaimo is the hub of the island. You can disappear quickly out of the city into the hills and wander amongst waterfalls, and superb hiking trails. Golf courses are open with alm ost perfect mild conditions all year round. Each Christmas the town comes to life with Markets, parades, Christmas pantomimes, starlight shopping and yes, the Christmas light cruise boat parade. Many of these events are happening on a lighter scale for 2021.
MUSEUMS
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NA N AIM O • THINGS TO DO •
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MARKETS
Î Vancouver Island Military Museum: More than 25 exhibits and displays showcasing Canada’s proud Military History and Traditions. A truly impressive collection of military memorabilia and artifacts from the War of 1812 right through to Canada’s involvement in Afghanistan. 250-753-3814. 100 Cameron Rd. Nanaimo
Î Island Roots Bowen Market: Indoor and Online market. Every Wednesday from2pm-6pm. Beban Park This market will have primarily food produce and artisan foods. You can also shop online with all the usual vendors. Ordering is open from Wednesday at 6pm to Sunday at midnight. Order Pick-up Wednesday after order is placed. See our website for pick-up procedure. www.islandrootsonlinemarket.square.site.
Î Nanaimo Museum: Located in the downtown core. The museum features several permanent exhibits that help visitors understand Nanaimo’s past and present. Walk through a replica coal mine, discover what life was like for the early Snuneymuxw First Nation, and find out how the Nanaimo’s World Championship Bathtub Race began.. 100 Museum Way.
Î Cedar Farmers’ Market: Sunday. Full-time vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, hand crafted items, Christmas Crafts and Arts. Woodbank school, 1984 Woodbank Rd. Cedar.
Î Nanaimo Art Gallery: Located in the heart of downtown Nanaimo on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “Boarder X” Open Tue-Fri 12pm-5pm Sat. 10am-5pm. 150 Commercial St. Nanaimo. 250.754.1750.
MOVIE THEATRE Î Movie Theatres: Landmarks Cinemas 8 Avalon Theatre Nanaimo, 3D theatre. Woodgrove Shopping Centre, 6631 North Island Highway, Nanaimo, 250-390-5018. Galaxy Cinemas Nanaimo, 2134750 Rutherford Road, Nanaimo, (250) 729-8000.
ART & GALLERIES
Î Golden Otter Gallery: Features a curated collection of art that reflects our shared island values of conservation and respect for nature. Here one can find a place where they can support local artists in the acquisition of original, locally made artwork for their homes. 250-753-0497. 34 Nicol St.
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CREPES & COFFEE
Ironworks Cafe & Creperie Delicious Italian Coffee & Belgian Crepes Sweet & Savoury Gluten Free, Keto and vegan options
Visit website for details www.ironworkscafe.ca Duncan, Ladysmith, Nanaimo & Port Alberni GET ACTIVE Î Bowling Brechin Lanes: 5 pin and bumpers are perfect for the whole family. League bowling, glow bowl & open bowl. Book your time. Open Wed-Sund. 11am-9pm. (250) 753-2341. 1870 E Wellington Rd Î Splitsville BOWLING & Entertainment: 16 lanes, cosmic bowling, games room, lounge. State of the art Brunswick lanes scoring, convenient lanesid service, glow-in-th-dark bowling, dynamic video screens and music. Open Thus-2pm-12am, Fri & Sat-2pm to 1am, Sun. 2pm to 10pm. 171 Calder Rd, Nanaimo. 250.754.2442. BOOK AHEAD. Î Escape rooms: Escapism Nanaimo, Exclusively desinged by an internationally renowned design company. 3 rooms choose room. Must reserve your time. 250.753.2341 1870 East Wellington Rd. Nanaimo. Î Breakout Rooms: Nanaimo’s first live escape game room you have 60 minutes with a team of 2-6 people in your bubble to find the clues, solve the puzzles and escape before the time runs out! Book your game on our website. 101-321 Wallace St, Nanaimo. 250-591-9867. Î Rock Climbing: The Romper Room has been Vancouver Island’s Premier Indoor Rock Climbing destination for fun. To Challenge Your Mind! The Romper Room Indoor Climbing Center is a state of the art climbing facility with over 8,000 square feet of climbing surface. During COVID you will
need to book your time. Open weekdays - 12pm10pm. Weekends 10am-5.30pm. 250) 751-7625. 4385B Boban Dr, Nanaimo. Î Jumping Jimmy’s Kidz Zone: Features over 8000 square feet dedicated to family enjoyment, including a massive play structure, air hockey, foosball, toddler’s area, games room, climbing wall, craft corner, gift shop, 80 seat café, birthday party rooms! Open Daily 400-2980 Island Hwy N, 250-729-0999. Î Wildplay Elements Parks: Intense adventures and elements. 19 Ziplines, 67 aerial games, 40ft jup, 150ft bungy jump, 150ft giant swing. In Nanaimo park you will find,Adventure obstacle courses, ziplines, Bungy Jump 150ft. 6 levels to choose from. Swing, and more. 1-855-595-2251 35 Nanaimo River Rd. 1.855.595.2551. Î Hike & Climb: Mount Benson, look out over Nanaimo to the Strait of Georgia and the mainland beyond or feast your eyes on the peaks of central Vancouver Island’s highland mountains. Intermediate level, the trailhead is located on Benson View Rd (off Kilpatrick Rd, off Jingle Pot Rd, off Hwy 19).
ON THE ICE Î Curling: At its best. The centre is a place for all people to enjoy good curling. Nanaimo Curling Centre offers regular league play in men’s, women’s, and mixed. 9-99years. Register to play. 250.753.3474. 106 Wall St. Nanaimo.
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NA N AIM O
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• LOCAL EVENTS •
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EVENTS November 11 MUSIQ TRIVIA: is coming to the Queens! Hosts Rory and Sharon invite you to come down and enjoy a Name-That-Tune style game for music lovers of all skill levels. The Queen’s 8:30PM-12Am. 34 Victoria Crs. Nanaimo. November 12 Moths & Locusts / Tremblers of Sevesn / Maskara: A NoiseAgony Mayhem label showcase with 3 killer acts plus the VOID DJs all nite.. 9PM-2AM, The Queens, 34 Victoria Crs. Nanaimo. From the Vault: What do a World War II era quilt, a camera collection and a pirate costume have in common? Each has a compelling story to tell about Nanaimo’s history. From the Vault features a selection of rarely and never-before-seen artifacts and historical photos from the collection, carefully chosen by members of the Nanaimo Museum team. The stories include both local history favourites and the unexpected, while others question how we collect and share Nanaimo’s history. Nanaimo Museum. 10AM-4PM. 100 Museum Way, Nanaimo. PIGS -Canada’s Pink Floyd: Coming back to life tour. PIGS celebrate the long history of Pink Floyd by bringing to life countless fan favourites from the Floyd’s vast catalogue. Join them for an evening
Nanaimo Theatre Group is pleased to announce the first show of the season.
of deep cuts from records lost in the mists of time and gigantic hit songs from the crucial mid-70s years. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo All Together Now: The Mid-Island Edition includes the collaboration of 7 local performing arts groups including Malaspina Theatre at Vancouver Island University, Schmooze Productions, Western Edge Theatre, Qualicum Beach School of Dance , NDSS Dance, Satyr Players, and the OV Arts Centre. A Global Event Celebrating Local Theatre. 7:30PM-9PM. MALASPINA THEATRE. Building 310, 900 5th St. Nanaimo. November 13 Greys Anatomy -Trivia Night: Coming to Nanaimo for the first time in 3 years, and this time we will have a question or two sent in by an actual cast member of the show! Who is it? You gotta be there to find out! 7PM-9PM. The Queens. 34 Victoria Cres. Nanaimo. November 16 Cowboy Junkies: While the music is characteristically easy to listen to, the songs on All That Reckoning are visceral. In true Junkies fashion, the gentleness is juxtaposed with rock that can be jarring. 8PM-10PM. Port Theatre. 125 Front St. Nanaimo. November 19 Fa la la la Local: Woodgrove Mall in the old Gap location. The Mom Market Vancouver Island is hosting a Christmas vendor market inside Woodgrove Centre. Join them for a winter wonderland and a weekend full of fantastic shopping opportunities. 10AM-6PM, 6631 Island Hwy, Nanaimo.
Live theatre is a unique and fulfilling experience!
The Return to the STAGE! Work is underway for a family show during the Christmas season, a comedy in February and a drama in April. Check us out at nanaimotheatregroup.ca and come see a show at our Bailey Studio on Rosstown Road in Nanaimo.
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November 20 Double the Fun: Double your pleasure with these two works for Double String Quartet. Respighi’s work features ultra-romanticism at its best, while Mendelssohn’s Octet remains the absolute reference piece for this unusual instrumental formation. A tuneful, spectacular, powerful program featuring the front row of the VIS String Section. 5PM-7:30PM. 125 Front St. Nanaimo. November 21 O’Christmas Tea: A British Comedy. Fans of Monty Python, Mr. Bean, and Dr. Seus. .Grab your teacups! Off-Broadway Comedians and 3-time IMPRESARIO Award-Winners (London) James & Jamesy present their outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive Christmas comedy classic. 3PM & 7:30PM. Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. Nov 22 November 23 Acoustic Christmas: Warm your hearts this holiday season with an Acoustic Christmas with George Canyon. Featuring George’s personal Christmas favourites and radio hit singles from his 30 year career. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. Novemer 24 Brodie Dawson: Folk/country singer-songwriter sensation Brodie Dawson perform in an intimate house concert setting. Doors 7PM Concer 7:30PM. Harbour View House Concert. 421 Milton St. Nanaimo. November 25 Ron James Comedian: Canada’s stand-out amongst ‘stand-ups’, award-winning comedian RON JAMES has been selling out theatres for over 20 years with his marathon, side-splitting performances. 7:30PM-9PM. Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. Five Alarm Funk: With special guests! 19+ Show. Please bring 2 pieces of I.D. Door 7PM, Showtime -8PM. Got Pop Concert series. The Queens, 34 Victoria Crs. Nanaimo.
Over 140 Men’s Varieties Over 130 Women’s Varieti
es
A western store and so much more! 920 ISLAND HWY. “ PIER STREET” STREET ” CAMPBELL RIVER
250
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November 26 Sweet Tooth Burlesque Revue: This sultry and dynamic group are committed to furthering the art of burlesque having created a home troupe for talented new performers featuring scintillating, sexy and silly performances sure to entertain your crew! Shows are held at The Queens monthly with various themes. 7PM-9PM The Queens, 34 Victoria Crs. Nanaimo. November 27 Culture in Motion: The universal language of art. When we think of Culture, our own or someone else’s, we often see things as they are today. We imagine a static, eternal version of our ways, seeing things today as though that’s the way they’ve always been, but culture is always on the move. It is dynamic, vibrant, evolving, shifting; outgrowing old patterns and integrating new ones. It evolves in accordance to its own experiences. 7:30PM-9PM. The Port Theatre. 125 Front St. Nanaimo. Rick Estrin & The Nightcats: A special live Performance by one of The Blues premier Live touring Bands. 7PM-9PM. The Queens, 34 Victoria Crs. Nanaimo. November 28 Sunday Blues Jam: Jackie Moisan and Frank Alexander’s Blues Jam, co-hosted by the Nanaimo Blues Society (NBS), is back in action Every Sunday at The Queen’s. Check our their Facebook page for updates The-Queens- 34 Victoria crs. Nanaimo. November 30 The War of Miranda Bird: Is an epic tragedy set deep in the Appalachians, richly coloured with the dark humour and haunting music of the traditions buried deep in the bones- revenge, honour, family and pride. An ensemble piece conceived for 4 men and 4 women, and intended for a bare stage, by Miranda Bird. 7:30PM-9PM. The Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. December 3 Forev Circus: Spoltlight - Aerial hammock, contortion, juggling, hula hoop, diabolo, aerial rope, aerial hoop and cyr wheel. Everything in this show is based on a love story… how Cirque du Soleil performers met and became husband and wife. 7:30PM-8:30PM. Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. December 4 Keep Calm & Carol: VI Symphony -And the trumpet shall sound! Celebrate the holiday season with fun, games and merriment, with brass fanfares and flourishes – courtesy of our own VIS Back Row Brass with special guests Festive Brass and the VIS Noteworthy Kids Choir, Patricia Plumley, Choral Conductor. 5PM & 7:30PM performances. Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. December 5 Glorious Baroque: Join Malaspina Choir for a concert that lifts your spirits with two of the most beloved masterworks of the 18th century: Vivaldi’s Gloria and Handel’s Christmas Messiah? Limited seating is available. All tickets must be pre-purchased (no tickets will be sold at the door). visit us at www.malaspinachoir.com. 3PM-5PM. St Andrew’s United Church. 311 Fitzwilliam St. Nanaimo. Home for the Holidays: James Rich brings an exciting and festive concert to Vancouver Island for the first time this December. Featuring 2 hours of holiday favorites, ‘Home for the Holiday’s – A Nat King Cole Christmas’ will have you feeling the spirit of the season all through the evening. 7:30PM-9:30PM. The Port Theatre, 125
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Front St. Nanaimo. December 8 MRG Live: Vocalist/guitarist Ashley Buchholz and hype man/ turntablist Human Kebab have always existed hanging in a sort of myth-like state, allowing the music they make together to first speak for itself, and empowering listeners to take from the sophisticated sound whatever they will. 8PM, Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. December 10 Ed Hill Live Comedy: Fresh off his first one hour comedy special “Candy and Smiley” on Amazon Prime, comedian Ed Hill is bringing his new show to Nanaimo. The Nanaimo Bar, 7PM & 9PM.. 2-75 Front St. Nanaimo. December 11 Winter Harp: One of the most hauntingly-beautiful Christmas concerts you will ever attend. Harps combine with flutes, violin, rare medieval instruments, percussion, poetry and song to wrap you snugly in the Christmas spirit. The concert is also a feast for the eyes with the musicians dressed in gorgeous medieval attire, and the stage set with breathtakingly beautiful backdrops of cathedrals and snow. 3:30PM-5PM. The Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. December 18 Little Scrooge: Presented by the Nanaimo Theatre Group. Dec 18-19, Dec 26-Dec 31. Matinees 2PM Evening shows 7PM. Tix 250.758.7224. Bailey Studio, 2373.Rosstown Rd. Nanaimo. January 12 The Co-Conspirators: is a Hemmingford, QC based duo playing
folk/singer-songwriter music with elements of country, rock, blues, gospel, bluegrass, spiritual, and general roots music. With heavy emphasis on vocal harmonies, this duo had been compared to Ian and Sylvia Tyson and Richard and Linda Thompson. They perform mostly original music along with some traditional and contemporary covers. Doors 7PM- Concert 7:30PM. Harbour View House Concert. 421 Milton St. Nanaimo. January 17 Jesse Cook -Tempest 25 Tour: JESSE COOK has blazed an incredible trail. Thousands of concerts in dozens of countries; millions of YouTube views and audio streams; countless fans around the globe; and a career that is celebrating its 25th year and counting. Not a bad legacy for a guy who never planned to release an album! 7:30PM9:30PM. The Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. January 20 The Snowed In Comedy Tour: Returns, a Canadian success story, celebrating its 13 year. This Canadian comedy tour has managed to succeed amongst some of the big performers. Like the Tragically Hip they have done it by touring and making more and more people laugh year after year. 8PM-10PM. Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. January 29 Fred Penner - The Cat Came Back: A gentle giant with an undeniable ability to make you feel good about yourself, this musical master brings 40+ years of commitment, consistency and depth to a career that blends the many genres of performing and communication. 2PM-4PM. The Port Theatre. 125 Front St. Nanaimo
end
Best Western PLUS® Chemainus Inn Complimentary HOT breakfast Mineral Pool• Hot Tub• Wi-Fi Fitness Room• Parking
Reservations: (250) 246-4181 or chemainushotel.com Spend a night in the award-winning Chemainus Inn. While you are here, enjoy a show at our famous Theatre and visit our world-acclaimed Mural Path. Each Best Western branded hotel is independently owned and operated
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LADYSMITH
• EVENTS & THINGS TO DO •
For the 34th year Ladysmith will be lighting up the streets, stores, and trees for the season. The beauty of Ladysmith at this time of year will still shine on Vancouver Island. Instead of the usual parade, a new event “Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell, Shop” will take place and is likely here to stay. Every Friday night from November 19th to Dec 21st, shops will stay open late for your chance to support Ladysmith and participate in their special gift certificate and prize giveaways. For 5 weeks, every
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week a new winner has the chance to win to shopping spree at any Ladysmith store. Fun activities such as Elf on the Shelf, Magic stop selfies at the Winter Wonderland station, plus other hidden prizes will take place right through the season. LADYSMITH ROAD TRIP Ladysmith will be lit up from late November to the second week in January, spend a day in Ladysmith to shop and see the splendour of the Ladysmith lights.
November 14: Ladysmith Legion Pancake Breakfast: Second and last Sunday of each month. $7 full plate, $5 half plate. Royal Canadian Legion Hall 9am to 12pm. 171 First Ave.
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LIGHTS
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COWICHAN Valley • EVENTS • THINGS TO DO • FEATURES •
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COWICHAN VALLEY ROAD-TRIP
The Cowichan Valley winter season lives up to its name “The Warm Land”, activities that most areas of Canada bundle up for are a sweater weather thing here. Whether it is hiking, walks, canoing, outdoor skiing, skating, ski dooing, or snowshoeing, we really are Canada’s California. There are many Christmas and seasonal Farmers outdoor markets, theater, festivals and concerts, we are a foodie’s paradise with farm to table restaurants and vendors all through the region. Our Wine and Beverage culture is fantastic from the BC Ale Trail, to
the Spirits and Wine Tours. Ocean views and Lakeside fire pits abound and the get away from it all feel is worth the trip. If you are a fishing enthusiast, a hiker, biker, or a serious burger enthusiast we have it all. Go island hopping, just a short ferry ride away. Holiday season is upon us, with Christmas music, carolers, and the twinkling of Christmas lights, exploring the Cowichan Valley just became that much more enchanting. Pop up Christmas displays and lights in Ladysmith, Chemainus, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, and many more.
Music by
ALAN MENKEN Lyrics by
HOWARD ASHMAN & TIM RICE Book by
LINDA WOOLVERTON
Cowichan Performing Cowichan Performing A Arts rts C Centre entre JJan an 114, 4, 115, 5, 221 1 & 222 2 aatt 77:30pm :30pm JJan an 116 6 & 223 3 aatt 22:00pm :00pm
The T The Ticket icket Centre Centre 2 250-746-2722 50-746-2722 cowichanmusicalsociety.bc.ca cowichanmusicalsociety.bc.ca
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COWICHAN VALLEY •
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THINGS TO DO
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MUSEUMS Î Hand of the Man Museum & Conservatory: The world’s largest natural collection of history and beasts. NEW EXHIBIT, See our Gigantosaurus . it’s CRAZY huge. Every inch of the 15,000 square foot is filled with hallways and rooms of history that dates back through the ages. Cultural art and artifacts, animals that have been collected and preserved by renowned outdoors-man, conservationist, and television personality Jim Shockey, from all around the globe. The realization of a serious collector happens the moment you enter the museum. Self guided tour with individual i-pads. Open every day, 10am-5pm. Book your visit online. 6759 Considine Ave. Maple Bay 1.888.826.1011. Î Shawnigan Lake Museum: Featured Galleries include; EJ Hughes Gallery- a prestigious painter & resident of Shawnigan Lake for 20yrs). Kinsol Trestle- A Canadian National Pacific Railway line built to connect Victoria to Nootka Sound in 1911. See the 3’ & 10’ scale models and videos showing it’s history and the time-lapse
of the restoration in 2010-11. The Last SpikeHistoric story of the ceremonious golden last spike hammered in by Sir John A. Macdonald in 1886 completing the 72 mile railway track from Esquimalt to Nanaimo. During COVID, Open Thursday-Sunday 11am-3pm. 1775 ShawniganMill Bay Rd, Shawnigan Lake. By donation, 250.743.8675.
GET ACTIVE Î Bowling: Duncan Lanes Bowling Center- 5 & 10pin bowling. During COVID-r maximum capacity will be 60. The maximum group size, including spectators, will be 6 people per lane. We will have one lane closed for distancing between each group Open 7-days Mon-Thur 11am-10pm. Fri-Sat 11am-12pm. Sun 11am-6pm. Unlimited Bowling Monday evening, Rock & Glow Bowling Fri. and Sat. evening. Must reserve all games. 2701 James St, Duncan 250.746.5421. Î The FAMOUS Historic Chemainus Wall Murals: A visionary in the small town told the history of the town through gigantic murals painted on the many buildings for all to see. Over 40 murals telling the story of the towns history from WWI, the first telephone operators, First Nation faces, settling the Canadian West, the drama & danger of the mills - it’s all there in gorgeous form, shape & colour. Take some time to get off the highway and see this town. “The Little Town That Did”. Chemainus, B.C.
November 27th 10 am - 4 pm
November 28th 10 am - 3 pm
Free Admission • Over 100 Vendors Door Prizes • Concession *Proof of Vaccination is required to enter Mellor Hall* **Masks are Mandatory indoors and recommended outdoors**
Cowichan Exhibition Park: 7380 Trans Canada Hwy., Duncan, BC V9L 6B1 www.cowex.ca • cowex@shaw.ca • (250) 748-0822
48 Î The Historic Kinsol Trestle: Open to public for cycling, hiking & equestrian riding. One of the tallest free-standing timber rail trestle structures in the world, near Shawnigan Lake. Î Disc Golfing (Frolfing): 18 holes at Hart Memorial, Mouat Park. Take 1hr to 1.5 hrs to complete the course.Located near the end of McPhillips Ave. on Salt Spring Island Î Indoor Tennis: Arbutus Ridge Golf Club- This is the ONLY covered year-round tennis facility between Victoria & Nanaimo. Open year-round, 8am-9pm daily. Men’s Night, Ladies Night, Junior’s Night, Lessons, Tournaments and more! 3515 Telegraph Rd, Cobble Hill. 250.743.5000, or Toll Free 1.800.446.5322. Check schedule during COVID.
le is a Tofino singer songwriter playing originals and covers with a distinctly West Coast vibe. Her music portrays her positive connections with her surroundings through acoustic guitar, vocals, keys, and the occasional electronic accent. Call us at 250-743-4293 or 1-800-9989908 1230 Merridale Rd, Cobble Hill, Î Small Block Brewery: Precision Crafted Beer, brewed for and from Vancouver Island. Well sourced local ingredients to flavour our 9 crafted beers. The garage lounge is a cozy atmosphere where you can have a taster, a pint or take home a growler. Snacks. 203-5301 Chaster Rd, Duncan. 250-597-0045.
MUST SEES
BREWERIES, CIDERIES & DISTILLERIES
There are over a dozen premier wineries in the Cowichan Valley, many open over the winter. Check with the visitor centre on the who and when.
Î Merridale Cidery & Distillery: Come welcome in the fall with music at the Merridale Orchard! Indulge in a relaxing afternoon enjoying a meal, cider, and the company of live music in our eateryNov 6: Andy McCormack. Andy McCormack plays classic tunes from the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s! Bring your dancing shoes and return to the past for a fun, foot-stomping good time! Nov 13: Arf the DogArf The Dog is a cover band based in Victoria playing great Rock covers of bands like the Rolling Stones, Tom Petty, the Wallflowers, the Band, Neil Young. Nov 20: Alle BernardiAl-
Antiques Galore: On your next road trip visit the “The Highway Antique Barn”, where they turn antique and collectable shopping into an upscale experience. A premier Antique Store in Chemainus for over three decades. They are committed to providing high-quality, gently used & sometimes eclectic merchandise in a tasteful, affordable way. We also accept goods on consignment. In-store & Remote Items on consignment can be viewed online. A Vancouver Island MUST SEE. Open 10AM5PM 7 days. 3088 Henry Rd, Chemainus.
THE MERCURY PLAYERS proudly present
“The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen Dramatic Society Murder Mystery” by David Gillivray and Walter Zerlin Jr. Directed by Rien Vesseur A comedy that might go wrong, here or there. Dec 2, 3, 4 at 7:30pm Sunday, Dec 5 at 2:30pm Dec 9, 10, 11 at 7:30 pm and Dec 12 at 2:30pm in the Mercury Theatre on Brae Road in Duncan Tickets $22 ($17 for seniors and students) Available online on Eventbrite, locally at Ten Old Books in the Duncan Garage
Proof of vaccination required.
Website: www.mercuryplayers.org
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COWICHAN VALLEY
NOW RELEASED
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EVENTS
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EXHIBITS NOV 16 to DEC 18 Teeny Tiny Artworks Show & Sale: CVAC’s popular show and sale of tiny beautiful artwork is back for 2021 just in time for the holidays. It starts in the Annex(Nov 15-21) and then expands to the gallery (Nov 24-Dec 18). 11AM-5PM. In the Gallery @ Cowichan Valley Arts Council, 2687 James st. Duncan. NOV 28 to Jan 28/22 Massimo Pintus -Gaia Tone Art: Massimo Pintus works in the Cowichan Valley as an artist, musician, and teacher. He creates metal musical instruments, deepening his experiences with sound-creation and increasingly connecting his work to the healing resonances of the earth. Massimo keeps his passion for music improvisation alive by undertaking creative initiatives with various artists and healers, and occasionally offers sound journeys and sound healing meditations. 11AM-4PM . 251 Craig St. Duncan. 250.748.6776 ALL NOVEMBER Parent, Child, Mother - Goose goes Zooming: Mon-Fri., 11:00 am - 11:30 pm@ Cowichan (Duncan) VIRTUAL EVENT . A playful, experience for birth to 2 years and their adults. An activity that enriches parent- child relationships. Based on Rhymes, Songs, and Story Telling. BUT…We will be on our computer and you will be on yours. Facilitators will do 30 minutes of program and then there will be time to visit with families online! To Register, Email Learning Links learninglinkssecretary@sd79.bc.ca 250-748-0321 ext. 320. You will receive an email ZOOM invitation.
is a rich amber, crisp clean and fortified by traditional noble hops. Bavarian favourite. 6.5%
Lotsa Lego, “Ideal Home”: The theme for this year is “ideal house”. It can be futuristic, unusual or historic. New this year; Lego building races on Dec 4. Watch teams build from a myster bag of pieces to come up with a creation in 10 minutes. Sign up your team. @ Cowichan Valley Arts Council. 2687 James St. Duncan. 250.746.1633. 11AM to 4PM JAN 5 -26 ANIMALIA: Join the menagerie! The first CVAC members show of 2022 is on an animal theme. Wild or domestic, mythological or real, mammals or insects, large or small. 11AM-4PM. 2687 James St. Duncan.
EVENTS
November 13
Hops lend a kiss of citrus and white wine on a crackery malt backdrop. 4.7%
250-597-0045
Weds - Sun 1PM to 7PM smallblockbrewery.com 203-5301 Chaster Road, Duncan
Music at Merridale: Welcome the harvest season with music at the Merridale Orchard. Indulge in a relaxing afternoon enjoying a meal, cider, and the company of live music. Each Saturday until Nov 20th. 3PM-6PM. $18. Holiday Antisocial Market: Nov 13-15. Online Market, featuring amazingly talented Canadian Makers who will ship straight to your door. Shopping starts 9AM. Follow on Facebook for spotlights on participating vendors. www.facebook.com/antisocialonlinemarket. Fiesta World Craft Bazaar: Travel the world at the 9th Annual FIESTA in Duncan. Over 25 vendors for 2 days, to Nov 14. Find unique handmade crafts, Fair trade & Ethical. Along with the Crafts and Products, you will enjoy tasty ethnic food and live music with global sounds. At Queens Margaret’s School 10AM-4PM, 660 Brownsey Ave. Duncan FREE.
51 November 14 Red Sky Performance Trace: Trace is the newest creation from Red Sky Performance, an award winning and leading company of contemporary indigenous dance, theatre, music, and media. Powerful imager, storytelling and music is the hallmark of each Red Sky presentation. 7:30PM. Cowichan Performing Arts Ctr. 2687 James St. Duncan. Tix online. Ladysmith Legion Pancake Breakfast: Second and last Sunday of each month. $7 full plate, $5 half plate. Royal Canadian Legion Hall 9am to 12pm. 171 First Ave. Chemainus Classical Concerts: Franz Liszt declared that in Pauline Viardot, the world had finally found a woman composer of genius. Gounod and Saint-Saens wrote operatic roles for her, Chopin was both her friend and accompanist, while novelist Turgenev moved across the world to be near her. A celebrated singer in her own time, her deserved legacy is yet to be fully realized. Eve and Rykie celebrate 200 years since Viardot’s birth with a program honouring her life’s work, and that of her circle of close contemporaries. Tix available by advance only phone, 1250.748.8383. 2PM-3PM, St Michael’s, Mill St. Chemainus. November 17 Yellow Point Artisan Tour: A self guided tour of amazing artisans and farms, lots of variety. Look for the Cedar Yellow Point Artisan tour logo. 10AM-5PM. Various locations around Cedar and Yellow Point. Mixed Media Printmaking & Collage: Nov 17, 24 and Dec 1st. Join Francesca Reside as we explore the creative potential of printing with a gelli plate and acrylic paint. Combined with other art materials and techniques, including drawing, mixed media, collage, stencil design, books and zines. Each student will take home a completed project. Beginners to Advanced, materials included. Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 6PM-7:30PM. 444 Parkhill Trc. Ladysmith $132 ladysmitharts.ca
November 18 Christmas Chaos: 4 days of Celebrating 41 years of Christmas Arts and Crafts. The Cowichan Valley Fair includes Santa’s Workshop, daily raffles and more! Wheelchair accessible. Island savings Centre. 10AM5PM. 2687 James St. Duncan. Nov 18th to Nov 21st. Georgia Bennett: Nov 18-19. Back by popular demand. Join Georgia as she explore the songs of cinema hisotry. Performing favourites from “The Wizard of Oz”, “9 to5”, “Titanic” and many more. Playbill Dining Room . 3 course plated Dinner - $75 | Live Piano | Live Music. Chemainus Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd. Chemainus. November 19 James & Jamesy: present their outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive Christmas comedy classic O Christmas Tea — an astonishing show that delights thousands of hearts every holiday season. A British Comedy. 7.30PM. Cowichan Performing Arts Ctr. $38 Tix-cowichanpac.ca Christmas Chaos: See Nov 18. November 20 Christmas Chaos: See Nov 18. The Journeymen: A tribute to Eric Clapton. The Journeymen is a homage to two of the most significant guitarists in history. Band leader Doug Towle brings a collection of some of the finest musicans from Canada for an evening of music. 7:30pm. Cowichan Performing Arts Ctr. 2687 James St. Duncan. Brooke Maxwell: 50’s Time Machine. An incredible time for music, the transformation from the big band era into early rock & roll was one of the most dynamic of the century. Back by popular demand. Chemainus Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd. Chemainus. Tix online.
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November 21 Cedar Winter Market: Connect with local farmers, discover speciality craft food and drink makers; and, find that perfect one-of-a-kind gift from one of the many skilled artisans! On your way in, grab a hot chai, grab a meal to take home. 100% locally grown, raised, baked, & made. Rain or Shine. Woodbank School. 10AM-2PM. 1984 Woodbank Rd. Cedar. November 23 Ron James -Comedian: Back Where I Belong. 7:30PM. Canada’s stand-out amongst Stand-ups”, award-winning comedian Ron James has been selling out theatres for over 20 years with his marathon,
side-splitting performances. Tix online. Cowichan Performing Arts Ctr. 2687 James St. Duncan. November 25 Ladysmith Festival of Lights: Starts Nov 25th. to Jan 2. Streets and stores will display thousands of lights, until January 2. This light up display has been a tradition of Ladysmith for years and even though the traditional parade will not take place this year, Ladysmith lights never fail to delight. Downtown Ladysmith and Coronation Mall. Kinsmen Light Up Parade. Dock Side Drive: West Coast Swing & Show Band. Nov 25 -28. Angela
A Vancouver Island MUST SEE ! Discover that special piece, re-discover the past and reimagine the future.
ANTIQUE BARN
Highway Antique Barn • antiquebarn.ca 3088 Henry Rd, Chemainus • 10-5, 7 days • (250) 246-2372
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B.C. #1 Ukulele Destination
Guitars, bass, amps, drums, piano/keyboards, pro-audio, harmonicas, accessories, and more!
Huge selection of Accessories for all musicians. 470 Trans Canada hwy. Duncan 250.748.7625 Ireland, Chris Newstead, Francesca Bitonti and Heather Burns are the lead vocals. Music of the classic swing genre with a fres “Little Big Band” style and sound. Chemainus Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd. Chemainus. Tix online. Stephen Fearing LIVE: Stephen Fearing’s music embodies a fierce intelligence, a haunting candor, and a steady-handed pursuit of fleeting beauty. 7:30PM - 8:45PM. Art Spring - Gallery 100 Jackson Ave. Salt spring Island. November 27 Deck the Hall: 2 Days, Nov 27-28th, 10AM-4PM. The annual “Deck the Hall” Christmas Market is back. Over 80 artisans from all over V.Is. and is the perfect opportunity to get some unique Christmas shopping done. Free to enter. Concession on site. Local muscians to get you into the holiday spirit and prizes to be won. 7380 Trans Canada Hwy. Duncan QMS: Christmas Outdoor Bazaar: This QMS tradition is back with adjustments for current COVID protocols. With festive booths, food, music and games for all ages this is sure to be a fun filled day. Dress warmly as this event is outdoors. 10AM-2PM, Queen Margaret’s School. Minor Hockey U9 Jamboree: Each year Lake Cowichan Minor Hockey Association invites teams through Vancouver Island to participate in four games each over a two day period. The event creates a noncompetitive atmosphere, which allows the participants to have fun and play with other players with similar abilities and experience from around the Island. These Jamborees stress sportsmanship, fair play, and respect for fellow players, coaches and officials. All Day. Cowichan Lake Secondary .bcschoolsports.ca for locations. November 29 Noteworthy Concerts Classical Music Series: Noteworthy Concerts are back with engaging hosts Elizabeth and Marcel Bergmann and Miya and Kaori Otake. A mainstay on the concert calendar for many seasons, the return of The Bergmann Piano Duo will once again offer classical music lovers the world-renowned musicians in an intimate setting with on-stage seating. The second concert in the Noteworthy series is Music for 287 Strings and 17 Pedals! Translation: two harps and one piano. Elizabeth and Marcel welcome duo harpists and sisters, Miya and Kaori Otake as guest musicians. Much-loved pieces by composers including Bach/Gounod, Saint-Saens and Franck will be included in a programme featuring some of the most beautiful, inspiring and uplifting music for harps and piano. Cowichan Performing Arts. 10:30AM-12PM. 2687 James St, Duncan. All Month December Ladysmith Festival of Lights: Starts Nov 25th. All month the streets and stores will display thousands of lights, until January 2. This light
up display has been a tradition of Ladysmith for years and even though the traditional parade will not take place this year, Ladysmith lights never fail to delight. Downtown Ladysmith and Coronation Mall. Kinsmen Light Up Parade.
54 December 2 Tower of Song - A tribute to Leonard Cohen: Tower of Song is a metaphor for the inspiration that flows between songwriters, each toiling away on their own, but connected by their shred craft. Dec 2-5th. Chemainus Theatre, 9737 Chemainus Rd. Chemainus. Tix online. God is a Scottish Drag Queen: Christmas Special, A hilarious and heavenly way to spend an evening. An absolute must see. Cowichan Performing Arts. 7:30PM. 2687 James St, Duncan. December 3 Handel’s Messiah: Erica Phare-Bergh will be back to guest conduct the Cowichan Consort Orchestra & Choir in December 2022 !! Erica is in demand and we are very happy she still plans to take the podium once again, in our Cowichan Valley in 2022. With Andrea Rodall soprano, Gary Relyea bass-baritone, Anne Relyea, alto, and Tenor TBA. Come hear this magnificent perennial favourite, Handel’s beautiful music. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Christian Reform Church. 930 Trunk Rd, Duncan. Tix at door. December 4 Handmade Clay Ornaments Art Session: Ring in the holiday season with a family-friendly fun, creative and interactive art session at the gallery! Decorate clay ornaments using paint, printmaking and collage. Each person will receive two clay ornaments to decorate and will have time to play and explore different techniques to create their own one-of-a-kind piece of art. All ages, and participants under 12 years must be accompanied by an adult participant. All supplies are included. 3PM-4:30PM. Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery. $25. 444 Prkhill Trc. Ladysmith. December 6 Home for the Holidays: With James Rich. Celebrating the iconic Nat King Cole. Featuring 2 hours of holiday favourites. Guest appearance with special 13 year old emerging performing artists, Samantha Madill from Vancouver Island. Tix online. Cowichan Performing Arts. 7:30PM. 2687 James St, Duncan. December 12 Winter Harp: A journey of pure magic. Rejoice! A tresured annual Cowichan traditin is back on the holiday calendar. Winter Harp is one of the most hauntingly beautiful Christmas concerts you will ever attend. 2PM. Tix online. Cowichan Performing Arts. 2687 James St, Duncan. Poetry & Reminiscence Artist “Elias-Axel Pettersson”: Chemainus Classical Concerts present concerts by outstanding local and international artists. Performances take place at St. Michael and All Angels Church in Chemainus. Hailed for his “breathtaking virtuosity and an intelligentsense of precisely what brings music to life” Elias-Axel Pettersson returns to our stage toexplore the connection between poetry and music. All of the concerts are from 2:00 - 4:00 pm on Sunday afternoon and are followed by a reception in the adjoining hall, with refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artists. Call for tickets 250,748.8383. Mill St. Chemainus. January 16 Imitation & Innovation: The KeyWinds Quintet, five fine Cowichan Valley musicians united by their love of piano quintet music, has been playing to captivated audiences all over Vancouver Island. They will be performing Mozart’s Piano Quintet in E flat major, followed by Beethoven’s Piano Quintet, also in E flat. 2PM-4PM. St Michael’s Church. Mill St. Chemainus. Call for tickets. 250.748.8383.
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Events at a Glance Georgia Bennet - Songs of the Screen - Playing Nov 18-19. Back by popular demand! The songs of cinema. Brooke Maxwell - 50's Time Machine - Playing November 20-21. Singing piano player in love with 50's popular music with a side of saxophone.
Dock Side Drive Vocalists from the West Coast Swing & Show Band playing Nov 25-28. One of the West
Coast's hottest swing and show bands. Music of the classic swing genre.
Tower of Song A Tribute to Leonard Cohen - playing Dec 2 - 5.
A metaphor for the inspiration that flows between songwriters. Duo Oliver Swain and Glenna Garramone have crafted a sound that resonates with Cohen fans.
Start your evening at the Playbill Dining Room.
9737 Chemainus Rd, Chemainus,
Phone: (250) 246-9820 Cabaret dining and live entertainment. chemainustheatrefestival.ca
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GREATER VICTORIA • EVENTS • THINGS TO DO • FEATURES •
Greater Victoria • THINGS TO DO •
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MUSEUMS & GALLERIES Î Art Gallery of Greater Victoria: A public art museum dedicated to the celebration of art. 1040 Moss St Victoria BC 250.384.4171 Î Bateman Foundation Gallery of Nature:
Come and enjoy the vivid colours, textures and stories of the artwork in a peaceful gallery setting overlooking Victoria’s inner harbour. 470 Belleville Street Third Floor, Victoria, BC 250.940.3630 Î BC Parliment Buildings: Free guided tours, are available throughout the year. Take a tour through our provinces capital in the elegant building filled with beautiful architecture and stained glass. 8.30am 4.30pm. Inner Harbour downtown Victoria. Î Butchart Gardens: Experience the mag-
ic of these world-renowned gardens. From November 26 to January 6, Entry at 3:30 to 9pm. Viewing until 10pm. Colourful lights, carolers, ice skating, Festive fair and more. Japanese gardens will be closed. 800 Benvento Ave. Brentwood Bay. Î Craigdarroch Castle: Pass through the halls of Canadas most haunted Castle and admire the true Victoria age architecture. Joan Crs. Victoria 250.592.5323
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Î Miniature World: Watch “The Greatest little show on earth” in amazement with friends, family and loved ones. 649 Humbolt, Victoria. 250.385.9731 Î Royal BC Museum: Take a walk through history and experience the culture of the indigenous community to the historic gold miners of BC 250.356.7226 Î The Maritime Museum of BC: Engages people with the maritime culture and history of the Pacific Northwest. 634 Humboldt St Bc, Victoria 250.385.4222 Î Victoria Butterfly Gardens & Insectarium: Butterfly Gardens immerses you in a jungle environment featuring not just exotic butterflies but flamingos, free flying birds, iguanas and more. Open year round. 1461 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay. 250.652.3822
TOURS Î Hop-on Hop-off Tours: Guided City his-
tory and storytelling tours. Ft. the Christmas Ho Ho ride with santa and all his elves. On Hop-Off City Sights Tour allows guests great flexibility to explore the many popular attractions Victoria has to offer. Board at the inner Harbour Depot. Î Pedicab Tours: Through Canada’s garden and cycling capital the Victoria Pedicab Company provides memorable tours for individuals and groups up to 40. Tour selection and departure time to fit your schedule and inserts. 250.884.0121
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Nov 18 - 7.30PM
Raine Maida & Chantal Kreviazuk.
Nov 20 - 3:00PM
ACOUSTIC CHRISTMAS with George Canyon. Warm
Dec 10 - 7:30PM
Christmas Tea, a British Comedy. If you love Mr Bean or John Cleese, this off-broadway comedy duo will leave you in stitches. A family favourite.
A two-time JUNO award winner. One of Canada's most influential cultural couples.
Nov 22 - 7.30PM & 9:30PM
your hearts this holiday season with an Acoustic Christmas featuring George's personal Christmas favourites.
Dec 18th - 7:00PM
COOKEILIDH We Need a Little Christmas. A festive feast of Celtic and holiday favourites featuring Cookeilidh. Nostalgic, Traditional Carols to Whimsical Modern day tunes.
James & Jamesy - O
VIRTUAL ELVIS -
Christmas Special. Highly acclaimed Elvis tribute artist Scott MacDonald embarks on a mission to bring to the people the songs that made Elvis, ELVIS! The King's early hits.
Tickets available online at:
tickets.marywinspear.ca Check regulations for entry 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney BC
58 Î Victoria Carriage Tours: Victoria Carriage Tours, horse-drawn carriage tours of Victoria BC. Trolley tours, group bundles, seasonal events, and an experience that can’t be beat. 250.383.2207.
Î Juan de fuca Rec: Ctr. JDF Arena. Public Î Skate: westshorerecreation.ca 250.478.8384
ATTRACTIONS
Î Christmas at The Empress: 16ft’ of festive
Î Quest Reality Games - Room Escape: An
splendour, decorate in stunning lights and holiday decor. Sip some tea, indulge some pastries. Inner Harbour Victoria. Timed entries.
interactivereal-life escape room facility in Victoria, offering 4 premium escape rooms, Cluetivity outdoor adventures and a new investigation game. Horror Escape The Experience: You have 45minutes to uncover a mystery in our detail escape room sets,finding clues & solving puzzels.
Î Photo Walking Tours: Discover the beautiful city of Victoria with a professional photographer as your tour guide. 778.808.1859.
RUNNING, CYCLING, RIDING Î Rosewood Equestrian: A professional, funand safe environment where horse lovers of all ages and levels can come and share their passionfor everything equine. Pony Rides for Tiny Tots 4-7year olds. Lessons for 5 year olds and up. Groomingand general safety
ICE SKATING / HOCKEY Î Archie Browning Sports Centre: 250-412-8510 Î City Centre Park Langford: eagleridgecentre.com 250-391-1738 Î Oak Bay Parks & Recreation: Oak
Bay oakbay.ca 250-595-7946 Î Panorama Leisure Centre: North Saan-
ichcrd.bc.ca/panorama 250-656-7271 Î Save On Food Memorial Centre:
victoria.ca/arena 250-361-0732
Î Centre for the Salish Sea Aquarium: Open Fri to Tue 10am-4.30pm. Connecting the public with the Salish Sea Bioregion and its ecosystems through engagement, knowledge and awareness. A fun, interactive experience. Tickets and memberships available upon entry. COVID protocols in place. 9811 Seaport Plc. Sidney. Î WildPlay Elements Parks: All kinds of cool obstacles up in the sky and down on the ground. Pre-registered bookings. Limited to groups of your safe 6. 15-1767 Island Hwy. Victoria. 1.855.595.2251.
SHOPPING Î Lower Johnson Street: Shop till you drop
atall the boutiques and stores on this renowned shopping street. Î Munro’s Books: Read something new at Victoriastop book store established by noble prize winningauthor Alice Munro.
We Got
Your Boots
59 Î The Old Attic : A Hidden Gem Vintage/ Retro/Modern/ Antiques. ~ Furniture & Home Decor , Old& New Funky & Eclectic www.theoldattic.ca Î Ecotopia Naturals: Quality, comfortable,
and ethically made clothing & accessories, made of natural fibres such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, soy, eucalyptus, modal, and more. www.ecotopianaturals.com Î Bastion Square: Shop in the once gallows, brotheland now historic site in Victoria, located by the wharf and Goverment St.
See many more Events & Things To Do and submit your own on our website.
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Greater Victoria • LOCAL EVENTS•
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EXHIBITS Andrea England: Andrea’s art is inspired by the sea. She is fascinated by the movements and endless colours of water, and is drawn to the flowing nature of watercolours which give me a physical connection to my subject. Using rippling shapes, she captures the motion of wind and waves. Swirling fine white lines of untouched paper give her paintings a sense of life, light and movement. Open hours. The Psrkside Hotel & Spa West Lobby. 810 Huboldt St. Victoria. Showing until Nov 30. Deb Gillespie : is the kind of person who gravitates to creative projects. They do not always find her, but she will often seek out ways to explore her talents. Deb is a disciplined artist, and she is at her best when spending hours at a time with a paintbrush in her hand. Deb once constructed a series of tables out of cut tiles, branches, and broken glass.Showing Jan 1st-31st. @ The Parkside Hotel & Spa West Lobby, 810 Humboldt St. Victoria.
Christmas Season
Bundle Up for a Festive Stroll through thousands of lights.
NOVEMBER 26, 2021 THROUGH JANUARY 6, 2022 The Gardens’ Christmas hours begin November 26, 2021 and continue through January 6, 2022, with admission from 3:30pm – 9:00pm and viewing until 10:00pm. Visit our website for conditions and bookings butchartgardens.com
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Connected Heritage Exhibit: The Sidney Museum will be reopening with Connected Heritage, an art exhibit that uses textiles to explore the connections between Iceland and Canada. This exhibit will feature original pieces from six different artists. Presented by Articulation Textile Group and presented in partnership with the Icelandic Canadian Club of BC. 10AM - 4:30PM. 2423 Beacon Ave 13 Sidney. Showing Until Dec 27. Qw’an Qw’anakwal -To Come Together: The 10th anniversary celebration of the Visiting Artist Program hosted by the Department of Anthropology at the University of Victoria. The exhibition features new works by 12 artists and their collaborators from Salish nations on Vancouver Island. 10AM-4PM. University of Victoria Legacy. 630 Yates St. Victoria. Showing until Dec 23.
EVENTS All November The Esquimalt Farmers Market: exists to provide a marketplace that serves as a community gathering point for relationship-building, access to healthy local food, and equitybased sustainability in Esquimalt. 4PM-6PM. 501 Park Plc. #106, Esquimalt. Tea and Dessert with usic Fridays: JagaSilk’s outdoor seating is open EVERY Friday for Specialty Tea and House Dessert with background music 12-4pm. Live music every FINAL FRIDAY feat Sister Speak and guests or other local artists. Jaga Silk, 12PM-4PM @ Nootka Court, A-17 633 St. Victoria. Nov 5th to Nov 26th. All December Butchart Gardens Christmas Spectacular: Experience the Magic of Christmas. The Gardens’ Christmas hours begin Nov 26th and continue through to Jan 6. Admission from 3:30PM - 9:00PM and viewing until 10PM. General admission and 12 month Pass Holder tickets will be available online through Jan 6. Closed December 25th. 800 Benvenuto Ave. Brentwood Bay. Visit www. butchartgardens.com. for conditions. November 12 Barney Bentall & The Cariboo Express: The Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank and Brentwood’s Music in the Bay will team up to present our annual major food bank fundraiser with Juno awardwinning musician Barney Bentall over 3 nights at Sidney’s Mary Winspear Centre. In the past 14 years of presenting the Cariboo Express concerts we have raised $200,000 for the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank. The Cariboo Express is a one-of-a-kind variety show hosted by Barney Bentall. The cast has boasted the likes of Ridley Bent, Matt Masters, Dustin Bentall, Kendel Carson, Leeroy Stagger, Matt Masters, Wendy Bird and a red hot backing band who perform as The Gold Rush Allstars. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney.
November 13 All Together Now: Join Mountain Dream Productions, Island Show Choir, Theatre al Dente and special guests in this worldwide event. This global event will be performed in over 40 countries, in over 2500 theatres simultaneously as a fund raiser for local theatre. A musical theatre revue featuring some of your favourite songs. 8PM. Alix Goolden Hall. 907 Pandora Ave. Victoria . www.info@ mountaindreambc.com 250.658.9357. PIGS Canada’s Pink Floyd: Coming back to life tour. 7:30PM. Celebrating one of the greates bands of all time with flawless perfomances of classic and rare Pink Floyd songs. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton St. Victoria. November 14 Sidney Outdoor Christmas Market: The 2021 Sidney Outdoor Christmas Market is happening for the first time. It will be a blended market with something for everyone. We hope you will come and enjoy. 10AM-4PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney. November 15 Love Will Be Reborn Tour : Martha Wainwright begins again. 7:30 PM. With Guest Bernice. The beguiling performer and songwriter returns with Love Will Be Reborn, out in August. Not since 2012’s Come Home to Mama has a Martha Wainwright record been so full of original written material. Wainwright wrote the first song—and what would become the title track— of the record a few years ago. It was a very dark time, she says, but the positivity and luminosity of “Love Will Be Reborn” signalled what was to come. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney. City and Colour: with Guests. Dallas Green has compiled a canon ripe with songs born of adoration and devotion amassing a legion of fans worldwide and garnering him 3 JUNO’s. 8PM Nov 16 - 8PM. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton St. Victoria. November 16 Story Walk: Outdoor StoryWalk® at the Sooke Region Museum Nov 16-27! Enjoy the fresh air, physical activity and a story. This month we will be reading about celebrated Canadian, Terry Fox with Terry Fox and Me by Mary Beth Leatherdale; illustrations by Milan Pavlović. All Day, 2070n Philips Rd. Sooke. 250.642.6351. November 17 Festival of Trees: a cherished community tradition and has become the unofficial kick-off to the holiday season in Victoria, serving our community for the last 29 consecutive years. Once again, the halls of the Bay Centre will be transformed into a lush forest of beautifully decorated trees to raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, all thanks to sponsors, local businesses, organizations and individuals.All proceeds will go towards mental health programs at BC Children’s Hospital. This free event will be held at the Bay Centre during opening hours. Vote for your favourite tree. The Bay Centre, 10AM-6PM. 1150 Douglas St, Victoria. Trees stay up till Jan 4th.
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November 18 Chantal Kreviazuk & Raine Maida: a two-time JUNO Award winner and Raine Maida — a four-time winner with Our Lady Peace — are one of Canada’s most influential cultural couples. The pair has also co-written countless hits for artists such as Kelly Clarkson, David Cook and Carrie Underwood. 7:30PM-9PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney.
Vignola’s seasonal, new crop nuts, dried fruit, seeds and more! Nov 26 & 27. 9AM-5PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney. November 27
November 19
Ballet Étoile presents ‘The Storybook Nutcracker’: A unique production bringing the classic Nutcracker story to life with engaging narration, vibrant costumes, and the intimate setting of the Charlie White Theatre. After receiving an unusual Christmas gift from her Uncle Drosselmeyer, Clara is swept away on a magical adventure to the Kingdom of the Sweets, encountering a number of enchanting characters along the way. ‘The Storybook Nutcracker’ is perfectly suited to younger audience members and first time ballet attendees. 2PM & 7PM. NOV 28 2PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney.
Big Wreck & Monster Truck: with BRKN LOVE. General Admission Bodine Hall. Formed in in the mid-‘90s, Big Wreck remains one of the highest regarded rock bands in Canada, and music fans around the world know them as one of the most prolific groups on earth. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney.
Victoria Cheese & Meat Festival: The Festival will take place at the historic Powerhouse located in downtown Victoria. The Festival will have three tasting sessions and seminars that will showcase the best of the local artisan food and beverage industry. 11AM, 3PM & 7PM. 2110 store St. Victoria.
Eddie Izzard -Wunderbar: Critcally-acclaimed “Wunderbar’World Tour to Canada this Fall. A delicious insight into the surreal and fantastical world of Eddie Izzard touching on life, love, history and even her theory of the universe. 8PM, Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton St. Victoria.
November 20 O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy, fans of Monty Python, Mr. Bean, and Dr. Seuss. Grab your teacups! Off-Broadway Comedians and 3-time IMPRESARIO Award-Winners (London) James & Jamesy present their outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive Christmas comedy classic O Christmas Tea — an astonishing show that delights thousands of hearts every holiday season. 3PM - 5PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney. Ron James Comedian: Canada’s stand-out amongst ‘standups’, awasrd-winning comedian RON JAMES. For over 20 years entertaining with his marathon, side-splitting performances. 7:30PM. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton St. Victoria. Christmas in Old Town: Take in the sights and sounds of Christmas long ago. Visit the wood-cobbled streets lined with festive garlands and see the shops decked in seasonal finery. 10AM-6PM. Royal BC Museum. 675 Belleville St. Victoria. Nov 20 to Jan 7th. November 21 Acoustic Christmas: Warm your hearts this holiday season with an Acoustic Christmas with George Canyon. Featuring George’s personal Christmas favourites and radio hit singles from his 30 year career. With country iconic hits like Just Like You, I Believe in Angels, Drinkin’ Thinkin’, Daughters of the Sun, I Got This, I Want You To Live, Slow Dance and many, many more. Nov 21 & 22. 7:30PM-9:30PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney. November 26 Rancho Vignola Harvest Sale: Rancho Vignola are set to bring you the highest quality new crop, nuts, seeds, dried fruit and more. From walnuts so fresh that they taste like cream, to all-natural, flavour-packed dried mangoes to our premium chocolate covered nuts, there is something for everyone! Discover the world of Rancho
Handmade Village Craft Market: A full size market! FREE ADMISSION + PARKING HVCM will be hosting 45 local makers all with handmade items. We will also be accepting donations of nonperishable food and toiletry items to be donated to the Mustard Seed Food Bank. With a donation, you will receive an extra ticket for our door prize draw! 10AM-4PM, North Douglas Church. 675 Jolly Pl. Victoria. Breakfast with Santa: He’s making a list and coming to the Oak Bay Beach Hotel to check it twice. This family-style brunch service will include cookie decorating at each table and on-site photo printing by Four Frames Photo Booth to bring the merry memories home. Non-refundable once booked. Minimum of 2 guests per booking. Oak Bay Beach Hotel. 1175 Beach Drive, Victoria. 10AM - 12PM. Nov 27 to Dec 19th. December 3 The Peninsula Singers: Present the Gift of Christmas. The Christmas Season brings joy and hope. This year the Peninsula Singers have packaged a musical celebration of the many gifts of the holiday season. “We can’t wait to be together again and share The Gift of Christmas with you.” Dec 3, 7:30PM. Dec 4, 7:30PM, Dec 5, 2PM. Mary Winspear Ctr. 2243 Beacon Ave. Sidney. December 4 1000 Cranes-Pop UP Display: What does it look like when kids come together to create hundreds of paper cranes? Come to the Royal BC Museum to check out this pop up display, created by students from school district 61. Royal BC Museum 11AM-3PM. 675 Belleville St.
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Christmas POPS: Victoria Symphony rings in the holiday season. Acclaimed vocalist David Curry returns to Victoria to bring some holiday cheer. 8PM. & 2:30PM Sun Dec 12. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton St. Victoria. December 14 The Tenors Santa’s Wish Tour: Juno Award-winning and multi-platinum selling vocal group are returning to the stage this holiday season with their Santa’s Wish tour. 8PM. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton St. Victoria. December 19 O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy, Off-Broadway Comedians and 3-time IMPRESARIO Award-Winners (London) James & Jamesy present their outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive Christmas comedy. An astonishing show that delights thousands of hearts every holiday season. 3PM & 7PM. Royal Theatre 805 Broughton St. Victoria. December 25 Christmas Day Brunch: In the Grand Lobby returns! This lavish dining experience includes an omelet station and carving station with all the works, created by Executive Chef Kreg Graham. There will be four seatings for brunch held at 10:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 12:30 p.m. Reservations required. A minimum of 2 guests per reservation, with a maximum of 8. Please note, each seating is for 1 hour and 45 minutes. The Oak Bay Beach Hotel. 1175 Beach Drive Victoria. 250.598.4556. December 28 The Gift: with the Victoria Symphony. A new 21st century family
tradition with everything you expect from a ballet production. An original Christmas tale danced to the timeles score of the Nutcracker and performed by the Victoria Symphony with: humorous pantomime, exquisite dancing, beautifu costumes, magic and as always, surprises. 7:30PM & Dec 30-7:30PM. Royal Theatre, 805 Broughton St. Victoria. January 1 Polar Bear Swim Sidney: Join fellow hardy islanders and enjoy an invigorating start to the new year with a polar bear swim! Takes place at Glass Beach at the end of Beacon Avenue in Sidney. Glass Beach at the end of Beacon Hill. 6AM-8AM. Polar Bear Swim Sooke: Event sponsored by our Association. Whiffen Spit Park, Sooke, BC. 11:30 am registration starts. 12:00 pm cannon start. Hot chocolate served afterwards and a warm fire. Whiffen Spit Park Sooke A Viennese New Year’s: Conductor, Giuseppe Pietraroia, Lara Ciekiewicz, Owen McCausland, tenor, Dancers from Ballet Victoria. A lively and nostalgic music of the family of Johann Strauss and his contemporaies. 2:30PM. Royal Theatre, 805 /Broughton St. Victoria. January 30 Vancouver Islands Dream Wedding Show: VICTORIA. Advanced Tickets are available online. 10AM - 3:30PM Pearkes Recreation Ctr. Victoria. 3100 Tillicum Rd. Victoria.
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