Say hello to winter solstice: today the shortest day of the year and also the official start of winter. Just because there are fewer daylight hours doesn’t mean you have to put activities on hold. We’ve rounded up a few things around the Lower Mainland, taking place both indoors and out, worth checking out this season.
TRAMS Christmas Lights Tour — now until Dec. 30
Instead of driving around the city looking for decorated houses worthy of stopping at, avoid the headache and join a tour offered by the Transit Museum Society. Tours depart at 7 p.m. from the 29th Avenue Skytrain Station in Vancouver on Dec. 22, 23, 24, 29 and 30. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $15 seniors and students and $5 kids under 13. Book now at www.trams.ca.
2018 Vancouver International Boat Show — Jan. 17-21
Get ready for warmer weather early and pick out your dream watercraft at the 56th annual Vancouver International Boat Show. The largest of its kind in western Canada, it takes place at two locations — inside BC Place and on Granville Island where a floating show will be set up. Guests can expect 250-plus exhibitors displaying the newest models and accessories, and engage in informative seminars aimed at amateurs and veterans alike, as well as other family-friendly activities.
One-day tickets are $15 for adults/$13 for seniors, or $5 for entry after 5 p.m. Two and five day passes are also available. Go to www.vancouverboatshow.ca for more information.
A New Year Winter Market — Jan. 20
After the hectic holidays, take some time for yourself and pop over to Sullivan Hall in Surrey where vendors will be selling artisanal goods. Sip a coffee and nibble on fresh baked goods as you peruse booths selling everything from handmade crafts to scents and oils, the latter perfect for recharging after a busy Christmas and New Year’s. Hosted in part with Family Fun Vancouver, partial proceeds go towards helping a local group of dancers fund a performance in New York. General admission is $2.
First Time Home Buyer 2018 — March 10
Getting ready to brave the housing market for the first time? Then join host and real estate author Geraldine Santiago at this talk in North Vancouver. Learn about market shifts, forecasts and changes, new mortgage rules, how to choose a qualified inspector, what to expect in terms of closing costs and preparing for unexpected changes. Registration is free.
Cannery Farmers’ Market — until Apr. 22
Where else are you able to wander a Canadian National Historic Site — the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, once a leading salmon canning facility — while purchasing food and drink produced by community farmers and businesses? Following a “Make it, Bake it, Grow it, Catch it” philosophy, B.C. vendors either make, bake, grow, raise, catch or harvest everything for sale. Admission to the museum is free, and a donation comes with a guided tour.
The market is happening from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Jan. 28, Feb. 11, Feb. 25, March 11, March 25, April 8 and April 22.
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