Missy Goes Boating

Salt Spring Winter Solstice Music
2025-12-11 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | All Saints by-the-Sea, 110 Park Drive, Salt Spring Island, BC., Canada
Salt Spring Winter Solstice Music is a warm, reflective concert that marks the season with voice, strings, and storytelling. The Winter Solstice Music tour brings together award-winning performers for an evening of songs and stories designed to honor the return of light and create a cozy community experience on the island.
What to expect
• A 90-minute concert blending vocals, acoustic instruments, and gentle storytelling.• Featured performers on this tour include Cari Burdett, Adrian Dolan, Adam Dobres, Maeve Iredale, Quin Etheridge-Redden, and Scott White.• An intimate, candlelit church setting that makes the music feel immediate and communal.• A chance to pause in the darkest part of the year and enjoy thoughtful repertoire and seasonal reflections.
Tickets and cost
General admission typically runs in the $30 to $35 range (Gulf Island Events lists $33.28). door prices may be slightly higher. Tickets are available through the event ticketing page and local listings.
Visitor tips for Salt Spring Winter Solstice Music
• Arrive a little early for a good pew and to settle into the warm, intimate atmosphere.• Dress in cozy layers; churches can feel chilly before the crowd and heaters get going.• Consider carpooling or allow extra time for island transit and parking near the venue.• If you love the music, look for CD or merchandise tables after the concert to support the artists.
Tour dates, times, and ticketing can change. Check the Gulf Island Events listing or the tour ticket page the day of the concert for any last-minute updates.

Counting Orca - Live Screening with Q & A (USA)
2025-12-10 18:00 - 19:30
Join us for an exclusive online screening of “Counting Orca” followed by a Q&A session with the films makers and the CWR Research tea

Counting Orca is a short film following the life work of Center for Whale Research’s founder Dr. Ken Balcomb and his unique connection to the orca of the Pacific Northwest.

The film includes never-before-seen interviews and conversations with Ken. After the film, a panel discussion will be held with the film makers @lakeshoredrproductions and CWR’s Executive Director and members of the research team.

Anniversary of the Statute of Westminster
2025-12-10 - 2025-12-11
Observance
To hide observances, go to Google Calendar Settings > Holidays in Canada

Last quarter 8:52pm
2025-12-10 - 2025-12-11

Nature Inspired Winter Wreath Workshop
2025-12-07 17:30 - 19:00 | Rocanini Coffee Roasters, 863 Beatty Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 2M6, Canada
You will learn how to create a sustainable, nature inspired wreath without using artificial materials!

Winter wreath workshop
Join us for a warm and festive evening of wreath-making. You’ll learn how to create a sustainable, nature-inspired winter wreath using all natural materials, no experience needed!!
Just come ready to unwind, get creative, and enjoy the season!
Your ticket includes a mini box of Christmas cookies, two beverages of your choice, and your handmade wreath to take home.🌟
A simple, cozy way to welcome winter and add a touch of handmade charm to your home. ✨🎄

Merry Melodies Music Bingo
2025-12-07 15:00 - 17:00 | The Fernwood Inn, 1302 Gladstone Avenue, Victoria, BC, V8R 1S1, Canada
Join us for a merry mix of music, prizes, and good cheer! Enjoy rounds of bingo featuring your favorite holiday songs. Perfect for families!

Join us for Merry Melodies: Holiday Music Bingo! 🎶
Sing along to your favorite holiday tunes, win festive prizes, and soak up the cheerful spirit of the season.
Where : The Fernwood Inn
When : December 7th
Doors open at 2 PM, and the fun begins at 3 PM with two rounds of music bingo
ALL AGES WELCOME
And don’t forget your camera, Santa will be making a special appearance! 🎅✨

Holidays at Hatley Castle
2025-12-07 15:00 - 16:00, 2025-12-07 14:00 - 15:00, 2025-12-07 13:00 - 14:00, 2025-12-07 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-12-07 11:00 - 12:00 | Hatley Castle, 2005 Sooke Road, Victoria, BC, V9B 5Y2, Canada
Join us at the iconic Hatley Castle this December for holiday cheer, guided tours, and family fun.

Trucker n’ Trades Parade
2025-12-06 17:30 - 18:30 | Ganges, Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada
Fresco Refrigeration and the Salt Spring Chamber of Commerce, with support from Windsor Plywood and Mouat’s, are teaming up to host the first ever Annual Trucker n’ Trades Parade. Trades and truckers are registering to light up their trucks, play some tunes, toss some candy, celebrate the holiday season with our community, and send proceeds from the parade to the Canadian Cancer Society in memory of Rick Andrews. The parade will start and end at Windsor Plywood, weaving through Ganges, up to Country Grocer and return via Atkins and Rainbow Road. Find your spot along the parade route Salt Spring Island Chamber of Commerce – Trucker n’ Trades Holiday Parade and watch the lights go by.
After the parade, wander to Windsor Plywood to enjoy a Hot Chocolate or Hot Apple Cider and check out some of the trucks up close. Windsor Plywood will also have a donation bin should community members wish to donate to the Canadian Cancer Society in memory of Rick Andrews.

Winter Harp Sechelt 2025
2025-12-06 14:30 - 17:00 | Raven’s Cry Theatre, 5555 Sunshine Coast Highway, Sechelt, BC, V0N 3A3, Canada
Glorious music and song combine with festive stories to warm your heart and wrap you in the Christmas spirit.

“Magical . . . enchanting . . . mesmerizing . . . ” These are words that describe Winter Harp, an acclaimed ensemble of harps, flutes, medieval instruments, percussion, poetry and song. Join this Yuletide ensemble as it whisks you to a far-off land of moonlight, castles and snow. It’s like being in an ethereal medieval dream – hauntingly beautiful, yet as cozy and warm as Christmas. Carols, both familiar and ancient, will set your heart singing as you journey with the musicians to Christmases of long ago. Gorgeous medieval gowns and a stage set with candles add to the beauty of this unique show.
Winter Harp — Christmas begins here.

Galiano Club’s Annual Christmas Market
2025-12-06 10:00 - 2025-12-07 14:00 | Galiano South Hall, 141 Sturdies Bay Road, Galiano Island, V0N 1P0
New vendors each day. Shop local and support your Galiano makers, bakers, and artists.
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Dec 6 & 7

Breakfast with Santa
2025-12-06 01:30 - 03:30
Make holiday magic come alive with an unforgettable morning at the Market! 🎄 Enjoy a festive breakfast prepared by Pancake and Waffle Haus, plus exclusive pre-Market access before the gates open. Kids will love activity stations, exclusive carousel rides, and a special meet & greet with Santa, complete with photo opportunities.
Spots are limited — don’t miss this chance to start your family’s holiday season with food, fun, and festive cheer!
✨Buy Tickets Here✨

Winter Wander
2025-12-05 17:00 - 20:00 | Ganges, Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada
Join us for this year’s Winter Wander, a festive evening of late night shopping, treats, and holiday cheer throughout Ganges. From 5 to 8 PM on Friday, December 5, the village will glow with warm lights and a welcoming community spirit.
Last year’s Winter Wander was a wonderful success. The streets were lively, visitors explored local shops, and the atmosphere throughout Ganges felt joyful and connected. This year promises to be just as special.
Stroll through town, enjoy special offers and seasonal surprises, and discover what local shops have planned to make your evening memorable. Bring friends and family and celebrate the start of the holiday season with our annual Late Night Shopping in Town.

Milner Christmas Magic Qualicum
2025-12-04 17:00 - 2025-12-21 20:30 | Milner Gardens & Woodland, 2179 West Island Highway, Qualicum Beach, BC, Canada
Milner Christmas Magic lights up Milner Gardens with thousands of festive lights, creative window displays, and family-friendly evening strolls. This seasonal walk-through is a relaxed, community-minded holiday outing that combines garden ambience with warm food stalls, a Gingerbread Gift Shop, and chances to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Dates & hours for Milner Christmas Magic

Evenings: December 4–7, 11–14, 18–21, 2025.
Admission gate open 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with viewing allowed until 8:30 PM.
Last entry is typically 8:00 PM. Check the site for any slight nightly adjustments.

Admission & donations
Entry is by suggested donation: $8 per adult, $4 per child, or $20 per household. Pay at the Welcome Centre on arrival. Cash, debit, Visa and MasterCard are accepted. All are welcome regardless of ability to donate.
Highlights

Thousands of outdoor lights and festive garden scenes.
Gingerbread Gift Shop for local crafts and holiday finds.
Hot food and refreshments sold on site to warm you up.
Santa and Mrs. Claus visits on select evenings, plus family-friendly programming.

Accessibility & policies

The site is garden terrain, wear comfortable shoes and dress for cool, damp evenings.
Only certified service dogs are permitted on site.
Nightly events may be cancelled for severe weather, check updates before you go.

Visitor tips
Arrive early for quieter pathways and the best photos. Layer up as the seaside breeze can be surprisingly brisk. If you want a relaxed visit, pick a weekday evening during the event window.
Schedules, guest appearances and food vendors can change. Check the Milner Gardens events page the day you plan to attend for any updates.

Full moon 11:14pm
2025-12-03 - 2025-12-04

Paint & Sip
2025-12-02 09:30 - 11:00
Join us indoors for a festive tote-painting workshop from 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM, then enjoy the Market at your leisure afterward! 🎄

Buy Tickets Here

Italian Pizza Making Class at Il Centro 2025
2025-12-01 06:00 - 21:30 | Italian Cultural Centre (Il Centro), 3075 Slocan Street, Vancouver, BC V5M 3E4, Canada.
Join the Italian Pizza Making Class at Il Centro and learn to make authentic pizza from dough to oven in a friendly, hands-on workshop. In this three-hour class you will mix and knead dough, learn shaping techniques, build your own pizza with classic toppings, and bake and enjoy the results. The session is practical, social, and perfect for anyone who wants to cook better pizza at home.
What you will learn

How to make pizza dough from scratch and the basics of fermentation and handling
Proper stretching and shaping so your crust holds up under toppings
Sauce, cheese and topping balance for true Italian flavor
Oven techniques and finishing tips so your pizza comes out crisp and evenly cooked

Instructor and venue
Instructor: Irene Mazzucato, Il Centro culinary program.Venue: Italian Cultural Centre (Il Centro), Vancouver.
Typical format, time and price

Format: Hands-on, small-group workshop with a shared tasting at the end.
Duration: About three hours.
Price: Typical ticket price in 2025 is around CAD 108 per person, but check the ticket page for exact pricing and any service fees.

Tips for Italian Pizza Making Class at Il Centro
Arrive hungry and ready to roll up your sleeves. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring a small pouch for your phone. If you want to keep practicing at home, buy a ticket that includes recipe notes and ask the instructor for dough-storage tips.
For confirmed dates, ticket links, and any changes, check the Il Centro culinary classes page and the Eventbrite listing for the specific session you plan to attend.

Salt Spring Farm Stand Light Up Tour
2025-11-30 12:00 - 2025-12-15 20:00 | Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada
Salt Spring Farm Stand Light Up Tour is a self-guided island drive that turns local farm stands into little holiday lights and market stops. It’s free to visit, family friendly, and a lovely way to support growers, bakers, and makers while taking a relaxed coastal drive.
Expect festive displays, seasonal treats, and a Meet the Maker day where you can chat with stand owners and learn what’s in season.
What to expect at Farm Stand Light Up Tour

A map-guided, self-drive route connecting participating farm stands across Salt Spring Island.
Seasonal treats, artisan goods, fresh produce and small pop-up makers at many stands.
A Meet the Maker day on a designated weekend where producers host drop-in chats and samples.
A low-key, community-first vibe that’s perfect for a daytime outing or a twilit drive.

Dates and map info

Dates: November 30 & December 1, 14, 15.
Special “Meet the Makers” hours: December 14 (some stands open 12 PM–3 PM).
Evening light-up: Some stands remain open late (past 8 PM) during tour weekends.
Stand hours: Vary by farm stand so each stand has its own schedule (check the interactive map).

Location

Venue: Multiple farm stands across Salt Spring Island, BC.
Address: There’s no single address so you navigate through the interactive map which shows 40+ participating farm stands, each with its own location.

Cost and registration

Free for visitors.
Farm stands that want to join usually sign up through the Salt Spring Island Farm Stands organizer page.

Visitor tips
Plan your route ahead and leave extra time for short drives between stands. Parking at smaller stands can be tight so be courteous and patient. Bring a reusable bag for purchases and cash for smaller vendors. If you are attending Meet the Maker, arrive midday for the best sampling and conversation time.
Confirm before you go
Dates, Meet the Maker details and the Light Up map are finalized each year. Check the Salt Spring Island Farm Stands page for the official map and latest 2025 dates.

Galiano Garden Club Seasonal Inspirations
2025-11-30 12:00 - 15:00 | North Galiano Community Hall, 22790 Porlier Pass Rd, Galiano Island, BC., Canada
Galiano Garden Club Seasonal Inspirations is a hands-on wreath and swag workshop where participants create seasonal décor using locally sourced greenery, guided instruction, and all materials provided.
The session is relaxed, social, and supported by light refreshments like hot apple cider and snacks. It is a short, friendly workshop designed for creative island afternoons without any cleanup required.
What to expect
• Guided instruction suitable for beginners and seasoned makers.• All greenery, forms, ribbons, and tools provided for your project.• A cozy, social atmosphere with light refreshments.• A simple, no-mess finish that lets you walk out with a ready-to-hang wreath or swag.
Ticket price
Admission: $25; $5 off if you bring your own frame. Kids: Free.
Visitor tips for Galiano Garden Club Seasonal Inspirations
• Wear something comfortable that can handle a bit of greenery.• Bring a reusable tote so your finished wreath or swag gets home safely.• Arrive a few minutes early for cider and an easy start.
Community workshops may adjust times or materials. Check the Gulf Island Events listing on the day of the event for updated details.

Port Browning Holiday Market
2025-11-30 11:00 - 15:00 | Bridgeman’s Bistro, 4605 Oak Road, Port Browning, Pender Island, BC, Canada
Port Browning Holiday Market is a cozy Sunday market held in the Bistro at Port Browning, featuring local makers and seasonal treats in a warm, community-minded setting. It’s the sort of small, friendly market where you can pick up thoughtful gifts, enjoy a hot bite, and chat with makers while avoiding the mall rush.
What to expect at Port Browning Holiday Market
• Local artisans and pop-up vendors with holiday gifts and crafts.• Bistro food service and a comfortable indoor space for easy browsing.• A relaxed, short-market format that works well for island visitors and locals alike.
Visitor tips
Arrive mid-morning to catch the fresh stalls and the best selection. Bring a small day pouch for your phone and any purchases. If you are arriving by ferry, allow extra time for island transit and parking. Dress for a cool November day at the waterfront.
Confirm before you go
Small community markets can change timing, vendor lists, or setup details. Check the Gulf Island Events listing and Kraken Underground’s Facebook page for last-minute updates on the day of the market.

Galiano Christmas Craft Fair
2025-11-29 09:00 - 14:00 | Galiano Lions Hall, 992 Burrill Road, Galiano Island, BC., Canada
Galiano Christmas Craft Fair brings makers and holiday shoppers together for a cheerful, community-first market at the Lions Hall. Expect local artisans, handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and a relaxed island vibe that makes this a perfect one-day stop for finding thoughtful presents and supporting Galiano makers.
What to expect at Galiano Christmas Craft Fair
A curated mix of local vendors offering handcrafted goods, holiday treats, and small-batch gifts. The hall format makes browsing easy and family-friendly, with chances to meet makers and pick up unique, locally made items. Plan for a festive, low-key shopping experience rather than a large commercial market.
Visitor tips
Arrive early for the best selection and quieter browsing. Bring a small reusable bag for purchases. If you are coming by ferry, allow extra travel time for island transit and parking near the hall. Cash can be handy for smaller vendors, though many take cards.
Small community events sometimes update vendors or times. Check the event listing and the organizer’s social page the week of November 29 for any last-minute changes.

Deck The Hall Christmas Market
2025-11-28 10:00 - 2025-11-30 18:00 | Cowichan Exhibition Grounds, 7380 Trans-Canada Hwy, Duncan / North Cowichan, BC V9L 6B1, Canada
Deck the Hall Christmas Market is a large, family-friendly holiday market held at the Cowichan Exhibition Grounds. Since 2012 the market has grown into a must-visit Vancouver Island holiday event with more than 120 artisans, festive music, seasonal eats, and community cheer.
Why go
This is the place to find handcrafted gifts, specialty foods, and one-of-a-kind stocking stuffers from local makers. Expect a lively indoor market, a few outdoor food stalls, door prizes, and a visit from Santa for the little ones. Admission is free, so it’s an easy stop while you shop around Duncan and the Cowichan Valley.
Highlights

Over 120 vendors offering jewelry, pottery, textiles, candles, woodcraft, artisan foods, pet gifts, and more.
Live holiday music and family-friendly entertainment with Santa making an appearance.
On-site concessions and specialty vendors such as cider presses and local cafés serving hot drinks.

Vendor and registration note
Vendor registration for 2025 is currently closed and the event is at capacity. If you are on a cancellation list, check back after the Cowichan Exhibition in September for any openings. The full 2024 vendor roster is posted on the event page if you want to preview who typically shows up.
Visitor info and tips for Deck The Hall Christmas Market

Admission: free.
Best time to visit: arrive on a weekday morning or early afternoon to avoid weekend crowds and get quieter browsing.
Parking: on-site parking at the Cowichan Exhibition Grounds; expect some busy periods so plan to arrive early on Saturday or Sunday.
What to bring: reusable shopping bag, small pouch for phone and wallet, and a light layer for chilly indoor/outdoor transitions.
Accessibility: the venue is accessible; check the Cowichan Exhibition site for specific accessibility info.

First quarter 6:59am
2025-11-27 - 2025-11-28

Ladysmith Festival of Lights
2025-11-27 15:00 - 21:00 | Ladysmith, 1110 1st Ave, Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A1, Ladysmith, BC, Canada
Ladysmith Festival of Lights brightens First Avenue and the waterfront every winter with thousands of twinkling lights, family-friendly activities, pop-up markets, and a big community parade that officially kicks off the season. The festival is free to enjoy and draws visitors from across Vancouver Island for shopping, photos, and small-town holiday cheer.
What to expect

First Avenue transformed into a lighted stroll with decorated business fronts and displays.
Light Up Parade featuring floats, community groups, and a finale at Bob Stuart Park.
Craft fair and food vendors set up around Aggie Hall and the downtown core.
Tree lighting, fireworks, Santa visits, and family-focused programming across the opening evening and weekends.

Info for visitors for Ladysmith Festival of Lights

Admission is free. Expect crowds on parade night and busy weekends during December.
Road closures affect First Avenue from mid-afternoon on Light Up night and parking near the downtown core is limited. Plan to arrive early, use nearby lots, or walk from local parking.
If you are visiting for photos, the best light and quieter streets are early evening on non-parade nights. Bring a warm layer, comfortable shoes, and a small pouch for essentials.

Vendor and volunteer notes

Food vendor applications are accepted and in past years the vendor fee was around $350. Organizers require valid health permits and self-contained setups.
The festival is volunteer-powered. If you want to help, organizers post volunteer sign-up details on their site.

Details such as parade route, road closures, vendor lists, and fireworks updates change year to year. Confirm the final schedule and visitor guidance on the Ladysmith Festival of Lights website the week of the event.

Hycroft for the Holidays
2025-11-27 10:00 - 2025-11-30 22:00 | Hycroft Manor, 1489 McRae Avenue, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Hycroft for the Holidays turns the Hycroft mansion and gardens into a festive, family-friendly celebration that kicks off the season with lights, seasonal shopping, music and bite-sized performances. It’s an easy stop for a cozy evening stroll, photo ops on the lawn, and a chance to support the Hycroft Heritage Preservation Foundation and community programming.
Highlights

Evening visits with decorative lights and tasteful holiday displays.
Vendor market featuring local makers and seasonal goods.
Short performances and musical interludes across the event window.

Tickets and access
Tickets are available for single-day visits, priced from free up to $25 depending on options and programming. Children under 12 are free. A single ticket is valid for any day or time during the November 27 to 30 window, so pick the slot that fits your plan.
Plan your visit

Parking: limited near the mansion, consider transit or a short walk from nearby lots.
Best times: early evening for photos and a quieter walk, later evening for full lights and atmosphere.

Visitor tips for Hycroft for the Holidays
Arrive with a small pouch for your phone and tickets, wear a warm layer for the garden breeze, and bring cash if you want to grab a quick snack from a vendor. If you prefer a quieter visit, choose a weekday evening or the earlier time slots.
Programs, vendor lists and ticket options can be updated close to the event. Check the Hycroft for the Holidays event page the week of November 27 for the latest schedule and ticket links.

Pacific Marine Expo 2025
2025-11-20 10:00 - 2025-11-22 17:00 | Lumen Field Event Center, 800 Occidental Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134, USA
Pacific Marine Expo is the West Coast’s largest commercial marine tradeshow, focused on workboats, commercial fishing, tugs, tow, seafood processors, and the suppliers who keep those industries moving. It brings hundreds of exhibitors, free three-day education sessions, and dedicated industry hubs such as Alaska Hall.
Ticket / registration price & how to get badges

Advanced (pre) registration: Free (industry attendees).
On-site / walk-up registration: $50.
Exhibitor badges / exhibitor registration: managed via the exhibitor portal (exhibitors must register staff as Exhibitor Badges; temporary work passes available for move-in/out). See exhibitor registration page.

Quick essentials

Dates and venue: November 20 to 22, 2025 at Lumen Field Event Center, Seattle.
Who shows up: vessel owners, fleet managers, shipyards, marine technicians, brokers, and equipment suppliers.
Why go: see the latest commercial marine tech, attend practical panels, and network with West Coast and Alaska industry partners.

Highlights to bookmark

Free education program that covers safety, regulations, business trends, and technical advances.
Alaska Hall showcasing regional products and services.
Industry social events including happy hours, the NF Highliner Ceremony, and the Coastal Challenge.

Plan your visit for Pacific Marine Expo
Arrive with a short checklist of the products or partners you want to meet. Book meetings ahead because booths fill fast. Wear non-marking shoes for long dock-style floors, and carry a small pouch for business cards and your phone so you can swap contact info without juggling brochures. Public transit and hotel shuttles are handy since downtown parking can be tight.
Schedules, confirmed speaker lists, and exhibitor maps can change as the show approaches. Check the Pacific Marine Expo site for the latest program, tickets, and exhibitor map the week before you go.

FlyOver Canada - Soar With Santa
2025-11-20 - 2026-01-03
Celebrate the holiday season with a magical ride across Canada and to the North Pole. Soar with Santa, featuring our original Canadian adventure, returns to Flyover in Vancouver from November 20 to January 4. Christmas at FlyOver Canada is a special winter holiday-themed multi-dimensional flying theatre experience at Canada Place in Vancouver around December.
Uncover the majesty of Canada, from its Arctic landscapes to ocean-front energy on both coasts and through all the spectacular scenery in between. Our signature adventure delves into the heart of Canada, exploring the far and wide feeling of home that unites this dynamic nation.
Dates for the Soar With Santa film during this year’s Christmas season are from November 21st, 2024, until January 1st, 2025.
For tickets and the attraction’s official website, click FlyOver Canada.
