Take a break from shopping and enjoy some recreational and cultural events this weekend - all with a festive theme. We're continuing with our popular Top Five (or More) Things to Do This Weekend in New Westminster. Here are The Record staff's suggestions for the weekend of Dec. 21 to 23 - and be sure to have a Merry Christmas.
1 Get into the holiday spirit at the Caroling at the Quay event. The fun gets underway tonight, Friday, Dec. 21 with lantern making and crafts at River Market from 3 to 6: 30 p.m. From there, attendees will stroll the boardwalk and sing some songs of the season from 6: 30 to 8 p.m. Caroling sheets will be provided and people will be able to sing along with local choirs. Free hot chocolate will be provided to help keep folks warm. For more information, call 604-527-4567.
2 Run away and join the circus and help a good cause at the same time. The Vancouver Circus School is hosting a day of drop-in classes on Saturday, Dec. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Guests can try trampoline, trapeze or aerial silks. Classes are $10 - and 50 per cent of the proceeds will go to the JDRF Canada which supports diabetes research and programs. For more information, visit rivermarket.ca.
3 Skate with Santa when he drops by Moody Park Arena on Saturday, Dec. 22. The event includes on-ice activities, cookie decorating and Christmas crafts - all in the arena that's decked out with a festive flair. Skate with Santa takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. at 701 Eighth Ave. Regular admission rates apply.
4 Enjoy the sounds of the season when musica intima performs at Knox Presbyterian Church. The concert, which takes place on Saturday, Dec. 22 at 7: 30 p.m., features harmonies and festive offerings - as well as music from Christmas movies and some "carols wronged" which is comedic twists on old favourites. Tickets are $35 for adults, $30 for seniors and $10 for students. For more information, visit www.musicaintima.org.
5 Enjoy a Sweet Soul Gospel Christmas when the VOC Sweet Soul Gospel Choir takes to the stage at Massey Theatre. The Vancouver Outreach Community Sweet Soul Choir, under the direction of Checo Tohomaso, will offer a high-energy performance of traditional Christmas songs and carols. With a Motown sound and energy, the choir aims to get folks into the Christmas spirit and activate their souls. The show takes place on Saturday, Dec. 22 at 7: 30 p.m. at 735 Eighth St. Doors open at 6: 45 p.m. Admission is by minimum donation of $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, $10 for youth aged 10 to 15 and free for children. For more information, visit www. VOCSoulGospelChoir. com.
? Email your Top 5 ideas to calendar@royal cityrecord.com or send them to tmcmanus@royal cityrecord.com. You can also check out our full arts and events calendar listings on our website's homepage at www.royal cityrecord.com.
Compiled by staff reporter Theresa McManus
