Watching The Nutcracker on TV is a holiday tradition my mother and I always had. Each year, we’d cozy up on the couch, under blankets, and watch a recorded performance or an animated version of the story. So when I was given the opportunity to watch and review Alberta Ballet’s 1.5 million dollar ballet live, I knew immediately who I’d bring as my date.

Photo courtesy of the Alberta Ballet. Credit: Darren Makowichuk

Admittedly, I was filled with trepidation as I arrived at the Queen Elizabeth theatre. After all, this ballet holds great sentimental value to me not only because it’s connected to a mother-daughter tradition, but also because as I child, I used to put all my dolls under the Christmas tree, thinking they would all come to life in a very Nutcracker kind of way. It’s deeply connected to childhood magic – something nothing can really compete with in a grown-up world.

From the truly magical and ethereal movements by the dancers to transcendent Tchaikovsky score played live by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, to the adorable children in rat costumes, Alberta Ballet’s the Nutcracker, presented by BC Ballet, not only exceeded every expectation I had, but blew them out of this world.

Photo courtesy of the Alberta Ballet. Credit: Darren Makowichuk

I think the small differences in this production from other versions definitely helped keep me (and the other audience members who know the story well) on my toes. For instance, most versions of The Nutcracker are set in Germany; however, this version takes place in turn-of-the-century Russia, where it was first performed in 1892, adding an opulent grandeur to the performance.

I had a truly wonderful time and more importantly, so did my mom. She hugged me right after the performance saying, “It’s really, really beautiful. I’m too excited to sleep,” she says to me now (at 12:20am!). I think I might try, maybe after putting some dolls under the tree.

Ballet BC presents the Alberta Ballet’s The Nutcracker until December 31, 2011 with Thursday and Friday performances at 7:30pm and two early shows on Friday and Saturday at 2:00pm. Tickets are still available including family packs. Follow @BalletBC on Twitter for additional information.

In just over a week – after careful watering, decorating, lighting, and keeping the cat from climbing through ornaments – our decorations will be packed away again for another year. If you have a live Christmas tree, there will be several ways to recycle it this season:

Photo credit: Derek Lyons on Flickr

Vancouver
What: City of Vancouver Tree Chipping Events
Date: Saturday, January 7, 2012 to Sunday, January 8, 2012
Time: 10:00am to to 4:00pm
Cost: By donation of cash or non-perishable food items.
Locations: Kitsilano Beach parking lot at Cornwall & Arbutus,
Kerrisdale Community Ice Rink parking lot at East Boulevard north of 41st Ave,
Sunset Beach upper parking lot at Beach Ave & Broughton,
RONA Home and Garden Grandview Store at 2727 East 12th Ave (overflow parking lot south of 12th Avenue) this is a replacement for the Trout Lake event.

What: Tree Chipping in Support of Bayview Elementary School
Date: Monday, December 26, 2011 to Sunday January 8, 2012
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm
Coast: By donation.
Location: UBC Botanical Garden at 6804 South West Marine Drive, Vancouver
Cost: By donation (suggested donation $5)
Notes: Entrance behind the Reception Centre building. Leave trees in the marked drop-off location.

What: Tree Chipping in Support of Mount Pleasant Elementary School
Date: Sunday, January 8, 2012
Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm
Cost: By donation.
Location: Kingsgate Mall, 370 E Broadway, Vancouver.
Notes: Enter through lower east parking lot. Free cookies and hot chocolate from the Mount Pleasant BIA.

Surrey
What: Youth Christmas Tree Chipping & Bottle Drive by Donation
Date: Monday, January 2, 2012 to Saturday, January 7, 2012
Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm
Cost: By donation.
Location: Emmanuel Covenant Church at 17029 – 16 Ave, Surrey

Date: Saturday, January 7, 2012 to Sunday, January 8, 2012
Time: Unconfirmed
Location: Newton Athletic Park at 128th and 74th, Surrey
Notes: For information call (604) 591-4203

White Rock
What: Annual Christmas Tree Chip
Date: Monday, January 2, 2012
Time: 10:00am to 4:00pm
Cost: By donation to the White Rock Food Bank
Location: Centennial Arena parking lot at 14600 North Bluff Road, White Rock

Delta
What: Lions Club Tree Chipping
Date: Saturday, January 7, 2012 to Sunday, January 8, 2012
Time: 9:00am to 4:00pm
Cost: By donation.
Locations: Tsawwassen South Delta Recreation Centre at 1720 56th St
North Delta Sungod Recreation Centre at 7815 112th St

North Vancouver
What: North Vancouver City Firefighters Christmas Tree Chip-Up
Date: Saturday, January 7, 2012
Time: 8:30am to 4:30pm
Cost: By donation.
Location: Rona Parking Lot at Park & Tilford at 1160 East 3rd St
Notes: Free hotdog, coffee, hot chocolate.

Richmond
What: Richmond Fire Department Chip Up
Date: Saturday, January 7, 2012 to Sunday, January 8, 2012
Time: 9:00am to 6:00pm
Cost: By donation, benefiting the Richmond Fire Fighters Charitable Society.
Location: Garry Point Park in Steveston
Note: Read more in this PDF.

Pitt Meadows
Date: Saturday, January 7, 2012 to Sunday, January 8, 2012
Time: 9:00am to 4:00pm
Location: Meadows Landscape Supply at 18020 Kennedy Road in Pitt Meadows
Cost: By donation, benefitting Pitt Meadows Lions Club and the Girl Guides.

Remember to remove all ornaments and tinsel from your trees. In many cases, they are being chipped up to provide mulch for paths and trails in local parks.

Should you know of additional tree chipping events, please feel free to contact me.

I ventured out to the Vancouver Christmas Market for the first time this season with Ariane Colenbrander. She and I both have Nikon 1 review cameras at the moment (mine is hot pink) so we got together at the market to try them out and take some photos.

I think they really improved the layout of the market this year most noticeably by putting the Käthe Wohlfahrt ornament pavilion indoors (instead of in a tent) and having more vendors outside. The wristband system (for those wishing to partake in a beer, or gluehwein) is promoted a bit better as well, ensuring patrons get their wristbands before they line up for their beverages.

I’ll have a full review posted for the camera in the new year. So far, images from the Nikon 1 have previously appeared in my Market by Jean-Georges and Hidden at the Westin Grand posts.

The Vancouver Christmas Market is open until December 24th from 11:00am to 9:00pm.

White Spot employees at the Richmond Centre and Kingsway locations will once again give up their Christmas mornings and afternoons to open their restaurants and dedicate their workday to two great causes.

Locations:
White Spot Richmond Centre – Unit 1902 – 6551 No. 3 Road, Richmond, B.C.
White Spot Kingsway and Knight – 1467 Kingsway, Vancouver, B.C.

Hours: December 25, 2010 from 11:00am until 3:00pm

Net proceeds from your meal directly to the Richmond General Hospital Foundation and Variety The Children’s Charity. All staff, servers, and management will also generously donate their tips as well. Stop by for a pirate pack, milkshake, or legendary burger with your friends or family on Christmas Day. Follow @White_Spot on Twitter for more information.

Breakfast with Santa keeps getting bigger each year, which is great because this two-day sold-out event raises funds for the Strathcona Community Centre’s Food Security for Children Program.

This is our third year as media partner (John comes with me to take photos) and every time we come to cover the breakfast, it’s being held in a larger room at the convention centre. Children are playing and dancing along with the performers on stage, several breakfast stations are setup, and the line-up to see Santa moves swiftly as there’s so much more to see and do.

There was a photobooth this year along with a Nintendo display that had Mario out in the crowd and a craft corner from yoyomama. Children’s entertainers Bobs and LoLo took the stage after The Showstoppers and (what we call) a kiddie moshpit ensued.

Breakfast with Santa at Canada Place is held on a Saturday and Sunday morning in December each year and usually sells out weeks in advance. Put a note on your calendar for next year as it’s become a tradition for many families. They get a breakfast and a morning out with Santa while the Strathcona Community Centre’s program benefits from the proceeds.

Tourism Surrey is once again encouraging one and all to explore holiday festivities and activities around the City of Surrey this season. They’re hosting a photo contest where you can upload any of your photos from the following events for your chance to win a new iPad2.

Photo credit: davidvega on Flickr

Potters Christmas Store
19158 48 Avenue
Your Christmas shopping isn’t complete without a visit to Potters Christmas Store! Discover your holiday treasures at the largest Christmas store in Western Canada.

Historic Stewart Farm
13723 Crescent Road
Transport yourself to the Victorian Era, and enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas! Stop by during Heritage Christmas Weekends, the Christmas Open House, or for a night of carol singing.

Surrey Tree Lighting Festival
Central City Plaza
Surrey will shine brightly this holiday season! On December 3, this family event includes the annual tree lighting ceremony, fun winter activities, and headliner entertainment including a performance by Canadian recording artist Fefe Dobson!

Christmas Train
Bear Creek Park – 13750 88 Avenue
The Christmas Train at Bear Creek Park is a truly magical experience. See Santa and his reindeer up close on this enchanted holiday train ride!

The Lagerstrom’s Christmas Light Show
15466 91A Avenue
The countdown is on for Surrey’s ultimate Christmas light display! On December 3 at 6:30pm sharp, the Lagerstroms will switch the lights on, but the house will be illuminated until December 31.

Surrey’s Santa Parade of Lights
Cloverdale Town Centre
Santa Claus is coming…to Cloverdale! On December 4 at 5:00pm, he will be joined by lighted floats, marching bands, antique vehicles, horses and lighted trucks. Parade goers are encouraged to bring a toy or a non-perishable food item to support Surrey charities.

Surrey Eagles Teddy Bear Toss
South Surrey Arena
On December 18, hockey fans are invited to bring a small stuffed animal to throw onto the ice when the Eagles score their first goal. Take your photo with Winger, the energetic Eagles mascot.

Armstrong Creek Farm
4457 190 Street
Who doesn’t love the smell of fresh Christmas trees? Surrey’s very own Christmas tree farm offers everything from potted and u-cut trees to pre-cut trees and hand-made wreaths.

Central City Big Rigs for Kids
Holland Park
If you love trucks and fantastic lighting displays, then Big Rigs for Kids Lighted Truck Convoy will not disappoint! On December 4, the party starts at 6:30pm in the park and features face painting, food and live entertainment.

Tourism Surrey Visitor Centre
730 176 Street
Stop by the Surrey Visitor Centre in December and we’ll serve up some holiday cheer – along with hot apple cider. Don’t miss your chance to meet Dudley the Moose himself.

If you made it to any of these past events (like the tree lighting festival or the parade) or plan on heading out this week, be sure to submit your photos for your chance to win. You can upload images from as many locations as you like and each image give you an entry into the contest.

The Shops at Morgan Crossing in South Surrey are offering up a variety of family-friendly activities this season on top of the opportunity to get through your Christmas list with their roster of over 60 retailers.

Photo courtesy of The Shops at Morgan Crossing

From December 19 to December 21, 2011, there will be cookie decorating (provided by Thrifty Foods), crafts for kids (provided by The Shops at Morgan Crossing), and storytelling (provided by the Surrey Library). Stop by the corner of Croydon Drive and Main Street from 12:00pm to 3:00pm each day for these free events.

You can also get photos with Santa at the same location on Thursdays from 5:00pm to 7:00pm and Fridays from 12:00pm to 3:00pm. The photos are by donation to the Surrey Food Bank (suggested donation is $2). Children, families, and dogs are invited (yes, your pet can get their photo with Santa too).

When you make a purchase at any of the Shops at Morgan Crossing between now and December 24, 2011 you can also enter to win their “Gift-a-Way” prizes of $500, $1,000, or $2,000. See stores for details. I also have a prize pack courtesy of some of the retailers that you can enter to win. This includes:

• A $100 gift certificate from Dunns Tailors along with a personalized styling and wardrobe direction for the winner
• A $75 gift certificate from Crowns & Jewels (high end jewelry, and clothing)
• A lunch from Sushi Castle worth $30

Here’s how you can enter to win this prize package:

• Leave a comment naming a retailer at The Shops at Morgan Crossing (1 entry)
• Post the following on Twitter (1 entry)

I will draw one winner at 10:00am next Wednesday, December 21, 2011. They will be able to pick up their prize at The Shops at Morgan Crossing.

Update The winner is Cathy!

The Goh Ballet’s presentation of The Nutcracker opens this week in Vancouver, just ahead of the last-minute holiday rush. Award-winning dancers, gymnasts, ballroom couples, and guests from the American Ballet Theatre will bring this classic tale alive with the accompaniment of the Vancouver Opera’s orchestra.

Photo courtesy of Goh Ballet

Experience Clara’s dream come to life as she embarks on a magical journey through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets where she is greeted by the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy. An unforgettable adventure awaits as her gallant Nutcracker battles the evil Mouse King and his army of mischievous mice. This heart-warming production is sure to delight audiences of all ages with more than 200 glittering costumes, dramatic sets and valuable lessons…

Tickets are currently available from $30 to $95, plus fees and taxes. Showtimes are 7:30pm December 15th through the 18th and a 2:00pm matinee on the 17th and 18th.

If you would like to attend this production of The Nutcracker, from Vancouver’s Goh Ballet Youth Company, here’s how you can enter to win a pair of tickets for opening night:

• Leave a comment on this post (1 entry)
• Post the following on Twitter (1 entry)

I will draw one winner tomorrow afternoon, December 14, 2011 at 4:00pm. The tickets will be for opening night on Thursday, December 15, 2011 only.

Update The winner is Yasmine!

When you think of Christmas, the beach might not come to mind. However in White Rock, the two will go hand-in-hand this weekend.

Photo credit: GlacierTim on Flickr – Submitted to the Miss604 Flickr Pool.

What Christmas at the Beach
When Sunday, December 18, 2011 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Where West Beach (short strip near the pier)

Presented by local merchants and the White Rock Business Improvement Association, the day will include a horse-drawn carriage and carolers, Christmas crafts, festive treats, along with Santa and his elves at the museum. Bring a non-perishable item for donation to the White Rock Food Bank and your hot chocolate is free.

Headquarters for the event will be at Marine Drive and Vidal Street. You can also pick up a Rock Holiday Experience Card to collect stamps from merchants. Get a minimum of five stamps and your card could win you $1,000 in White Rock Dollars.

Follow @inwhiterock on Twitter or Facebook for more information.

You probably don’t need me to tell you that the holiday season is here. And while everyone in Metro Vancouver enjoys Bright Nights in Stanley Park or the Festival of Lights at VanDusen Gardens, out here in the Northeast Sector we have some fabulous Christmas events of our own to mark the season. So if you live in or around Port Moody, or you’ll be in the area over the holidays, read on for some festive local highlights.

Holiday Tea

What Drop by Port Moody Station Museum’s 1920s rail car to enjoy some old fashioned holiday music, cookies and a warm drink in a festive holiday atmosphere. Price is $5 per person, tax included. Reservations not required. Cash only.
Where Port Moody Station Museum [map]
When Sunday, December 11 and Sunday, December 18, 2011 from 12:30 – 3:30pm
More info portmoodymuseum.org

Holiday Wine and Cheese Tasting

What Get ready for the holidays at a tasting of incredible holiday value wines! Participants will be sampling 16 wines from around the world all matched with gourmet cheeses, unique spreads, artisan breads and crackers during this unique holiday tasting. This is a stand up salon style self-guided tasting. The room will feature four individual stations including one for sparkling wine, one for white wine, one for red wine, and one for dessert wine. Wine expert John Gerum will be on-site with his event team pouring the wines and discussing unique holiday food and wine matches. All wines sampled are holiday value wines and can be purchased locally for less than $20 per bottle. Tickets are $35 + HST per person.
Where Port Moody Arts Centre [map]
When Thursday, December 15, 2011 from 7:00 – 9:00pm
More info wcwed.com

CP Holiday Train

What The CP Holiday Train returns to Port Moody. This event is a wonderful way to welcome the holidays. Santa has taken time out of his busy schedule to greet everyone. There will be hot chocolate and chili available by donation to the food bank, carolers, an enormous bonfire and more. The train will arrive with John Valdy and Tracey Brown, two popular Canadian artists.
Where Queens Street Plaza [map]
When Saturday, December 17, 2011 – festivities start at 4:00pm, train arrives at 5:45pm
More info CPR

Solstice Celebration Lantern Festival

What The Lantern Festival is a free community event for all ages. Participants are invited to join in caroling, crafts and dance. There will also be Solstice sun cookies, soup and tea. Attendees are encouraged to bring food and beverages to share, as well as mugs and dishes from home. The event opens with a meditation led by Kushala Yoga, followed by a short lantern procession. From there participants will light the Solstice tree, sing a sun song, and wrap things up with a closing meditation from Kushala. The event is taking place outside, so if you attend organizers say, “Dress magical, but dress for the weather.”
Where Rocky Point Park Pavilion [map]
When Wednesday, December 21, 2011 from 4:30 – 6:30pm
More info Facebook Event

Happy holidays!

Amber Strocel is a writer, mom, dreamer and occasional cat wrangler who lives in suburban Vancouver. She writes about local news and events in the Tri-Cities at TheV3H.com. She also has a personal blog at Strocel.com, runs an online class for moms who are searching for their purpose called Crafting my Life, and works as the Content Manager for VancouverMom.ca.