1. The VSO’s “A Traditional Christmas” concerts: Every December, a pair of concerts at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre are part of a local Christmas-month tour conducted by Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, or VSO. Carols, sing-alongs and some heartwarming classics are promised again during this year’s concerts, on Saturday, Dec. 15, at 4 and 7:30 p.m. at the Sullivan Heights Secondary theatre. Featured are host Christopher Gaze, conductor William Rowson, UBC Opera Ensemble and the Morna Edmundson-directed EnChor choir. The concerts, two hours in length, are appropriate for kids aged five and older. Visit vancouversymphony.ca for details, or call 604-876-3434.
2. Christmas Carolling Celebration in Newton: A live acoustic band will lead sing-alongs during a free, fifth-annual gathering Saturday, Dec. 15 at Newton Recreation Centre, in the big hall connected to the ice arena, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. “Come join us for a joyous evening of community songs and holiday festivities for everyone of all ages,” says a poster for the Friends of the Grove-hosted event, to include a Christmas Mini Market involving Surrey Artist Co-Operative.
3. Winter Ice Palace: Cloverdale Arena is the go-to place for that winter pond-like vibe, for skating sessions from Dec. 21 to Jan. 6. The lights are dimmed, a tree is placed in the middle of the rink and Christmas music plays during these seasonal skates, held at various times (even Christmas Day) during the two-week run at the rink (6090 176th St., Surrey). Fees are $4.50 per person to get in, $3.25 for skate rentals and $1.75 for helmet rentals. No skates? No problem, rentals are available for a small fee. Call 604-502-6410 for the hours of operation or, better yet, visit surrey.ca/culture-recreation/27608.aspx for all the details.
CLICK HERE to read about more Christmas events, and others, happening in Surrey this month.
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