CHRISTMAS

Christmas Train at Bear Creek Park runs from Dec. 4 to Jan. 3, daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Take a picture with Santa Claus and receive a candy cane. Bring a bag of clothes to donate to the Rick and Sue Foundation (Rickandsuefoundation.com) and purchase a ticket for $6 (limit one ticket per family of 4). Clothing bins are located on site.” Tickets $8.50 + tax, at 13750 88th Ave., Surrey. Note: Closed on Dec. 25. Info: 604-501-1232, Bctrains.com.

Christmas Open House (noon to 4 p.m.) and Evening Carol Sing (6:30 to 8 p.m.) events at Historic Stewart Farm, South Surrey, on Saturday, Dec. 12. For more details, call 604.592.6956 or visit http://www.surrey.ca/culture-recreation/2884.aspx.

Winter Ice Palace: Cloverdale Arena is transformed into an “outdoor” pond for public skating sessions from Dec. 18 to Jan. 3. Open on Christmas Day and also New Year’s Day. Session times vary; for details, call 604-502-6410 or visit Surrey.ca/culture-recreation/16220.aspx?startDate=Nov-12-2015. Admission is $4.50 (free under 2 years old), skate rentals $3.25, helmet rentals $1.75. Arena is located at 6090 176 St., Surrey.

City Centre Community Christmas Party on Saturday, Dec. 19 starting at noon at Whalley Presbyterian, 13062 104 Ave, Surrey. Santa, gifts, music, food. Info: www.whalleypresbyterian.com.

“Discovery Saturday: Very Vintage Christmas” event at Surrey Museum on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 1 to 4 p.m. “Free and all ages, the ‘50s-themed event will showcase what Christmas was like in the mid 20th century,” featuring singer-songwriter Reid Jamieson, Santa for photos, Elf on the Shelf-inspired scavenger hunt, #SMUglySweater selfie station. At 17710 56A Ave., 604-592-6956, www.surrey.ca/heritage.

Candlelight Chirstmas Eve Service on Thursday, Dec. 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. at 13062 104th Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-591-7770, www.whalleypresbyterian.com.

The Whalley Santa Cause event on Dec. 25: “Join the event founder, Erica Beckstead, and her volunteers as they march the streets of Whalley handing out hampers to the homeless.” Meet at Gateway Station on the street by taxis, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Info: 778-233-4344, whalleysantacause@hotmail.com.

“Bodyslams for Toys”: All Star Wrestling presents wrestling event/fundraiser to benefit Surrey Christmas Bureau, on Saturday, Dec. 12 at Cloverdale Fairgrounds. Admission is a new, unwrapped toy for a boy or girl ($10 value minimum). “Secret Santa Battle Royal” match means every wrestler will get a ‘Secret Santa’ gift when eliminated. Event info: Facebook.com/events/1460059887632599.

The Timewalkers’ Christmas Show: Concert dates at Blue Frog Studios in White Rock, Friday, Dec. 11 at 7 and 9:30 p.m., featuring quartet of Ron Irving, Michael Vincent, Eli Bryan Nelson and Luke Isaac.Info: 604-542-3055.

“A Christmas Show Made in Heaven,” starring Linda Kidder and Dave Pickell with guest Norman Foote, 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 at Blue Frog Studios, White Rock. “Sophisticated, dazzling, very humorous, and packed with virtuosity.” Tickets $37.50, www.bluefrogstudios.ca, 604 542-3055.

The Gloria Dei Chorale, under direction of Betty-Ann Vroom, presents ‘Night of the Father’s Love,’ featuring choral selections, readings and congregational songs, on Saturday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m., in the Oasis Room at Elim Village, 9025 160th St., Surrey. A free-will offering will be taken. Contact Marilyn Heinen, 604-584-6021.

The Lyric Singers: “Lyric at Christmas” concert Saturday, Dec. 12 at Northwood United Church, 8855 156th St., Surrey, 7:30 p.m., featuring Nancy Rahn, director, and Betty Suderman, pianist. “A programme of great variety that includes traditional and new Christmas music, instrumental accompaniment and a sing-a-long.Featured instrumentalists will include Jeremy Ferland & Alana Lopez, violins; Ben Goheen, cello, and a trumpeter, TBA. Tickets are $20, reserve by calling 604-340-4353 or email lyricsingersbc@gmail.com. Info: Lyricsingers.bpt.me.

Christmas Cantata staged by Surrey Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 2 and also 7 p.m. Free admission, 6270 126th St., Surrey. “In addition to mixed choirs that will be performing, there are a number of solo singers and groups including the following that will be singing.”

Jazz Vespers at Northwood United Church: Hour-long concert events on second and fourth Sundays at church, 8855 156th St., Surrey, 4 p.m. start. Dec. 13: “Love comes Alive”: A Christmas Jazz Vespers featuring Marcus Mosely Chorale and Trio and Langley Fine Arts Chamber Choir (Jim Sparks, director).

Classical Coffee Concerts series at Surrey Arts Centre’s studio theatre with host pianist Sarah Hagen. Concerts held monthly on select Thursdays starting at 9:30 a.m. “Socialize over coffee, tea, and goodies in the lobby, followed by a concert.” Concerts in series continue Dec. 10 (Hagen solo on piano), Jan. 14 (with Martin Chalifour, violin), Feb. 25 (with Nicolò Eugelmi, viola) and March 10 (with Søren Bebe, jazz piano). Series presented by Surrey Civic Theatres. Info: 604-501-5566, Tickets.surrey.ca.

“A Traditional Christmas” concerts performed by Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and guests on Thursday, Dec. 17 at Surrey’s Bell Performing Arts Centre, shows at 4:30 and 8 p.m. Featuring Christopher Gaze as host, UBC Opera Ensemble and EnChor. Info: Vancouversymphony.ca.

Gina Williams: “Christmas and Beyond” concert on Dec. 19 at Northwood United Church, 8855 156th St., Surrey, 7 p.m. Tickets are $25, partial benefit in support of the Syrian refugees through ADRA Canada. Artist info: Ginawilliams.com.

Luisa Marshall as Tina Turner in “A Tribute to the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll”: Concert Monday, Dec. 28 at Coast Capital Playhouse, 1532 Johnston Rd, White Rock. Tickets $42.50 (plus charges), 604-536-7535 or online at www.whiterockplayers.ca.

“The Lonely: A Tribute to Roy Orbison”: Thursday, Jan. 28 at Blue Frog Studios in White Rock, tickets are $42.50 (plus charges) at www.bluefrogstudios.ca/newshows.html, 604-542-3055.

Encore Peninsula Concerts: International classical musicians in White Rock in annual series, featuring Sunday-afternoon concerts on Jan. 31, Feb. 28, April 17 and May 15, 3 p.m. performances at White Rock First United Church, 15385 Semiahmoo Ave., White Rock. Show and ticket info: 604-541-2199, Whiterockcity.ca.

OPEN MIC

Delta Arts Council open mic night at Firehall Centre for the Arts (11489 84th Ave., North Delta) on last Friday of each month. “Open Mic gives local talent the opportunity to share and showcase.” Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $4/person at the door. Info: Deltaartscouncil.ca.

CLUBS/BARS

Donegal’s Irish House: Live music Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 12054 96th Ave., Surrey. Info: 604-584-2112, Donegalspub.com/events.html.

The Taphouse Guildford: Upscale music/sports bar, 15330 102A Ave., Surrey. Tuesday: Acoustic Night with Andrew Christopher, 8 p.m. Wednesday: “Almost Famous Karaoke”; Thursday: Duelling Pianos; Friday/Saturday: live cover bands. Info: 604-583-8828, Thetaphouse.ca.

Pancho’s Top 40 Rock Club: Live top 40 and classic rock. Tuesday karaoke, Thursday jam night. At 10768 King George Blvd., Surrey, 604-583-3536. Band and special-event info: Panchosnightclub.com.

Dublin Crossing: Live music four nights a week at 18789 Fraser Hwy., Surrey. 604-575-5470, Dublincrossing.com.

Olympia Pizza: Live music, comedy and more at venue in Whalley, 10257 King George Blvd. 604-584-1388, Facebook.com/olympia.resto. Tues. and Thurs. open-mic night.

Central City Brewing Co.: Live music on select nights at restaurant/bar, 13450 102nd Ave., at Central City, Surrey. Info: 604-582-6620, Centralcitybrewing.com.

DANCE SHOWS

“The Nutcracker” staged by Royal City Youth Ballet from Dec. 11 to 13 at Surrey Arts Centre’s mainstage. “This production delights all ages with its beautiful sets and extravagant costumes that illuminate the magic of the toy soldiers, Sugar Plum Fairy and a growing Christmas tree. Talented and enthusiastic young dancers perform to Tchaikovsky’s classic score with its favourites such as Waltz of Flowers and Dance of the Reed Pipes.” Show times are 7 p.m. Dec. 11, 1 and 4 p.m. on Dec. 12 and 1 and 4 p.m. on Dec. 13. Tickets are $38 for adults and $28 for children. Info: 604-501-5566.

Shiamak dance company’s “Winter Funk” student show Saturday, Dec. 12 at Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey. Event gives students “an opportunity to learn and train in their favorite dance styles to their favorite songs and gain a wholesome perspective, working on costumes and properties.” Info and tickets: Bellperformingartscentre.com  or call 604-507-6355. Company info: Shiamak.ca/vancouver.

THEATRE/STAGE

“Cinderella”: White Rock Players’ Club stages panto production at Coast Capital Playhouse from Dec. 4 to Jan. 2, featuring Sam Brealey in title role. All shows at 7:30 p.m., plus Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. Info: Whiterockplayers.ca, 604-536-7535.

“Ellie King’s Puss in Boots”: Panto production staged by Royal Canadian Theatre Company at Surrey Arts Centre from Dec. 19 to 27 (select dates). For tickets and show info, call 604-501-5566 or visit RCTheatreco.com.

“In A Blue Moon”: Play written by Lucia Frangione is staged at Surrey Arts Centre’s main stage from Jan. 13 to 23, via Arts Club on Tour. “Through memories and photographs, a tender love story unfolds (among three people) as they begin to thread together a new understanding of family.” Info and tickets: 604-501-5566, tickets.surrey.ca.

DANCES

Scottish Country dance classes are held on Wednesday evenings each week (from September to end of April) at Sullivan Hall, 6306 152nd St., Surrey, starting at 7 p.m. First class is free for newcomers. For info, call Maureen at 604-536-1367 or visit Wrscdc.org.

“Latin Friday Nights” on second Friday of each month at Amor Fitness, 8 p.m. to midnight at 8056 King George Blvd., Surrey. All ages, admission $10. “Spicy dance party featuring all night dancing with REAL Latin music. Dress to impress.” Info: 604-725-4654, 604-808-2311, Hotsalsadancezone.com.

Swing dance lessons: Drop-in sessions at Jump Joint Swing, #110-12332 Pattullo Pl., Surrey. For event dates, email retroswingkid@gmail.com, call 604-536-0195, visit Jumpjointswing.com.

Surrey Fiddlers Old Time Dance takes place at Clayton Hall (18513 70th Ave., Surrey) on the first Thursday of every month, except July and August, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Admission is $3. For info, call 604-576-1066.

TALKS/FORUMS

Women’s Interfaith Conference on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Baitur Rahman Mosque, 9570 River Road, Delta. Free admission, women only. “The Ahmadiyya Womens Auxiliary hosts interfaith event featuring speakers from Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Sikhism and Hinduism on their respective religion’s founder. Info: Interfaithbc.weebly.com.

KIDS/FAMILY

Make Believe Birthday Parties: “Celebrate your birthday at Surrey Museum. Invite your friends and choose from themes like Pirates, Dinosaurs, Cowboy/Cowgirl, Ancient Egypt and more.” Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. $12.50 per child (birthday child is free). Must pre-book by calling 604-592-6956.

SENIORS

Music Jammers: Seniors (50+) invited to join in lively two-hours of music, dancing and fun, Wednesdays from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Kennedy House Seniors Centre, 11760 88th Ave., North Delta. Drop-in fee 35 cents. “Call ahead to make sure we’re not cancelled that week.” 604-594-2717.

VISUAL ART

Surrey Art Gallery: “Surrey Photography Club” exhibit to Feb. 7; “Views from the Southbank III: Information, Objects, Mappings,” to Dec. 13;  “The Grove: A Spatial Narrative,” to Dec. 13; “Re:Source: A Living Archive 1975−2015“ to Dec. 13. Gallery is located at Bear Creek Park, 88th Ave./King George Blvd. 604-501-5566, Surrey.ca/artgallery.

AgentC Gallery: Art collective’s new “pop-up” space in Newton, at 137th Street and 72A Avenue. Info: AgentCprojects.com.

Thursday Artist Talk: Events hosted by Surrey Art Gallery Association (SAGA) on first Thursday of every month at Bear Creek Park facility, 7:30 p.m. Info: 604-501-5566, Arts.surrey.ca.

Watershed Artworks gallery shop: Works by local artists featured at North Delta facility operated by non-profit Watershed Artworks Society, at 11425 84th Ave. Info: 604-596-1029, Watershedartworks.ca.

Newton Cultural Centre showcases works by local artists at 13530 72nd Ave. Info: 604-594-2700, Artscouncilofsurrey.ca.

Surrey Urban Screen: Digital art shown on screen on side of building at Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre, at 13458 107A Ave. To Jan. 10, “Salmon People” (by Julie Andreyev and Simon Overstall) “considers the shared ecologies of nonhuman and human animals through a depiction of the survivors of the salmon cycle of life, combined with video of the Surrey landscape taken from the surrounding waters of the Fraser River.” Exhibit can be viewed from 30 minutes after sunset until midnight. Info: 604-598-5898, Surreyurbanscreen.ca.

MUSEUMS

Surrey Museum: Located at 17710 56A Ave., Cloverdale. Info: Surrey.ca/heritage, 604-592-6956.

Historic Stewart Farm: Facility located at site of 1894 farmhouse and heritage gardens, at 13723 Crescent Rd., South Surrey. Info: 604-592-6956, www.surrey.ca/heritage.

Surrey Archives: Info: 604-502-6459 or archives@surrey.ca. 17671 56th Ave, Cloverdale.

HEALTH

“Take Charge of your Health” event 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15 at Centre Stage at Surrey City Hall, 13450 104th Ave., Surrey. “Come and enjoy this free and dynamic health seminar where you will learn ways to improve the health of you and your loved ones,” with discussion about diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure and more. Info: 778-317-7946.

Mental Health Family and Friends Info Night: “Support and information for friends and family of people struggling with mental illness. New members are always welcome,” on first and third Thursday of every month at Shirley Dean Pavilion, 9634 King George Blvd., Surrey (East entrance). For more information, call Katie: 604-585-5666, ext. 772534.

Tao Healing Group (formerly Soul Power) Surrey: “Learn simple but powerful self-healing techniques for any aspect of life, with Certified Healers and Teachers. Receive free healing and blessings.” Tuesday evenings at 7pm, Surrey City Centre Library, 10350 University Dr., “Everyone is welcome, and no previous experience is necessary.” By donation, info: 778-379-9920.

Canadian Mental Health Association (Delta) offers an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Support Group for individuals with OCD and/or friends and family, on first Wednesday of every month, 7 to 9 p.m., 11715 72nd Ave., North Delta (house). Call 604-943-1878 to register.

EDUCATION

Surrey English Language Centre provides free English language classes for new immigrants to Canada with proof of permanent residence, age 17 or older. “We offer full-time and evening LINC classes year-round, funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.” To register, call 604-582-7479, email selc@shaw.ca, visit 9801 King George Blvd. (suites #111 and #350), Surrey.

Free “English for the Workplace” classes at PICS in new Project Based Language Training Program (PBLT). “Students will learn and develop soft skills, job search, resume writing, interview skills, networking and much more.” Call 604-596-7722, ext. 138. Free childminding on site.

SPORTS/REC

Ace Volleyball Club tryouts on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 8:30 to 11:30 am at Fleetwood Park Secondary, fee $20. “Any female players between 13-16 looking to play club volleyball for the 2015/16 season can attend open tryouts. Teams will be chosen at this event so please make sure you are there.” Info: Acevolleyballclub.ca.

Newton Seniors Centre Tennis Club seeks experienced, senior (55+) tennis players. “We are not a teaching club, so you must know how to play, serve and score.” For information, call Al or Sue at 604-594-8783, or Jan, 604-502-7844.

CLUBS/GROUPS

North Delta Newcomers and Friends is a ladies social club. “Our fall activities are in full swing. If you are new to the area or would just like to meet some new people, please call and arrange to attend some of them (morning walks, coffee times, stitch and chat, card games, and par 3 golf, potlucks and our monthly dinners.” Info: call Kathy at 604-583-3691 or Pam at 604-597-7974.

Surrey Beekeepers Association meetings held on the third Wednesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. start at Honeybee Centre, 7480 176th St., Surrey. Contact Don or Fran Carter, 604-591-3262. “All welcome to attend and learn about bees.”

Seniors Singles Travel Club: “We offer group tours for solo travellers. Meet new friends, enjoy the security of group travel and avoid the costly single supplement.” Info: Singlestravelclub.ca, call Val 604-669-6607, ext. 304.

CFUW (Canadian Federation of University Women) North Delta/Surrey is a club open to all women graduates, students and associates who support the mission and ideals of CFUW, which provides annual scholarships and bursaries to deserving female graduates who are going on to university. The club meets monthly from September to June. Contact Heather at 604-591-7678 or Eleanor at 604-589-3631.

NETWORKING

Valley Women’s Network Luncheons held on last Wednesday of every month at Eaglequest Golf Club, 7778 152nd St., Surrey. Event fee $27, or $30 at door for non-members. “Come share your business successes, goals with us and let us help one another.” Info: Valleywomensnetwork.com, 604-940-9355.

LIBRARY EVENTS

“Maker Meetups” held on Friday nights at City Centre Library (6:30 to 8:45 p.m.), encouraging people to “learn arts and science concepts by making actual objects” in an open workshop format. Events held in partnership with Maker Cube, a non-profit organization that aims to create the first Makerspace in Surrey. Info: Surreylibraries.ca/programs-services/5798.aspx.

SALES/CRAFTS

White Rock Museum & Archives Annual Christmas Craft Fair to Dec. 22, open daily – weekdays from 10:30 am to 4:30pm and weekends from 11am to 4:30pm. More than 25 vendors. “Find wonderful Christmas gifts for every member of the family,” at 14970 Marine Dr., White Rock. Info: 604-541-2222, Whiterock.museum.bc.ca.

MARKETS

The Cloverdale Market: “Your Weekly Treasure Hunt” in two buildings with 200 tables and 100+ outdoor spots, open every Sunday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cloverdale Fairgrounds, off 176th St. (Hwy 15) and 62nd Ave., Surrey. Info: call 604-837-1676 or visit Cloverdalemarket.ca.

North Delta Farmers Market: Events on Sundays at Sungod Recreation Centre, 7815 112th St., North Delta. Food trucks, live music, vendors, more.Info: Northdeltafarmersmarket.com. Winter hours are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

VOLUNTEERS

Surrey RCMP’s Auxiliary Constable Program is recruiting volunteers who assist police officers with community-based policing and crime-prevention programs. Auxiliaries complete a basic training program that consists of 250 hours of classroom and practical instruction. A number of information sessions will take place in January. For dates, times, requirements and registration information, call 604-507-5984, email surrey_auxiliary_application@rcmp-grc.gc.ca or visit Surrey.rcmp.ca.

Surrey Hospice Society, which offers programs and services in hospice, palliative and bereavement care (all offered free of charge), needs volunteers and also donations to support its programs. Volunteers needed for resource centre (reception and general office work), palliative client care at Laurel Place and SMH and thrift store (retail, cashier, stocking, inventory duties). To help, call 604-584-7006, email admin@surreyhospice.com or visit #1-15243 91st Ave., Surrey.

Surrey Art Gallery Association seeks volunteers for its gift shop at its Bear Creek Park facility. “If you enjoy meeting new people and local artists, being around unique and finely crafted artworks by artists from around the Lower Mainland, this is the place for you.” Contact Joan Owen, 604-531-8118.

CALLS/AUDITIONS

Delta Idol 2016: Call for young performers (age 12-19) in third annual talent contest, to be held on Friday, Feb. 26 at Tsawwassen Arts Centre. Finalists will perform in front of a panel of judges and receive instant feedback on their performance; grand prize will be a recording session in a local studio. Applicants must live in Delta. Auditions can be submitted digitally via YouTube link or Dropbox to either jhamlin@delta.ca or ldoepker@delta.ca, or on USB or CD. Deadline is Friday, Jan. 15, finalists to be contacted by Jan. 22. Details: http://www.delta.ca/your-government/news-events/event-calendar/2016/02/27/home-calendar/delta-idol.

Panorama Children’s Choir, under the direction of Dolores Scott begins their new semester with a focus on World Rhythms. No auditions. Ages K-7 New members welcome Tuesday afternoons at 14853 60th Ave., Surrey. “This is a place to share your voice with friends and shine as one!” Call 604 595-6718 to register. Info: Doloresscott.com.

Maple Leaf Singers: “Meet new people, have fun, and reveal the song in your heart. Join the Maple Leaf Singers, a unique show chorus that includes singers from all parts of Metro Vancouver and performs at a variety of events. Baritone and bass voices particularly needed, but all are welcome. Learn more at Mapleleafsingers.com. Ask Anne Baird about joining at via email, information@mapleleafsingers.com.

MOVIE THEATRES

Hollywood 3 Cinemas: 7125 138th St. (Newton Centre, near 72nd Ave., Surrey). 604-592-4441. Hollywoodcinema.ca.

Empire Studio 12 Guildford: 15051 101st Ave. 604-581-1716.

Strawberry Hill Cineplex: 12161 72nd Ave., Surrey. 604-501-9400.

 

Surrey Now