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5 Things to Do in Vancouver This Week (December 5-11)

A Christmas market for the weirdos, timeless ballet and a drag show for a good cause.

By Kerri Donaldson /

Your weekly roundup of the top events in the city, including art exhibitions, local theatre, restaurant openings, concerts, film, markets and other to-dos we think you’ll love. If you have a Vancouver event you’d like to submit for consideration, send an email to kdonaldson@canadawide.com.

Evil looking gingerbread cookie
Credit: Weirdos Holiday Market (pictured) Gingerbread from Punk Rock Pastries

1. Find That Perfect Gift for the Weirdos in Your Life at the Weirdos Holiday Market

December 9-11 and December 16-18

Looking for an unconventional take on the Christmas market? In its 6th year, the Weirdos Holiday Market is the Wario of markets and includes over 40 artists showcasing their art for purchase—everything from witchy wares, anatomical curiosities, unique collectibles, quirky clothing, eccentric art, magical pottery, one-of-a-kind prints, candles, books, and much more. Along with the weird wares, you’ll find sword-swallowing (from Neil E Dee with his Danger Thrill Show), photo ops from the nightmare-inducing “Weird Santa” (wearing a terrifying mask by artist Puppyteeth) and tarot readings by Wicked Bliss Tarot. For the first time, both Fridays are a special adults-only night for a selection of items and entertainment that’s (slightly more) for mature eyes. ‘Tis the season to get weird!

When: December 9-11 and December 16-18
Where: Russian Hall
Cost: $5
More Info: facebook.com/Weirdos.Market

Two ballerinas soaring in the air in front of a winter stage set
Credit: David Cooper

2. Enjoy a Traditional Holiday Favourite with the Nutcracker

December 9-11

Want visions of sugar plums to dance not just in your head? A holiday classic returns to Vancouver with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s Nutcracker. Scored to all the traditional Tchaikovsky hits, this festive favourite brings some distinctly Canadian elements to the traditional ballet performance with toy soldiers as Royal Canadian Mounted Police and scenes like a snowy pond hockey game and a battle on Parliament Hill. Get into the holiday spirit with this stunning symphonic ballet that’s the “All I Want for Christmas” of ballets—that is, a timeless classic (with many renditions).

When: December 9-11
Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Cost: From $21.50
More Info: rwb.org

 

A hot pot preparing food
Credit: Huy Tran

3. Enjoy Some Delicious Japanese Cuisine at the Iwate Fair at ABURI Market

December 10-14

Take a trip to Japan (without the hassle of flying) at the Iwate Fair. From the team behind award-winning restaurants Miku and Minami, watch live cooking demonstrations and taste award-winning A5 wagyu, sweet apples, and premium rice as you celebrate Japan’s Iwate Prefecture. A nice reprise from all the holiday hustle and bustle that is synonymous with this time of year.

When: December 10-14
Where: ABURI Market
Cost: Free
More Info: aburimarket.com

 

Poster for event
Credit: Better Basics

4. Find Canadian Women-Founded Gifts at the Better Together Holiday Market

December 10-11

This year, there’s a market that’s asking you to do better when it comes to your Christmas shopping. Better Basics is partnering with like-minded, women-founded brands to bring the 2-day pop-up, Better Together Holiday Market to Vancouver. Festively shop for loved ones from among the many local fave brands in home, wellness and apparel. Enjoy a drink from the cider bar from Windfall Cider, a latte bar provided by Blume, enjoy the lounge by Werklab, and find toys for the kids in your life from Brood Care. It’s festive and female-forward, what more could you want?

When: December 10-11
Where: (2nd-floor unit) 852 E Hastings
Cost: Free
More Info: betterbasics.co

 

Poster for show
Credit: The Fountainhead Pub

5. Raise Fun and Funds at Coco’s Holiday Show

December 11

This holiday season go full Coco! Dust off your ugly sweater and come join the entertainment all for a good cause (and prizes). Hosted by the festive queen herself, Coco will be lighting up the Fountainhead pub with two drag shows alongside some special guests. There are also amazing raffle prizes with proceeds going to support The Greater Vancouver Food Bank and Out In Schools. Tickets are selling out fast for this festive feel-good show so don’t wait to book a table and get ready to get festive with a little Coco.

When: December 11
Where: The Fountainhead Pub
Cost: From $10
More Info: (6pm show):  eventbrite.ca; (9pm show): eventbrite.ca