Enjoy family activities on British Columbia's festive island from Victoria and Cowichan to Qualicum Beach and Nanaimo.
For the winter months of November and December, the Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort and Spa in Victoria, BC, is offering a three course dinner and wine pairing for $89.00 CDN per person, plus applicable taxes. Executive Chef Ian Rennie heads up the unique menu and Niagara Peninsula's Ice Wines, while the views of Mount Finlayson, the ocean, city and forest take care of the ambiance. For reservations and more information, call (250) 391-7160.
The Christmas classic Miracle on 34th Street will be performed from November 15 - December 31, 2007 at the Chemainus Theatre Festival. Jeremy Tow directs John Krich and Mark DuMex in this local adaptation. Tickets range from $13.00 - $20.00 CDN plus taxes and fees, and dinner packages are available. Both daytime and evening shows kick off the season, so make sure to call 1-800-565-7738 for showtimes. December 8, 2007 brings illuminated carol ships on the way to Ladysmith. BC Ferries is offering a return trip from Chemainus to share the crisp air and festive mood for the whole family. Special treats are the Victoria Harmonic Choir and a special appearance by Santa. Tickets are available through the Chamber of Commerce at (250) 246-3944.
The Milner Gardens open their doors again this year for Milner Christmas Magic. Visit from November 30 to December 2, 7-9 and 14-16, 2007 and take in the thousands of dazzling Christmas lights, chocolate treats and carolers. Call (250) 752-6153 for opening hours. Also in December is the Bethlehem Walk. From 6:00-8:30pm, December 15-18, 2007, walk through a recreated Bethlehem where hundred of volunteers are dressed in period costumes. Take part in the action by calling the Parksville Baptist Church at (250) 248-6322 for more details.
Starting at 7:00pm on December 1, 2007, head on down to the Harbour Quay to watch decorated boats sail past. Afterwards, participate in the Uptown Merchant's Midnight Madness where visitors and locals alike can pick up those special Christmas gifts on their lists. On December 7, the Light Up the Night contest starts the holiday season off right. Tourists can see the displays and watch the contestants be judged. The Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce, who is also the sponsor, can be contacted for more information at (250) 724-6535.
Make sure to include the Tidemark Theatre in holiday plans. Running December 4, 7, 9 and 16, 2007, see performances by such personalities as Rita MacNeil, Michelle Wright, Romanza, and the Campbell River Children's Choir (100 of them). Ticket prices range from $16.00-$50.00 CDN and can be purchased from the Tidemark Theatre at (250) 287-7899.
More shows for theatre lovers abound in Nanaimo, British Columbia. From December 26, 2007 - January 5, 2008, catch Peter & the Wolf by the Nanaimo Theatre Group. This family pantomime is a reasonable $13.00 CDN per seat and tickets can be purchased by calling (250) 758-7246. After Christmas, join in the 4th Annual Winter Wonderland at the Frank Crane Arena from December 28, 2007 - January 1, 2008. Families can skate around the festive decorations or just sit back and watch the Winter Skate Carnival Ice Show on December 26. Admission is $2.75 for a child, $4.00 for a student, $5.25 for an adult and $10.50 for a whole family. Call (250) 756-5200 or (250) 755-4484 for public skating times.
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