The Week Ahead In Your West End
Monday, December 22 - Sunday, December 28
& New Year’s Eve Events on Wednesday, December 31
Your West End / Coal Harbour neighbourhood is a busy place.
The following are highlights from the many programs available at the
West End and Coal Harbours community hubs.
Check the community organization websites listed at the end of this section for complete
listings of events and activities and contact details for events requiring pre-registration.
Click on any image to enlarge.
Tell Us What You’re Up To !
Submit your upcoming events and photos to editor@thewestendjournal.ca
Check Out The Full December Calendar
You’ll find more events and activities in the December issue of
The West End Journal’s “Mark Your Calendar” section, here.
And our January issue will be out December 30, with a whole new calendar of events.
Click On the Section You’re Looking For
Community Calendar | Arts & Entertainment
Families, Kids, & Teens | Senior Moments | LGBT+ | Venue Directory
the west end is the best end to celebrate new year’s eve.
New Years’ Eve Events
PLAN AHEAD - BOOK NOW!
It’s not in “The Week Ahead” (so don’t panic) but we wanted to give you a heads-up and remind you to book early, as these events fill up fast. There’s plenty of opportunities to ring in the New Year with events taking place in the West End and Coal Harbour from special dinner menus, DJ’s & live music, to late night dance parties to celebrate with family and friends. Click on the links below for more information about New Year’s Eve themed celebrations.
Community Calendar
33rd ANNUAL GINGERBREAD LANE
When: To December 28.
Where: Hyatt Regency Hotel.
Cost: Free.
Details: Take a stroll through Gingerbread Lane at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver with over 25 edible creations designed by local professionals, home bakers and students. This event helps to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, where funds go towards granting wishes to children living with critical illnesses. For more information, visit here.
THE CHRISTMAS MARKET AT JACK POOLE PLAZA RUNS THROUGH CHRISTMAS EVE.
VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET
A Traditional Old-World Experience
When: To December 24.
Where: Jack Poole Plaza.
Cost: $7 to $22, purchase visit here.
Details: The beloved holiday tradition is back for its 15th season with more than 80 huts of authentic German sweets, treats, and treasures. Experience the signature yuletide celebration as you stroll along the twinkling pathways of a European-inspired Christmas village that brings an authentic German feast for the senses and festive Old World tradition to Vancouver. The Vancouver Christmas Market runs from November 13 to December 24, hours are Monday – Friday from 4 to 9:30 p.m and Weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. For more information and tickets, visit here.
Arts + Entertainment
CHRISTMAS WITH THE MARCHES
An Immersive Holiday Gathering
When: To December 23.
Where: Roedde House.
Cost: Tickets start at $70, to purchase visit here.
Details: Step into a transformed Roedde House for a holiday soiree with the March sisters - Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy - and their inimitable mother, Marmee. Inspired by Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women, this intimate, immersive gathering welcomes guests to participate in a celebration of Christmases past through one extraordinary family’s coming-of-age. For more information and to purchase tickets visit here.
HARRY POTTER™: A FORBIDDEN
FOREST EXPERIENCE
When: Wed.-Sun. to January 11, from 5 to 10 p.m.
Where: Stanley Park, Pipeline Road.
Admission: Tickets start at $70 for children and $86 for adults, purchase tickets here.
Details: Set in Stanley Park, the Harry Potter™: A Forbidden Forest Experience invites fans of all ages to enjoy an immersive experience as you walk into the depths of a dark woodland forest, discover magical creatures, interactive spells, and some of the most iconic wizarding world scenes from the beloved Harry Potter™ film series. The event runs Wed. through Sun. from November 7 to January 11, 2026 with various ticket time slots available from 5-10 p.m. For more information and tickets, visit here.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL: AN IMMERSIVE
TOUR EXPERIENCE
When: To December 23.
Where: Roedde House.
Cost: $38.74, to purchase visit here.
Details: Walk with the Spirits of Christmas as you watch Charles Dickens’ immortal classic A Christmas Carol unfold before your very eyes. A room to room visit that embraces your senses with state-of-the-art sounds, lights, and moving images as Scrooge’s haunted Christmas Eve comes to life. For more information and tickets, visit here.
WESTERN GOLD THEATRE ANNOUNCES 2026 SEASON
Early Bird Season Ticket Sale
When: Various date in 2026
Where: PAL Studio Theatre.
Cost: $140, purchase season tickets, visit here.
Details: Western Gold Theatre’s 2026 season promises a year of amazing performances with a line that includes two On Our Feet (OOF!) staged readings of The Stranger by Agatha Christie, March 13 – 15, and How Oscar Missed His Train by John Lazarus, September 25 – 27. The two main stage productions for the 2026 Season include Salt-Water Moon by David French, May 21 – June 7, and Sandsprite by Peter Zednik, running from November 12 – 29. Early bird prices for seasons tickets on sale until December 31. For more information and to purchase season tickets, visit here.
HOLIDAY SPLASH
When: To January 4.
Where: Vancouver Aquarium.
Cost: Tickets range from $40-$55 and can be purchased here.
Details: Step into a shimmering underwater wonderland where holiday magic comes alive beneath the waves. Come see the new aquatic wonders, the Barbour’s Seahorses, these tiny, magical, and delicate species, are like living ornaments of the sea and Scuba Claus is back this season to spread Fishmas cheer while you explore glowing exhibits illuminated by 1 million twinkling lights. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.
Celebrate new year’s eve with the weaver & werth band.
LIVE AT THE SYLVIA
When: Every Wed., Thurs., and Sun., from 8 to 10 p.m.
Where: The Sylvia Hotel Restaurant & Lounge.
Admission: Free.
Details: Three evenings a week enjoy live music at the lounge with a great view of English Bay. This week’s lineup includes: Sun. Dec. 28 - Acoustic Pop with Zach Saunders; and an extended set on Wed. Dec. 31 - with Weaver & Werth Band.
LIVE AT THE SHAMROCK
When: Every Thursday through Sunday. Times vary … see below.
Where: The Shamrock Pub.
Cost: No cover charge.
Details: What’s an Irish pub (especially one with a great food and beverage menu) without live music? We wouldn’t know, ‘cause the West End’s Irish pub features live music three nights a week. This week’s lineup includes; Tues., Dec. 23 – Liam Mulholland at 8 p.m.; Wed., Dec. 24 - Jack Moore at 8 p.m.; Fri., Dec. 26 – Eoghain Reynolds at 8 p.m.; Sat., Dec. 27 – Jack Moore at 9 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 28 - Liam Mulholland at 8 p.m.; Mon., Dec. 29 – Lucas Furseth at 8 p.m.; Tues., Dec. 30 - Eogháin Reynolds at 8 p.m.; Wed., Dec. 31 - Louise & Sean from 3 to 6 p.m. and Liam Mulholland at 9 p.m.
ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK
The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.
HOT MIX BINGO: Mondays at 8 p.m. at The Shamrock Pub at 1184 Denman. Fun and games, music and bingo at this popular West End Irish pub.
KARAOKE TUESDAYS: At The Park Pub from 9 p.m. to late.
TRIVIA WEDNESDAYS: At The Park Pub from 8 to 10:00 p.m.
IMPROV THURSDAYS: From 8 to 9:30 p.m. at The Park Pub. Admission $25. Theatre Sports alumni Denise Jones and David Milchard bring their new improv comedy troupe of award-winning actors and improv veterans to the West End.
FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE: At the Park Pub every Friday from 8:30 p.m. to late, enjoy great live music.
SATURDAY NIGHT LAUGHS: Two laugh-a-minute shows every Saturday, at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. at The Show Cellar.
BIG SHINY SATURDAYS: At the Park Pub every Saturday, 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Enjoy tunes from the 90’s and 00’s with Live DJs.
SING-ALONG SUNDAYS: At the Park Pub every Sunday at 3:00 p.m. A wide range of favourites, good vibes, and plenty of sing-along moments.
MUSIC BINGO SUNDAY: At the Park Pub every Sunday at 8:30 p.m. Great prizes including pitchers of beer, gift cards and more.
JAZZ VESPERS: Sundays at 4 p.m. at St. Andrews Wesley United Church. By donation. An afternoon featuring some of Vancouver’s finest musicians, and meditations on faith and life.
Families, Kids, & Teens
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
When: To December 23, 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Where: Vancouver Aquarium.
Cost: Tickets range from $60-$75 and can be purchased here.
Details: Enjoy a delicious buffet spread surrounded by twinkling lights and aquatic wonders, as Santa himself makes a special appearance before diving in for a splashy underwater spectacle with his ocean friends. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.
BABY PLAYTIME
When: Monday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Tuesday / 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Wednesday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.; Thursday / 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Friday / 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Where: The West End Community Centre.
Cost: $3.50 drop-in.
Details: Fun with toys, alls, and more. Parents are required to help set up and clean up the equipment each day and parent participation is required. No Playtime on April 18, 21 and May 19.
fun for toddlers and parents alike at gordon house.
TODDLER PLAYTIME
When: Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri. from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Gordon Neighbourhood House
Cost: By donation (suggested $2.50 per child for GNH members)
Details: Toddler Playtime is a family drop-in program that features a variety of activities that promote healthy child development such as free play with lots of toys available, arts and crafts, mini circle time with songs and stories at the end of the playtime. This program is for Parents, family members and caregivers with children 0-5 years old. Parenting resources and special events are offered monthly. For more information call 604-683-2554 or email familyplace@gordonhouse.org.
ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK
The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.
KIDS CLOTHING EXCHANGE: Tuesdays through Fridays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. A free program for parents to participate in this unique community clothing exchange and drop off or pick up (or both) up to five pieces of children’s’ clothing.
TEEN OPEN GYM: Tuesday and Wednesday from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Coal Harbour Community Centre Gymnasium. A free program for youth in grades 8 to 12 (ages 12 to 18) with badminton and volleyball on Tuesdays and badminton and basketball on Wednesdays. Non-instructional, with in-out privileges.
BABYTIME: Tuesdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 am at Joe Fortes Library. Free. Rhymes, songs, fingerplays and stories for parents and caregivers and their babies. Recommended for newborns to approximately 18 months. Baby time takes place in the English Bay Room on the 2nd floor of the West End Community Centre.
FAMILY STORY TIME: Thursdays from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. at Joe Fortes Library in the Children’s Area. Free. This program for parents and caregivers with young children shares songs, rhymes and stories. Suitable for children of all ages and abilities to enjoy and learn together.
YOUTH LEADERSHIP CLUB: Thursdays from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the West End Community Centre Meeting Stanley Court Room. This program is designed for youth who are looking to gain leadership and mentoring experience while learning how to organize, plan, and implement programs in the community centre.
SINGLE MOTHERS CONNECTION GROUP: Fridays at Gordon Neighbourhood House from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Free to GNH members — annual membership is $5 and can be purchased at the front counter upon arrival. This program is dedicated to expanding a support system for single mothers in the West End through peer support and building meaningful relationships. As a part of the group, toddler playtimes are aimed at promoting healthy socialization and development of kids ages 0-5. The group also holds monthly workshops, employment support sessions, and community events. To register email familyplace@gordonhouse.org.
KIDSZONE: Fridays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Free. At Joe Fortes Library. A time for kids to meet kids and share books, crafts, and fun activities at the library. For Grades K to 7.
PRE-TEEN NIGHT: Fridays 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. A free drop-in at the West End Community Centre for youth ages nine to twelve. Drop by and participate in a variety of games, crafts, and activities including dodge-ball, capture the flag, button and bracelet making, movie nights, and more. Registration is required, with room for a maximum of 30 youths.
TEEN NIGHT: Fridays from 6:15 to 9 p.m. at Coal Harbour Community Centre Gymnasium. A free drop-in for Grades 8 to 12 (ages 13 to 18). Come by and shoot hoops, play board games upstairs, or get creative with some art supplies. Teen Night has in-out privileges.
Senior Moments
PLEASE NOTE: Some events require a membership in the presenting organization. Contact information for all is at the bottom of these listings.
CHRISTMAS COOKIE DECORATING & SONGS
When: Tues., December 23, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to West End Seniors Network members.
Details: Join the UBC Golden Voices Club for a festive morning of Christmas cookie decorating and holiday music. Bring yourself and some friends to frost delicious Christmas-themed cookies. For more information email info@wesn.ca or call 604-669-5051.
COMPANY FOR CHRISTMAS
When: Thurs., December 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Barclay Manor.
Cost: Free to West End Seniors Network members.
Details: Drop by Barclay Manor for a warm and welcoming Christmas gathering, created especially for those spending the holidays on their own. Enjoy good company, festive cheer, and light refreshments in a friendly, supportive atmosphere. For more information email info@wesn.ca or call 604-669-5051.
ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK
The following events almost always take place as scheduled but things do get moved around, so if you’re not sure, check the relevant website or call ahead. Contact info at the end of this calendar.
NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS: Mondays at 11 a.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. Start your week on a positive note and catch up on local happenings at Neighbourhood News. Each week neighbours share local news and events in the West End and around town. Drop-in program, free with Gordon House annual membership.
QMUNITY GATHERS: Mondays at 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. A low-key social gathering for 55+ 2SLGBTQIA Older Adults to meet new people, check in and enjoy the company of others in a safe space. This is a drop-in program hosted by QMUNITY, no pre-registration required.
CREATIVE QUEST: Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at Barclay Manor. The Barclay Manor Artists’ Collective meets for open studio time. Bring your project and supplies to paint with others in a studio setting. No teaching or supplies are given. For information contact Graham at creativequest2022@gmail.com.
CRAFTY NEIGHBOURS: Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. A weekly social gathering that connects knitting, crocheting, and sewing community members and other creative folks to share their talents. Donations of yarn to support projects are gratefully appreciated and all proceeds from items sold go towards Gordon House programming. This is a drop-in program, free with Gordon House annual membership.
NORDIC POLE WAKING & LESSONS: Thursdays 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free. Come join the weekly Nordic Pole Walking Group. If you’re new to pole walking, group lessons are held the third Thursday of each month, where you can learn how to use Nordic poles to enhance your stride and get more out of every step. Meet outside Barclay Manor at 1447 Barclay Street.
CYCLING WITHOUT AGE: Every Thursday and Friday until October, from 2 to 3 p.m. $5 per ride. Please RSVP with WESN by calling 604-669-5051. Discover the magic and joy of a trishaw ride, where seniors can embrace nature, connect with others, and relive the simple pleasure of the wind in your hair. Meet at Barclay Manor or Gordon Neighbourhood House.
ESL KARAOKE: Thursdays from 2 to 3 p.m. at Barclay Manor. Practice pronunciation, build confidence, and enjoy singing along to popular tunes. No singing experience needed - just bring your enthusiasm. Please RSVP to 604.669.5051 or info@wesn.ca.
SENIORS KARAOKE: Friday from 1 to 3 p.m. at Gordon Neighbourhood House. Bring out your inner singer at Seniors' Karaoke and choose from a variety of songs from classic hits to modern chart-toppers or choose to sing in your native language. Microphones and snacks provided. This is a drop-in program, free with Gordon House annual membership.
CRIBBAGE: Fridays from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the West End Community Centre / Bidwell Room. Free. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, with every card played and point pegged the charm and thrill never fades. Join in for good company, laughter, and the joy of a well-played hand. Beginners and drop-ins welcome.
MAHJONG: Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the West End Community Centre / Meeting Room 2. Free. Dive into the captivating world of Mahjong, a strategic tile game. with every play a new adventure unfolds! Beginners and drop-ins welcome.
LGBT+
Get festive with carlotta gurl!
DINNER & A DRAG SHOW!
When: Every Tuesday and Thursday from 7 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Bonta Italian Restaurant
Admission: Free.
Details: Carlotta Gurl entertains at this popular Davie Street restaurant while diners enjoy a generous portion of Italian specialties.
ONCE A WEEK, EVERY WEEK
ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLUB: Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m. at HIM on Davie’s Lounge Space. Join a conversation night for GBQ men and gender diverse people whose first language is not English, to practice speaking in a safe, non-judgmental and fun space. The program is fully inclusive for all folks regardless of refugee, visa, or citizenship status.
IQ 2000 TRIVIA: Mondays at 8:00 p.m. at The Junction Pub at 11:38 Davie. Free. Welcome IQ 2000 Trivia as our host for the evening! Come join every week for prizes, fun and all day happy hour.
BINGO FOR LIFE: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at The Junction Pub at 11:38 Davie. Free. Drag diva Kamelle Toe presides over a weekly fundraiser for The Vancouver Friends for Life Society. Free admission. $10 per bingo card.
TUESDAY NIGHT TRIVIA: At the Fountainhead Pub at 7 p.m. No cover. An evening of trivia and fun hosted by Richard Romano-Carlsen.
QUEERPROV: Thursdays at 8 p.m. at The Junction. Pay What You Can. A weekly celebration of improv comedy.
DRAG ME TO HELL! Thursdays at 11:30 p.m. An evening of killer drag hosted by Miss Understood and featuring a revolving cast of special guest performers and music by Dj Amy Grindhouse. Admission $12 in advance (here) and $15 at the door.
GOLDEN GUYS GROUP: Friday afternoons from 3 to 4:45 p.m. at Barclay Manor. A group open to older gay, bi and trans men to share experiences of life in Vancouver. Drop-in for socializing and conversation.
UNITY FRIDAY: At The Junction. Showtime 11 p.m. Service until 4 a.m. Hosted each week by a variety of queer community members. $15 cover. Music by DJ Dennis Kindel.
THE REALLY GAY HISTORY TOUR: Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. It’s time for Vancouver’s secrets to come out of the closet. Tour guide Glenn Tkach tells the stories of drag kings and two spirit warriors, queer church ministers ,and transgender crime fighters. This two-hour walking tour is a celebration of the unsung heroes who forever changed the social fabric of our city. $32 for adults and $29 for youth and seniors. Information and tickets here.
FOR MORE LGBTQ+ EVENTS … Find a current calendar of community events here, and subscribe to their weekly newsletter.
Venue Directory
WHERE THEY’RE AT & HOW TO CONNECT
If we’ve missed a venue please let us know at editor@thewestendjournal.ca
Art@Bentall Gallery / 595 Burrard St - Concourse #05 / 604.682.3701 / Website
Barclay Manor / 1447 Barclay / 60.-669.5051 / Website (West End Seniors’ Network)
Bonta Italian Ristorante / 1047 Davie / 604.687.0055 / Website
Chef Ron Restaurant / 1037 Denman / 604.336.9994 / Website
Coal Harbour Community Centre / 480 Broughton / 604-718-8222 / Website
Fountainhead Pub / 1025 Davie / 604.687.2222 / Website
Gordon Neighbourhood House / 1019 Broughton / 604.683.2554 / Website
Health Initiative For Men (HIM) / 300 - 1033 Davie / 604 488 1001 / Website
HI Hostel Vancouver / 1114 Burnaby / 604.684.4565 / Website
Joe Fortes Library / 870 Denman / 604-665-3972 / Website
Kay’s Place / 118 - 1030 Denman (Denman Mall) / 604.669.5051 / Website
Mole Gallery / At the rear of 1157 Pendrell Street, access from Jepson-Young Lane. / Website
PAL Studio Theatre / 581 Cardero / 604.255.4313 / Website
Robert Lee YMCA / 955 Burrard / 604.939.9622 / Website
Shamrock Pub / 1184 Denman / 604.428.4414 / Website
St. Andrew’s- Wesley United Church / 1022 Nelson / 604.683.4574 / Website
St. Paul’s Anglican Church / 1130 Jervis / 604.685.6832 / Website
Stanley Park Ecology Society / 610 Pipeline Road / 604.257.6908 / Website
Stanley Park Nature House / 712 Lost Lagoon Path / 604.257.8544 / Website
The Fountainhead Pub / 1025 Davie / 604.687.2222 / Website
The Park Pub / 1755 Davie / 604.682.1831 / Website
The Pumpjack Pub / 1167 Davie / 604.685.3417 / Website
The Show Cellar (at the Park Pub) / 1755 Davie / 604.682.1831 / Website
The Pumpjack Pub / 1167 Davie / 604.685.3417 / Website
West End Community Centre / 870 Denman / 604.257.8333 / Website
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Kevin Dale McKeown
Editor & Publisher
editor@thewestendjournal.ca
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