Student Activities Calendar – December 2014We’re almost at the end of another year… December means we have one month left to squeeze in a few more great memories into 2014. Luckily we will have many opportunities to do so. 
Check out our Activities Calendar for December to plan fun activities with your classmates, English teachers, friends, and family. We will have lots of fun this month, while ALWAYS speaking English!
There are multiple ski and snowboarding trips in December. Sign up early to make sure that the tickets are not sold out. Those trips are among the best experiences of our English students (and our staff!).
Don’t forget the Winter Solstice on Sunday, December 21. It will be the shortest day, longest night of the year. Winter Solstice is a great time to self-reflect and find your “inner light”, and also enjoy the glimmering Xmas lights to the fullest!
The whole month is filled with many Christmas themed parades, rides, movies and other events.
Christmas:
Many Christians in Canada mark the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25, which is known as Christmas Day. It is not only a religious event, but also a day of celebration when many Christian and non-Christian Canadians exchange gifts and enjoy festive meals. Xmas Day is a national public holiday in Canada. Schools, post offices and many businesses and organizations are closed, although some stores may be open. Many public transport services are closed or offer a reduced service.
Christmas Shopping:
A popular time of the year seems to be the few weeks before Xmas in Vancouver. There will be special decorations, music, carols, treats, and sweet, warming fragrances in most places that you will visit, including stores, coffee shops, offices, and the streets of Vancouver. Here are a few ideas to start from if you want to explore the city in December.
🎄 Lonsdale Quay Market
Location: North Vancouver
More info: www.lonsdalequay.com
Unique gift ideas, fresh food options for holiday meals, festive music, Santa photos, kids activities, festive atmosphere and live holiday music all December Long!
🎄 Vancouver Christmas Market (paid admission)
Location: Vancouver
More info: www.vancouverchristmasmarket.com
Traditional food and beverage, authentic wood carvings and toys, knitted goods, nutcrackers, pottery and other unique gifts. Stop off at the special children’s area, the Kid’s Market, to make Christmas gifts and ride downtown Vancouver’s only Christmas Carousel.
🎄 Boxing Day
Location: everywhere!
Date: December 26
More info: wikipedia.org
Great time to get the best prices on many items! But you are warned, it’s not called “boxing day” for no reason… Get ready to see the shopping malls at their fullest. You might be able to beat the crowd if you are early enough in the morning.