Used around town December 2019

Used.ca's sponsored events around Vancouver Island

The holidays are around the corner. It’s the time of the year to bring people together to enjoy all the season has to offer!

In the spirit of giving, we have teamed up with some of our partners to give away tickets to lots of holiday events! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for a chance to win.

CFAX Santa’s Anonymous Miracle on Broad St. – December 13

During the Miracle on Broad Street radio-thon, the on-air hosts of CFAX 1070 bring you updates on Santas Anonymous, introduce some of our fantastic supporters and past recipients, and invite the Greater Victoria community to lend a helping hand. Staff from CFAX, Virgin 107.3, and CTV will be on the phones to take your pledges, along with volunteers from our corporate supporters, and every dollar raised goes toward purchasing food for families in need.

Every year, the funds raised during Miracle on Broad Street enable us to supply each family with three bags of groceries and a grocery gift card for perishable foods (such as meat, cheese, and milk)–enough for a wonderful Christmas dinner and to help with meals while the children are home for the holidays. Families also receive gifts of toys and clothing for every child aged 17 and under.

No gift is too small! From philanthropists dropping in with major gifts to children bringing their piggy banks (this really happens), every penny that we receive makes a difference in the lives of local children and their families.

Miracle on Broad Street is your Miracle. Click here to donate!

Victoria Symphony Magic of the Holidays – December 14-15

Kick off your festive season with some holiday cheer! Soprano Betty Waynne Allison and Vox Humana Chamber Choir lend their talented voices to perform both holly jolly and sentimental songs including O’Holy Night, The Nutcracker Suite, Music from Harry Potter and more. Join Associate Conductor Maestro Pietraroia and the VS for a concert of holiday magic! Buy tickets at https://victoriasymphony.ca/

Kaleidoscope Theatre presents Charlotte’s Webb – December 28-29

Join Kaleidoscope Theatre for Young People this holiday season for the beloved childhood classic, Charlotte’s Web! Down on the Zuckerman Farm, Wilbur, an irresistible young pig is determined to avoid the butcher. With the help of his friends (especially the magnificent spider, Charlotte) Wilbur is not only safe, but learns that true friends live in our hearts forever. A beloved family favourite returns for the Holiday Season. The classic story of friendship, based on the book by E.B. White, will warm hearts young and old as it charms its way on stage with lively music, loveable characters, and a pinch of theatrical magic. Featuring Tara Britt as Charlotte with the Kaleidoscope Young People. December 28-29 at the McPherson Playhouse.

Children’s Health Foundation Holiday Events – December

Spread the holiday cheer this season by supporting Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island

‘Tis the season to attend or volunteer at festive events while supporting Island kids. You can help ensure Island families get the health care they need this time of year, and all year round.

Pancakes in pajamas with Santa
- December 15 from 10 am – 12 pm at Hotel Grand Pacific
- Enjoy brunch and spend time with Ol’ Saint Nick. Be sure to buy your tickets early!
Visits with Santa
- December 7, 14, and 21 from 1 pm – 3 pm at Hotel Grand Pacific
- Take a break from the downtown bustle and visit with Santa (by donation).
Cookies and cocoa
- December 7, 14, and 21 from 1 pm – 3 pm at Hotel Grand Pacific
- Warm up with hot chocolate and cookies (by donation).

Want to learn more or get involved by volunteering? Visit islandkidsfirst.com/holiday-2019.

Victoria Festival of Trees – November 21 – January 6

Festival of Trees is a cherished community tradition and has become the unofficial kick-off to the holiday season in Victoria, serving our community for the last 27 years. Thanks to sponsors, local businesses, organizations and individuals, the Bay Centre is transformed into a lush forest of beautifully decorated trees to raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Starting on November 21st and lasting until January 6th, bring your family, your date or yourself down to the Bay Centre and immerse yourself in the holiday magic that only the Festival of Trees can provide. While there, be sure to vote for your favourite tree for your chance to win a $500 Bay Centre gift card.

To make a general donation to support the Festival of Trees, please text the word TREE to 45678.

Artists with Disabilities Showcase – December 3-5

The Victoria Disability Resource Centre invites everyone to attend their upcoming Open House – Tuesday, December 3rd at 817-A Fort Street. It’s also Day #1 of their 7th annual “Artists with Disabilities Showcase” happening at Flux Media Gallery right next door.

Held in conjunction with United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities, both events provide a wonderful opportunity to learn about the many programs they offer. Made possible through generous support from the CRD Art Commission and Used.ca, this year’s event is comprised of juried submissions from dozens of talented local artists. In addition to seeing breathtaking works of art, patrons can enjoy descriptive tours and daily entertainment courtesy of Allison Piano, with performances by various musicians including students enrolled Victoria Brain Injury Society’s Music Therapy program.

For more information on all of the activities surrounding United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities, call (250) 595-0044 or visit: www.drcvictoria.com

UVic Giving Tuesday – December 3

On December 3rd, the Giving Tuesday sprinkles are coming back to campus as UVic celebrates this global day of philanthropy.

For just 24 hours, the worldwide UVic community will be able to demonstrate how much the university means to us by giving back and paying it forward. Every gift, no matter the size, will create

memorable learning opportunities for students.

Last year, our campus and alumni community gave more than $35,000 to help students launch rockets, host conferences, attend competitions and travel overseas to do volunteer work. Together, those experiences are what makes the UVic student experience extraordinary—much like added “sprinkles” are to a cupcake or cookie.

This year, each faculty has selected a student-focused fund to support that will enhance the UVic student experience. On Tuesday, December 3rd, join us in adding more sprinkles to the UVic student experience. Make your gift today.

Langford Christmas Light Up Celebration – December 7

There are many fun-filled family-oriented activities planned for your enjoyment this holiday season. Below is a list of the highlights being offered.

Annual Langford Light Up
Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
Sugar Cookie Decorating
Crafternoons – Wreath Making
Rockin’ Christmas Sing-A-Long
Live Ice Carving
Trolley Light Tours
Photobooth Fun – Santa will be on location from 2 pm to 3 pm

Click here to view the poster for full details including dates, times, locations, and contact information.

All of the activities are held at Veterans Memorial Park except for the Trolley Light Tours which still depart from City Centre Park. Most activities are by donation and on a first-come, first-served basis. Thank you to all our sponsors!

Belfry Theatre Every Brilliant Thing – Dec 3-22, 2019

Every Brilliant Thing by Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donahoe

★★★★★ “heart-wrenching, hilarious…one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see about depression – and possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop” —THE GUARDIAN

Everything worth living for.

She writes lists. Lists that she hopes will inspire her mother to see the joy in life. She’s been writing these lists since she was seven. A heartrending yet hopeful play about the lengths we go to for those we love. In a transformed Belfry – with the help of you, the audience – she will deliver a list of all the things that make life worth living, starting with ice cream.

Starring Dawn Petten. Buy tickets at https://www.belfry.bc.ca/every-brilliant-thing/

Quadra Village Holiday Craft Fair – December 7

All are welcome at our Holiday Craft Fair. This is a quaint holiday event that the youth in the CREW pre-Employment and Life Skills Program have organized is great for picking up gifts for your loved ones. Not only are your supporting local artisans but you are also supporting the local youth as well.

The centre will have the holiday feel, there will be hot chocolate, apple cider, door prize draw, holiday music and a festive atmosphere. Vendors include First Nation artists, food vendors, gift vendors, jewelry, and many more super cool vendors!

Date: Dec 7th
Time: 10-2pm
Place: Quadra Village Community Centre (901 Kings Rd)
Cost: $2 or non-perishable food item
Looking forward to seeing you all here!

Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair – Dec 14-15

JLee Creations proudly presents Last Chance Christmas Craft Shows. Join us in our 30th year as we celebrate the holiday season with an impressive array of creative inspirations from 80+ talented local West Coast artisans. Last Chance will take place Sat, Dec 14th (10 am-5 pm) and Sun, Dec 15th (10 am-4 pm) at Sidney’s Mary Winspear Centre offering an impressive range of beautifully handcrafted gift solutions, a chance to win a $200 Vendor Shopping Spree, and hourly door prizes.

Our community and talented artists have so much to offer. I am always inspired by musicians and entrepreneurs that surround us. It’s been an amazing experience meeting artists & artisans from near and far, partnering with charitable organizations to raise funds for their noble causes, shopping & celebrating the power of creative thinkers. Come and be a part of Last Chance 2019, support our local artists & artisans and experience the finest of handcrafted items you simply won’t find anywhere else.

Celebrate A Life with Victoria Hospice – December 2019

Celebrate A Life offers a unique opportunity for you to remember a loved one this holiday season — a difficult time of year for many who have experienced a loss. Victoria Hospice invites you to come Celebrate A Life by hanging a personalized tribute ornament in memory of a loved on one of our festive trees.

Stop by our display at Tillicum Centre between December 2-8 and help fill our trees with memories! Volunteers will be on hand to help with this holiday tradition. For additional tree locations, or to hang a tribute on our virtual tree anytime visit www.celebratealifevictoria.ca

Nanaimo Festival of Trees – November 27 to January 6

Festival of Trees is a cherished community tradition and has become the unofficial kick-off to the holiday season in Nanaimo, back for another year at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. The local festival brings together sponsors, local businesses, organizations and individuals to transform the Vancouver Island Conference Centre into a lush forest of beautifully decorated trees to raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Starting on November 27th and lasting until January 6th, bring your family, your date or yourself down to the Vancouver Island Conference Centre and immerse yourself in the holiday magic that only the Festival of Trees can provide. While there, be sure to vote for your favourite tree and show your support for BC Children’s Hospital.

To make a general donation to support the Festival of Trees, please text the word TREE to 45678.

Lights of Wonder – Dec 20, 2019 to January 4, 2020

The Downtown Victoria Business Association and our 1500 members have created something special: an all-ages, all access, FREE December holiday extravaganza.

From December 13 through 30, we invite you and your loved ones to enjoy Lights of Wonder as often as you’d like. Come share the magic of the season, sip some hot chocolate, take a selfie or two under our canopy of lights, and then explore other downtown Victoria venues. Lights of Wonder offers Greater Victoria a reason to bundle up, get outside, and explore all that downtown has to offer. Did we mention that there’s no admission fee? This celebration is Downtown Victoria’s BIG gift to the region. Want to know what else is happening downtown throughout the holidays? Download the Downtown Victoria Holiday Guide here: dvba.ca/holidayguide.

The Gift – December 27-29

The Gift is a 21st century Victoria family tradition with everything you expect from a Ballet Victoria production. An original Christmas tale danced to the timeless score of the Nutcracker played by the Victoria Symphony showcases lively dance, hilarious pantomime, beautiful costumes, magic and as always, surprises for the whole family. The live music drives the imaginative choreography for the company dancers as well as over 30 local young ballet students. Watch the story come alive and thrill the whole family!

Follow young Clara on Christmas eve, opening a mysterious box her Uncle brought, specifically telling her never to open it! Of course, curiosity wins and she opens the mysterious gift. She is transported on a wild Christmas adventure around the world with many wonderful characters including a nutcracker, mice, a few princesses and a white dragon. Experience magic and holiday cheer with young Clara and her wild Uncle.

2019/2020 Saanich Jr Braves Hockey

The Saanich Junior Braves Hockey Club is one of the longest existing premier Junior B franchises in the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League. Our leadership group have to work hard to develop strong organizational policies, values, and beliefs.

Our mandate is to provide a high-quality competitive atmosphere for our players, to provide an opportunity for them to further advance in hockey and ultimately throughout life. This we believe will help to continue the strong hockey tradition in Saanich.

The Junior Braves appreciate the support of our hockey community and the long-standing partnerships that we have worked hard to develop. We want to make everyone proud of these young athletes and help to embrace our program on and off the ice. We recognize the efforts of our volunteers, corporate partners and the fans who have a vested interest in these athletes both as hockey players and “men in the community”. See more details on http://saanichbraves.ca/

Coming soon…

Easter Seals Chip In For the Kids – January 4-5

Easter Seals’ annual Christmas Tree Recycle, Chip In for the Kids, will be happening January 4th & 5th, 2020. People can dispose of their Christmas tree in an environmentally-friendly manner at one of our 8 sites on Vancouver Island. All funds raised from Chip In for the Kids go towards Easter Seals programs and services, including our Easter Seals Camps and Easter Seals House.

Lion and Lioness Club members, along with Davey Tree Services and Competition Tree Service (at the Duncan and Shawnigan Lake locations) will be accepting Christmas trees in exchange for a donation at the following locations from 10 am to 4 pm on January 4th & 5th, 2020:

Tillicum Shopping Centre
Broadmead Village Shopping Centre
Save-On-Foods – Fort & Foul Bay location
Westshore Town Centre
University Heights Shopping Centre
Mason’s Store – Shawnigan Lake (Jan 4 only)
BC Forest Discover Centre, Duncan
Chemainus (Jan 5 only)

Check out more here!

Nanaimo – Marketing Connect Conference Jan 22-23,2020

Want to decode the daunting world of digital marketing so you can grow your business in 2020? Join us at Marketing Connect Conference where over the course of 2 days you will learn from marketing gurus representing world-renown brands such as Hoot Suite, Forbes Magazine, Lyft Rideshare, Ecologyst, and more!

At the end of the 2 days, you will be left inspired and with a playbook of how to’s guaranteed to help you grow your reach in 2020! Tickets on sale at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/marketing-connect-conference-tickets-67079076323 and details at www.marketingconnect.ca.

Use promo code USED30 for discounted tickets!

B.C. Children’s Hospital SHINE Fashion Tea – February 2, 2020

The 3rd annual SHINE Fashion Tea will be held at Victoria’s iconic Empress Hotel. Come and enjoy a sit-down afternoon tea in the Crystal Ballroom, a fashion show, live music, and a wide selection of auction items. All funds raised go to B.C. Children’s Hospital!

SHINE 2020 will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2020, hosted once again by HGTV’s Love it or List It host, Todd Talbot and his wife, Rebecca.

Tickets for the event are available online, including options for corporate table sponsorships and/or VIP options. All tickets include a Pre-Tea Social Mixer in the Palm Court, Welcome Cocktail, Afternoon Tea and Fashion Show with reserved table seating.

VIP tickets include a private VIP Bubble Reception in the Library, Pre-Tea Social Mixer in the Palm Court, Welcome Cocktail, VIP swag bag preferred runway reserved table seating in the ballroom.

https://shinefashiontea.com/

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