If you are ready to start planning your holiday schedule to make the most out of this December, we have just the list for you!
And you better check it twice, because there are a lot of things happening for the holidays in Prince George this year.
So, pull out your calendars and get planning!
There’s no time like the present!
A Choral Storytelling of How the Grinch Stole Christmas
What: An annual Christmas tradition for many families provided by Nove Voce Choral Society. Performers read How the Grinch Stole Christmas with all your favourite Grinchy songs. You can catch the story at five showings: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m., and tickets are only $5.
When: Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Prince George Civic Centre (808 Canada Games Way)
Salmon Valley Campground Kringle
What: The second annual family-friendly day to kick back and relax during the holidays at Salmon Valley Campground. The café will be open, serving hot beverages including coffee, apple cider and hot chocolate. They’ll also have s’mores bags available to roast on one of the campfires around the property. Admission is by donation and the funds raised will be donated to Stockings for Seniors. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.
When: Saturday, Nov. 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Salmon Valley Campground (3865 Salmon Valley Rd.)
Handel’s Messiah
What: The Northern Orchestra presents A Christmas Celebration, featuring highlights from Handel’s Messiah with special-guest Synergy Handbell Choir. Tickets are $25 at the door for adults and $15 for seniors and students.
When: Saturday, Nov. 30, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: First Baptist Church (483 Gillett St.)
Light up the Orchard
What: Enjoy a family-friendly walking tour and get into the spirit of the holidays with a stunning light display in the Winery’s Orchards. Kids get a free hot chocolate and treat, while adults get $3 off a bottle of wine to take home. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children and $12 for a family rate.
When: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. from Nov. 27 to Dec. 23 (excluding Dec. 4 and Dec. 19)
Where: Northern Lights Estate Winery (745 Prince George Pulpmill Rd.)
Celebration of lights at Central B.C. Railway and Forestry Museum
What: With over 100,000 Christmas lights, the museum transforms into a true winter wonderland. Enjoy a walk or hop onto the Cottonwood Minirail Express to explore the 8 acre park. The Christmas village is so spectacular; you'll think you're in the Swiss Alps. Roast hot dogs and marshmallows over bonfires or enjoy a delicious meal from the concession. A very special guest in a red suit will be at the museum from Dec. 18 to 23 as well as live entertainment on selected dates and times which will be posted prior to the event. On Dec. 18, admission to the park will be free with a non-perishable food item donation.
When: Wednesday, Dec. 18 to Dec. 30 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Central B.C. Railway and Forestry Museum (850 River Rd.)
Candy Cane Lane
What: Candy Cane Lane, a neighbourhood near Upland Street north of Van Bien Elementary, transforms annually into a winter wonderland with each house decorating with Christmas displays and lights strung up between the trees. Taking a drive or walking through Candy Cane Lane, with a hot chocolate in hand, is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and beat the winter blues.
When: Light up starts Dec. 1 and continues each night throughout the Christmas season.
Where: Candy Cane Lane - the neighbourhoods off Upland Street, between Wilson Crescent, McKenzie Avenue and Aitken Crescent
Festival of Trees
What: Every year, the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation puts on the Festival of Trees to raise money for health care in northern B.C. This magical 10-day event transforms the Civic Centre into a Christmas wonderland of holiday displays, beautifully decorated trees, entertainment, lights and fun.
When: The Festival of Trees runs each day until Sunday, Dec. 1. You can check out the full schedule of events online.
Where: Prince George Civic Centre (808 Canada Games Way)
Bakerville’s Old Fashioned Victorian Christmas
What: The most magical Christmas experience you can have in the region is Barkerville’s Old Fashioned Victorian Christmas. Caroling, walking tours, sleigh rides, crafts, baking, holiday portraits, meeting Father Christmas and even tubbing on the Shamrock Tube Run await you at B.C.’s best historic town. This year’s event will even have open museums exhibits, three times more free activities and historical interpreters, additional washroom facilities, and charter bus service from Williams Lake, Quesnel, and Prince George. Admission is by donation or non-perishable food bank item.
When: Dec. 14 – Dec. 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Barkerville Historic Town and Park (14301 Highway 26 E., Barkerville)
The Nutcracker
What: Judy Russell Presents a seasonal favourite, The Nutcracker. Treat your family to this beloved local tradition this holiday season, featuring the Prince George Symphony Orchestra. Tickets on sale through Central Interior Tickets.
When: Dec. 19-22 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Vanier Hall (2901 Griffiths Ave.)
Santa Ski at Caledonia Nordic
What: Santa and Mrs. Claus bring their merry elves to Caledonia Nordic Ski Club for a visit at Santa’s Cabin. The snowy trails along Pine Flats are lit for visitors to ski, snowshoe or walk to the old Biathlon Cabin. Hot apple cider and cookies will be served at the cabin while you wait your turn to sit on Santa’s knee. Carolling is encouraged while you wait!
When: Dec. 15 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. (Members need only to wear their trail pass, non-members stop in the Rotary Lodge upstairs between 3 and 6 p.m. to receive a complimentary trail pass).
Where: Caledonia Nordic (8141 Otway Rd.)
Live Nativity at College Heights Baptist Church
What: College Heights Baptist Church is sharing the Christmas Story with the Prince George community. The event is free and hot chocolate and goodies follow each show.
When: Dec. 20 to Dec. 22 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. (Three shows nightly starting at 6:30, 7 and 7:30 p.m.)
Where: College Heights Baptist Church (5401 Moriarity Cres.)
Holiday Small Business Fair
What: Get your last-minute shopping in at the Holiday Small Business Fair. There’s free admission and the event will have over 80 vendors. You can find everything from clothing to pottery.
When: Dec. 14 and Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Roll-A-Dome (2588 Recplace Dr.)
Did we miss something? Let us know if there are any events you think should be included on this list by emailing [email protected].