A sure sign that the holidays are right around the corner.
Port Coquitlam's Winter in the City is set to come to life in the downtown core next weekend by ringing in the new season with a series of free entertainment and activities for residents of all ages.
Local businesses and artisans will also be set up in a festive market Saturday (Nov. 25) with handmade crafts and gifts, while city officials will host a special lighting ceremony Sunday (Nov. 26).
Nov. 25
Also known as Christmas in Leigh Square, the city says the popular winter artisan market is set to showcase locally-made gifts and art.
The themed fair will be set up from 4 to 8 p.m.
PoCo Heritage Museum and Archives is also scheduled to host a by-donation ornament making session in that same span and in the same location.
Nov. 26
Winter in the City will continue its interactive schedule with a full day of crafting, storytelling at Terry Fox Library and the lighting ceremony, PoCo staff explained in a statement.
Santa Claus is making an appearance in Leigh Square for photo opportunities between 12 and 4 p.m. — by donation only.
The Astoria Retirement Residences has also partnered with the city to serve hot cider at the event from 1 to 5 p.m. in addition to a variety of food trucks that'll be parked nearby, including Indish, Oh My Gado, The Jerk Shack and Tornado Potato.
The main event will see PoCo public officials set to light up Leigh Square and city hall in festive colours that'll stay true for the rest of the holiday season.
The ceremony begins at 4:45 p.m.
On both days, visitors will hear live holiday musical performances at the Leigh Square bandshell by local recording artists, such as:
- Ben Crosby
- Nov. 25 @ 4 p.m.
- Etienne Stew
- Nov. 25 @ 6:15 p.m.
- Tri-City School of Music
- Nov. 26 @ 12 p.m.
- Beauty Shop Dolls
- Nov. 26 @ 1 p.m.
- Christmas Swing Trio
- Nov. 26 @ 3 p.m.
- Phat Santa Swing
- Nov. 26 @ 4 and 5:15 p.m.
As well, five local breweries and distilleries will be selling alcohol at the two-day event:
- Provincial Spirits
- Nov. 25 and 26
- Patina Brewing
- Nov. 25 only
- Tinhouse Brewing
- Nov. 25 only
- Boardwalk Brewing
- Nov. 26 only
- PoCo Brothers Brewing
- Nov. 26 only
For more information on all holiday-themed events in Port Coquitlam this year, you're encouraged to visit the city's website.
The Tri-City News is a media sponsor of Winter in the City.
