Assignment Editors: Special Events in Vancouver Parks

December 3, 2009 (No. 28) - Vancouver Parks host a diverse range of cultural events and outdoor activities. Listed below are some upcoming special events facilitated by the Vancouver Park Board. For information about other events, please go to the Park Board web site at www.vancouverparks.ca and look for Special Events under the For Your Information section.

Salvation Army Santa Shuffle Fun Run and Elf Walk in Stanley Park Saturday, December 5, 10 am The Santa Shuffle has become part of the late season calendar for many local families. The event, which is split into the 5 km Family Fun Run and 1 km Elf Walk, is a fundraiser for the Salvation Army. Visit www.events.runningroom.com for more information.

Remembrance Ceremony Thornton Park Main & Terminal December 6 10:30 am Remembering all women whose lives have been touched by violence. Come out to this special event complete with hot chocolate, hot apple cider, felt heart pins and memorial scarves. Lady Justice and the 7 virtues and vices will be performing along with Solidarity Choir.

Bright Nights in Stanley Park November 27, 2009 to January 2, 2010, 3 to 10 pm daily Presented by the Vancouver Park Board and the BC Professional Firefighters' Burn Fund. Advance tickets at ticketmaster.ca or same day at the Train, noon daily. Info Line at 604-257-8531. Closed Dec. 25th.

VanDusen Garden Festival of Lights December 11- January 3, 2009, 4:30 - 9 pm at 37th Avenue and Oak Street. A perfect evening outing for the entire family with Santa's Living Room, Dancing Lights on the Lake, eight acres of sparkling lights and wishing opportunities at the Candle Shrine. Ph. 604-684-2787 for information. Closed Dec. 25th.

Nature Vancouver Christmas Bird Count begins at Hastings Park Sunday, December 20, 1 pm Take part in the annual bird count with Adrian Grant-Duff of Nature Vancouver. The cost is $5.00 per person to support Bird Studies Canada. Meet at the west entrance to the Sanctuary. Please leave dogs at home. Call Pat at 604-294-1272 for details.

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For more information, contact: Carol DeFina , Communications Coordinator, at 604-257-8440

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 220 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.