Pacific National Exhibition

Date Idea: Pacific National Exhibition

Location: 2901 East Hasting Street, Vancouver

Price: Adult fare gate is $20 each (save $5 online or at certain retailers)

More Info: www.pne.ca

Going into its 102nd year, the fair at the PNE is one of Vancouver oldest running attractions running during the last 2 weeks of summer. This year, the fair runs from August 18th to September 3.

There are hundreds of performances and exhibits to see. You can see shows such as the Superdogs, Peking Acrobats, a night time Pyrotechnics show, and there are nightly concerts which often highlight some pretty famous names. Make sure to show up early though so you can plan your day accordingly. Some shows do fill up quickly. All of this is included with admission.

Where things can get interesting with the wallet can include the marketplace where you can often buy items that you see in the "As Seen on TV" commercials. As with any fair, there is also the food which can be a bit highly priced, along with the rides. A ride pass for the day will set you back around an extra $40, but be prepared for the line ups.

Christmas Craft Fair

Date Idea: Christmas Market

Location: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 650 Hamilton Street, Vancouver

Price: $5 per person

More Info: www.vancouverchristmasmarket.com

With the holiday season coming up, you’ll start to see more postings regarding the festive season. This week’s is the Vancouver Christmas Market at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, which opens tomorrow, November 24 and stays open until Christmas Eve. The market is open from 11am to 9pm. It’s a nice place to go on a casual date where you can stroll amongst the little huts looking at handmade gifts including ornaments and nutcrackers. Last year, I ended up buying my sister a rabbit toque complete with ears. I also bought some honey sticks for myself as a snack. As you look around, you’ll hear festive music and come across carolers. Don’t forget to grab a treat and a drink while you’re there.

ALTERNATE MARKET

Want to go to the market but you live in the suburbs? Several city also host their own markets and craft fairs. The Coquitlam Craft Fair is going on Dec 2-4 at the Poirier Community Centre at 624 Poirier Street. Tickets for that are $2. On the Friday night, there’s a Canucks Alumni game against the Coquitlam Fire Fighters at the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex which is across the street at 633 Poirier. Tickets are $7 and are available at www.pocomo.org with proceeds supporting the PoCoMo Youth Services Society.

So on Friday, Dec 2, you can have a night for both him and her. Head on down early to check out the craft fair, and then head across the street for the Canuck Alumni game. You may find something for her at the fair, and something for him (like an autograph) at the game.