The holiday season arrives with fresh energy at Metropolis at Metrotown as the centre introduces West Coast Santa and a new outdoor Holiday Hive Market. Visitors will find coastal touches throughout the programming, along with family activities that run until December 30.
West Coast Santa joins the expanded Santa Experience and brings a Pacific Northwest influence to this year’s festivities. His look includes red flannel, hiking boots and a driftwood walking stick, creating a relaxed West Coast feel. Families can meet him alongside Father Christmas, Global Santa and Tropical Santa, with photo packages available. A portion of proceeds supports Family Services of Greater Vancouver and Burnaby Neighbourhood House.
The Holiday Hive Market debuts December 6 and 7 as an outdoor event produced by the team behind the Artisan Farmers Market and sponsored by Novus. More than 30 local vendors will be present, including eF & Be Bakehouse with Japanese baked treats, FD WOW Foods with Brazilian cheese specialties, and Bliss Out Coffee with seasonal drinks like Cáscara Hot Tea & Lattes. Shoppers will also find pet treats and artisan-made gifts. A free photo booth, DIY ornament station and live sets from performers such as Dean Michael Smith and The Dimes bring added activity to the weekend.
Seasonal décor fills the centre through late December. A charity gift wrap station supported by Coast Capital Savings runs near Winners from December 1 to 24. The Burnaby Christmas Bureau hosts a Toy Drive on December 6 near Victoria’s Secret, offering limited gift card giveaways for donors. Families can also join the West Coast Santa Dance Party that day, featuring a roaming DJ, saxophonist, snowman and polar bear.
The Toy Room returns as a partnership with Burnaby Christmas Bureau and provides new toys, books and gifts to children from low-income families in Burnaby. Community members can drop off new, unwrapped items at the Toy Room, located on the upper level next to Winners, through December 20.