Embrace the Elements

Wind chill readings have long replaced UV ratings and “after-school” activities might as well be renamed “fun after dark”. Winter’s here.
Luckily, we’re a nation of explorers and a nation of hot chocolate drinkers too. We know this because you savvy moms shared with us so many great ideas for winter family activities. (You can imagine our delight with so many responses!)

Here in temperate Vancouver, we can dream of a white Christmas, but sometimes that’s all it will be…a dream. Fortunately we love our nature, whether it comes wet, dry or white. So, in honour of our city’s infamous precipitation levels, we offer you this outdoor activity guide that’s full of ideas from readers who know how to have fun no matter what’s descending from above. So get savvy this winter with your family. Here are some of the tips and tricks we learned from our readers.

Dry Skies
Take advantage of clear conditions to take in the sparkle of holiday lights. SavvyReader Linda Minaker from Port Alberni bundles her kids in the car with hot chocolate and popcorn and takes a leisurely Christmas light tour. If you can, check out the six-block stretch of 2400-2900 Trinity Street, near the Second Narrows Bridge. Each year, these neighbours put on stunning displays as part of a friendly contest that raises money for charity. Check out their Sunday night street fair!