Let’s Do Something — Dec. 21, 2023

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 21/12/2023 (993 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

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TODAY

• 10:15 to 11 a.m. — Story and Song Circle with Michelle at the Brandon Public Library. Preschoolers can join Michelle for stories, songs and crafts. The presence of a caregiver or parent is required. No registration necessary.

FRIDAY

• 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Brandon Farmers’ Market takes place inside The Town Centre (800 Rosser Ave., Brandon). Local fresh produce, baking, jams and jellies, pickling, yarn, bison, beef, beeswax candles, crafts and more. This event runs year-round.

• 6 p.m. — Come and enjoy a traditional turkey dinner with dessert by Aida’s Catering and a game of trivia by Kate at The Backyard on Aberdeen (1624 13th St., Unit B). Tickets are $40 and available at trivianight-byoa.rsvpify.com.

• 7 p.m. — Blue Christmas: A Service of Hope and Remembrance at Trinity United Church (1515 Sixth St.). For many people, the Christmas season does not bring with it joy and happiness that is often associated with this time of year. Individuals may be facing the holiday after the death of a loved one; after a separation or divorce; facing illness with a loved one or self. This service will have more of a quiet, sombre feel and the scriptures, music and mediation will be focused on the comfort God offers during dark times. Everyone is welcome.

SATURDAY

• 6:30 p.m. — Come join us for an unforgettable Merry-achi Christmas dinner party at the Royal Canadian Legion (560 13th St. East). The night kicks off with a dinner served by Sabor Latino followed by Mariachi Latino Band with some lively tunes, adding a touch of Mexican flair to the Christmas spirit and DJ music. Dinner from 7 to 8 p.m. Please be on time. Music, dance floor and bar open from 7 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Bar only accepts cash or debit. General admission is $65; VIP seats $80. Tickets available online through Eventbrite or at Sabor Latino Restaurant. Guests must be 18 and over. Dress to impress!

• 10 p.m. — Latin Xmas Party with music by DJ David Gomez and DJ Christian. North Hill Inn (1129 Braecrest Dr.). $10 cover charge. Doors open at 10 p.m.

SUNDAY

• 10:30 a.m. — Landmark Cinemas screens the movie “Wonka,” based on the extraordinary character at the centre of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Roald Dahl’s most iconic children’s book. Rated PG. Additional showtimes at 1:10 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:50 p.m., 4:20 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.

• 1 p.m. — Landmark Cinemas shows the movie “Wish” in which Asha, a sharp-witted idealist, makes a wish so powerful that it is answered by a cosmic force — a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, Asha and Star confront a formidable foe — the ruler of Rosas, King Magnifico. Additional screening at 3:20 p.m. Rated General.

• 2:30 p.m. — Explore the natural beauty of the Assiniboine Food Forest’s environment during a Nature Walk. Stop in at Crow’s General Store for some hot coffee, hot chocolate, or ice cream afterwards. Meet at Crow’s (33 17th Street East). Walks are scheduled Sunday afternoons until late March.

• 4 p.m. — Christmas Eve Mass at St. Augustine of Canterbury Roman Catholic Church (327 Fourth St.). Additional times at 7 p.m. and midnight.

• 5 p.m. — Christmas Eve, Family Eucharist service at St. Matthew’s Cathedral (403 13th St.). Christmas Eve, Midnight Mass 11 p.m. to midnight.

• 7 p.m. — Christmas Eve service at Trinity United Church (1515 Sixth St.). All are welcome.

• 7 p.m. — Christmas Eve service at Knox United Church (451 18th St.). Bernie Whetter will lead a carol session beginning at 6:45 p.m. All are welcome.

MONDAY

• Noon to 6 p.m. — The Westman and Area Traditional Christmas Dinner in the MNP Room at the Keystone Centre. No one should be alone at Christmas, so come down for a hearty meal with the fellowship of the community on Christmas Day. If you wish to volunteer, you can email christmasdinner@scgwave.ca or call 204-728-7987.

TUESDAY

• Day — Skate off that Christmas dinner at the skating rink behind the visitor centre at Clear Lake.

• Day — Ski or hike the trails in the Brandon Hills.

• Day — Curl up and relax with that bestseller you have been waiting to read.

WEDNESDAY

• 1 to 4 p.m. — Join members of the Brandon Scrabble Club on Wednesdays for an afternoon of Scrabble, coffee and laughs at the Brandon Public Library. Scrabble boards are provided, and all levels of skill are welcome to attend. No registration is required.

• 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. — The Brandon Embroiderers meet weekly to share their love of needlework, learn new skills and stitch together. All levels and abilities are welcome to attend. Call Dianne at 204725-1445 or Darlene at 204-727-1624 for more information.

• 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. — Holiday public skate takes place at the Sunrise Credit Union Centre in Minnedosa (127 Sixth Ave. NW). Also offered on Dec. 28 and 29.

• 6 to 8 p.m. — Wednesday Knights at Chez Angela Bakery and Café (Unit C, 29 10th St., Brandon). The Brandon Knights Chess Club meets at Chez Angela on Wednesday evenings. All skill levels are welcome.

• 7 p.m. — The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Regina Pats at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

AT THE CLUBS

• Lady of the Lake (135-B 17th St. North, Brandon) —Until It’s No Fun performs Celtic Folk and Christmas music beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets $6.66.

• The 40 (210 18th St. North, Brandon) — On Friday, The 40 hosts its Ugly Christmas Sweater Party with DJ Chaz. $10 cover charge at the door. Saturday night it is Holiday Karaoke with PJ. No cover charge. All events are 18+ and a valid photo ID is required for entry.

• Great Western Roadhouse (1125 18th St. at Canad Inns) — Friday is Christmas Eve Eve Eve. Free cover until 11 p.m. All events are 18+ and a valid photo ID is required for entry.

• Houstons (3130 Victoria Ave.) — Join DJ Kaotik for the Ugly Sweater Party on Saturday. All events are 18+ and a valid photo ID is required for entry.

• Chez Angela Bakery and Café (Unit C, 29 10th St., Brandon) — Sweet Life with Quentin & Madelyn Friday from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.

• Sand Hills Casino (777 Sand Hill Dr., Carberry) — Rocketbilly brings classic rock/country to the stage Friday and Saturday in the Oasis Bar and Grill. Live and always free.

• Eastside Eatery (1451 Richmond Ave.) — Join us on Saturday for It’s a Hardcore Blitzmas with special guests Skullenblitz, T.H.I.S. Band, Chaos, Numbskull and an appearance by Hardcore Santa. $10 entry fee. All ages. Doors open at 8 p.m. and bands start at 9 p.m.

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

• Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (Brandon Municipal Airport, Highway 10, 1.6 kilometres north of Brandon) — This is Canada’s only air museum solely dedicated to the preservation of those who trained and fought for the British Commonwealth during the Second World War. Presently the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum is closed, but the Canteen Building is available for rent year-round and you can shop the Tiger Moth Gift Shop by appointment by calling 204-727-2444. The museum will reopen on April 1, 2024, weather permitting. The museum’s RCAF Second World War Memorial is open to the public from sunrise to sundown.

• Daly House Museum (122 18th St., Brandon) — Built in 1882, the Daly House was the original home of Brandon’s first mayor, Thomas Mayne Daly. Artifacts include a collection of late 19th-century and early 20th-century furnishings, First World War memorabilia, toys, dolls and women’s wear. Museum hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. (September to June). Admission: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and youth (six to 18 years old), family (up to two adults and three children) $12, and children under five are admitted free. For more information, visit dalyhousemuseum. ca or call 204-7271722.

• Royal Canadian Artillery Museum (Building N-118 Patricia Rd., CFB Shilo) — In September 2023, we opened our Second World War vehicle display. Military vehicles provided firepower, logistical support, mobility and protection for the Canadian Army, enhancing their effectiveness during the Second World War. The exhibit includes eight military vehicles used by Canadians during the Second World War. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Admission: $10 for adults; $5 for seniors and students (six to 18 years old), free for children under six. Phone 204-765-3000 (ext. 3570) or email RCAMuseum@forces.gc.ca.

• Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba (Unit 2, 710 Rosser Ave., Brandon) — “A contemporary art gallery, school and shop that celebrates artistic excellence and diversity within our region and beyond.” The AGSM is Manitoba’s oldest centre for visual art and one of Canada’s first. It boasts two art galleries, studios for youth and adult classes, a gift shop that supports more than 90 Manitoban artists and artisans. Surien Fourie’s “Soul Bearing” is in the Community Gallery until Jan. 13, 2024. Hours: 4 to 9 p.m. Monday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday. For more information, visit agsm.ca.

• Killarney’s Heritage Home for the Arts (44 Water Ave., Killarney) — The Killarney Turtle Mountain Arts Council’s gallery is in the Heritage Home for the Arts. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. The gallery is closed all statutory holidays. Special tours can be arranged by calling the arts administrator at 204-554-0023.

• Brandon General Museum and Archives (19 Ninth St., Unit 101) — Attractions include the Brandon History Hall, Manitoba Telephone History, the BJ Hales Natural History Collection and rotating exhibits celebrating Brandon’s roots. Guided tours and visits are Tuesday to Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Admission by donation. Booking in advance is strongly recommended. Phone 204-717-1514 or email bgmainfo@wcgwave.ca.

• 26th Field Regiment RCA/XII Manitoba Dragoons Museum (within the Brandon Armoury, 1116 Victoria Ave.) — The museum is open Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed for lunch. Also open by appointment.

• ArtsForward (293 Mountain Ave., Neepawa) — ArtsForward is the central arts venue in Neepawa, in visual, literary, performing and material arts. Hours are: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mondays to Thursdays; 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays; closed on weekends.

• Virden Pioneer Home Museum (390 King St. West, Virden) — The museum house was built in 1888 by James F. Frame, a hardware merchant and prominent citizen in the community. We are now closed for the season and will open again in the spring of 2024.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Dec. 29 — The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Saskatoon Blades at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• Dec. 30 — Public Skate at Westoba Place arena 2 to 3 p.m. Pre-register at brandon.ca/rec-programs! Adults $8, Youth (13-17) $7, Seniors (55+) $7, children (2-12) $6.

• Dec. 30 — Kids New Year’s Eve Eve Party from 5 to 8 p.m. at The Dock. Activities, party favors and a countdown to 2024. Kids tickets are $9 and include meal, juice, milk, or pop, dessert and activities. Call 204 726-1234 to book.

• Dec. 30 — Matt Zimmerman is at The Dock to bring in 2024 one day early. Live juke box starting at 8:30 p.m. as we celebrate New Year’s Eve Eve.

• Dec. 31 — New Year’s Eve dance hosted by Prairie 21 from 8 p.m. to midnight at Seniors for Seniors (311 Park Ave. East). Entertainment provided by Kawliga. Dry bar and evening lunch. Tickets are $30 and must be purchased in advance. For more information, call Lorraine at 204 725-2389.

• Dec. 31 — Nuthin’ But Trouble performs at The 40. Doors open at 8 p.m. Live music, late lunch and party favors. Advance tickets available at The 40 Bar (cash only) and showpass. com $20 plus applicable fees. Event is 18+ and valid photo ID is required.

• Dec. 31 — The Great Western Road House (1125 18th St. at Canad Inns) presents The Very Best of 2023 with DJ Dirty Bird and The Light Guy 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. No cover charge. Event is 18+ and a valid photo ID is required for entry.

• Jan. 5-6 — The Brandon University Bobcats basketball teams take on the University of Winnipeg at the Healthy Living Centre (2010 Louise Ave.) On Jan. 5, the women’s game begins at 6 p.m., with the men taking the floor at 8 p.m. On Jan. 6, the women play at 5 p.m.; men at 7 p.m.

• Jan. 6 — The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Vancouver Giants at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• Jan. 9 —The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Victoria Royals at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• Jan. 12 — The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Swift Current Broncos at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• Jan. 12-13 — The Brandon University Bobcats women’s volleyball team takes on the University of Regina at the Healthy Living Centre (2010 Louise Ave.) at 7 p.m. nightly.

• Jan. 12-14 — The Evans Theatre at Brandon University (270 18th St.) will be showing “Mr. Dressup: The Magic of Make Believe,” at 7:30 p.m. nightly. All seats are $6, cash only. For more information, visit evanstheatre.ca

• Jan. 13 — Wheat City Nuit Blanche, a multi-disciplinary performance and art event featuring Brandon University Music students, faculty and ensembles will take place at the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba from 5 to 10 p.m.

• Jan. 14 — The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Prince Albert Raiders at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• Jan. 15 — To kick off Manitoba Ag Days, come join us for Produced on the Prairies — A Craft Beer Tasting Event at the Dome Building on the Keystone Centre grounds at 7 p.m. The event will feature the best of Manitoba’s up-and-coming craft brewing scene. Sample a lineup of expertly crafted brews, meet the entrepreneurs and business owners behind these brands. Tickets are $40 and available online at Eventbrite.ca

• Jan. 19-20 —The Brandon University Bobcats basketball teams take on the University of Saskatchewan at the Healthy Living Centre (2010 Louise Ave.) On Jan. 19, the women’s game begins at 6 p.m., with the men taking the floor at 8 p.m. On Jan. 20, the women play at 5 p.m.; men at 7 p.m.

• Jan. 19-20 — Westman Drama Ministries presents Disney’s PIXAR “Finding Nemo Jr.” at 635 McDiarmid Dr. Come explore the big blue world as Westman Drama Ministries presents its first production in Brandon. This is a perfect show for the whole family. On Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. and Jan. 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Adults $22; children ages zero to 12, $19. VIP admission is $27. Tickets available at: finding-nemo-jr-westman, eventbrite.com.

• Jan. 19-20 — The Evans Theatre at Brandon University (270 18th St.) will be showing “Maestro,” at 7:30 p.m. nightly. All seats are $6, cash only. For more information, visit evanstheatre.ca

• Jan. 20 — The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Lethbridge Hurricanes at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• Jan. 21 — The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Medicine Hat Tigers at Westoba Place at 4 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• Jan. 23 — Canada’s Juno award-winning group The Sheepdogs bring their Backroad Boogie tour to the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office or by calling 204-728-9510.

• Jan. 26-28 — The Evans Theatre at Brandon University (270 18th St.) will be showing “Anatomy of a Fall,” at 7:30 p.m. nightly. All seats are $6, cash only. For more information, visit evanstheatre.ca

• Jan. 26-27 — The Brandon University Bobcats men’s volleyball team takes on UBC Okanagan at the Healthy Living Centre (2010 Louise Ave.) at 7 p.m. each night.

• Feb. 2 — The Brandon Wheat Kings host the Red Deer Rebels at Westoba Place at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the Keystone Centre box office.

• Feb. 11 — Enjoy some gardening activities during Seedy Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ukrainian Reading Hall (1005 Assiniboine Ave.). Event includes food and seed vendors, seed swap, kids gardening activity area and presentations. The event is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

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