Queen Elizabeth Park

Can’t afford that tropical vacation this Christmas? Here’s an idea. Throw on a tropical shirt and flip-flops and head to the Jewel Box of Lights display at the Bloedel Conservatory, where the temperature is always as warm as a Mexican all-inclusive — tropical drinks not included.

The conservatory will once again brighten the city’s grey, wet winter with holiday lights and the bright plumage of its exotic birds. The lush indoor landscape is exotic at any time of year, but the annual Jewel Box of Lights provides a stroll through the tropics with a holiday twist. Seasonal music, poinsettias and blooming Christmas cactus provide the backdrop for a snow-free holiday experience. A special opening night party organized by the Friends of Bloedel takes place Dec. 6 from 5:30 to 9 p.m., featuring an evening of entertainment with Acapella Quartet and Trio of Tubas, and snacks including hot apple cider and parrot cookies (while supplies last).

Mount Pleasant

Megaphone magazine is celebrating its award-winning street vendors with the third annual Night of Joyful Voices party Dec. 8 at the Anza Club, 3 West Eighth Avenue.

The annual celebration is to recognize the work these vendors do throughout the year. Headlining this year’s event is Blackout Beach, the critically acclaimed side project of Frog Eyes front man Carey Mercer. The show will also double as the official album release party for Blackout Beach’s latest offering. For ticket information visit megaphonemagazine.eventbrite.com.

- I say tomato, you say “faire.”

The always popular Women’s Winter Faire at Heritage Hall on Main Street takes place later this month, but there’s a twist. The popular craft/art show is only being held one weekend this year instead of the traditional two, which means shoppers will have only Dec. 15 and 16 to check out the faire’s wares.

The event, which combines art, culture and social activism, supports female artists, many of whom depend on their art for their livelihood. These talented resourceful women lean toward using “upcycled” and recycled materials, as well as new wood, glass, textiles and metal to create works of art to admire, wear or use. Look for fashions, First Nations designs and art, functional and decorative ceramics, mystical and magical creations, jewelry and fine art. A $3 to $5 door donation will benefit victims of Hurricane Sandy.

What better time than the holidays to wish for peace on earth. That’s exactly what the Canadian Peace Initiative is hoping to accomplish by establishing a Department of Peace in Canada. The Vancouver Chapter will meet Monday, Dec. 10 at the Centre for Peace, 1825 W. 16th Ave. from 7 to 9 p.m. On the agenda is a discussion about making Vancouver a city of peace. All are welcome to this free event. For more information contact vancouvercpi@yahoo.ca.

Citywide

While the common name is Winter Solstice, I simply refer to it as the date before our days start to get longer. Not that I’m counting or anything. The Secret Lantern Society is gearing up for that return of light with preparations in advance of its annual lantern parades that light up the city Dec. 21, the shortest day of the year. The society is hosting lantern-making workshops across the city to make it easy for everyone to take part. Visit secretlantern.org for times and more information.

sthomas@vancourier.com

Twitter: sthomas10