Looking for something to do on Dec. 25? Not everyone celebrates Christmas but at times, with most businesses closed, it seems like the entire city is. However, there are still a few places open to the public.
Ski
Ready to hit the slopes? Grouse Mountain and Cypress Mountain are ready for you! Skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing will be available. At Grouse, they will remain open from 9am to 6 pm but you can go snowshoeing until dusk. The chalet and Observatory restaurant will be open until 10pm (6400 Nancy Greene Way, 604-980-9311). Cypress also offers cross-country skiing and snow tubing from 9am to 4 pm. (6000 Cypress Bowl Road, 604-926-5612).
Watch a movie
As the saying goes, misery loves company. And what can be more uplifting than another movie adaptation of Victor Hugos classic novel, Les Misérables? Starring Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway and Amanda Seyfried, it comes out in theatres on Christmas Day. Cineplex.com
Visit the Aquarium
Make your way down to the Vancouver Aquarium. Since it is the African penguins first winter in Vancouver, why not celebrate their presence with a bit of holiday cheer? The aquarium will be open from 11:30am to 4:30pm (845 Avison Way, 604-659-3474).
Swim
A couple community centres will be open. The pool at the Vancouver Aquatic Centre will be open from 12 to 5 pm (1050 Beach Ave., 604-665-3424). The fitness centre at Kitsilano Community Centre will be open from 9 am to 5 p.m. (2690 Larch St., 604-257-6976).
Skate
In the downtown core, amongst the glass towers and the sprawling concrete grounds, Robson Square Ice Rink beckons for people in ugly Christmas sweaters and red mittens, remaining open from 12 to 5pm. (800 Robson, 604-646-3554)
Skate AND EAT
At the Hillcrest Community Centre, skate to Jewish music! At the annual Post Chanukah On Ice event, there will be hot latkes, doughnuts and gelt. Kids can also craft to their hearts content. $10 in advance or $12 at the door; the price includes skate rentals. To register, go to ChabadEastVan.com/Chanukah or call 604-266-9841. (4575 Clancy Loranger Way).
Enjoy a korean bbq
Whether youre a smashing pro or just starting out, there is an all-day Christmas barbecue event with a rotation of badminton play at Badminton Vancouver. At $10 per person, each player receives either Korean barbeque short ribs or barbecue chicken with the side option of either fried rice or bread. The sport centre, located on the obscure Mitchell Island underneath Knight St. Bridge, will be open from 9am to midnight. (13100 Mitchell Road, 604-325-5128).
Shop
Like water fountain shows with lights and Christmas songs? A pit stop at Aberdeen Centre in Richmond may be in order. The mall will be open from 11am to 6pm. (4151 Hazelbridge Way, 604-270-1234).
