Around town BC . . .

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Greater Vancouver . . .

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

Abbotsford’s Gallery 7 Theatre company will kick off its June production of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe Friday, June 5, at MEI Secondary School Theatre, 4081 Clearbrook Rd. Friday’s premiere performance starts at 7:30 p.m. The show runs until June 20 and tickets are available by calling 604-852-3701.

Mindful Eating for Babies and Toddlers

We all need to eat each day - and our children need to eat meals and snacks every few hours. Each feeding is an opportunity to practice mindfulness, to build a positive feeding relationship, to secure attachment and ground the family. Join nutritionist Victoria Pawlowski for an inspiring and practical discussion about how and what to feed your baby in a way that makes sense, Friday, June 5, 2 p.m. and Friday June 19, 10 a.m, the new Whole Foods Market at Cambie and Broadway in Vancouver. Preregistration required. E-mail vanessa.pratt@wholefoods.com.

Explore Stanley Park

The monthly Young Naturalist’s Club of Stanley Park meets again this Saturday, June 6. Children aged five to 14 are invited to explore the park and participate in some hands-on learning experiences. The exploration runs from 10 a.m. to noon, and starts off at the Lost Lagoon Nature House. Parents are required to accompany their children. For more information, call 604-718-6522, or e-mail ync@stanleyparkecology.ca.

Landfill lessons

Metro Vancouver’s landfill at 5400 72 St., in Delta, is hosting a free open house, Saturday, June 6. From 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., you are invited to visit the site and learn about its daily operations and environmental features. Kids can enjoy a giant sandbox, balloon artistry, and face painting. Complimentary hot dogs and hamburgers will also be available. For more information, call 604-940-3212.

Mount Pleasant fun

Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant community is throwing a party Saturday, June 6, and everyone’s invited! The annual family-friendly event will feature a bouncy castle, carnival games, and face painting. The celebration runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Mount Pleasant Elementary School on Guelph Street.

Marpole community celebration

Vancouver’s Marpole district will enjoy a community day full of rides, games, yummy food, and entertainment, Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Marpole-Oakridge Community Centre, 990 West 59th Ave., Vancouver.

Heritage and history

Vancouver’s Collingwood neighbourhood hosts Collingwood Days 2009, Saturday, June 6. The free day-long event will play tribute to the neighbourhood’s rich history and growth. Taking place in front of Sir Guy Carleton Elementary at the corner of Joyce Street and Kingsway, the festival will include a history exhibit, story telling, rides, and face painting. The day will start off with a pancake breakfast at 9 a.m., and festivities will run until 5 p.m.

Pitt Meadows merriment

Pitt Meadows Day is full of free revelry planned Saturday, June 6 in Harris Road Park. Starting with a pancake breakfast at 7 a.m., the annual event will include a parade, a petting zoo, mini golf, and face painting. From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. a tasty barbeque dinner will be on offer. And to top it all off, there’ll be fireworks at 10 p.m.

Crazy Carnivale

Science World in Vancouver presents Crazy Carnivale, a family fundraiser to raise money for Science World’s Tower of Bauble, Saturday, June 6, 6 to 10 p.m. It’s a 20th birthday party for Science World. Join Science World in celebrating 20 years of igniting minds at Crazy Carnivale! and help raise money for the Tower of Bauble outside TELUS World of Science. Live music by XLR8, street entertainment, delicious food, family photos, take-home art projects, face painting, birthday games, the famous Crazy Carnivale! goody bag and more. Tickets $300/family after April 30. Call 604-443-7500.

Blisters, scabs and scars!

Also at Science World in Vancouver, check out the Wound Workshop where you can make yourself look disgusting and scary – we’re talking blisters, scabs and scars - with stuff you’ve got in your kitchen. When you’re done, just wipe it off. Workshop is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Lab A.

Dash and pedal

Join in for the first annual Il Girolino di Burnaby Dash & Pedal event for children five to 12, Saturday, June 6. The event is part of the Burnaby Height's Hats Off Day. Kids will dash for their bikes and then head out on a safely monitored bike course on Hastings Street, returning to the start/finish line all in the presence of a cheering, festive crowd and a race commentator. Finisher medal for all participants. Visit www.ilgirolino.com for more information and to register.

Rick Scott family concert

Check out a great entertainer for the whole family as Rick Scott presents a family concert, Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m., St. James Hall, 3214 West 10th Ave., Vancouver. Tickets available at Kidsbooks, or call 604-736-3022.

Bike parade

Kids are invited to decorate their bikes and roll around in style in a fun, short parade, at the Trout Lake Farmers Market in Vancouver, Saturday, June 6, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Decorating materials are provided. Free.

RCMP Open House

The White Rock RCMP invite you to their annual open house, Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at their detachment, 15299 Pacific Ave. Enjoy pony rides, prizes, games, face painting, jail tours, wanted posters, and a lot more at this free event.

In the House Festival

Houses in East Vancouver open up their doors for everyone to come and enjoy music, dance, theatre, storytelling, magic and more, Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7. For all the details, visit www.inthehousefestival.com.

Magic award

The 2009 Children’s Magician of the Year Show will have plenty of smiles and giggles in store for young audience members this Sunday, June 7. Local magicians will be getting out their wands and top hats to compete for the coveted title of Children’s Magician of the Year at Burnaby’s Shadbolt Centre for the Arts at 6450 Deer Lake Avenue. The winner will be determined by an audience vote. The show starts at 1 p.m. and tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at 604-205-3000.

Saving our waters

Surrey will host a World Ocean Day celebration Sunday, June 7 at Crescent Beach off the foot of McBride Street. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and will encourage ocean preservation through interactive displays, a marine creature touch tank, and interpretive walks.

Art for everyone

The Surrey Art Gallery (13750-88 Avenue) is throwing open its doors this Sunday, June 7 for family day, a kid-friendly drop-in day filled with performances and activities. Come create some art work, play around with clay, or dance around to live music. The event runs from noon to 4 p.m., and the suggested donation is $2 per child.

HSBC Childrun

Help raise money and join the fight against childhood cancer by participating in this year’s HSBC Childrun, Sunday, June 7, 9 a.m. at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver. For all the details and to register, visit www.childrun.com. The HSBC Childrun is a family “fun run” where participants can choose from one of two traffic-controlled distances: a challenging 5km route through scenic Queen Elizabeth Park, or a more child-oriented 1km route around BC Children’s Hospital grounds. Funds raised through HSBC Childrun go directly to the childhood cancer research at the Hospital.

Philippine Independence Day celebration

Come out to the first annual Philippine Independence Day celebration, Sunday, June 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fraser Heights Rec. Centre, 10855 160 St., Surrey. The free event will feature cultural songs and dances, exhibits and food.

Free music classes

Four free Music Together Phoenix Song demo classes will be offered on Wednesday, June 3 and Wednesday, June 10 at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. at Midnight Cheer Athletics (near Marine Drive and Granville Street) in Vancouver. Please RSVP to reserve space in one of these free classes as space is limited. Call 604-327-5165 or e-mail anna@mtphoenixsong.com.

Around Vancouver Island . . .

Tea party

The two-day Oak Bay Tea Party will feature a parade that will roll through the streets of Victoria’s Oak Bay neighbourhood, Saturday, June 6 starting at 10:30 a.m. The procession will kick off in Windsor Park and end at Willows Park at around 11:30 a.m. The festivities will carry on the next day on Sunday, June 7 with an air show taking place above Willows Beach.

Oceans Day Festival

Campbell River’s Maritime Heritage Centre, 621 Island Highway, will host an Oceans Day Festival, Saturday, June 6. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the free family event will include touch tanks, fishing for youths, and an interactive beach walk with a naturalist.

Children’s fest

The Vancouver Island International Children’s Festival gets started in Nanaimo’s Maffeo Sutton Park, 50 Arena St., Sunday, June 7 with an abundance of children’s shows to choose from. The festival, which runs until Tuesday, features both free and ticketed performances. For information on shows and to purchase tickets, contact Jill Fitzmaurice at 250-754-3378, and visit www.childrensfestival.com.

Around Okanagan . . .

Kids Swap Meet

Join in for the Kelowna Baby and Kids Swap Meet, Saturday, June 6, 9 a.m., Boys and Girls Club Kelowna, 1434 Graham St., Kelowna. Table rentals are $10. E-mail nikebug90@yahoo.com if you are interested in a table.

Helping children learn

Author Pamela Proctor will give a free speech about her insights on teaching young children at the Kelowna Library Branch, 1380 Ellis St., Saturday, June 6, 4 to 5 p.m. For more information on Proctor and her philosophies, visit her website at www.honouringthechild.com.

Healthy kids day

The Kelowna Family YMCA at 375 Hartman Rd., is hosting a fun kid-friendly event that focuses on health and fitness this Sunday, June 7. Live entertainment and nutritious snacks will be available from noon to 4 p.m.

Monster madness

A monster truck spectacular will be motoring into Kelowna’s Prospera Place, 1223 Water St., Sunday, June 7 at 2 p.m. For tickets, visit www.selectyourtickets.com.

Upcoming events . . . (0*New*)

Get the Word Out

The annual Enterprising Moms Business Conference, presented by SHE Financial, is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the River Rock Casino in Richmond. This year's theme is Get the Word Out! and explores all the various ways to promote your business. Speakers include mom entrepreneur Claire Newell (Jubliee Travel Best Bets/Global TV), PR genius George Affleck (Curve Communications,) social media guru Rebecca Bollwitt (Miss 604), and marketing extraordinaire Fiona Walsh (FM Walsh and Associates) plus all the resources and shopping for moms. Admission is free with a donation made at the door to the Ronald McDonald House. There is also a networking evening being held at the River Rock afterwards from 6 to 8:30 p.m. with drinks, appetizers and Kelley Scarsbrook, president of Enterprising Moms Network will be speaking on The Power of Believing in You. Also, special guests will be attending from the media. To purchase your ticket for the evening, visit www.enterprisingmomsnetwork.com.

Learn to Garden

The Surrey Nature Centre presents Garden With Me, on June 20, 10 a.m. to noon where families will be able to learn how to grow plants and vegetables. Admission is free and all gardening equipment is provided.

Barbecue in the park

Howe Sound Rehabilitation Services Society is hosting the annual BBQ in the Park for Brain Injury Awareness and Prevention, in conjunction with Brain Injury Awareness Month, Thursday, June 25, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Blue Mountain Park, 975 King Albert Ave., Coquitlam. There will be live musical entertainment, food and refreshment, information booths, raffle prizes, and lots of free activities for the kids. Pedalheads bicycle instructors will be on hand to teach kids who have their bikes how to ride safely and have a try at their “bike rodeo.” Event is free to attend with drinks, barbecue, and raffle tickets available for purchase. For more info please contact elsa@howesound.net.

Just for parents-to-be

Parents-to-be! Imagine a summer weekend away relaxing and reenergizing together before baby arrives! Why not enjoy two nights at the four-star Summit Lodge and Spa in Whistler with other expecting parents as we incorporate daily prenatal yoga, partner yoga, nature walks, meditation and nutrition sessions while finding plenty of time to relax by the pool or refresh in the spa? This Prenatal Yoga and Wellness Weekend, July 10 to 12, is available at the Early Bird package rates (booked before June 1) beginning at $150 per person (based on double occupancy). Contact Suzanne at New Mother Yoga and Wellness or e-mail suzanne@newmotheryogaandwellness.com or call 1-917-370-7288 for more information or to reserve your space.

Free info on pain management during labour

Acubalance is offering a free acupressure workshop to couples for pain management during labour, July 2, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Sage Midwifery, 105-5450 122nd St., Surrey, and July 28, 7:30 to 9 p.m., Pomegranate Community Midwives, 2647 East Hastings, in Vancouver. Workshop is designed to empower expectant couples and equip them with more tools to navigate through their labours. Space is limited, and registration is required. Call 604-678-8600.

Hoping for mama time this summer?

The first annual Mama Renew retreat will nurture your spirit, make room for play, allow for quiet and time in nature, and include a bounty of laughter and reflection, Aug. 22 and 23 on the Sunshine Coast. $175 includes lodging and organic cuisine. For more information, visit www.mamarenew.ca or call Sarah at 604-254-1100.

Attention artists, designers and crafters

The Mommies on Main Show will be held at the Heritage Hall in Vancouver this September and the organizers are looking for vendors to fill spaces. They are interested in items that are either handmade locally or manufactured in Canada. Art, clothing, jewelry, accessories, furniture, toys, music, food, etc, will all be considered. Please view the website at www.mommiesonmain.com for show information and show application. For further information, please contact Brenda at info@mommiesonmain.com or phone 604-739-3739.

Ongoing events online . . .

Click here to find out the scoop on ongoing events in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island.

Swap meets . . . (1 *NEW*)

Lil Rascals Kids Swap Meet

Head out to the Lil Rascals Kids Swap Meet, Saturday, June 6, Chilliwack Heritage Park, 44140 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack. Excellent opportunity to buy or sell new and used infant to teen items. Sellers selling everything from maternity items, clothing for all ages, toys, video games, furniture, strollers, bikes, sports equipment and more. Definitely a must see and well worth the drive. There is a Concession and ATM on site. Early bird admission at 9 a.m. is $5, admission is $3 for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Children’s admission is free. Tables are available for $25. Businesses and mom-preneurs welcome. Please call Tammy at 604-858-4034 or e-mail: lilrascalsswap@telus.net.

Sales scoop . . .

Poncho promo *NEW*

Order a Dick & Jane limited edition poncho by Po Po’s Ponchos online before Saturday, June 6, and you’ll receive a FREE matching tote (worth $19). The tote is a good quality denim with nice thick straps and a pocket inside. Enter D&JTOTE in the coupon code section of the shopping cart checkout.

La Dolce Vita! The Sweet Life Event/Sale *NEW*

Enjoy 20 to 50 % off selected products, including 30% off all OPI, 40% off all China Glaze, 40% off select BlueQ product, 50% off all Wink Basics (eyeshadows, brow products, loose powders) and more at the La Dolce Vita! The Sweet Life Event/Sale, Wink Beauty Lounge, 67 East Cordova St., Vancouver, daily until Saturday, June 6, 3 to 7 p.m. More deals and prizes too.

Spree fashions blowout *NEW*

Be prepared to pick up some great bargains on samples, seconds and overstocks on summer, fall and winter 2009 designer brands, at the Spree Fashions summer blow out sale, Friday, June 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Brands include mim-pi, Monster Republic, Baby Lulu, and more. Sale is located at 23-7228 Winston St., Burnaby. Call 604-421-1295 for more details.

Girls’ Night Out Shopping Event *NEW*

TheStyleSpy.com and Ishara host Girls' Night Out Shopping Event, Friday, June 5, 5 to 8 p.m., Oakridge Centre, #269-650 West 41st Ave., Vancouver. Enjoy one night only discount, 20% off regular priced clothing and 10% off denim. Brands like J Brand, Rory Beca, Rich & Skinny, Madison Marcus, Ella Moss, Modern Amusement, Smythe, Graham & Spencer, Anlo, CC Skye and More. For more details, call 604-264-7494. Please RSVP party@thestylespy.com.

Legendary Sweet Peanut sale

Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on designer Sweet Peanut baby clothes at 75 per cent off. All pieces are $10 and under and sizes range from preemie to size 6. For one day only, The Sweet Peanut Clothing Company is holding its bi-annual warehouse sale Saturday, June 6, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Barefit and Pregnant Fitness Studio, 3668 Broadway (at Alma) in Vancouver. Arrive early for best selection. Cash and cheque are accepted.

Mega mommies garage sale

Pick up some great gently used items at the mega mommies garage sale in South Surrey, Saturday, June 6, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., 15355 26th Ave., Southwind Clubhouse. Six moms are cleaning house and you can pick up tons of brand name clothes, games, toys, strollers, maternity wear and more for boys and girls infant to seven year. Parking in complex is at a premium, so please park on the street.

Summer garden sale *NEW*

Saplings: sustainable kids décor and Liz Clay of Cici Art Factory are joining forces to host a summer garden sale, Saturday, June 6, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday, June 7, noon to 4 p.m., 2556 West 3rd Ave., Vancouver. For more details, call 604-561-2512.

Big time sale on great clothes *NEW*

Canadian online retailer Purple Pupa Kids is having a great 40% off site wide sale on now, until Aug. 31. Use coupon code PUPASUMMER at the checkout. Lots of time to shop, but selection might start to dwindle with these prices.

Sale for Agoo *NEW*

Canadian online retailer Agoo - Clothes for Active Kids is having a 20% off site wide sale now, until June 7. Use coupon code: agootots at the checkout. Shipping is a flat rate of $5, which is great, and even better FREE with orders over $50.

Gymboree sale *NEW*

Here's a great sale if you love Gymboree clothes for your kids ... on now, fill one of their tote bags with sale or regular priced items and get 30% off everything in the bag. The catch is, the bag has to be full, so it might be a good time to shop with your sister or girlfriend! Click here for store locator.

Purl mama & baby spring sale *NEW*

One of favourite online baby and mom stores is having a spring sale. Save up to 80 per cent of great gear, clothing, and more at purl mama & baby.

Toy sale *NEW*

Discovery Toys is having a summer sale until July 15 with discounts up to 65% off. Check out the kid-powered toys online at www.natashastoys.com.

Shop and help raise money *NEW*

Summer shopping spectacular, fundraiser for Lions Gate Christian Academy, June 19, 7 to 10 p.m., Westin Bayshore Hotel, Vancouver. Tickets are $100 and available by call 604-984-8226. Fashion show featuring the Jaqueline Conoir Collection, vendors, silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and more.

While we do our best to inform you of great family happenings around town, event details are subject to change.

B.C. archives

Happy first birthday Francesca! Love mommy, daddy, Jaiden, Ella, Lauren and Ethan.

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