reviewvancouver:Rachel Kiyo Iwaasa Concert

I had an enjoyable and festive afternoon attending the 4th Annual West Coast Christmas Show in Abbotsford. Musical talent included the Abbotsford Concert Band, the Royal City Musical Quartet and JP Orchestra and Chorus. The live music certainly made strolling around the marketplace a nice experience.

This was more than your typical Tradex show - there were numerous charities competing to win The Festival of Trees, and attendees were given the opportunity to view the decorated trees while learning more about the valuable work of local non-profit organizations. Attendees had the opportunity to vote for their favourite tree, and/or buy a raffle ticket to win Canucks tickets.

Aside from the holiday favourites, there were hundreds of exhibitors you typically see at a show like this, ranging from popular cosmetics and electronics companies to lesser known independent entrepreneurs and artists. Precious Memories offered a variety of workshops, and attendees were welcome to drop by their booth to craft homemade Christmas cards. Other seminars included holiday food ideas by Food Network Top Chef Dale MacKay and holiday decorating ideas by floral decor specialist Wayne Louie. There was also an on-site nursery for those last minute poinsettias. Free samples were everywhere, and I had a delicious experience attending a free cheese tasting seminar put on by the Dairy Farmers of Canada.

Best of all, parking for this event was free! I had a good time at the West Coast Christmas Show & Marketplace. It definitely got me in the holiday spirit.