The Abbotsford Arts Council's Christmas Artisan Market at Highstreet provides residents the opportunity to find handmade, one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers while, at the same time, enjoy the work and talents of local artisans! Taking place at the same time as Highstreet’s Christmas tree lighting, this weekend is surely to be a fun and festive kick off to the holiday season.
Dates & Times:
Friday, November 21, 5-9pm: Opening Reception
Saturday, November 22, 11am – 7pm: Open to Public
Sunday, November 23, 11am – 7pm: Open to Public
Take Part in the Tree-a-ganza!™
at the Christmas Artisan Market at Highstreet!
The Abbotsford Arts Council is offering the unique opportunity for local non-profits to advertise in a festive and fun way by allowing rental of Christmas trees that are to be used in our display at the Christmas Artisan Market at Highstreet! Participants are invited to bring their own themed décor items and ornaments to hang on a tree provided by the Abbotsford Arts Council. Additional rules and details can be found by downloading the Tree-a-ganza!™ application. Please email applications by November 14, 2014 to info@abbotsfordartscouncil.com or deliver them to the Kariton Art Gallery, 2387 Ware Street, Abbotsford.
October 17 - November 11, 2014
Medium: Acrylic Paintings
“Music in My Mind,” portrays abstract imagery of music, through which Ursula transfers the sounds she hears into colours and the movements into brushstrokes. Read more...
November 14 - December 9, 2014
Opening Reception: Sunday, November 16, 1 - 4pm
Medium: Wood
Artists of the Fraser Valley Woodturners Guild find inspiration in the natural beauty of wood, and they all have their own inspirations for their individual creations, resulting in a wide variety of styles. Read more...
Current Calls for Artists & Job Posting
Kariton Boutique & Gift Shop
Applications Accepted: November 5 - 8, 2014 The Abbotsford Arts Council announces a call for artists living in the Fraser Valley to submit work to be featured in the Kariton Gallery Boutique Gift Shop in 2015.
Request for Proposals: 2015 Arty Award Trophy Design RFP Deadline: January 2, 2015 The Abbotsford Arts Council is seeking original designs for handmade, three-dimensional sculptures for the award trophies to be presented to each award recipient at the Arty Awards in April of 2015.
Arty Awards Fundraising Assistant
The Abbotsford Arts Council is seeking a part-time, temporary contract Fundraising Assistant to raise cash sponsorships to cover the costs associated with hosting the 11th Annual Arty Awards, to be held on April 11, 2015 at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford.
2015 Arty Awards Nominations Now Open!
Photography courtesy of Betty Johnston
Until February 15, 2015, Abbotsford Arts Council will be accepting nominations for the 11th Annual Arty Awards, to take place on Saturday, April 11, 2015 at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford! The Arty Awards program celebrates and highlights the achievements and contributions of local artists to the Abbotsford community. Read more...
Oh No! What Have I Done? How to Maximize Your Gallery Exhibition Sales and Traffic Potential
Presented by Sandra McMartin, Professional Photographic Artist
As an artist, it can be a monumental moment to receive an email that says “We are happy to inform you that you have been selected to show your artwork at our gallery.” However, what comes next is another story. Oftentimes artists are so busy creating the work that after submission they ask themselves "What now?" This session will give you ideas on how to maximize the number of show attendees, sales and what every artist should know to market a successful show from the point of view of a successful artist.
Thus concludes the 2014 Envision Financial Coffee House Concert and Concert in the Park Series! Many thanks to all of our series sponsors! Stay tuned to our email and social media updates for our call for artists for the 2015 series, which will take place sometime in January/February.
AAC Member Group Events - November
Professional Writers Association of Canada, Fraser Valley Chapter
Monthly Meeting: What it takes to be a freelance writer with Heidi Turner, BC Regional Director
Tuesday, October 28, 2014 at 6:30 PM
Townhall Pub (upstairs), 33720 S Fraser Way, Abbotsford, BC
Writers supporting writers. Guests are always welcome. For more information or to RSVP (required) contact lynda@thewayofwords.com with PWAC in the subject line.
Facebook: facebook.com/FraserValleyPWAC
Fraser Valley Blues Society - Gary Comeau & the Voodoo Allstars
Sat., Nov. 1st, 7 pm
Eagles Hall, 33868 Essendene Ave., Abbotsford
The sizzling hot sounds of Gary Comeau and the Voodoo Allstars (Tim Hearsey & Chris Nordquist) with a Mardi Gras theme (beads, face masks, feathers) for your dancing and live music pleasure. Tickets: Eagles Lounge, 604-850-3653, or online. fraservalleybluessociety.com/live-music
The Chilliwack Metropolitan Orchestra – “Romancing the Flute and Harp”.
Saturday November 1, 7:30 pm.
At The Chilliwack Cultural Centre, 9201 Corbould Street. 604 392 8000.
The orchestra starts this 7th season with the Mozart Flute and Harp Concerto and
Beethoven’s wonderful 7th symphony. www.gov.chilliwack.bc.ca/main/page.cfm?id=1854
Tickets are available at the door by 6:30 or by contacting 604 391 SHOW (the box office).
Gallery 7 Theatre presents
William Golding’s
LORD OF THE FLIES, Adapted for the stage by Nigel Williams
November 7 & 8, 13 – 15, 2014 @ 7:30 PM
Discount Matinees: Nov. 8 & 15 @ 2:00 PM
ABBOTSFORD ARTS CENTRE, 2329 Crescent Way, Abbotsford
In the midst of nuclear war, an airplane carrying English school boys crashes on a deserted island. Forced to fend for themselves, the survivors attempt to scrape together a civilized society governed by simple rules and regulations. Read more…
Tickets – House of James: 2743 Emerson Street, Abbotsford or call 604-852-3701.
Online tickets: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/796559
For more details or to order tickets online, visit www.gallery7theatre.com. “Like Us!” on Facebook at facebook.com/gallery7theatre.
WARNING: Some violence and crude language important to the honest portrayal of the events and characters. Recommended for ages 12 & up.
Central Fraser Valley Fiddlers
Nov. 8, 2014 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Aldergrove Seniors Hall, south (1/2 block) on 273rd St. off Fraser Highway in Aldergove
Enjoy dancing to your favourite waltz, polka, two step, square dance and other foot patterns with a live special fiddle group. Cost is $6.00 per person which includes a light lunch and coffee etc. A special time for seniors or dancers. We look forward to seeing you there. www.centralfraservalleyfiddlers.com
Sunday Family Arts FREE ADMISSION
November 9, 2014 1:00 – 3:00pm
Bring the whole family out for our fun crafts sessions in the studio. Our Projects are often based on our current exhibitions, Holidays or relevant themes. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
Film Nights @ The Reach featuring Down By Law FREE ADMISSION
November 14, 2014 7:00pm
Described by Director Jim Jarmusch as a “neo-Beat noir comedy,” Down by Law is part nightmare and part fairy tale, featuring sterling performances and crisp black-and-white cinematography.
Girls’ Night at The Museum Goes Parisian $35 Friend of The Reach / $40 Future Friend
November 7, 2014 6:30pm
Indulge in delicious appies and Ramada sweet treats, sample decadent Cupcakes Highstreet, sip a little Backyard Vineyards wine, shop at the amazing regional artists/artisan market, bid on the girly silent auction packages, create hands-on artsy, crafty keepsakes, hum to Abbotsford’s harmonizing Pilkey Sisters.
Artist Tour & Talk with Marian Penner Bancroft FREE ADMISSION
November 8, 2014 1:00 pm
By Land and Sea (Prospect and Refuge) investigates a family history and relationship to landscape out of a narrative of forced migration and relocation.
Rhythm & Cello Winter Concert $10 Friend of The Reach, $15 Future Friend
November 22, 2014 7:30pm
Rhythm and Cello is a Vancouver music duo ready to quell your folk, rock, Latin and reggae cravings on acoustic guitar and cello.
Unlock the Artist Acrylic Painting Workshop $35
November 25, 2014 6:00 – 8:30pm
Includes supplies and instruction if required. Enjoy wine, appies, and an artistic setting while unlocking the artist within.
Ukrainian Egg Decorating $25.00 Adults, $18 Ages 7-14
November 29, 2014 12:30 - 4:30pm
Learn this ancient art; create beautiful eggs using wax and colourful dyes. All supplies included. Just in time for the gift giving season. REGISTER EARLY 604 864 8087 ext 111.
Abbotsford Quilters Guild
11 November 2014, 10:00am to 12:00pm and 6:00 pm to 8:00pm.
Ross Road Community Church, 3160 Ross Road, Abbotsford BC
The Abbotsford Quilters Guild provides an organization that encourages its members to expand their love of quilting by offering inspiration through workshops, demonstrations and guest speakers. It introduces quilting to the public by way of quilt shows of members’ work and encourages members to make quilts for charity. abbotsfordquiltersguild.org
All Bach ~ His Life Through Music
Valley Festival Singers directed by Tony Funk along with orchestra led by Calvin Dyck present: All Bach - His Life Through Music.
Friday November 14th and Saturday November 15th
Showtime: 7:30 pm
Bakerview MB Church, 2285 Clearbrook Rd, Abbotsford, BC
Tickets are available at House of James, online at ticketriver.com and at the door.
Adults: $20, Seniors: $25, Students: $5
Fraser Valley Blues Society - Friday Night Jam
Fri., Nov. 14th, 7:30 pm
Eagles Hall, 33868 Essendene Ave., Abbotsford
Hosted by Corey Lavigne; end your week on a high note with some great live music. Musicians bring your instruments (drum kit provided) and audience is always welcome too! No cover but donation is gratefully accepted.
Big City Soul at the Fairview
Saturday November 15 – 4:30 – 7:30
The Fairview Hotel, Pub and Grill, 898 w. Broadway Vancouver. 604 872 1262. http://www.fairviewpub.ca/Events.htm
Shopping in Van? Feel like dancing and dinner before driving back to the central valley?
This is the place and the band! Bring your appetite and your dancing shoes for the best dance & show band in the lower mainland! No kidding! www.bigcitysoul.ca
The Fraser Valley Symphony – “Romantic Rendezvous”.
Sunday November 16th, 3:00 – 5:00. doors open at 2:30 pm.
The Matsqui Centennial Auditorium 32315 S. Fraser Way. 604 859 3134.
The symphony starts its 31st season with the Prelude to Attilla – Verdi
The piano Concerto no. 1 in E minor – Chopin and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Symphony no. 1.
Tickets are available at King’s Music in Abbotsford, Tourism Abbotsford and Act 1 Music in Langley. Tickets may also be purchased at the door prior to the concert. www.fraservalleysymphony.org
Abby Writers New Season Now Under Way
November 12 and November 26, 2014 at 1:00 pm
Legal Grounds Coffee House, 33775 Essendene Ave., Abbotsford.
We’re a small group of writing enthusiasts who meet twice a month to exchange inspiration, encouragement and positive feedback. We began with family histories but are into other areas as well. We’re always ready to welcome new faces and ideas.
If this sounds like your sort of literary home, call Betty or Louise at 604-853-7029
Fraser Valley Woodturners Guild
Next meetings: November 13, 2014 and December 11, 2014
Our meetings are at 6:30 pm on the 2nd Thursday of each month (except July and August) Location: Robert Bateman Secondary – Wood Shop
35045 Exbury Ave., Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada
(Take Laburnum Ave from Old Clayburn Rd)
Click here for map to our meetings
FVWG meetings are relaxed and informal with featured guest demonstrators, videos, “show & tell”, wood raffle and much learning and sharing of ideas and techniques between the 60 or so members. Come for a complimentary visit. If you decide to join its only $40 for the year.fvwg.ca
Fraser Valley Symphony’s
Romantic Rendezvous with Michelle Mares, Piano
November 16, 2014, 3:00pm
Matsqui Centennial Auditorium, 32315 South Fraser Way, Abbotsford
Verdi Prelude to Attila
Chopin Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11
Rimsky Korsakov Symphony No. 1
This fall, join us for an exciting performance of emotionally charged music! Verdi's dramatic overture leads the way for the Romantic fantasy and virtuosity of Chopin. Pianist Michelle Mares has earned a stellar reputation for deeply felt, moving interpretations of the repertoire. Rimsky-Korsakov's symphony bursts with energy and youthfully fresh, rhythmic vitality. www.fraservalleysymphony.org
Groovedaddy at the House of James
Saturday, November 22nd, 7:30 – 9:30
The House of James, 2743 Emerson Street, 604 852 3701
A grand part of the Envision Coffee House Concert Series, Groovedaddy is sure to please your ears, heart and feet. “It’s smooth jazz right down to your soul”. Admission is free, reserve your table and bring something for the food bank. Just between you and me, the coffee and snacks are great at the HoJ! facebook.com/pages/Groovedaddy/550801128318418
Big City Soul at the Admiral
Friday and Saturday November 28th and 29th, 8:00 – 12:00.
The Admiral Hotel, pub and grill, 4125 Hastings Str., Burnaby Heights. 604 298 7158.
This’ll be a fabulous weekend of dancing, eating and celebration with the ultimate dance and show band this side of Tofino. Admission is free so reserve your table! bigcitysoul.ca
Fraser Valley Blues Society - Arsen Shomakhov Band
Sat., Dec. 6th, 7 pm
Eagles Hall, 33868 Essendene Ave., Abbotsford
With a new CD release "Dynamic" the Arsen Shomakhov band's explosive guitar, lyrics and song writing is sure to please. Last Jan. they represented BC in Memphis for the International Blues Competition and they were also nominated for a Maples Blues Award. The Valley will be humming with "a little Colin James, a little Robert Cray elegance, with a little mystery". fraservalleybluessociety.com/live-music
Abbotsford Children's Theatre presents,
'THE SNOW QUEEN'
Friday, December 12 @ 7pm and Saturday, December 13 @ 1pm
Matsqui Centennial Theatre 32315 South Fraser Way
Tickets: $12 advance/$14 door available
@ The Reach Gallery Museum, Jazz-ma Tazz and Tourism Abbotsford
and Online: www.abbotsfordchildrenstheatre.org
Visit us on the web: www.abbotsfordchildrenstheatre.org
Abbotsford Learning Plus Society
Every Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 10 a.m. - 12 noon
Abbotsford Recreation Centre, 2499 McMillan Road
Come join us for a morning of relaxed learning as we hear speakers share stories of memorable veterinary cases (Nov. 18) to a Broadway musical morning (Nov. 20) to a discussion on the Jewish-Palestinian dilemma (Nov. 25) and more. Cost is $5 plus a $2 ARC drop-in fee per session. www.learningplus.ca, abbylearnplus@gmail.com, (778) 808-7377
The Abbotsford Arts Council is offering the unique opportunity for local non-profits to advertise in a festive and fun way by allowing rental of Christmas trees that are to be used in our display at the Christmas Artisan Market at Highstreet! Participants are invited to bring their own themed décor items and ornaments to hang on a tree provided by the Abbotsford Arts Council. Additional rules and details can be found by downloading the 
