A Delightful December in Perth - theHumm December 2018

By John Pigeau

I have a friend who begins posting photos of Buddy the Elf on social media — in July. I have another friend who is now, in late November, up to her eyeballs in chopped dried cranberries, happily making enough “booze-y” fruitcakes to feed — and possibly intoxicate — several hockey teams. Last week another friend practically lost her mind with glee when she heard Netflix had just added Love, Actually to its list of heartwarming holiday flicks. Yes, the Christmas spirit is strong with some, and if that’s true of you then you’ll likely be terrifically happy to hear about all the wonderful things happening in Perth this wintry holiday season.

To get everyone in a great mood, BarnDoor Productions presents Hansel & Gretel, an all-new Christmas panto sure to please the whole family with its “messy, crazy fun.” This extravagant production features a cast of fourteen performers, plenty of music, an original script, beautiful costumes, a pantomime horse and even a bear; and it promises to have you in a belly-aching heap of helpless laughter. Hansel & Gretel (or The Crumbs Don’t Fall Far from the Loaf) runs December 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 7:30pm and December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 2pm at the Full Circle Theatre. For more information, including where and how to get tickets, you can visit barndoorproductions.ca , or call 267–1884.

If you find yourself nostalgic for Christmases past, you can experience the delightful sights, sounds and smells of holidays gone by at the Perth Museum as they present Home for the Holidays throughout the month of December. You can go back in time at the Museum daily from 10am to 6pm. Please note this living bit of history will be closed December 25, 26 and 27.

On Friday, December 7, it’s time to get crafty. From 4–9pm at the Best Western Plus Perth Parkside Inn and Spa, you can shop like an Olympic champion for everyone on your list at The Everything Craft Event. Hosted by the Midnight Makers, this evening features craft goods, craft beer and craft eats. Over 25 vendors will set up shop with their wares, and you can drink and snack while you shop, and maybe even sneak in a delicious meal at the Parkside Bistro. Admission is by donation, and the first thirty attendees will receive a swag bag.

You’ll have another chance to buy Christmas presents from local vendors and artisans on December 15 at The Ladies of the Tay Christmas Market. That event runs from 10am to 3pm at the Royal Canadian Legion on Beckwith Street. There will be a lunch counter, as well as lots of Christmas cheer.

Now, did you happen to hear that Santa’s coming to town? That’s right. He’ll first visit Perth during the Santa Claus Parade on December 1, but if you miss him there you can meet up with him for breakfast at Michael’s Table on the morning of December 9. Does Santa eat sugary cookies for breakfast? Only one way to find out! And don’t forget your camera, because this is a fun and relaxed way to have your kids’ photos taken with jolly ol’ fella. You might wish to call early (267–0008) to make reservations.

Then on Saturday, December 15, Santa — who is one busy lad this time of year — is coming to the Crystal Palace. He’ll be there bright and early at 10am, and children can line up to sit on his lap and have a little heart-to-heart with Saint Nick. Parents are welcome to take their own photos if they wish. The Stewart School Junior Choir will perform, and there will be free hot chocolate and candy canes for all. Two reminders from the good people at Perth Tourism: there are no washrooms at the Crystal Palace (the closest are the public washrooms on the south side of Town Hall), and the Palace will be open later on that evening for anyone wanting to view all the magnificent Christmas trees at night.

To me, nothing sounds quite as lovely at the holidays as a talented choir — or two — singing joyful Christmas songs. Under the direction of Shelley McLaren, the Men & Women of the Tay will combine this year to present a Christmas Joy Concert on December 9 at St. James the Apostle Anglican Church. The audience is invited to join in too, as the choirs perform a variety of music from beautiful traditional arrangements to up-tempo seasonal songs. A freewill offering will be accepted. The concert starts at 2pm.

Anyone care for a classy afternoon tea? If so, you are most fortunately in luck, as the folks at Crossroads Tea Room will host For the Love of Downtown Christmas Tea on Sunday, December 9 at the Best Western Plus Parkside Inn and Spa. There will be a live pianist, prizes for best attire, and the Bistro bar will be open. Tickets are $40, which includes gratuity and a glass of champagne, and they’re available at Crossroads Tea Room (267–2152). Tea will be served at 2pm, ladies and gentlemen.

It might be after Christmas, but kids big and small won’t want to miss Jingle Boots: The Big Yellow Holiday Show at the Studio Theatre on December 28. Join the Big Yellow family — Splash, Boots, Charlie, Chef Brock Lee, and Jumping Jack Granny — as they celebrate the holidays. This is an interactive show, so dress in your coolest yellow and blue attire and be ready to dance and sing along to all the holiday classics as well as some Splash ‘N’ Boots originals. Tickets are available at Tickets Please, 11 Gore Street East, online at ticketsplease.ca , or by calling 485–6434. The big show starts at 2pm.

If you’re looking to make plans for New Year’s Eve, keep in mind the Perth Manor is planning a marvellous and classy evening in their elegant Tapestry Dining Room, including a delicious 6-course meal (featuring beef Wellington), a champagne toast, and live piano music by Perth’s own Valerie Leavitt. Reservations are required, so give them a call at 264–0050.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Happy Local Holidays! - theHumm December 2018

By Kris and Rob Riendeau

Here at theHumm we’re big on local economies. The retail and service businesses in the small towns that we cover play a huge role in the cultural life of those towns. Each store, restaurant, or s......

A Delightful December in Perth - theHumm December 2018