The Top 5 Things To Do This Week

With the sunny weather we've had recently, it's difficult to tell we're well into the holiday season. Some tip-offs include the loop of Christmas carols being played in every retail store, gingerbread and peppermint flavoured drinks at coffee shops and the Xmas decorations starting to pop up around the city. Here are some things to do in Vancouver this week:

1- Thursday, November 20, 2008 – One of a Kind

Stumped on what gifts to buy this year? Escape from the holiday madness that is the malls for the One of a Kind Christmas show and sale. Check out some unique gifts at BC Place Stadium (777 Pacific) until the 23rd, when more than 150 North American artists and designers get together to present their wares. Find more info at oneofakindvancouver.com. Tickets are just $10/6.50.

2- Friday, November 21, 2008 – New Kids On The Block, GM Place

New Kids On The Block

The members of the boy band sensation New Kids On The Block are pushing 40 now and back to woo the now 20 and 30-something girls they serenaded years ago with sugary songs like “Please Don't Go Girl” and “I'll Be Loving You (Forever).” With solid ticket sales and no shortage of eager fans, it's apparent that they aren't seen as has-beens at all – at least by those who knew and loved them in the late 80's/early 90's. The doors open at 7 p.m., with the show starting at 8 p.m.;with guests Natasha Bedingfield and Lady GaGa. Tickets are $79.50/59.50/39.50 at ticketmaster.com.

3 - Saturday, November 22, 2008 – Green Baby

Having a baby means consumption: baby's first few years in diapers, tons of plastic toys and infant products, not to mention the crazed buying of often eco-unfriendly items by well-wishing grandparents and friends. Learn how you can live green and reduce your impact on the environment while expecting a baby. Admission is free to the event at the Coal Harbour Community Centre (480 Broughton), and it goes from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Get more info at thebirthplace.ca.

4- Sunday, November 23, 2008 –Cyrano De Bergerac

Today at 2 p.m. is your last chance to see the classic tale of romance and deception before the days of rhinoplasty. The Arts Club Theatre Company presents Cyrano De Bergerac, starring David Mackay, directed by James Fagan Tait with music by Joelysa Pankanea; at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage (2750 Granville).

5- Monday, November 24, 2008 – 2009 Haiku Invitational Contest

Enter your haiku
Honour the cherry blossom
Get your poem noticed

See? It's easy. Celebrate the 2009 Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, in the spirit of international friendship. Vancouver has around 36,000 cherry blossom trees, so get inspired and write an original, English-language haiku by December 19. The winner will be announced at a VSO concert on March 28, and the haiku will be displayed on Translink buses and SkyTrain cards in March and April, as well as celebrity readings at festival events. Find info on submissions at vcbf.ca.

6 – Tuesday, November 25, 2008 – Giant Used Book Sale

Until November 27, find a selection of art, history, biography, fiction, travel, self-help and children's books, videos and records at the Jewish Community Centre (950 West 41st) from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Find lots of great titles and stock up for your bookshelf at home, or pick up a gift for the bibliophile on your list.

7 – Wednesday, November 26, 2008 – Musical Encounters

Enjoy a morning with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra's director of artistic operations, Joanne Harada, and beautiful performances by violinist Jan Bislin and pianist Kathy Bjorseth. Tickets are $7, and the presentation starts at 10:30 a.m at the Tom Lee Music Hall (3rd floor, 929 Granville). Find more information at vancouversymphony.ca.