Charity
Ever wanted to see Peter Mansbridge’s handsome mug up close? Ever wondered just how tall Stombo is? Check out to the CBC’s open house this Friday to meet your favourite personalities and newscasters. You can tour the newsroom or watch one of the free concerts. But don’t forget to bring some non-perishable food for the food bank! http://www.cbc.ca/bc/features/openhouse-foodbank/personalities.html

Ion is teaming up with Larry to throw a fundraiser for the Covenant House. If you’re in Gastown, swing by Guilt & Co (underneath Chill Winston) for a night of performances. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=173289442689765

Women Information and Advocacy is collecting shoes and stories for a public display at the Vancouver Art Gallery. Each pair represents a woman who has been killed by violence, and will be donated to a woman in need after the event. A perfect cause for that pair you’ve shoved to the back of your closet. http://www.domesticabusemuststop.org/index.php

Seasonal
December means holidays for most, and what better way to get in the mood than at the lighting of a 50 foot Christmas tree? Head down to the Vancouver Art Gallery Thursday for performances, special guests, and an early appearance by Santa. http://www.miss604.com/2010/11/vancouver-art-gallery-christmas-tree-lighting-2010.html

If you’ve ever longed to create your own awkward family pet photo, you’re in luck! Waterworkz Paw Spa and the BCSPCA are hosting Pet Photos with Santa this Sunday. For $20, you’ll get the satisfaction of supporting a rad organization and a hilariously awkward portrait for your fridge. http://www.waterworkzpawspa.com/EVENTS-LINK.html

After an explosive (literally) start, the first German style Christmas Market is on! Start your shopping early with unique gifts from local and international vendors, and don’t forget to grab some traditional eats. They also serve booze. Need I say more? http://www.vancouverchristmasmarket.com/index.php

Shopping
Pop-up store Giftshop kicks off this weekend at 8 East Cordova (at Carrall). Everything in the store is under $100, so be prepared to grab some serious steals. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=168221763209425