SURREY — Lots of free activities are happening across the city in January.
A list of them is published on the City of Surrey’s website, as a way for local residents to “start off the new year right.”
Here are some of the free things to do in Surrey during the first month of 2018, with details posted by event planners:
LIVE 5210 Playboxes (various parks, dawn to dusk): “When it’s a warm winter day, access sports equipment and games with Live 5-2-1-0 Playboxes. Simply unlock the box, enjoy the gear, return it when you’re finished and have fun! Everyone is able to sign up for free access to the Playbox, which is accessible from dawn to dusk, or when the park is open. Please return the equipment to the Playbox after each use to allow it to be available for other users.” Look for more details at surrey.ca/culture-recreation/22866.aspx.
Thursday Artist Talk with Hossam Meawad about “Public Art in Surrey,” at Surrey Art Gallery on Jan. 4 from 7:30 to 9 p.m.: “Did you know Surrey has over 70 public artworks? In this illustrated talk, Hossam will introduce you to several of them, highlighting different types of artwork from paintings and murals to monumental sculptures and light-based artwork. You’ll learn about Surrey’s Public Art Program, including how Surrey residents are involved in the selection process and why artworks are chosen for certain places. There will be time for questions and conversation during and following the talk. Refreshments are provided.” Info: 604-501-5566, surrey.ca/culture-recreation/25486.aspx.
Cirque Surrey: youth circus clinic at Surrey Arts Centre on Jan. 9 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.: “Cirque Surrey is an exciting opportunity for youth to learn circus skills including character development, costume design, and roving performance. Learn about juggling, stilt walking, diabolo, devil sticks, plate spinning, and more! All experience levels are welcome. Register online using course code 4572273 or call 604-501-5100 for more info.”
Family Nights in Cloverdale, at Cloverdale Recreation Centre, Don Christian Recreation Centre and Clayton Hall, on Jan. 12, 19, 26: “Looking for plans on Friday nights? Join us for an evening filled with family-fun at recreation facilities in Cloverdale! There will be lots of games and crafts for you and your kids to enjoy.” Call 604-598-7960 or visit surrey.ca/culture-recreation/23500.aspx for details.
Free Drawing Demonstrations with Tony O’Regan at South Surrey Recreation & Arts Centre, Jan. 15 from 7 to 9 p.m.: “Tony has years of experience teaching art and design at UBC, Emily Carr, Kwantlen and the Shadbolt Centre. Join us in the Visual Art Studio to see Tony demonstrate how he draws the face, figure and other principles of drawing and design. Register online using course code 4565558 or call 604-501-5100 for more info.”
Movie Afternoon at Cloverdale Recreation Centre on Jan. 16 from 1 to 3 p.m.: “Join us for an afternoon watching great movies and classical films! Register online using course code 4570583 or call 604-501-5100 for more info.”
Love to Sing class at Surrey Arts Centre on Jan. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m.: “Take your voice to new levels by learning the secrets of singing from professional recording artist, Rhayne. Learn amazing new vocal techniques in a relaxed inspiring class and sing songs from many genres. Register online using course code 4564053 or call 604-501-5100 for more info.”
Lifeguard Information Session at Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre on Jan. 18 from 6 to 7 p.m.: “Learn how you can get started on a path towards being a lifeguard or aquatic instructor! Find out about the training process and volunteer opportunities. Attendance to the sessions are free but all participants must be ages 10 and older and register online, in person or by phone (604-501-5100) to secure their spot.”
English Conversation session at Guildford Library and City Centre Library, Jan. 15, 16 and 17 at various times: “Do you want to practice speaking English? If you’ve taken an English class before or have basic to intermediate skills, this program will help you improve your conversation skills. Make new friends from the community too! Register online or call 604-501-5100 for more info.”
Birding Walk at Elgin Heritage Park, Jan. 20 from 9 to 11 a.m.: “Walk through wetland habitats for a chance to shorebirds feeding on the Nicomekl River mudflats and a northern harrier swooping over the meadow. Meet in the parking lot on the north side of Crescent Rd, west of 136th St.” Info: surrey.ca/culture-recreation/24773.aspx, or call 604-502-6065.
Guided Nature Walk at Surrey Nature Centre, Jan. 20 from 9 to 11 a.m.: “Join our guide for a family-friendly nature walk to discover Green Timbers Park and the animals and plants who call it home! All ages welcome. Drop-in, rain or shine.” Call 604-502-6065 for more details, or visit surrey.ca/culture-recreation/20580.aspx.
Sledge Hockey “Try It Day” at Surrey Sport and Leisure Complex Arena, Jan. 20 from 4:15 to 6:15 p.m.: “Try to shoot the puck, move your sled and play games with experienced coaches and staff! All equipment is provided.” Call 604-501-5100 for more details.
Curator’s Talk and Opening Reception at Surrey Art Gallery, Jan. 20 from 6:30 to 9 p.m.: “Celebrate the opening of our winter exhibits ‘Many Visions, Many Versions: Art from Indigenous Communities in India’ and ‘Canada, eh! Fraser Valley Quilters’ Guild.’” Info: 604-501-5566, surrey.ca/culture-recreation/25475.aspx.
Preschool Open Houses at various city facilities from Jan. 20 to 25, various times. “Join us at a free Preschool Open House and tour the facility, meet staff and learn why people choose The City of Surrey for their child’s care.” Visit surrey.ca/culture-recreation/25279.aspx for info, or call 604-501-5100.