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Winter Break Holiday Programs

Let the CELEBRATION Begin

Celebrating traditions of the past, present, and future

The good things in life are recounting memories and creating experiences, and this is what the holiday season is about. As we grow traditions in the Lyceum's new home, we will also enter a new year and an exciting new chapter in our eighteen years of operation.

This holiday season, we'll inaugurate our new space with some of our favourite Lyceum traditions and create some new ones. Let's celebrate together.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions for our programs are guidelines only. If your child is interested in a program that is aimed at a slightly older or slightly younger age group, please give us a call to discuss if this class would be a good fit. 

 

In the spirit of holiday togetherness, parents are welcome to join us for all of our classes at no extra cost.

Please call or email us for REGISTRATION

Program Details

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Preschool Holiday Drop-in - The Twelve Days of Christmas

Ages: 3 to 5

Cost: $60 + GST

Monday, December 18th,  from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Wednesday, December 20th,  from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Wednesday, December 20th, from 12:45 PM to 3:15 PM

If you have a preschooler who is looking to get in on the holiday merriment, we’re offering a two day drop-in option during the last week of the fall term for our Preschool Literature and Art class. We’ll be rifting off The Twelve Days of Christmas to create a brand new poem written and illustrated by your preschoolers. On Monday we'll write funny lines (scribed of course) and start our canvas board illustrations and on Wednesday we will finish and begin printing. Coil-bound copies will be available for pick up on Friday in time for the holidays. We guarantee that you will want to order a few copies for the grandparents!

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Oyster Angels and Walnut Mice

Ages: 5 to 12

Time: Saturday, December 9th, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Cost: $70 + GST

We’re not sure if you’ve ever looked closely at the smooth pearlescent grooves of an oyster shell, but if you haven’t, fear not…it’s not a prerequisite for this camp. We’ll be using shells sans seafood, to create holiday angels that will make your tree the talk of the town.

 

Christianne will take you through the materials at your disposal to build out the head, legs and wings of your angel. Making sure your vision comes to life, you’ll be able to use trinkets and treasures to adorn miniature outfits and create something that will be passed down through the generations. A uniquely West Coast ornament! 

 

To make sure that your angel doesn’t go home without a friend, each participant will also be invited to craft a walnut acorn mouse, complete with teeny tiny eyes, a warm blanket edged in lace and of course an adorably long and winding tail. Give them as gifts, or use them to add to an incredibly festive hearth or windowsill.  

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Granny Blake's Toffee Created in the New Lyceum

Ages: 10 +

Time: Saturday, December 9th, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Cost: $95 + GST

Loved by all and attended by many over the years, this camp allows participants to delve into the annals of Lyceum tradition. The secret recipe for Granny Blake’s toffee was brought to Canada more than 150 years ago by Christianne’s great grandmother, Amy Chappel. Amy’s daughter, known as Granny Blake, passed this recipe down and it has been made by their family ever since.

 

Now’s your chance to join us for a camp that our students beg to attend every year. With an hour to stir, an hour to cut and an hour to wrap, there’s still plenty of time to hear a story. We’ll also package our confection in small portions ready to share when the spirit takes us. Tastes have the ability to transform, taking us back to the moment we experienced them for the first time. We hope that each piece of toffee melts away the bad, and welcomes in the good.

(Shhhh...you also get to take home the coveted recipe.)

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Junk Kouture - Festive Syle

Ages: 6 to 12

Time: Tuesday, December 12th, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Cost: $120 + GST

Building on the success of our inaugural camp in the summer, we’ll spend the day creating a piece that will bring a smile to everyone’s face at whichever holiday party you choose to attend. For this program, we’ll ask you to bring in recycled treasures to add to the Lyceum’s already expansive collection, knowing that whatever you contribute will go towards someone else’s creative vision.

 

Empty the bottom of your holiday decoration bin when the broken lengths of garland lay or bauble bits that no longer fit your vibes. We will also thrift and gain through donation a number of items of clothing that can be used as the basis for as much embellishment as your heart desires. 

 

Whether it’s a fascinator or a vest, a tutu or shoe covers, participants will have access to a library of materials that even the most seasoned fashion designers wish to have.

 

Christianne will guide the group through sketching initial silhouettes, before moving on to the garments themselves. We’ll end with a mini-show to celebrate our talented designers.

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Stories and Ornaments

Ages: All ages

Time: Friday, December 15th, 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM

Cost: $60 + GST

The joy of the holidays is contagious, it’s one of the most magical aspects of childhood, something that keeps that light burning when the frost settles and the nights draw in. This camp is the fast infusion of festive cheer you crave all year long. Master storyteller, Christianne will regale participants with her favourite traditional holiday stories from different cultures -- all you have to do is cradle a hot cranberry cider, nibble on a shortbread cookie and settle in for the evening. 

 

While listening students will have time to create unique tree ornaments that will sparkle amidst the long dark evenings. 

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Help the Faeries Get Ready for Solstice

Ages: 5 to 12

Time: Saturday, December 16th, 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Cost: $155 + GST

There will always be a special space reserved for the Lyceum’s resident Fae in our holiday camp roster. It seems even more significant after last year’s big move, but our loyal followers made sure that no Fae was left behind creating pathways of moon lights and tiny maps on hedgetops that led to the new moss garden.  

 

Over the course of the day, we will experience an abundance of enthusiasm, as well as some expert insight into recent activity in the Lyceum’s newly transformed faerie garden. Stories of our resident Fae is a “Christianne specialty.” Campers will craft a gorgeous faerie ring with cedar greens and 12 tiny beeswax candles.. Stopping for lunch (and a spot of tea) students will begin mapping out their next creative steps to make a miniature Faerie rest stop for the fae on their way to celebrate solstice (they always need it after a long journey). 

 

We’ll use small coloured mason jars to house miniature seating areas (made from natural materials) for a solstice feast, not forgetting to incorporate lights so that the Fae can find their way to us. There is something so heartwarming about renewing our commitment to the magical world that is so deeply woven throughout our city. 

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Story and Wreath Making

Ages: All ages

Time: Monday, December 18th, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Cost: $95 + GST

Over the course of the evening, participants will be guided through the intricate process of wreath making. Using locally sourced and natural materials including grape vine cuttings from the Sage Hayward vineyard on Saturna Island, campers will mix in varieties of greenery with special attention being paid to the olfactory senses. Students will intersperse their hangings with cinnamon sticks, sliced and dried oranges, nutmeg and potpourri before adding festive ribbon for secure placement. 

 

Of course you won’t spend the time in silence, as Christianne regales the group with some lesser known holiday stories to accompany the Lyceum’s famous hot chocolate and marshmallows (there may also be a festive cookie thrown in for good measure that we’ll make sure you have time to decorate). 

 

*We invite you to bring a tupperware of supper to nibble on across the evening. 

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Bringing Back the Light

Ages: 6 to 12

Time: Tuesday, December 19th, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Cost: $150 + GST

Let’s envelop ourselves in festive cheer, shared traditions and stories while we work to forge something truly unique. In the run up to winter solstice, campers will make their own twinkle light hoods from delicate scrapbooking paper, following the folds of ancient traditions and becoming immersed in its art. You bring the dexterity and we’ll provide the rest — a unique set of embellished twinkle lights guaranteed to bring the spirit of the holidays into any room. 

 

After refuelling with a spot of lunch, campers will use natural beeswax to roll a plate of their own sushi candles. Whether presented as a gift to the host of a family holiday gathering or enjoyed each day over the festive period, these adorable mindings are as intricate as they are interesting to look at.

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Felting Animal Tree Ornaments

Ages: All ages

Time: Wednesday, December 20th, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Cost: $70 + GST

The art of felting is both meditative and grounding; focusing on minuscule movements to sculpt and shape, this practice is calming in all the right ways. During what is often perceived to be the busiest time of the year for both parent and child, take the opportunity to slow down, relax, and reboot before revelling in the joy of being with family again. Students will choose whether they’d like to felt mice, birds, or more traditional ornamental shapes, before settling down to select wool colours. 

 

Rifling through a multitude of natural hues and textures, we’ll see sparks of inspiration take flight, as our creativity takes form in front of us. We’ll affix a ‘perch’ to each animal, making sure that it stays put as the star of your family’s tree. All we ask is that you make sure to safely usher it down at the end of the season, so that it’s ready and preserved for another year. 

 

*We invite you to bring a tupperware of supper to nibble on across the evening.

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The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

Ages: All Ages

Time: Tuesday, December 19th, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Cost: $70 + GST

It’s a story that captivates from ages 9 to 99; the tale of a miserly being who lives a life of solitude in the snow capped mountains of Whoville is as relevant today as it was 50 years ago. We’ll spend an evening together reminding ourselves that the true holiday spirit lies in celebrating festivities with the people we love. Christianne will read excerpts of the book, talking through the morals behind Dr Seuss’s masterpiece. Using the movie as our soundtrack, we’ll break from reading to decorate a festive cookie, with as much or as little ‘Grinch green’ as you’d like. 

 

Bellies full and sweet tooths satisfied, we’ll spend the evening decorating our very own (living) Grinch trees. Making miniature beaded candy canes, or simply tying bows with bow string, it’s up to you to decide whether it’s pre or post holiday cheer.

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The Gift of Tea & Something Good to Read

Ages: 6 to 12

Time: Thursday, December 21st, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Cost: $165 + GST

Harnessing the theme of nourishing the soul, this camp is one for those of you who want to find a little calm amidst the holiday rush. We imagine that with all the moving parts in people’s lives, Christmas shopping has taken somewhat of a back seat — with supply chains still slow and orders piling up, take the stress out of gift giving by simply making your own. Each camper will have their own china teapot with 2 accompanying tiny cups that will be adorned with beautiful coloured ceramic paints. 


We’ll take things slowly and spend time designing, sketching out and painting delicate designs onto our set before making up the perfect tea blend to nestle inside. Christianne will help participants to select a book for themselves or the lucky recipient and voila, you’ve got the perfect offering…bespoke tea and a good book. All that’s left is to curl up in front of the fire. 


The person, be it gentleman or lady, who has not pleasure in a good novel, must be intolerably stupid.  - Jane Austen

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Altered book Christmas gift, card and wrapping

Ages: 6 to 12
Time: Friday, December 22nd, 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Cost: $105 + GST

One of the things most loved about the holidays is the element of surprise. As you unwrap the crisp corners of paper, anticipation building, the tension palpable and the possibilities are endless. We want to capture this feeling by creating something we can almost guarantee you’ve never held in your hands before. Each participant will carve out a small recess, turning an ordinary book into an extraordinary gift box. We’ll paint the cover and tie it with leather, giving it a total makeover…no need to worry about rooting through your shelves at home, we’ll provide the book. 

 

Students will also craft miniature animals with wire and seed beads to nestle within the cut out. These gorgeous creatures can be placed on a windowsill, counter top or slipped into the pocket of someone special. Using the endpapers of the book each camper will create a truly unique greeting card. The first of its kind, this program is not one to be missed. 

 

*Pack a light supper and we’ll provide the holiday cookie and hot chocolate.

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The Night Tree (Same Tree, Different Journey)

Ages: All ages

Time: Saturday, DECEMBER 23rd , 10:00 AM TO 4:30 PM

Cost: $155 + GST

A Lyceum institution that we have practiced every year since we opened our doors!

 

Have you ever counted the number of holiday tree stories? Christianne has 36 in her personal collection, from all faiths and from all over the world. She’ll share a selection of these throughout the day, beginning with Night Tree by Eve Bunting, and The Trees of the Dancing Goats by Patricia Polacco, both stories of selfless giving during the holidays. Using these stories as inspiration, we’ll create our own natural food ornaments - some to share, and some to take home. Even though we will create the ornaments in our new home, we’ll trek to the same tree we decorate every year. 

Bussing and walking to Jericho Park, we’ll hang our ornaments on our own Night Tree, an unexpected gift for Vancouver’s furry and feathered friends. We’ll also sing some carols by candlelight, including one we’ll write ourselves.

 

​Pick up will be at the Jericho East Parking Lot, at the end of Point Grey Road across from the Concession Stand.

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Time Capsules

Ages: All ages

Time: Thursday, January 4th, 2024, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Cost: $165 + GST

Heralding in the new year always brings with it a mixture of feelings. Naturally, we spend time reflecting on our achievements, losses and gains, taking stock of what we’re grateful for. We also look to move forward, stepping into opportunities that are yet to present themselves. There’s no better way to spend one of the first days in the new year, than by compiling your very own time capsule. Whether you choose to lock it in the attic or bury it in the yard, we’ll provide the box, the lock, and the materials for capturing a sense of who we really are. Students will write a letter to their future selves detailing current passions - a practice inspired by author Emily Seo, who emphasized how important it is to connect with your younger self when things are blown off course by adult responsibilities in the future. 

 

We’ll also spend time making miniature canvases for future dorm rooms and family homes (and our future selves to discover). Next we’ll use our palettes to decorate the outside of our wooden capsules.

 

Of course we’ll leave the boxes unlocked so that participants can share with their families before closing them up and sealing in their power.

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Make your own Chess Set

Ages: 6 to 12

Time: Friday, January 5th, 2024, 9:30 Am to 4:30 PM

Cost: $165 + GST

It’s no wonder a game as intricate as chess has been present in our society for centuries. Not only will we warm up by playing, but we’ll work over the course of the day to create our own set complete with figurine pieces and a hand-painted and collaged wooden board. Students will sand down, mark off, and decorate their wooden boards, but the Lyceum is a place of plenty and you won’t be restricted to the traditional black and white squares. 

 

After breaking for lunch, players are invited to get as creative as they’d like, crafting each chess piece by hand from Sculpey. If you’d like to substitute the traditional knight for a unicorn, or the rook for a go-faster, go-kart, then be our guest, this set is intended to be truly unique. 

It will be a keepsake to pass down through the generations, sharing the tricks of the trade with your children and your children’s children at the most wonderful time of the year. Please pack a lunch!

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Back to Hogwarts Sleepover

AGES: 9 TO 14

Time: Friday, January 5th to Saturday, January 6th, 2024, 5:30 PM TO 10:30 AM

Cost: $165 + GST

We’re stock-pilling our Wideye Potion in anticipation of our Back to Hogwarts Sleepover - the first ever in our new location! We’ll keep the fun going for a night as magical as the famous Yule Ball after the Triwizard Tournament. 

 

We’ll make our own flashlight brooms and play night Quidditch (weather permitting), before settling down to watch as many Harry Potter movies as we can before the witching hour descends upon us. A pizza party banquet will fuel our magical adventures, but please be sure to pack your own chocolate frogs or fizzing whizbees, should the need for a snack arise. 

 

Then, it’s time to curl up and dream of Marauders’ Maps and Invisibility Cloaks until morning, when you’ll help prepare and enjoy a breakfast worthy of the Great Hall at Hogwarts. 

 

Parents can come and fetch their bleary-eyed witch or wizard at 10:00 AM.

 

Hogwarts students are asked to bring their overnight bags, sleeping bags and lots of pillows (names on items, please), because unfortunately, we don’t own one of those tents you can keep in your purse.

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Please call or email us for REGISTRATION

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