‘Capital New Year’ Brings Holiday Cheer to Confederation Centre Dec. 30 and 31. City of Charlottetown presents family-fun activities across the Centre this holiday season

Come gather ‘round at the Centre this holiday season for some family fun and creative cheer, courtesy of the City of Charlottetown. Capital New Year will offer free, socially-distanced events across Confederation Centre of the Arts on December 30 and 31.

“Charlottetown – the Birthplace of Confederation – is the place to ring in the New Year on Prince Edward Island,” says Mayor Philip Brown. “Capital New Year is a long-standing tradition in our city, and although it is not able to take place in its traditional format due to COVID-19 restrictions, we are thrilled to be able to partner with Confederation Centre to offer this safe, celebratory programming at a time when excitement is so needed.”

Steve Bellamy, CEO of Confederation Centre agrees. “We are delighted to come together with the City of Charlottetown to present some fun and art-making for families looking to revel in the season or just unwind,” he states. “We are thankful to the City for their leadership in bringing Capital New Year together. Also, we wish to assure all patrons that each event will take place under approved health guidelines from the Chief Public Health Office.”

Patrons can sign up for one of four Family Art Activities, December 30 and 31 at the Confederation Centre Art Gallery (CCAG). Participants will be provided with all of the materials they need to create their own winter landscape collage inspired by their favourite seasonal activities. Times run from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 2-3:30 p.m. and pre-registration is required.

The CCAG will host Scavenger Hunts from December 28-31 where patrons will use holiday clues to search for artworks and decorations in the Gallery and around the outdoor concourse. Visitors can also pick up a complimentary ‘Sketch Kit’ from the CCAG and study the artworks on site, hone sketching skills, and take the kit home for personal projects. Kits are available at the Gallery reception desk while supplies last.

The Centre is also offering New Year’s Dance Parties on December 30 and 31, as led by dance umbrella instructors. Families will learn fundamental dance steps in a relaxed, fun, and safe environment, which will then be incorporated into a festive holiday dance. This activity is free for families and requires pre-registration.

Participants in the Dance Parties and registered gallery activities will be treated to hot chocolate and cookies at the conclusion of each event. To register for the Dance Parties and Family Art Activities, patrons must book in advance by contacting the Centre’s box office online<http://www.confederationcentre.com>, in person, or via phone at 902.566.1267.

Appreciation is extended to the Department of Canadian Heritage, the Province of Prince Edward Island, and the City of Charlottetown.

About the Centre: A national arts centre located in Charlottetown, P.E.I., Confederation Centre of the Arts celebrates the origins and evolution of Canada through a wealth of visual and performing arts and heritage programming. Open year-round, the Centre aims to inspire Canadians to consider the country’s past, present, and future through live music, musical theatre, visual arts, arts education, and interactive experiences.

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