On The Horizon - November 19, 2025

What is on the Horizon for the Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area? Read below to get caught up on the day-to-day, upcoming events, and news from Members.

Christmas Kick - Off  Road Closures & Event Details

To support our downtown Christmas celebrations, the following streets will be closed to vehicle traffic during from 3 pm to 9 pm on November 21st:

Road Closures:

• Craig Street (between Station Street and Kenneth Street)

• City Square (between Kenneth Street and Ingram Street, including Lois Lane)

Event Highlights:

• Live music and holiday entertainment in City Square

• A community paint-by-numbers mural on Craig Street

• Visits with Santa in Friendship Square

• Festive vendors and holiday treats throughout downtown

• Live music and warm fires at the Cowichan Public Art Gallery

We encourage downtown businesses to plan ahead for parking and deliveries, as access to the immediate event area will be limited during the closure period. Pedestrian access will remain open throughout the event, and we look forward to welcoming the community to stroll, shop, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued support. Your participation helps make Downtown Duncan feel warm, welcoming, and full of holiday spirit.

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LAST CALL for Christmas Window Contest Participants

Last call to participate!

Get into the holiday spirit and showcase your business in Downtown Duncan! Each year, the DDBIA hosts a Christmas Window Decorating Contest, and this year’s theme is “Christmas Songs & Carols.”

Here’s how it works:

• Register with us via Google Form

• Decorate your window by November 21st in line with the theme.

• Display a DDBIA-provided QR code in your window so shoppers and visitors can easily vote for their favourite display.

  
  

Please note: All participants must be registered by end of day Wednesday

(today), and all QR code posters will be distributed on Thursday (tomorrow).

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Sip & Shop:

Expressions of Interest Now Open

We’re gathering expressions of interest from downtown businesses who would like to take part in our Sip & Shop evening on Thursday, December 5 from 6:00–9:00 PM. Participating businesses are asked to remain open during the event and help create a festive, welcoming atmosphere for shoppers.

If you choose to serve beverages, businesses are responsible for obtaining any required liquor licensing and providing their own refreshments.

Please complete this form so we can include your business in event planning and promotions.

Sign Up Here

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Heart of Gold Auction & Gala – Support Local Causes This February

The Rotary Club of Duncan is hosting its 2026 Heart of Gold Auction & Gala, a major annual fundraiser supporting essential programs across the Cowichan Valley. The online auction launches January 19, 2026, running for four weeks and featuring generous community-donated items, services, and unique experiences.

The celebration culminates on Saturday, February 14, 2026, with an elegant Heart of Gold Gala at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre. Guests will enjoy an evening of entertainment, door prizes, and both silent and live auctions, all in support of local initiatives including Nourish Cowichan, Cowichan Valley Youth Services, the Pregnancy Food Connection Program, Cowichan Therapeutic Riding, and more.

Local businesses are invited to take part through donations, sponsorships, or by attending the gala. Sponsorship opportunities range from Title Sponsor to Décor & Floral Sponsor, each offering valuable visibility and community impact.

For more information—or to get involved—contact Rotary members Ron Minks or Louise Patterson.

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Red Balloon Toyshop Puzzle Challenge

Date: Friday December 12, 7:00pm

Join the Red Balloon Toyshop for a fun & fast-paced team puzzle race at the The Red Balloon Toyshop’s Holiday Puzzle Challenge!

Teams of 2 - 4 (age 10+ with at least one adult) will each receive the same 500-piece puzzle at 7:00 pm (check-in begins 6:30 - 6:45 pm) and compete to finish it the fastest. All teams keep their puzzle, and the top three teams win prizes.

Location: the Heritage Hall at the Cowichan Community Centre (second floor of the theatre building).

Tickets: $40. Registration is non-refundable; transfers allowed.

Don’t miss this festive and friendly challenge!

Upcoming Downtown Events

• Christmas Kick Off - November 21 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

• Christmas Window Decorating Contest - Voting period: Friday, November 21st - Thursday, December 18

  
  

We encourage all members to list their upcoming events on our website at downtownduncan.ca/ddbia-events to help promote your activities and drive more foot traffic to your business. It’s quick, easy, and free to submit!