Community Calendar

Nicola Naturalists to run 20^th Merritt Christmas Bird Count

On Sunday 16^th December local naturalists will participate in one of the biggest and longest-running wildlife surveys in the world. The annual Christmas Bird Count has been running for 119 years across North America. The count was first held in Merritt in 1995 and this season marks the 20^th count.

Organized by the Audubon Society and Bird Studies Canada, the Christmas Bird Count is the longest-running wildlife database in the world largest. Every Christmas season counts take place in over 2,000 count circles across North America and in other parts of the world. Each Christmas over 10,000 Canadians participate in almost 500 counts and tally over 3 million birds including more than 300 species. The data collected in these counts has proved extremely valuable in tracking changes in the distribution and abundance of bird populations. For example, many studies using Christmas Bird Count data show the effects of climate change on birds and natural ecosystems.

Although there is a serious side to the counts, the main goal is to have fun and enjoy local nature. The Nicola Naturalist Society organizes the Merritt bird count. Groups of birders travel about within the designated count circle and record the species and numbers of all birds. You don’t have to be an expert to participate and it’s a great way to learn about the local birds. Beginner birders are welcome.

For more information phone 250-378-2468 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Secret Door Gallery presents Heidi Koehler, Ellie Epp and Angelina Brooymans for the Opening Reception at Brambles Bakery.  Live music by Denise and Al.

Seasoned local photographers Angelina Brooymans Heidi Koehler and Ellie Epp take us on a visual journey that feels both warmly familiar yet inclines us to gain a deeper, more intuitive insight into the place we call home. Live music is provided by Al Horne and Denise Kearney, Catered by Brambles Bakery. Prints available as well as cards at the opening. Exhibition runs a month...But you know Secret Door openings are fabulous fun and free to attend...So please feel welcome to come and mingle whether your an artist or an art lover.

Remembrance Day Ceremony starts at 10:15 at the Merritt Civic Centre

10:50 march out to the Cenotaph.

11:00 last post and 2 minute silence with laying of the wreaths

March back to the Merritt Royal Canadian Legion 

What is a crop you ask? It is the scrapbooking word for a weekend retreat. Vendors will offer spotlight classes on new product lines and techniques. The fee covers the full weekend, your own 8-foot table, snacks, coffee, tea and water. There will be gift bags on each table and chances to win door prizes. Come and go as you please. Our hours offer you the flexibility to spend time with your family and still come out scrapbooking guilt free.

Friday times 3:00pm-9:00pm , Saturday 8:00am-9:00pm, Sunday 8:00am-4:00pm.

Look them up on Facebook at Nicola Valley Scrapbookers

Jazz in the Attic at the Merritt Curling Club.  Hugh Parsons Quintet, a Burt Bacharach Tribute.