Cantabrians aren’t fussy about when they get festive. There’s always an exciting event happening to celebrate the season. Whether you’re into yelling your lungs out at a rugby match or pushing your boundaries with contemporary theatre, you’ll find the perfect way to pass the time!

October

2009 Cathay Pacific Italian Film Festival 21 Oct – 4 Nov 09. The 14th annual film festival covers drama and documentaries. www.italianfilmfestival.co.nz

November

New Zealand Cup & Show Week 7 – 14 Nov 09. The most social week in Christchurch’s calendar! Fashion, food, fun and festivities coincide with outstanding thoroughbred horse racing. www.nzcupandshow.co.nz

Waipara Valley Wine & Jazz on the Green 7 Nov 09. Coming up at the Arts Centre this weekend is the Waipara Valley Wine & Jazz on the Green. www.waiparawine.co.nz/Events/Wine___Jazz_on_the_Green

Royal New Zealand Show 11 – 13 Nov 09. The country comes to town for a three-day extravaganza showcasing rural life and farming, with exhibits, attractions and entertainment. www.royalshow.co.nz

International Rodeo 14 Nov 09. Saddle and bareback bronco riding, entertainment and a host of the world’s top cowboys. www.rodeogp.co.nz

Peter Pan 18 – 21 Nov 09. The Royal New Zealand Ballet presents a show for the young and the young at heart. www.nzballet.org.nz

Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park 28 Nov 09. Music, singing, dancing, fireworks and non-stop family entertainment. www.christmasinthepark.co.nz

December

The Forge: A Very Merry Scriptless. 4 – 19 Dec 09. The Court Jesters retell the Nativity using audience suggestions. www.courttheatre.org.nz

Hallelujah! 5 Dec 09. The Christchurch City Choir sings excerpts from Messiah and intertwines them with Christmas music and carols. www.christchurchcitychoir.co.nz

Festival of Cycling 5 – 6 Dec 09. A weekend of riding for all, from the serious cyclist to the young family. www.festivalofcycling.co.nz

Smiths City Santa Parade 2009 6 Dec 09. A very special Christmas event for everyone. www.christchurchsantaparade.co.nz

YMCA Carols by Candlelight 24 Dec 09. Traditional annual gathering for all ages. www.ymca.org.nz

Anthony Harper Lawyers New Year’s Eve Party 31 Dec 09. Free live music and fireworks to ring in the New Year. www.summertimes.org.nz

January

World Buskers Festival 21 – 31 Jan 10. A spectacular line-up of street, circus and comedic performers from around the world. www.worldbuskersfestival.com

Garden City Summertimes 2010 Nov 09 to Mar 10. A jam-packed programme of theatre, music, picnicking, family fun and more, with something to entertain everyone. www.summertimes.org.nz