Welcome to The Playground, a place for Vancouver families.Every week I post a roundup of upcoming family-friendly events and activities.I’m always on the lookout for fun stuff to do, so if there’s something happening that you think I should know about, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Autumn is officially here and for most of us that means falling leaves, pumpkin lattes, wearing that new peacoat and most importantly, the start of the NHL season.   Taking your child to a hockey game is a luxury afforded by very few but that doesn’t mean your child can’t see their favourite Canuck take to the ice.

A few weeks ago friends told us of the open practices the Canucks host every year right before their exhibition games get underway.  Fans are invited to stop by Rogers Arena to watch them practice.  So we woke up early on a Sunday, grabbed a coffee and took Sadie down to check it out.  What I really took away from the experience (other than my daughter’s apparent love of hockey sticks) is that despite being just a practice, there was no shortage of excitement from the kids getting a chance to see their hockey heroes up close.

The Canucks will be hosting another open practice at 10am on Saturday, October 8th. Fans in attendance will have the opportunity to take a photograph with four major NHL trophies, including the Art Ross Trophy, Frank J. Selke Trophy, Presidents’ Trophy and Clarence Campbell Trophy. Those wishing to take a photo with a trophy must provide their own camera and are asked to make a donation to the Canucks for Kids Fund. The Canucks will be giving out great prizes including autographed sticks to randomly selected fans.  Tickets are free for this event but there is a $6 handling fee.

If you can’t make it to the event above, the Canucks practice regularly at Doug Mitchell Winter Sports Centre out at UBC throughout the season.  There is no set schedule so you are encouraged to call ahead of time to see if they are expected to practice in the next day or so.

Psssst…Trevor Linden is going to be appearing at the grand opening of the CIBC Walnut Grove Branch this Saturday from 11am – 1pm.