Vancouver transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, offering a diverse range of activities to indulge your festive spirit. From mesmerizing displays of twinkling lights to cozying up with a warm cup of hot apple cider at a festive gathering, I’ve compiled my top 20 experiences to get you in the holiday mood across the entire Vancouver region. Let’s embark on this merry adventure together!
Vancouver Christmas Market
Nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver is a winter wonderland that embodies the essence of German Christmases – the Vancouver Christmas Market. This charming outdoor market transforms into a festive hub for holiday enthusiasts, featuring an array of artisan vendors and mouth-watering food booths. From unique gifts to tantalizing treats, visitors of all ages will discover something special. As it takes place from November 20th to December 24th, 2019, the Market is easily accessible at Jack Poole Plaza, adjacent to the Vancouver Convention Centre. A perfect destination for couples and families alike, the Vancouver Christmas Market promises a magical experience.
Christmas Glow in Abbotsford & Vancouver this Christmas
For a cozy and festive winter’s day, Christmas Glow is an ideal destination. This indoor attraction offers a dazzling display of lights, lively music, and engaging activities for kids. This year, you can experience the magic at two locations: Tradex Centre in Abbotsford and Harbour Convention Centre in Vancouver, by False Creek. The event takes place from November 21st to January 5th, making it a perfect spot to spend quality time with family and friends during the holiday season.
Gingerbread Lane at the Hyatt Regency
Nestled halfway between Canada Place and St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church lies the enchanting Gingerbread Lane at Hyatt Regency. As you step into the hotel’s foyer, be prepared to be awestruck by the stunning gingerbread masterpieces on display. And the best part? This winter wonderland is free to behold! Visit Gingerbread Lane between November 30th and December 31st, 2019, to marvel at these sweet creations.
Aurora Winter Festival
In Vancouver’s winter wonderland, the Aurora Winter Festival has become a modern marvel of holiday cheer. This Instagram-perfect attraction boasts an array of festive delights, including a dazzling light show, an outdoor skating rink, a Christmas-themed marketplace filled with unique finds, and lively entertainment that will keep you engaged from November 22nd to January 5th, 2020, most evenings.
Lights at Lafarge Lake
Imagine a serene winter wonderland setting at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam, where the majestic Lafarge Lake is surrounded by an array of dazzling Christmas decorations and holiday lights. This enchanting display is accessible to all, with no admission fee required. Strategically situated near the Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain Station, making it easily reachable for visitors. The Lights at Lafarge spectacle takes place from November 30th until January 19th, 2020, offering a magical experience for all who visit during this festive period.
VanDusen Festival of Lights
As the holiday season approaches, Vancouver’s premier botanical garden transforms into a winter wonderland with its breathtaking display of Christmas lights. From November 30th to January 5th, visitors can revel in the magic of the VanDusen Festival of Lights, where they’ll have the chance to meander through an enchanting landscape of hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, take a spin on a merry-go-round, and even catch up with Santa Claus himself. This beloved annual event is not to be missed!
Bright Nights at Stanley Park
Stanley Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, showcasing an impressive array of festive displays and Christmas lights throughout Vancouver. A must-visit attraction is the iconic Christmas Night Train, which offers a fun experience for all ages at an affordable price range of $9 to $12. This beloved event takes place from November 28th to January 1st, 2020, with Bright Nights at Stanley Park open during this period.
Christmas at Canada Place
Christmas at Canada Place transforms into a winter wonderland, boasting vibrant holiday illuminations and an array of festive activities. Situated adjacent to the newly constructed Vancouver Convention Centre building, this popular attraction is situated along The Canadian Trail. Visitors can enjoy this seasonal spectacle daily from December 6th until January 1st, 2020, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to get into the holiday spirit.
Ice Skating at Robson Square
Robson Square, a beloved local hotspot, offers the joy of free ice skating on its outdoor rink throughout the winter season. Visitors can glide effortlessly across the frozen surface without breaking the bank, as rentals are available at a affordable cost. This year’s festivities take place from December 1st to February 29th, 2019, allowing skaters to soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy quality time with friends and family.
Grouse Mountain Peak of Christmas
Step into a winter wonderland at North Vancouver’s Grouse Mountain, where the magic of Christmas comes alive. Take a ride on the gondola and discover an array of festive activities that will transport you to a whimsical world. Enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride, meet Santa Claus, lace up your skates for some outdoor ice skating, or explore the snowy trails by snowshoeing. If you’re looking for a cozy evening in, catch a Christmas movie at the theatre and let the holiday spirit wash over you. While these activities may come with a price tag, they’re undeniably worth it. The Peak of Christmas festivities take place from November 22nd to January 5th, 2020.
Shipyards Christmas Festival
The Shipyards Christmas Festival is a highly anticipated event that offers a wide range of activities for all ages. The festival features live music, a bustling Christmas vendor market, and an array of family-friendly pursuits. This year’s festivities kick off on Saturday, November 30th. But don’t worry if you miss the initial weekend – the market will be open again on December 7th-8th and December 14th-15th, giving everyone a second chance to get in on the holiday cheer.
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver without breaking the bank! The Canyon Lights display transforms the bridge and its surrounding walkways into a winter wonderland, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors of all ages. This beloved attraction is open from November 22nd to January 26th, 2020, providing ample opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Holiday Heights at Bloedel
Located within the iconic Bloedel Conservatory in Queen Elizabeth Park, the Holiday Heights at Bloedel offers a unique indoor experience that has captured the hearts of many visitors. This festive attraction features stunning illuminations and playful Christmas characters cleverly hidden throughout the space. Visitors can enjoy this holiday delight from December 7th to January 5th.
Winter Hayrides in Steveston
Experience the magic of Winter in Steveston Village by taking a hayride tour, complete with a festive sing-along and a chance to explore the vibrant holiday displays throughout the neighborhood. Prior booking is essential at the Steveston Community Centre, and this special event runs from December 5th through December 6th.
CP Holiday Train BC
As the Canadian Pacific (CP) Holiday Train makes its way from Montreal to Vancouver, it’s spreading joy and helping those in need. The train is collecting donations to combat hunger across Canada. When it stops in the greater Vancouver area, be sure to hop on board for a free concert and an abundance of festive cheer!
Mission Candlelight Parade
Step into the festive atmosphere as Santa Claus and his merry elves join in the joyous celebration at the 35th Annual Mission Candlelight Parade on Friday, December 6th. The evening’s entertainment promises to delight with a medley of holiday-inspired floats, lively music, and an abundance of Christmas spirit.
Steveston Village’s Festival of Trees
The Steveston Village’s Festival of Trees is a winter wonderland that brings together the artistic flair of community organizations and local businesses. This festive celebration showcases beautifully decorated trees, offering a unique glimpse into the creative talents within the area. Beyond the visually stunning displays, children can participate in craft activities, making it a fun and engaging event for all. The festival takes place from December 1st to the 31st, providing an opportunity to revel in the holiday spirit throughout the month.
Christmas at Flyover Canada
Step into the thrilling world of FlyOver Canada, an immersive 4D movie theatre experience situated at Canada Place. You and your fellow aviators will embark on a virtual journey across the country, soaring from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific and eventually reaching the Arctic Circle. As the holiday season approaches, the attraction takes on a festive twist, featuring special characters and a fun-filled Christmas theme from November 21st to January 5th, 2020. Greg Rosenke
Heritage Christmas in Burnaby
Experience the harmonious blend of festive cheer and historical significance at Burnaby Village’s Heritage Christmas, a free event that runs from November 23rd to January 3rd, 2020. This unique celebration combines the joy of the holiday season with a deep appreciation for the past, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Park and Tilford Holiday Hi-Light Festival
When spending time in North Vancouver, be sure to illuminate your Christmas season by visiting the Hi-Light Festival at Park and Tilford. This festive event offers free admission and is open nightly from November 29th to December 31st, 2019, providing a magical atmosphere that’s sure to brighten up your holiday.