Nov 18, 2024
Christmas Activities in Vancouver, 2024
As winter sets in, Vancouver transforms into a festive hub, inviting locals and visitors to partake in a variety of activities to celebrate the holiday season. This guide highlights some key Christmas activities in Vancouver, ranging from markets to light displays and fun activities for the whole family.
Vancouver Christmas Market
The Vancouver Christmas Market is a central attraction of the city’s festive season, drawing inspiration from traditional German Christmas markets. Located along the picturesque waterfront, this market brings a unique holiday atmosphere to Vancouver, combining traditional charm with local artisan flair. From November 13 to December 24, visitors can explore a variety of stalls offering handcrafted goods perfect for holiday gifts, including ornaments, toys, and artisanal products. The culinary offerings are a highlight, featuring traditional European fare like schnitzels, bratwursts, and freshly baked pretzels, along with sweet treats such as stollen and gingerbread. The aroma of spiced mulled wine adds to the market’s warm ambiance. In addition, the market offers entertainment like live music, making it a festive destination for families and visitors of all ages.
Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge is a special way to experience this famous bridge in North Vancouver. From November 22 until January 19, the bridge, along with the surrounding rainforest and cliffwalk, is adorned with thousands of lights, creating a dazzling winter wonderland. This event offers a unique experience as visitors walk among the illuminated trees and across the bridge, providing a breathtaking view of the lit-up landscape.
Bright Nights and Christmas Glow at Stanley Park
Bright Nights at Stanley Park is another iconic Vancouver event during the holiday season, known for its extensive light displays. The park is adorned with millions of lights, creating a captivating environment that draws visitors from all over. The focal point of the event is the Stanley Park Train, which takes guests on a journey through the brilliantly lit surroundings. In addition to the visual spectacle, Bright Nights offers a range of festive activities and treats, making it a popular destination for families and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. The bright nights will be running from November 29 to January 4.
Festival of Lights at Van Dusen Garden
The Festival of Lights at the Van Dusen Botanical Gardens comes to life during the Christmas season, running from November 29 until January 5. Pathways and foliage are lit with colorful, twinkling lights, transforming the garden into an enchanting, radiant landscape. Ideal for families as well as romantic outings, the Festival of Lights invites guests to enjoy the serene beauty of the gardens under the night sky.
PNE Winter Fair
The PNE Winter Fair is one of the most popular Christmas events in Vancouver and this year, it will take place on December 6-8 and 12-23. The fair features a wide range of fun activities and attractions, including an ice skating rink, ice bumper cars, dazzling light displays, and a holiday market where local artisans sell unique gifts and crafts. It also hosts a variety of live entertainment, from “The Nutcracker on Ice” to music performances, and of course, getting to meet Santa!
FlyOver Canada’s Soar with Santa
If you are looking for an activity that is a little bit different, FlyOver Canada has the perfect event for you. Soar with Santa is a Christmas-themed flight experience that will take you on a journey to the North Pole. You will get to see all of the Christmas sights, from the sparkling lights of the city to Santa’s workshop, and of course, Santa himself. The experience is suitable for all ages, and it’s sure to get you in the Christmas mood. Soar with Santa is running from November 21 to January 1, so there is plenty of time to check it out.
Christmas Glow at Glow Gardens Langley
This Christmas festival lights up the season with its dazzling displays, featuring over a million twinkling lights that create a magical landscape. From November 21 until December 28, visitors can walk through themed light gardens and illuminated structures, perfect for capturing those festive family photos. Christmas Glow at Glow Gardens Langley also includes a large indoor market where local artisans and vendors sell a variety of holiday crafts and gifts. For families, Christmas Glow is particularly appealing, offering interactive features like a light maze and visits with Santa, making it a festive outing that appeals to both the young and the young at heart.
Lights at Lafarge at Town Centre Park Coquitlam
Set in Coquitlam’s Town Centre Park, Lights at Lafarge is a dazzling winter spectacle that has become a key attraction in the Vancouver area during the holiday season. This free event runs from November 22 until the end of February 2025 and transforms the park into a sparkling wonderland with one of the largest free outdoor light displays in the Lower Mainland. The display features an array of themed sections that wind around Lafarge Lake, offering visitors a mesmerizing walk through beautifully illuminated tunnels, sparkling archways, and themed light installations. Each year, the display is creatively designed to bring a new and magical experience to visitors.
Conclusion
There are plenty of Christmas events taking place in Vancouver this year, and our team at HighStreet Accommodations has selected only a few of them. Whether you’re looking for a festive market to browse, some Christmas lights to admire, or family-friendly activities to enjoy, Vancouver has you covered. Many of these events are incredibly popular and sell out quickly, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance. Don’t miss the chance to experience the holiday magic—check out the Christmas events happening in your area and get into the Christmas spirit!
