Upcoming Event: The Holiday Season in Vancouver

It’s that time of year again: lights are twinkling, bells are ringing, wine is mulling, and credit cards are tapping… it’s the holiday season in Vancouver! Whether you’re planning a visit to Vancouver to shop for gifts, attend the corporate Christmas party, or just take in the holiday spirit, this city has lots to do and see to get you in the mood.

Right opposite The Burrard, you’ll find the impressive, twinkling Lights of Hope display, an annual fundraiser for St. Paul’s Hospital that flips the switch on November 27. If you’re looking to kick up the holiday spirit during your stay, ask us for a room with a view of the lights!

We’re sure ready for the festive spirit to hit us this year, which means that a few of our favourite holiday events actually start in mid-November (we’re looking at you, Vancouver Christmas Market and Canyon Lights!) However, most of the Yuletide action stretches throughout the month of December, with a couple of events extending into January.

DOWNTOWN AND OTHER PARTS OF VANCOUVER

Vancouver Christmas Market – Right downtown, this is a German-style market packed with crafts, gift ideas, entertainment, and lots of food and drinks!

Destination Downtown – With various activations between December and February, ride the Ferris wheel by the VAG, light-filled festive photo-opps, and outdoor skating at Robson Square.

VanDusen Garden Festival of Lights – The city’s largest botanical garden offers 15 acres of trails lit up with over 1 million lights and decorated for the season to sparkling effect.

NORTH SHORE

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge – Lights are strung across the bridge and throughout the forest, including the Treetops Adventure and Cliffwalk – all included in the regular ticket price. Admissions end at 9 pm, but you can stay in the park up to an hour beyond that.

The Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain – Subbing for the North Pole, you’ll find Santa’s workshop, reindeer, the Light Walk, and an 8,000 sq ft outdoor skating pond. Head inside for Christmas movies in Theatre in the Sky, and live entertainment and crafts throughout the season.

Shipyards Christmas Market – This brand-new, European-style holiday market is just a short walk from the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal. Along with 100+ wooden market stalls and more than 140 vendors, you’ll find skating, two stages with live music and performances, and of course, Santa! Best of all, it’s free!

There are also lots of fun activities in Vancouver’s suburbs and a little further out from the city, along with pop-up holiday markets, events, concerts, pantomimes and more. For more ideas, visit the Vancouver Christmas Guide.

Planning on heading to Vancouver over the holiday season? Search our site for some great rates.

Photo Credit:
Santa’s Workshop at Grouse Mountain: Grouse Mountain website