Bright Nights Train in Stanley Park – Update for 2025
🚂 The Stanley Park Train, one of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions, will remain offline for the entire 2025 season due to safety concerns with its aging systems. The train, which has welcomed more than 200,000 riders annually, will not operate for its seasonal events—including the beloved Bright Nights in Stanley Park.
The Vancouver Park Board has confirmed that staff are exploring new operating models and partnerships, with a call for expressions of interest expected later in 2025.
Train Operations Suspended for 2025
There will be no train rides in 2025, including favourites such as Bright Nights. While the Stanley Park Railway is paused, visitors can still enjoy Stanley Park’s many attractions—from the seawall to Malkin Bowl and the Rose Garden.
Bright Nights Moves to Surrey
Although Bright Nights will not return to Stanley Park in 2025, the light display has found a new home in Surrey.
The 28th annual Bright Nights light display will now be part of the Noel Holiday Light Festival 2025, running from November 28 to December 28, 2025, at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds. This expanded event features nearly three million lights, a massive indoor Noel Village, live entertainment, food trucks, a Christmas market, and family-friendly attractions.
👉 Learn more about the new event here: Bright Nights Surrey 2025
About the Stanley Park Railway
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🚂 20-gauge, 2 km track winding through forested parkland
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📸 A favourite photo spot, featuring vintage trains and replicas
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🌟 The jewel of the fleet: a locally built replica of Canadian Pacific Railway Engine #374, which pulled Canada’s first transcontinental passenger train into Vancouver in the 1880s
For decades, the railway has been a family favourite, offering a magical way to explore the park.
Looking Ahead
While operations are suspended for 2025, there is optimism the Stanley Park Train will run again in the future. The Park Board’s ongoing review of new partnerships is a step toward reviving this cherished Vancouver tradition.
👉 Learn more about updates from the City of Vancouver – Stanley Park Train.
Discover More Vancouver Christmas Events
Looking for festive attractions this year?
🔗 Explore more upcoming holiday celebrations at Vancouver Christmas.
