Top Things to Do in Vancouver at Christmas: A Complete Guide to Local Events in Metro Vancouver
The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year in Vancouver. The city comes alive with sparkling lights, festive markets, and a wide range of activities that bring out the best of the Christmas spirit. From family-friendly adventures to romantic light displays, Metro Vancouver offers countless ways to celebrate the holidays. Here’s a complete Vancouver Christmas Guide to the top Christmas events happening in Vancouver and the surrounding areas—each with something unique to offer for locals and visitors alike!
1. Vancouver Christmas Market
Located at Jack Poole Plaza, the Vancouver Christmas Market is a traditional German-style market filled with holiday charm. Wander through wooden huts selling handcrafted gifts, taste delicious European-inspired treats, and enjoy festive entertainment. The market runs from November 13 to December 24, 2024, and is a must-visit for anyone wanting an authentic Christmas market experience.
Vancouver Christmas Market – Full Event Details
2. Bright Nights in Stanley Park
For over two decades, Bright Nights in Stanley Park has dazzled visitors with its stunning light displays and holiday charm. Ride the miniature train through an illuminated forest and support a great cause, as proceeds benefit the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund. This beloved event runs from November 29 to January 4, 2025.
Bright Nights Train – Full Event Details
3. Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden
Step into a botanical wonderland with over one million lights at the Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden. This event, from November 29 to January 5, is perfect for families and couples alike, featuring Dancing Lights, festive food vendors, and themed light areas. Don’t miss the magical experience of wandering through Vancouver’s most iconic garden transformed into a Christmas paradise.
VanDusen Festival of Lights – Full Event Details
4. Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain transforms into Vancouver’s North Pole during the Peak of Christmas. From November 24 to December 24, 2024, visitors can meet Santa and his reindeer, skate on the mountaintop ice rink, and explore the enchanted Light Walk. It’s an unforgettable winter wonderland experience for all ages.
Peak of Christmas – Full Event Details
5. Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum
Step back in time with Heritage Christmas at Burnaby Village Museum. From November 23 to January 3, 2025, explore the 1920s-style village decked out with festive lights and traditional decorations. Enjoy carolers, historic exhibits, carousel rides, and holiday-themed entertainment—all with free gate admission.
Heritage Christmas – Full Event Details
6. Shipyards Christmas Market in North Vancouver
Experience the festive spirit at the Shipyards Christmas Market in North Vancouver. Running from November 29 to December 24, 2024, this European-style market offers ice skating, unique artisan stalls, festive food, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment. It’s conveniently located near the Seabus for easy access from Downtown Vancouver.
Shipyards Christmas Market – Full Event Details
7. Lights at Lafarge in Coquitlam
Take a stroll around Lafarge Lake, where Lights at Lafarge offers Metro Vancouver’s largest free outdoor winter lights display. This beautiful light show runs from November 22 to February 21 and features a 1.2 km pathway decorated with thousands of holiday lights. It’s a magical, budget-friendly way to enjoy the festive season.
Lights at Lafarge – Full Event Details
8. Spirit of the Season at Sea to Sky Gondola
The Spirit of the Season at the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish is perfect for nature lovers. From December 1 onwards, enjoy the decorated forest walk, festive lunches, tubing fun, and photo opportunities with Santa. The gondola ride itself offers spectacular views, making this a unique holiday destination.
Spirit of the Season – Full Event Details
9. Christmas Lights by the Lake at Harrison Hot Springs
Visit Harrison Hot Springs for Christmas Lights by the Lake, an enchanting display along the lakefront promenade. Running from November 23 to January 12, 2025, this event features whimsical displays, Santa visits, and festive activities like carolling and fireworks, offering a cozy holiday experience.
Christmas Lights by the Lake – Full Event Details
10. Noel Holiday Light Festival in Surrey
New to Surrey, the Noel Holiday Light Festival runs from November 28 to December 23, 2024. Held at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds, it features dazzling light displays, live entertainment, holiday markets, and kid-friendly activities, all in an accessible and family-friendly environment.
Noel Holiday Light Festival – Full Event Details
11. The Nutcracker by Goh Ballet
Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday tradition in Vancouver, showcasing the talent of local dancers alongside world-class performers. This enchanting performance at Queen Elizabeth Theatre runs from December 19 to 22, 2024, offering a classic holiday experience for all ages.
The Nutcracker – Full Event Details
12. Steveston Festival of Trees
Explore the Steveston Festival of Trees at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, where local merchants and community groups decorate trees for a friendly competition. Running from November 30, 2024, to January 5, 2025, it’s a festive way to enjoy holiday cheer and vote for your favourite tree!
Steveston Festival of Trees – Full Event Details
13. Winter and Holiday Lighting at Granville Island
Starting November 12, Granville Island lights up for the holiday season. The entire island, including the famous Public Market, is adorned with festive lights, making it the perfect spot for a holiday stroll, shopping, and dining. The holiday lights run until January 3, 2025.
Granville Island Lighting – Full Event Details
14. Dundarave Festival of Lights
West Vancouver’s Dundarave Festival of Lights celebrates community and charity with its Forest of Miracles. From November 30 to December 21, 2024, this event features tree displays, live music, and festive activities, all in support of the Lookout Foundation.
Dundarave Festival of Lights – Full Event Details
15. Gingerbread Lane at Hyatt Regency Vancouver
Admire the whimsical creations at Gingerbread Lane, Vancouver’s longest-running gingerbread display. From November 28 to December 28, 2024, visit the Hyatt Regency Vancouver to view incredible gingerbread houses and support Make-A-Wish Canada.
Gingerbread Lane – Full Event Details
16. Christmas in the Country at Thunderbird Show Park
For a rustic, cozy holiday experience, visit Christmas in the Country in Langley. From December 5 to 29, 2024, this indoor event offers light displays, Santa visits, food trucks, live music, and holiday shopping—all in a warm and festive setting.
Christmas in the Country – Full Event Details
With so many magical events to choose from, Vancouver is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas. Whether you’re seeking light displays, holiday markets, or festive performances, Metro Vancouver has something for everyone. Plan your holiday adventure today and make the most of the Christmas season!
