Spirit of the Season Festival at The Shipyards: Holiday Magic Awaits
Celebrate the holiday season in style at the Spirit of the Season Festival at The Shipyards, a dazzling event filled with lights, live performances, and festive fun for all ages. Taking place on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, this free-admission festival transforms The Shipyards into a winter wonderland with seasonal decor, entertainment, and holiday shopping.
Event Overview
- Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
- Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Location: The Shipyards, North Vancouver, BC
- Admission: Free
Activities & Entertainment Schedule
The Spirit of the Season Festival is packed with activities, including live music, dance performances, and the highly anticipated Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Festive Activities
- Public Skating: Enjoy free public skating at the Shipyards Skate Plaza from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Holiday Markets: Explore unique gifts at the Community Christmas Market in the Pipe Shop (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM) and the new European-style Shipyards Christmas Market (11:00 AM – 10:00 PM).
- Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus: Snap photos with Santa as they arrive by fire truck at 3:45 PM.
Main Stage Performances at Shipbuilders’ Square
- 3:45 PM: Santa & Mrs. Claus arrive by Fire Truck
- 4:00 PM – 4:05 PM: Welcome by səl̓ilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation
- 4:05 PM – 4:15 PM: Welcome & Eagle Song Dancers performance by Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation
- 4:15 PM – 4:20 PM: Mayor Linda Buchanan’s Holiday Welcome
- 4:20 PM – 4:45 PM: Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the foot of Lonsdale
- 4:45 PM – 5:05 PM: Ridgeway School Band Performance
- 5:20 PM – 5:30 PM: Method of Modern Movement Dance Performance
- 5:30 PM – 5:45 PM: Perform Art Studios Dance Performance
- 5:45 PM – 6:05 PM: North Shore Academy of Dancing Performance
- 6:20 PM – 6:40 PM: ShowStoppers Acapella Holiday Performance
- 6:50 PM – 7:00 PM: Ballet Bloch’s Nutcracker Performance
- 7:15 PM – 8:00 PM: School of Rock Junior House Band
Highlights of the Festival
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Gather at the foot of Lonsdale for the Christmas Tree Lighting led by Mayor Linda Buchanan. Between 4:15 PM and 4:45 PM, watch as the City’s giant Christmas tree is illuminated, marking the start of the holiday season.
Live Entertainment
Enjoy an evening filled with music and dance performances by talented local groups, including the Ridgeway School Band, Ballet Bloch, and the North Shore Academy of Dance.
Skating at Shipyards Skate Plaza
Glide across the region’s largest outdoor skating rink and soak in the festive ambiance. Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome, and skate rentals are available.
Holiday Shopping
Browse for unique, handcrafted gifts from local artisans and vendors at the Community Christmas Market and the outdoor European-style Christmas Market.
Accessibility & Transportation
- Accessibility: The Shipyards and all event spaces are wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. Public restrooms are accessible, and elevators are available from parking lots.
- Getting There:
- Transit: Take the SeaBus directly to The Shipyards or use nearby bus connections.
- Parking: Limited pay parking is available nearby. Visitors are encouraged to walk, bike, or use public transportation. Bike racks are located throughout the area for convenience.
Why You Should Attend
The Spirit of the Season Festival at The Shipyards is a magical celebration that brings the community together to kick off the holiday season. With free admission, an incredible entertainment lineup, and festive activities for all ages, this event is the perfect way to create unforgettable holiday memories with your family and friends.
Learn more about The Spirit of The Season Festival at The Shipyards 2024.
For more holiday events across Metro Vancouver, visit Vancouver Christmas.
