When it’s pouring outside, a festive afternoon tea might be the best idea anyone’s had all December. Vancouver’s grand hotels and neighbourhood tea rooms dress up for the season with Christmas teas, mince tarts and gingerbread, and a couple even bring Santa to the table.
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
The castle-roofed Fairmont Hotel Vancouver on West Georgia is the city’s best-known spot for holiday tea, and it has announced its 2026 season:
- Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea in the Notch8 Tea Room, November 12, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
- Tea with Santa in the Pacific Ballroom, December 19 and 20, 2026, with sing-alongs, festive cookie decorating and a Build-A-Bear workshop for kids.
- Christmas Day Brunch in the Pacific Ballroom from 11:00 AM on December 25.
Prices hadn’t been posted when we checked. Book early: weekend seatings in December and Tea with Santa sell out.
While you’re there, the hotel’s lobby Champagne Bar returns on November 13. See Christmas dinner and holiday bars.
Other Hotel Teas
Several other hotels offer festive afternoon tea in December. The Fairmont Vancouver Airport has offered a festive tea and a Tea with Santa in past seasons, which is handy if you’re in Richmond or flying out. Menus for 2026 are usually posted in November.
Neighbourhood Tea Rooms
For something smaller and less formal, Vancouver’s independent tea rooms usually add Christmas menus with festive scones, sweets and holiday blends. Long-running favourites include the Secret Garden Tea Company in Kerrisdale and Neverland Tea Salon in Kitsilano. Call ahead or book online: December weekends fill quickly.
Pair Your Tea With
- Gingerbread Lane at the Hyatt Regency, a short walk from the Fairmont.
- The tree at the Vancouver Art Gallery and skating at Robson Square.
- A holiday show or a Christmas concert in the evening.
- VanDusen Festival of Lights after a Kerrisdale tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s festive tea?
The Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea runs from November 12, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
Where can kids have tea with Santa in Vancouver?
At Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s Tea with Santa on December 19 and 20, 2026.
Do I need to book afternoon tea?
Yes. December weekends book up weeks ahead.
Part of: Vancouver Christmas Guide 2026 › Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Vancouver
