Some of the most memorable Christmas outings near Vancouver are an hour or two out of the city: a Santa train in Squamish, a lit-up lakeshore in Harrison, a snowy village in Whistler, or a ferry ride to Victoria. Here are our favourite Christmas day trips from Vancouver for 2026, with a simple plan for each.
1. Squamish: The North Pole Express
Distance: about 1 hour north on the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
Book a ride on the North Pole Express, a full-size heritage train with Santa aboard, on weekends from November 28 to December 20 (plus December 21). Have lunch in downtown Squamish, then ride the Sea to Sky Gondola for the views and, if it’s running, the Spirit of the Season trail. Drive home along Howe Sound before dark.
2. Whistler: A Snowy Village Christmas
Distance: about 2 hours.
Whistler is the closest you’ll get to a guaranteed white Christmas. Wintersphere, a free holiday event with Santa and crafts at the Whistler Conference Centre, runs from December 19 to January 2. Skate at Olympic Plaza, wander the village lights and stay for dinner. It’s better as an overnight. See Christmas in Squamish and Whistler.
3. Fort Langley to Harrison: The Fraser Valley Trail
Distance: Fort Langley is about 50 minutes east; Harrison about 2 hours.
Start with coffee and the shops in Fort Langley village. Detour to Glenda’s Christmas Cottage in Abbotsford, a whole store of Christmas, then carry on to Harrison Hot Springs for Lights by the Lake, free nightly until January 10. Soak in the hot springs pool and stay the night if you can. More ideas: Christmas in Langley and the Fraser Valley.
4. Langley: Lights and a Tree Farm
Distance: about 45 minutes.
Cut your own tree in the morning at one of Langley’s Christmas tree farms, then spend the evening at Glow Gardens or Merry & Bright at Martini Town.
5. Steveston: A Fishing Village Christmas
Distance: about 30 minutes.
The easiest escape. Ride the free Winter Tram, see Winter in the Village, and eat fish and chips on the boardwalk. On November 29, add Santa at the Cannery. See Christmas in Richmond and Delta.
6. Victoria: Christmas Across the Water
Distance: BC Ferries from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay takes about an hour and a half, plus the drive at each end. It works as a long day, but it’s better as an overnight.
Victoria does Christmas with a very British accent: festive afternoon teas, a lit-up Inner Harbour and Legislature, and holiday events at its heritage sites. For what’s on this year, see our sister site, Victoria Christmas. Book ferry reservations early for December weekends.
Staying over in the city before or after? See where to stay in Vancouver at Christmas.
Tips for Christmas Day Trips
- It’s dark by about 4:30 PM. Plan the drive home around that.
- Winter tires are required on the Sea-to-Sky Highway and many other BC highways. Check DriveBC before you leave.
- Book timed tickets (the North Pole Express, Glow, Merry & Bright) before you set off.
- Pack for rain at sea level and snow up high. See Vancouver weather in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best Christmas day trip from Vancouver with kids?
The North Pole Express in Squamish.
Where can I find snow near Vancouver at Christmas?
On Grouse, Cypress and Seymour, about 30 minutes away, or in Whistler, about two hours away.
Can I visit Victoria for Christmas as a day trip?
Yes, but it’s a long day. An overnight is much more relaxed.
Part of: Vancouver Christmas Guide 2026 › Vancouver Christmas Itinerary
