Bright Nights Train 2024: A Magical Holiday Tradition in Stanley Park
Get ready for another season of enchantment as the Bright Nights Train returns to Stanley Park from November 29, 2024, to January 4, 2025. In partnership with the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, this beloved Vancouver event offers a magical holiday experience for the whole family. Details on ticketing and event information will be available soon, so be sure to check back for updates.
Event Highlights
- Ride the Bright Nights Train: Bundle up and embark on a journey aboard the iconic 1961 locomotive as it winds through the illuminated forest of Stanley Park. This dazzling display, featuring thousands of sparkling lights, is an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
- Explore the Festive Plaza: Stroll through the plaza to admire whimsical displays and enjoy the glow of the holiday lights. Make sure to visit the vintage fire truck and check out the live entertainment on your way to the North Pole workshop, where Santa and his firefighter friends await for photos.
Supporting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund
Bright Nights isn’t just a holiday event; it’s also a major fundraiser for the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund, which offers life-saving services and support to burn survivors and their families across British Columbia. Since its inception in 1998, the Park Board has donated over $2.5 million to the Burn Fund through this cherished event. All proceeds from donations go directly to this valuable cause, so give generously to support burn victims and their families.
Location and Parking
- Location: Bright Nights is located on Pipeline Road in Stanley Park, accessible via the West Georgia Street park entrance.
- Free Parking: Free event parking is available in the railway lot and the main lot across Pipeline Road after 3 PMdaily. Additional parking is available in the North Pipeline Road and Beaver Lake lots, also free after 3 PM.
Stanley Park Christmas Lights
Running from the end of November through early January, Bright Nights is one of the best places in Canada to experience festive holiday decorations. It’s a favorite for families, offering a magical display of holiday lights that captivate children of all ages.
Admission and Train Ride Costs
- Admission: General admission is by donation, with all proceeds benefiting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund. The generosity of visitors supports a great cause, making every donation impactful.
- Train Ticket Prices: For the 2023/2024 season, tickets were priced as follows:
- Adults: $15
- Seniors (65+) and Teens (13-18): $13
- Children (3-12): $11
- Children under 2: Free
Expect similar pricing for the 2024/2025 season. Tickets sell out quickly, so make sure to secure yours early.
The History of Bright Nights
The tradition of Bright Nights began years ago when Bob and Marg Wingfield of Surrey transformed their home into a Winter Wonderland, collecting donations for the Burn Unit at Vancouver General Hospital. After raising over $500,000, they passed their decorations and legacy to North Vancouver firefighter Peter Hansen, who partnered with the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund. Since 1997, Bright Nights has grown into one of Western Canada’s largest Christmas attractions, continuing its mission of community support and holiday magic.
Plan Your Visit
- Dates: November 29, 2024 – January 4, 2025 (Closed December 25 for Christmas Day)
- Location: Stanley Park, Pipeline Road, Vancouver, BC
- Parking: Free after 3 PM in designated lots
For more details and updates on ticketing, visit the Bright Nights Train Website.