White Rock has the seaside-village feel down, and for one Saturday in November it adds an old-fashioned Christmas. Christmas on the Peninsula bills itself as a festival “in the style of the classical Christmas tradition.” It’s based at the White Rock Community Centre and spreads out into uptown’s shops, cafés and churches, with markets, music, carols and children’s activities.
The 2026 date and hours are confirmed, but the full program and the list of uptown venues haven’t been posted yet, so the activities below are based on past years.
The 2026 festival is Saturday, November 21, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Christmas on the Peninsula 2026: Quick Facts
| Date | Saturday, November 21, 2026 |
| Time | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Main venue | White Rock Community Centre, plus event places in uptown White Rock |
| Admission | Not stated on the festival’s page |
| Style | Classical, old-fashioned Christmas tradition |
| Official website | christmasonthepeninsula.com |
About the Festival
The festival began in 2009 to bring visitors to the Semiahmoo Peninsula in the off-season. It’s led by president and founder Liv Butow, and about 60 churches, community groups, businesses and city departments have been involved.
What It Has Included
The organizers’ undated background document lists a program “subject to revision.” It gives a good sense of the day, but treat it as a guide:
- An uptown walkabout: a Christmas café and charity fair at Star of the Sea Parish Centre, Christmas trees from around the world at WorldServe Thrift Store, music at Laura’s Coffee Corner, gingerbread house decorating at White Rock Community Church and an open house at the Coast Capital Playhouse.
- At the Community Centre: a Christmas market, a main stage, indoor crafts, a children’s stage and a spinning demonstration.
- At Miramar Village Plaza: carollers, roasted chestnuts, a snow sculptor, vendors, train rides, a visiting donkey and a tree lighting with the Mayor.
- A Christmas parade and Carols by Candlelight at St. John’s Presbyterian Church.
Where It Is
The White Rock Community Centre and venues around uptown White Rock. The 2026 venue list, parking and accessibility details are on the festival’s website once posted.
Tips
- Plan for the whole day. It runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM across several venues.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking between the Community Centre and uptown.
- Check the 2026 schedule on christmasonthepeninsula.com before you go.
More Christmas in White Rock and South Surrey
- Bright Walk in White Rock lights up Memorial Park on the waterfront (2026 dates to come).
- Victorian Christmas Evening at Historic Stewart Farm, December 5.
- The Christmas Store at Potters, open from November 1.
November 21 is a busy Saturday across the region, with HollyDaze, the Dunbar Holiday Craft Fair and the Surrey Tree Lighting Festival all on. See every market in our Christmas markets in Vancouver calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Christmas on the Peninsula in 2026?
Saturday, November 21, 2026, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Where is it?
The White Rock Community Centre and venues in uptown White Rock.
How much does it cost?
Admission isn’t stated on the festival’s page.
Is there a parade?
A parade has been part of past programs. It isn’t confirmed for 2026.
Who organizes it?
The Christmas on the Peninsula Festival, a not-for-profit society led by founder Liv Butow.
When did it start?
2009.
Part of: Vancouver Christmas Guide 2026 › Christmas Markets in Vancouver 2026
