Dundarave Festival of Lights 2024: A Celebration of Community and Christmas Magic
Experience the ultimate Canadian Christmas at the Dundarave Festival of Lights, a celebration of love, joy, and the power of community. Held at Dundarave Beach Park in West Vancouver, this annual festival is a family-friendly event filled with music, dancing, and festive traditions. From the enchanting Forest of Miracles to the joyful community events, this festival highlights the spirit of togetherness and generosity while supporting the Lookout Foundation’smission to end homelessness.
Event Highlights
- Forest of Miracles: Walk through one of the largest outdoor displays of Christmas trees in coastal British Columbia. Lovingly decorated by families, businesses, and community groups, the trees stretch across the scenic waterfront, creating a festive and hopeful atmosphere. Each tree supports the Lookout Foundation, helping to make a difference in the community by ending homelessness beautifully.
- Dundarave Christmas Fair: Kicking off the festival on Saturday, November 30th, this fair runs from noon to dusk. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and holiday activities. The West Van Youth Band will perform at 4 PM, marking the official opening of the Forest of Miracles.
- Nativity & Paddle Songs: On Saturday, December 7th, join Squamish Elder Wendy Charbonneau from noon to dusk as she blesses the Dundarave Nativity and leads the community in dancing, storytelling, and reconciliation activities.
- World Christmas: Immerse yourself in the global spirit of Christmas on Saturday, December 14th from noon to dusk. Enjoy international performances, festive food, and cultural displays, celebrating the diverse traditions that make up our community. This event is presented by Maclean Homes.
- Christmas Wassail & Bonfire: The festival culminates with a cozy Christmas Wassail & Bonfire on Saturday, December 21st from 3-8 PM. Gather with family and friends for the lighting of the bonfire at dusk, as music, stories, and warmth fill the air. Presented by Westerleigh Parc, this event is a beautiful way to celebrate the solstice and the spirit of the season.
Event Schedule Overview
| Event | Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dundarave Christmas Fair | November 30th | Noon – Dusk | Dundarave Beach Park |
| Nativity & Paddle Songs | December 7th | Noon – Dusk | Dundarave Beach Park |
| World Christmas | December 14th | Noon – Dusk | Dundarave Beach Park |
| Christmas Wassail & Bonfire | December 21st | 3 – 8 PM | Dundarave Beach Park |
More About the Festival
The Dundarave Festival of Lights is a fabulously festive and completely free event for everyone. With its beautiful waterfront setting, the festival offers a chance to connect with the community, enjoy live music, engage in traditional storytelling, and celebrate the holiday spirit with family and friends. The festival’s diverse activities are designed to make everyone feel included and welcomed during the holiday season.
Supporting the Community
Every tree in the Forest of Miracles is a symbol of hope and a call to action. By participating in the festival and decorating a tree, you help support the life-saving work of the Lookout Foundation. Your involvement helps make a real impact in addressing homelessness in the community, ensuring that everyone has a place to belong.
Getting There
Located in the heart of West Vancouver, Dundarave Beach Park offers a picturesque view of the waterfront. Visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and plan for a day of outdoor fun, regardless of the weather. The festival runs rain or shine, reflecting the resilience and spirit of the West Vancouver community.
Join us for this free, festive celebration and make the Dundarave Festival of Lights your new holiday tradition!
For more information and event updates, visit the Dundarave Festival of Lights website.
