Magic of Gastown 2025

A Neighbourhood-Wide Holiday Takeover in One of Vancouver’s Most Historic Districts

Every December, the cobblestone streets of Gastown come alive with lights, music, performers, and festive surprises—transforming one of Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhoods into a shimmering holiday wonderland. The Magic of Gastown is a month-long celebration of tradition, creativity, and community, blending heritage charm with a playful dose of modern Christmas spirit.

From roaming carolers and glowing laneways to horse-drawn carriage rides and the return of iconic Gastown activations, visitors will find something magical waiting around every corner.

Event Overview

• Dates: December 1–31, 2025

• Location: Gastown, Vancouver, BC

• Admission: Free neighbourhood-wide programming

• Official Website: https://gastown.org/holidays/

Throughout the month, Gastown invites locals and visitors to explore its historic streets, support small businesses, and enjoy festive installations and performances curated especially for the season.

Holiday Traditions, Reimagined

Inspired by Gastown’s heritage and artistic personality, this year’s lineup highlights storytelling, culture, music, and community-driven creativity. Whether you’re searching for festive experiences, holiday shopping, or atmospheric winter evenings, The Magic of Gastown brings December to life in unforgettable ways.

What’s Happening This December

Elf Off the Shelf: City Edition

December 10–14
Gastown’s mischievous elves have escaped their shelves and settled into boutiques, cafés, and hidden corners throughout the neighbourhood. Follow the clues posted on @mygastown, track down the elves, and enter for a chance to win daily prizes. It’s a whimsical scavenger hunt that blends holiday fun with local exploration.

Free Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

December 14 & 21, 12–4 PM
A Vancouver tradition rooted in the 1980s returns with free carriage rides through Gastown’s decorated streets. Visitors can enjoy a nostalgic journey past heritage buildings, festive storefronts, and twinkling lights.
Pick-Up Zone: 1 Alexander Street

Carolers & Holiday Performers

First three Sundays in December, 12–4 PM
Gastown’s streets fill with joyful harmonies and festive performances as roaming carolers, musicians, and seasonal entertainers create spontaneous holiday moments.

Marching Mariachi Parade

December 11, 6–8 PM
One of Gastown’s most exciting cultural traditions returns as Mariachi Los Dorados, accompanied by traditional dancers, parades through Canada’s first Mexico Barrio. Expect vibrant music, dancing, and themed specials from local restaurants and bars.

Gastown Tree Walk

All month long, local businesses participate in the Gastown Tree Walk, where uniquely decorated trees appear in storefront windows or along the streetscape. Visitors can wander the neighbourhood and enjoy a festive “forest” of creative holiday expressions.

Holiday Lighting

Twinkling lights illuminate plazas, courtyards, and hidden laneways, casting a warm glow across Gastown’s iconic cobblestones. The neighbourhood becomes one of Vancouver’s most photogenic holiday destinations, ideal for evening strolls and Christmas photos.

Free Sunday Parking

To make festive shopping and dining more accessible, visitors can enjoy free parking every Sunday in December at EasyPark Lot 126.
Register at: https://gastown.org/freeparking

Plan Your Visit

The Magic of Gastown runs the entire month of December, offering daily opportunities to eat, shop, explore, and connect with the community. With heritage charm, glowing lights, and holiday experiences woven throughout the neighbourhood, Gastown becomes one of Vancouver’s most enchanting destinations of the season.