Vancouver Christmas Market 2024: A Festive Wonderland in the Heart of the City
The Vancouver Christmas Market 2024 is back, bringing the magic and warmth of traditional European Christmas markets to the heart of Vancouver. Located at the picturesque Jack Poole Plaza, just steps from the waterfront and the iconic Olympic Cauldron, this festive event is now in its 14th year and has become a must-do for locals and visitors alike.
From November 13 to December 24, 2024, the Vancouver Christmas Market will fill the air with the scents of mulled wine and gingerbread, the sounds of live festive music, and the joy of twinkling holiday lights. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, indulging in gourmet treats, or enjoying family-friendly activities, this is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.
A European-Style Christmas Market
The Vancouver Christmas Market takes inspiration from the centuries-old traditions of German Christmas markets, with vendors selling handcrafted gifts, festive decorations, and delicious foods. The market is filled with charming wooden huts, each offering something special—whether it’s handmade ornaments, artisanal goods, or cozy winter treats.
The market’s centrepiece, the towering Christmas Pyramid, is a beautiful multi-tiered structure, a German holiday staple. This year, live performers will enchant visitors from the Flying Stage on the second story of the Pyramid, adding even more holiday magic to the atmosphere. To top off the experience, don’t miss the opportunity to savour a warm mug of Glühwein, the traditional German mulled wine, as you wander through the festive lights.
Where and When
- Dates: November 13 to December 24, 2024
- Location: Jack Poole Plaza, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver
- Operating Hours:
- November 13 to November 30:
Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM - December 1 to December 19:
Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM - December 20 to December 24:
Daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM (except Christmas Eve closing at 6:00 PM)
- November 13 to November 30:
Ticket prices vary depending on whether you purchase them online in advance or at the gate. For full details on admission and to secure your spot, visit vancouver Christmas Market Tickets.
Festive Eats & Treats
Foodies will love the Vancouver Christmas Market’s mouthwatering selection of German and international fare. Feast on festive delicacies, from savoury options like raclette, schnitzel, bratwurst, and gulasch, to sweet treats like churros, waffles, and Belgian chocolates. To complete your culinary adventure, grab a hot drink—whether it’s a cup of Glühwein, apple cider, or a rich hot chocolate.
The Tannenbaum Terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy these delights while surrounded by the festive ambiance of the market.
Special Events at Vancouver Christmas Market 2024
Throughout the holiday season, the Vancouver Christmas Market hosts a variety of special events that make every visit even more magical. Highlights include:
- Meet St. Nikolaus: Get into the Christmas spirit by meeting St. Nikolaus himself, who will be spreading holiday cheer throughout the market.
- Festive Karaoke: Sing your favourite Christmas carols at the market’s festive karaoke sessions.
- Holiday-Themed Trivia: Test your Christmas knowledge with fun holiday trivia and win exciting prizes.
- Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions and offers happening across the market.
NEW Features for 2024
The 2024 market introduces several exciting new features that are sure to captivate visitors:
- Walk-Through Christmas Tree: Step inside our new magical walk-through Christmas tree, adorned with twinkling lights and shimmering ornaments. It’s a must-see for families and couples alike!
- Lovers Lane: Stroll through our newly expanded Lovers Lane, an illuminated path of sparkling lights and whimsical flying hearts. Don’t forget to steal a kiss under the mistletoe!
- Love Lock Installation: Seal your love with a heart-shaped lock at the market’s Love Lock Installation. It’s a cherished tradition for couples, and you can purchase a lock for just $3.00 at the Info Hut.
- Light-Up Angel Wings Display: Capture the magic of Christmas with a stunning photo in front of our beautiful angel wing display.
- Alpen Haus: Take a break at the Alpen Haus, a cozy chalet-style retreat where you can warm up and relax with friends and family.
Family Fun and Activities
The Vancouver Christmas Market is packed with family-friendly activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained:
- Aeroplan Holiday Carousel: Kids and the young-at-heart can enjoy free rides on the beloved carousel throughout the season.
- Christmas Scavenger Hunt: Keep the kids engaged with a fun scavenger hunt that sends them on a quest to find hidden treasures around the market.
- WinterDeck: Cozy up with a hot drink and enjoy breathtaking views of Vancouver’s North Shore mountains from the WinterDeck.
Artisan Shopping
Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? The Vancouver Christmas Market boasts an impressive lineup of artisan vendors, offering a wide variety of handcrafted goods, unique Christmas decorations, and specialty items. From German beer steins to handmade soaps, chocolates, and local crafts, you’re sure to find something special for everyone on your holiday shopping list.
Live Entertainment
Daily live entertainment is a major draw of the Vancouver Christmas Market. Performances by local musicians, singers, and holiday entertainers take place throughout the season, with shows happening on weekdays and weekends alike. Be sure to check the official entertainment schedule closer to your visit to catch your favourite artists performing on the Flying Stage atop the Christmas Pyramid.
Plan Your Visit to Vancouver Christmas Market 2024
With so much to see, eat, and do, the Vancouver Christmas Market is a holiday tradition you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re visiting for the shopping, the food, the special events, or simply to soak up the festive atmosphere, this market has something for everyone.
For more details, tickets, and event updates, head over to www.vancouver.christmas and start planning your holiday visit today!
This year, make the Vancouver Christmas Market 2024 part of your holiday celebrations and enjoy an unforgettable experience filled with festive cheer, delicious treats, and memorable moments with loved ones.
For more information, visit the Official Vancouver Christmas Market website
