Not every Christmas outing needs to be loud. WinterFest at the Museum of Surrey in Cloverdale is a free, calm holiday celebration: decorated galleries, craft tables, music and stories, a room full of community-decorated trees to vote on, and warm drinks. It’s especially good for little kids, grandparents and families who’d rather not queue in the cold. Last season even had a Sensory Santa morning for neurodiverse kids.
The 2026 dates haven’t been confirmed. Here’s how last season ran.
WinterFest at Museum of Surrey: Quick Facts
| What it is | A free holiday celebration with decorations, crafts, music and community activities |
| Where | Museum of Surrey, 17710 56A Avenue, Surrey, BC |
| 2026 dates | Not confirmed yet |
| Admission | Free, for all ages |
| Best for | Families, grandparents, new residents and visitors |
| Official page | surrey.ca |
When Is WinterFest in 2026?
Not confirmed. The most recent season ran from Saturday, November 22 to Monday, December 22, with daytime programming during museum hours and evening events from 7:00 PM on select days. Activities changed week to week.
What Last Season Included
- Festive decorations indoors and out.
- Free craft stations for keepsakes and décor.
- Holiday characters and photo spots.
- Music and storytelling around the museum.
- Warm drinks and cozy corners.
- Scavenger hunts through the galleries.
Last Season’s Featured Events
These are for reference only. The 2026 calendar will be different.
| Event | Last season | What it was |
|---|---|---|
| Cloverdale Christmas Tree Fest | November 22 to December 22 | Decorated trees to view, a vote for your favourite and a prize draw |
| Sensory Santa | November 23 | A calm, sensory-friendly visit with Santa for neurodiverse children and families |
| stɑl’əw̓ Craft Fair | December 6, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM | An artisan market with Indigenous programming |
| Merry Makers | December 14, 1:00 to 4:00 PM | Hands-on holiday crafts, STEAM activities and a search for Santa and his elves to earn a sticker |
Admission
Free for all ages. Some sessions, like Sensory Santa, have needed registration.
Where It Is
Museum of Surrey, 17710 56A Avenue, in Cloverdale. Check the City of Surrey’s site for parking and accessibility.
More in Cloverdale and Surrey
The museum is a few minutes from the Cloverdale Fairgrounds, home of Noël Surrey with Bright Nights (from November 27) and the start of the Surrey Santa Parade of Lights on November 29. Elsewhere in Surrey:
- Victorian Christmas Evening at Historic Stewart Farm, December 5, another gentle, free outing.
- The Surrey Tree Lighting Festival on November 21 and 22, with a sensory-friendly zone.
- The Christmas Store at Potters, open from November 1.
For more Santa visits, including quieter ones, see where to see Santa in Vancouver.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is WinterFest in 2026?
Not confirmed. Last season ran November 22 to December 22.
Is it free?
Yes, for all ages.
Where is it?
Museum of Surrey, 17710 56A Avenue, Surrey.
What is there to do?
Decorations, crafts, holiday characters, music, stories, scavenger hunts and a Christmas tree display.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, especially younger ones.
Is there a sensory-friendly Santa?
Last season had a Sensory Santa session for neurodiverse children. Watch for 2026 details.
Part of: Vancouver Christmas Guide 2026 › Best Christmas Things to Do in Vancouver
