It is the week before Christmas, and all through Metro Vancouver events and shopping are ramped up to high gear!
Whether you’re in the mood for festive events, some holiday shopping, or simply taking it easy, this weekend offers the ideal balance before the festivities kick into full swing. Many are also ending soon, so be sure to check them out.
RELATED: 13 Things to do in Metro Vancouver Before Christmas
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Things to do in Vancouver this weekend
Canadian Pacific Holiday Train Concert (Dec 19-20) FREE
All aboard the express train to the festive season! As the winter chill marks the return of the beloved Canadian Pacific Holiday Train, decorated with dazzling lights and featuring delightful musical performances.
When & Where:
- December 19 from 8:00 pm – 8:30pm in Maple Ridge: Across from Billy Miner Pub, 22355 River Road
- December 19 from 9:05 pm – 9:35 pm Pitt Meadows: At the Railway crossing at corner of Harris Road and Advent Road
- December 20 from 5:45 pm – 6:15 pm Port Moody: At 300 Ioco Road behind Arena and Recreation Center
- December 20 from 7:15 pm – 7:45 pm Port Coquitlam: At Kingsway Avenue between Mary Hill Road and Wilson Avenue
Cost: Free
Dundarave Festival of Lights – Christmas Wassail & Bondfire (FREE)
What better way to celebrate the season than taking in the shimmering lights displays, humming along to the free live music, or warming your heart by the giant bonfire.
West Vancouver’s signature holiday celebration, the Dundarave Festival of Lights returns for another great year. The festival ends on December 21 with a giant bonfire party to conclude the season. In between, there will be free concerts and activities that are also open to the public.
When & Where: December 21 from 3- 8 pm at Dundarave Beach Park, 25th St, West Vancouver
Cost: Free
The Coca-Cola® Holiday Caravan Metro Vancouver (FREE)
The Coca-Cola® Holiday Caravan is on it’s way to Metro Vancouver and will be stopping at multiple locations.
Guests are invited to immerse themselves in a FREE interactive and festive gathering featuring a meet-and-greet session and a complimentary holiday photo opportunity with Santa.
When & Where:
- Thursday, December 19th from 5-7pm at Safeway King Edward Mall, 990 W King Edward Ave, Vancouver
Friday, December 20th from 5-10pm at Lights at Lafarge, Lafarge Lake1299 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, British Columbia
Saturday, December 21st from 4-10pm at Glow Langley, 6690 216 St, Langley
Cost: Free
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Goh Ballet Presents The Nutcracker 2024
This holiday season, Goh Ballet’s The Nutcracker will return to Vancouver for a series of dazzling performances, running from December 19 to 22, 2024, at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
Immerse yourself in Clara’s enchanting world as she journeys through the Land of Snow, faces off against the evil Mouse King, and explores the spectacular Kingdom of Sweets. With an incredible cast, stunning sets, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, this performance is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.
When & Where: Dec 19-22 at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 630 Hamilton St, Vancouver
Cost: From $67
Santa’s Christmas Ships: Christmas Boat Parade (FREE)
Metro Vancouver’s Shore will once again be alight with a dazzling parade full of festive light displays.
So grab the family, prepare some snacks and venture down to the waterfront to see a procession that is as merry as it is bright.
This Saturday November 30, they will be at Rocky Point Park Port Moody. This will be a part of the Holiday Cheer at the Pier, taking place from 5-7 pm. This is the only destination this year that Santa will be coming along for a special visit.
When & Where:
- Friday, December 20: Belcarra, Ravenwoods, Deep Cove, Dollarton, Cates Park
- Saturday, December 21: Open Cruise No destination set Skippers Choice.
Cost: Free
Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
This December, VIFF is presenting Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, a hilarious and heartwarming new feature film adventure featuring the beloved claymation duo. Their first outing for over 15 years, it’s a treat for families (with $10 youth tickets!) – and anyone who loves endearing animation, dad jokes, slapstick comedy and joyous storytelling.
This time, Wallace and his trusty dog Gromit face off against a new tech-based threat: a “Smart Gnome” under the control of none other than the infamous Feathers McGraw.
The film promises a blend of humour, heart, and inventive gadgets—hallmarks of the Wallace & Gromit franchise. 35 years since British animation studio Aardman introduced us to the comedy odd couple, fans can expect the same beloved quirky characters, imaginative plot twists, and stunning claymation animation that has made these films so iconic.
Film lovers, this is your chance to enjoy a claymation masterpiece, with both matinee and evening screenings. Book your tickets now through the VIFF Centre website and rediscover the magic of Wallace & Gromit this holiday season!
When & Where: Shows throughout December-January.
Cost: From $16
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Ending Soon
PNE Winter Fair (Ending Dec 23)
Vancouver’s favourite holiday tradition is back, and it’s better than ever! The PNE Winter Fair 2024 invites you to embrace the magic of the season with an array of enchanting experiences for all ages. From twinkling lights and thrilling ice bumper cars to captivating live performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
When & Where: December 6-8 & 12-23 from 4-10pm at the PNE Fairgrounds
Cost: $20-$35
Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain (Ending Dec 25)
Grouse Mountain is once again transforming for Peak of Christmas; a mountain top Christmas Village complete with an enchanting Light Walk, outdoor skating pond and more.
With the perfect holiday backdrop, guests of all ages will be transported to a winter wonderland, complete with snow, Santa and his real reindeer, brilliant light installations and Christmas movies in the Theatre in the Sky.
When & Where: November 22 – December 25 at Grouse Mountain, 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Lift tickets at starts at $80
Ferris Wheel at the Art Gallery (Ending Dec 26)
This holiday season, downtown Vancouver got a magical upgrade this year with the addition of a Ferris wheel! Positioned in the heart of downtown, the Ferris wheel is surrounded by a variety of other seasonal attractions. It offers riders a bird’s-eye view of the city’s twinkling holiday lights.
When & Where: From Tuesday to Sunday, December 1- 26 at the Vancouver Art Gallery
Cost: $7 per person
Noel Holiday Light Festival & Market (Ending Dec 23)
Noel Holiday Light Festival & Market launched for the first time in Surrey this winter, transforming the Cloverdale Fairgrounds into a festive wonderland.
With over a million sparkling lights, family-friendly activities, and endless entertainment, this is the must-visit event of the season. Highlights includes their Ferris Wheel, Jack Frost Igloo Bar, and indoor Holiday Market.
When & Where: November 28 to December 23 at the Cloverdale Agriplex, 17798 62 Avenue, Surrey
Cost: $20
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Check out a beautiful Light Display
Perfect for a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends and family, these sparkling displays in and around Vancouver are guaranteed to fill you with holiday cheer.
You can check out our full guide here. Here are some events that has already started:
- Steveston’s Winter In The Village (Nov 21 – Dec 31) FREE (Details)
- Glow Langley (Nov 21 – Dec 28) $19.99 (Details)
- Canyon Lights (Nov 22 – Jan 19) Cost varies (Details)
- Lights at Lafarge (Nov 22 – Feb 2025) FREE (Details)
- Burnaby Village Museum – Heritage Village (Nov 23-Jan 3) FREE (Details)
- St. Paul’s Lights of Hope (Nov 27 – Jan 3) FREE
- Stanley Park Bright Nights (Nov 29 – Jan 4) Entry by Donation (Details)
- Christmas at Canada Place (Nov 29 – Jan 1) FREE (Details)
- VanDusen Festival of Lights (Nov 29 – Jan 5) $28 (Details)
- Bear Creek Park – Christmas Train Event (Dec 1-31) $11.50-$12.50 (Details)
- Bright Walk in White Rock (Dec 7- Jan 12) Free (Details)
- Gingerbread Lane at Hyatt Regency Vancouver (Now – Dec 27) Free at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver — 655 Burrard Street, Vancouver
- Local Houses:
Go Holiday Shopping
Coquitlam Christmas Night Market (This Weekend Only)
Join us for our 4th annual Coquitlam Christmas night market at the Evergreen Cultural Centre.
This year we will be featuring two epic weekends of shopping, eating delicious food, and enjoying Christmas cheer at Lights at Lafarge.
When & Where:December 20-21 at the Evergreen Cultural Centre, 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
Cost: $2 for admission
Shipyards Christmas Market (Free Admission) – Ending Soon
Come celebrate the holiday season with us in a festive setting filled with sparkling lights and 70 charming wooden stalls offering one-of-a-kind artisanal gifts. Enjoy live holiday music, ice skating, the City’s beautifully decorated Christmas tree, and unwind in our Champagne tent.
Take a trip to Santa’s chalet, enjoy community performances, and savor seasonal treats like bratwursts, mulled wine, and hot cocoa, all while our vendors bring the best of European cuisine to North Vancouver.
When & Where: November 29 – December 24 on select days at The Shipyards 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission
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Vancouver Christmas Market – Ending Soon
The Vancouver Christmas Market at Jack Poole Plaza is a festive holiday tradition in the heart of the city. This enchanting market features beautifully decorated wooden stalls, offering a wide array of seasonal treats, handcrafted gifts, and traditional German fare.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit as they explore the market’s charming atmosphere, sip on mulled wine, and enjoy live entertainment against the backdrop of the iconic Olympic Cauldron.
When & Where: November 13 – December 24 at Jack Poole Plaza
Cost: $15-22
Wesbrook Village Holiday Market (Free Admission) – Ending Soon
The first annual Wesbrook Village Holiday Market by Live at UBC will feature a variety of local artisan vendors!
Discover unique, handcrafted goods perfect for gifting (or little treats for yourself), and enjoy some delicious bites and beverages from the surrounding eateries and cafés.
When & Where: Saturdays & Sundays from 12pm-7pm from November 30 – December 22 at Norman MacKenzie Square in Wesbrook Village, south of UBC campus
Cost: FREE Admission
The Polygon Gallery’s Holiday Shop (Free Admission)
The Polygon Gallery is pleased to present its annual Holiday Shop, an annual tradition, the gallery’s main floor will be beautifully decorated and carefully curated with unique gifts by independent makers and artists. Come get festive and shop local at The Polygon this holiday season.
When & Where: November 13 – January 5 at various times at The Polygon Gallery, 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: Admission is free and admission to the gallery’s exhibitions is by-donation or free if you spend $100 or more in the Shop
Catch a Show
Arts Club Theatre Company presents The Gingerbread Men: A(nother) Holiday Cabaret (Ending Dec 22)
The Arts Club Theatre Company continues the holiday merriment with their presentation of the charming The Gingerbread Men: A(nother) Holiday Cabaret, on the Newmont Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre from December 5 to 22.
Prepare to be whisked away on a dough-lightful cabaret of classic holiday songs as The Gingerbread Men return to the Arts Club stage this holiday season.
When & Where: December 5-22 at the Newmont Stage at the BMO Theatre Centre, 162 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver
Cost: From $29.
Arts Club Theatre Company presents Dolly Parton’s Smoky Moutain Christmas Carol (Ending Dec 24)
The Arts Club Theatre Company is set to launch its holiday season with the uplifting musical Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol at the historic Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage.
When & Where: November 14 – December 24 at Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage, 2750 Granville St, Vancouver
Cost: From $39
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Arts Club Theatre Company presents Miracle on 34th Street Starts
The Arts Club Theatre Company presents a Christmas classic this holiday season with Miracle on 34th Street on the Granville Island Stage.
Miracle on 34th Street was originally released as a film in 1947 and quickly became a holiday classic. Written by Valentine Davies and directed by George Seaton, the story has been adapted for the stage, television, and even radio over the decades.
When & Where: November 21 – December 29 at the Granville Island Stage, 1585 Johnston St, Vancouver
Cost: $39
The Comedy Department’s Touring and Local Shows
The Comedy Department’s Touring and Local shows Light Up November & December.
During this holiday season, The Comedy Department continues to bring laughs across the Lower Mainland with two touring productions and holiday shows at their resident venue, The Show Cellar, in Vancouver.
When & Where: November 9 – December 28 all over Metro Vancouver
Cost: from $23
Cinderella: A Traditional British Pantomime
You are cordially invited to Cinderella: A Traditional British Pantomime! Metro Theatre’s yearly holiday tradition is back for the 39th time, with the same creative team that brought you last year’s big success, SINBAD!
This fairytale family favourite is sure to please young and old, prince and princess alike with exciting musical numbers, games, and laughs galore.
When & Where: December 13 – January 5 at the Metro Theatre, 1370 Marine Dr SW, Vancouver
Cost: $33-$42
Gateway Theatre presents Lionel Bart’s Oliver! (Opening Weekend)
This holiday season Gateway Theatre presents Lionel Bart’s Oliver!, the award-winning musical adaptation of the classic Dickens novel.
Join young Oliver Twist as he navigates the Victorian London underworld, searching for a place to belong, home, and – most importantly – family. Oliver! springs to life on the Gateway Mainstage with some of the most memorable characters and songs ever to grace the stage.
When & Where: December 12 – January 4 at Gateway Theatre, 6500 Gilbert Road,
Richmond
Cost: From $40
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Ongoing things to do in Vancouver
Cypress Pop-Up & Trestle Bridge (FREE)
Take a scenic stroll across an elevated trestle bridge adorned with dazzling holiday lights, nestled in a pocket forest on West Vancouver’s mountainside. Back by popular demand for the Christmas season, Cypress Village will light up nightly until the end of February 2025.
The Cypress Pop-Up Village is beautifully decorated for the holidays and features The Shed, a cozy outdoor spot offering festive treats and drinks like hot coffee, beer, and pizza. Visitors can also enjoy a designated lookout with breathtaking panoramic views of Burrard Inlet and Metro Vancouver.
When & Where: On now until February 2025, until 10 pm daily at 3757 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver (location of the pop-up village and main parking)
Cost: Free
North Vancouver’s Shipyards Rink (FREE)
North Vancouver’s impressive 12,000 square foot skating rink in The Shipyards returns this holiday season and it’s free for all.
The city skyline serves as a stunning backdrop, and with all these commercial amenities right at your fingertips, it’s truly spectacular. This skating rink is unlike any other in Vancouver.
When & Where: November 30 – February 28 at Shipyards District, 145 Chadwick Court, North Vancouver
Cost: Free
Robson Square Ice Rink (FREE)
This winter, strap on some skates and frolic in one of Vancouver’s most beloved ice rinks. Downtown’s Robson Square Ice Rink will return to the public this holiday season. Conveniently located in the centre of downtown, it is an outdoor rink with a glass ceiling that beautifully lights up for the festive season.
When & Where: December 1 – February 29 from various times at Robson Square Ice Rink, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver
Cost: Free (Skate rentals are $5)
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Merry & Bright – Martini Town Film Studio Tour
Are you looking for an unforgettable outdoor holiday experience this December? Step into Martini Town, a world of movie magic and indulge in a unique holiday experience. Langley’s very own exterior Film Backlot, is set to reopen to the public. Their beautiful set is being transformed into a Christmas wonderland by a team of skilled industry crew.
When & Where: December 4 – January 5, 2025 on select days at Martini Town, 1123 272 St, Aldergrove
Cost: $22
Saturday Morning Movie for only $3.99
Cineplex is offering children’s movie at 11 o’clock on Saturday mornings for only $3.99 +tax. This month’s lineup includes:
- Saturday, November 23 – The Polar Express 2D or 3D versions
- Saturday, December 7 – Elf
Note however that it is only at participating theatres, and available films details may vary on locations. You can check out their website for the most up-to-date details.
A little drive away…
This holiday season, why not turn your festive plans into a mini getaway? Below are a few of our favourite spots, but you can also check out our guide: 7 Magical Holiday Events That Are Worth the Drive from Vancouver.
Christmas in District 1881 Chilliwack
District 1881 in historic Chilliwack offers the charm of a picturesque European town right here at home. During the winter, this delightful block transforms into a magical wonderland, complete with a beautifully adorned tree and festive decor, making visitors feel like they’ve stepped into a holiday getaway.
Throughout the month, you can enjoy Christmas photos with Santa, visits from the Grinch, face painting, special treats, and more—all leading up to Christmas.
Beyond the enchanting atmosphere, the area also boasts incredible food and a variety of winter festivities across the city, ensuring a season filled with joy and discovery.
When & Where: November 21 – December 24 at 46128 Yale Rd, Chilliwack
Cost: Free or low cost
The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens
You can walk in a Winter wonderland at one of the most breathtaking parks on Vancouver Island. Visit Butchart Gardens nestled in Victoria for a magical experience this holiday season.
Starting December 1st—you can look forward to The Magic of Christmas, where the park transforms into something out of the North Pole.
When & Where: December 1 – January 6 (closed Christmas Day) at The Butchart Gardens, 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Victoria
Cost: $37.00
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