It’s a big weekend in Vancouver, and the best part is the rain-free forecast! With Black Friday sales, the arrival of December, and countless holiday events getting underway, there’s so many fun things to do in and around Vancouver.
From the Tree Lighting in Vancouver and the start of Stanley Park’s Bright Nights to boat parades and free skating, there’s something for everyone!
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Things to do in Vancouver this weekend
Vancouver Christmas Tree Lighting (FREE)
The lighting of the Christmas tree is a magical moment often symbolizing the beginning of the holiday season, and the lighting of the Vancouver Christmas Tree is a cherished tradition for many.
So, join hands and celebrate as Western Canada’s tallest Christmas tree gets lit up, marking the beginning of a season filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments spent with family and friends.
When & Where: November 29 at 6 pm at the Vancouver Art Gallery
Cost: Free
Stanley Park Bright Nights & Mini Train Opening Weekend
Bright Nights is a beloved Vancouver holiday tradition that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Since it started in 1997, it’s been made possible by hundreds of dedicated firefighters from across the province who volunteer their time to put up thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Plus, the park is on track to bring back their Mini Train for the season, although tickets are still to be announced.
When & Where: November 29 – January 4 at Stanley Park, Vancouver
Cost: Bright Nights is Free/by donation
Noel Holiday Light Festival & Market Opening Weekend
Get ready for a holiday season like no other! Noel Holiday Light Festival & Market is making its debut 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.
When & Where: November 28 – December at Cloverdale Agriplex, 17798 62 Avenue, Surrey
Cost: $20
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Black Friday Shopping
Black Friday is just around the corner, but the savings have already started! Local businesses are rolling out incredible deals, offering you the chance to score discounts on everyday essentials and unique finds.
Whether you’re looking to stock up on must-haves or get a head start on holiday shopping, here are some of the best sales happening right now. Don’t wait too long—these deals won’t last forever. Check out our list of deals here.
When & Where: Limited time all over Metro Vancouver
Cost: Varies
Ferris Wheel at the Art Gallery
This holiday season, downtown Vancouver is getting a magical upgrade 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
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: November 30 – December 21 at various times and locations
Cost: Free
North Vancouver’s Shipyards Rink Opens (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 Opens (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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Bear Creek Park – Christmas Train Event
Riding on a mini-holiday train through a winter wonderland of lights and festive displays is undoubtedly one of the most magical holiday experiences. If you’re having no luck getting tickets for the Stanley Park train, have no fear, because Surrey has its own magical train ride for all to enjoy.
The Bear Creek Christmas Train is back to provide a lot of joy, glee, and loads of family fun. They offer a Day Train and a Night Train, and the majority of tickets can be purchased on site.
When & Where: December 1-31 at Bear Creek Park, 13750 88 Ave, Surrey
Cost: $11.50-$12.50
Richmond’s Waterfront Village Hosts a FREE Festival This Holiday
Christmas at Canada Place Opening Weekend (FREE)
The annual family-friendly Christmas at Canada Place marks its return on November 30. Guests of all ages are invited to soak in the season and experience this popular holiday tradition.
Many of the favourites from past installments are here as well, including Woodward’s Windows, North Point Lights, Sails of Light and the Avenue of Trees.
When & Where: November 29 – Jan 1 from 8am – 10pm daily at Canada Place, Vancouver
Cost: Free
Surrey Santa Parade of Lights (FREE)
Explore the holiday spirit with the 17th annual Surrey Santa Parade of Lights! This festive parade promises to be unforgettable, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy a delightful array of antique cars, trucks, floats, marching bands, dancers, and more.
When & Where: December 1 from 1-5 pm, starting at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds
Cost: Free
VanDusen Festival of Lights Opening Weekend
As the holiday season envelops us in a warm embrace, the VanDusen Garden undergoes a magical transformation. The serene oasis of nature becomes a breathtaking canvas of light, colour, and wonder.
This is one of Vancouver’s longest running holiday celebrations, with 15 acres covered in dazzling displays, perfect for family outings or Instagram photo ops.
When & Where: November 29 – January 5 at 5251 Oak St, Vancouver
Cost: $28
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Dundarave Christmas Fair
West Vancouver’s signature holiday celebration, the Dundarave Festival of Lights, returns with its winning combination of two Vancouverite loves – the North Shore and Christmas.
They will be hosting a series of events, starting with their Christmas Fair on November 30th, and ending with thei Christmas Wassail and giant bonfire on December 21st.
When & Where: November 30 from noon to dusk at Dundarave Beach Park
Cost: Free
Whistler Winterlight Kick Off Event (FREE)
For one-night-only, Whistler Olympic Plaza will come alive with vibrant light installations, live DJ, and immersive activities.
Take a spin on the Ferris wheel for a birds eye view of the festive lights throughout the Village Stroll, hit up the ice skating rink, and enjoy warming treats.
When & Where: Friday, November 29 from 6 – 8 pm at Whistler Olympic Plaza, 4365 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
Cost: Free Admission
Latin Christmas Party 2024
The Venezuelan Canadian Society of BC and Major Scale Production invite you to celebrate the joy and spirit of the holiday season, Latin style.
Get ready for an unforgettable night filled with vibrant music, mouth-watering Venezuelan food, and joyful holiday traditions.
When & Where: November 30 from 7 pm at the Burnaby Hall, 7837 Canada Way, Burnaby
Cost: $65
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)
- Light Walk at Grouse Mountain (Nov 24 – Dec 25) $75 for lift ticket (Details)
- St. Paul’s Lights of Hope (Nov 27 – Jan 3) FREE
Go Holiday Shopping
*NEW* Shipyards Christmas Market Opening Weekend (Free Admission)
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
Make Change Market
On November 29th, Make Change Market will be hosted at Heritage Hall in Vancouver, in honour of Small Business Saturday.
Organized by Employ to Empower (ETE) and sponsored by Coast Capital Savings, this pop-up market will feature a variety of products such as handmade bags from recycled materials, artisan soaps, teas, reclaimed wood home goods, and more! The entrepreneurs featured are members of ETE, who are individuals who live with multiple barriers.
When: November 29 from 6-9pm at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street Vancouver
Cost: Free admission
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Krampus Market
Step into the old world market that celebrates Krampus the Christmas baddie. Offerings are wonderfully unexpected & extraordinary, varying from leather, textiles, baskets, chocolate, baked goods, stationary, glass, wall art, perfume, florals, skincare and more.
On December 2 and 3 (12-2pm), visitors can get a photo with Krampus himself.
When & Where: November 29 from 8pm-10pm, November 30, 11am-6pm, December 1 from 11am – 4pm, at Strange Fellows Brewing, 1345 Clark Drive, Vancouver
Cost: $5
Toque Craft Fair Holiday Market
Toque Craft Fair is a holiday market and fundraiser hosted by Western Front. Explore Western Front’s heritage building, while you shop a curated selection of textiles, ceramics, jewelry, print, accessories, apothecary and homeware by over fifty BC-based artists, craftspeople and designers.
When & Where: November 29 from 5-9pm & November 30 – December 1 from 11am – 5pm at Western Front, 303 E 8th Ave E, Vancouver
Cost: By donation
Tugboat Landing Artisan Market (Free Admission)
Tugboat Landing is an intimate and welcoming space with curated and boutique items from 20+ vendors. Some returning favourites include Toon’s Sauces, Ladner Artisan Chocolates, Mad Lab Distillers and Knit Collective.
When & Where: November 30 from 11am – 5pm and December 1 from 11am – 4pm at the Harbour Master Club, 2010 East Kent Avenue South Vancouver
Cost: Free Admission
Portobello West Holiday Market
Yaletown’s own pop-up holiday market has wares for anyone looking for fashion, jewelry, art, home décor, skincare, pet accessories, gourmet treats, wine & spirits and more!
Explore a curated selection of quality goods from over 69 local BC makers, including talented artists, designers, and creators.
When & Where: November 30 – December 1 from 10am – 5pm at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre in Vancouver
Cost: $5
Magical Winter Market
Step into a winter wonderland at Burnaby’s Magical Winter Market! Enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with unique artisan vendors, delicious seasonal treats, and joyful entertainment for all ages.
When & Where: December 1 from 12-5pm at 490 Sperling Ave, Burnaby BC V5B 4H3
Cost: Free Admission
Wesbrook Village Holiday Market (Free Admission)
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
Holiday Shopping Adventure in Fort Langley
From Saturday, November 30, to Sunday, December 15, Mastercard is transforming downtown Fort Langley, B.C., into a holiday shopping adventure. Featuring a storybook theme, visitors are invited to explore parts of the story brought to life through stunning installations. Highlights include a giant chocolate moose, magical windows, a life-sized ornament of a gold mail truck with an infinity room inside, and more.
When & Where: November 30 – December 15, Downtown Fort Langley
Cost: FREE Admission
Vancouver Christmas Market
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
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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
Jingle Bell Rock – Darren Lee (This weekend only)
The Act Theatre welcomes back Darren Lee, multi-award winning, internationally renowned Elvis Tribute Artist.
With his band the Memphis Flash, Darren presents “Jingle Bell Rock”. A rockin’ and festive tribute to the King of Rock and Roll. Walk back in time with Darren Lee as he brings Elvis Presley’s music and hip swivelin’ moves back to life
When & Where: November 30 from 7:30-11pm, at The ACT Arts Centre, 11944 Haney Pl, Maple Ridge
Cost: $50
Elektra presents The Light of Hope Returning (This weekend only)
Elektra’s season opener, The Light of Hope Returning, showcases Shawn Kirchener’s folk-infused oratorio melding gospel, jazz, and bluegrass elements into a vibrant celebration of winter, solstice, and Christmas themes.
Accompanying this dynamic composition, the concert features originally created video art by Kevork Mourad, whose visual storytelling adds a profound layer of depth and emotion.
When & Where: December 1 at 4pm at Pacific Spirit United Church, 2195 West 45th Ave, Vancouver
Cost: $42
A Southern Gospel Christmas (This weekend only)
Enjoy an evening of Southern Gospel favorites and beloved carols with the renowned quartet HIGHER CALLING. Refreshments and Christmas treats included!
They will be bringing to life all the Christmas songs and carols that we love to sing each year. It’s a going to be a great night of wonderful music.
When: November 30 from 7:30 pm at Christian Life Assembly, 21277 56 Ave, Langley
Cost: $15
The Last Resort – An End-of-a-Lifetime Immersive Theatre Experience
The Last Resort is a unique and unforgettable immersive show that will leave you breathless. This one-of-a-kind journey through purgatory paradise explores themes of change, choice, mortality, growth, and disco. Guests are invited to choose their level of participation, denoted by a coloured lei placed around their necks as they’re welcomed into the Hereafter.
When & Where: November 17 & 24 at 2 and 4 pm at the At The Waldorf, 1489 E Hastings St, Vancouver
Cost: $55-$125
Arts Club Theatre Company presents Dolly Parton’s Smoky Moutain Christmas Carol
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
Cirque du Soleil: ECHO
Cirque du Soleil is set to return to Vancouver this October with their mesmerizing show, “ECHO.”
This highly anticipated event promises to once again transport audiences into a world of wonder and awe as only Cirque du Soleil can.
When & Where: October 21-December 31 at Concord Pacific Place, 88 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver
Cost: $60-$70
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
Ongoing things to do in Vancouver
Dome Dining at H Tasting Lounge
Thanks to heated bubble domes, you can soak up the sights and sounds of outdoor dining while also staying warm and cozy. The Westin Bayshore’s H Tasting Lounge is bringing back its magical Winterlust dome dining experience in the heart of Coal Harbour.
The traditionally Alpine-fitted domes will integrate celestial-inspired elements starting this November.
When & Where: November 1 – March 16, 2025 from 11:30 am – 12 am at The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver, 1601 Bayshore Drive, Vancouver
Cost: Reservations are required and each dome seats a maximum of six people and minimum spends / time allotments apply.
Polar Express Squamish
Bring out the candy canes and presents – it’s time to board the North Pole Express!
As winter’s beauty envelops Squamish, adventurous families are invited to climb on the train to Santa’s workshop. Don’t miss this magical Christmas train ride full of family memories that will last a lifetime.
When & Where: November 23,24-30 & December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, four times a day at the Railway Museum of British Columbia,39645 Government Rd, Squamish
Cost: $82-$132 (for 2)
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…
Seattle Christmas Market
The Seattle Christmas Market is back for their 2nd season after a popular launch last year. The event promises to transport you to a winter wonderland filled with German-inspired holiday market charm.
New this year is a Winterdeck, situated on top of Fisher Pavilion, a special edition double-decker Christmas Carousel and the enchanting Fairy Tale Forest, showcasing displays and excerpts inspired by classic German fairy tales.
When & Where: November 21 – December 24 at the Seattle Centre, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Cost: $19.99 USD
Squamish at Dusk
Get ready for a dazzling holiday fusion of lights, art, and pure magic as Squamish at Dusk launches its first winter magic experience!
Guests can walk through a magical tunnel of lights, explore glowing trees, and experience an under-the-water-themed installation. The journey takes 30-45 minutes, and you can warm up at the Adventure Centre with hot drinks and fire pits.
When & Where: Every Thursday-Saturday from November 28 to December 14 at Rose Park – 38550 Loggers Lane, Squamish
Cost: $7-$15
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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
Lights by the Lake (FREE)
This free wintertime spectacle will magically transforms the Harrison lakefront into a dazzling wonderland of lights. The event covers a 2 km waterfront stretch of Harrison Hot Springs. It creates a breathtaking spectacle that promises to make your holiday season even more magical.
There will be a grand opening ceremony scheduled for Saturday, November 23rd from 4:30 – 7:00 pm. And as an added bonus, the night will end with a spectacular show of fireworks.
When & Where: November 23 – January 12 at Harrison Lake, 160 Lillooet Rd, Harrison Hot Springs
Cost: Free
Winter Vallea Lumina
Hit the Sea to Sky Highway and embark on a date night you won’t soon forget in Whistler. While hitting the slopes may not be for everyone, couples can always cap off their day with an evening spent at one of BC’s most magical outdoor attractions.
The idyllic winter destination is home to Vallea Lumina, a one-of-a-kind multimedia experience night walk nestled in the picturesque wilderness of Cougar Mountain.
When & Where: Cougar Mountain Road, Whistler BC
Cost: $60.50
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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