Sweet Santa Claus! The week we’ve been waiting for is finally here! We’ve got Christmas Eve to look forward to this Friday, and that means we’re going all out on the holiday events and options in the city. After all, we’ve written enough about it, so why not finish the journey?
Here are the 10 best things to do in Vancouver this week.
Canyon Lights
Arguably one of the best holiday lights options in all of Canada, Canyon Lights transforms the already-stunning Capilano Suspension Bridge into an unforgettable experience. Sure, everyone you’ve ever met has seen it, but there’s good reason for that.
When: Open throughout the week
Where: 3735 Capilano Road
Tickets: $54.95
PNE WinterLights
The PNE’s drive-through holiday experience is back! Load up the car with friends or family and go enjoy nine different light display areas, ranging from ‘Polar North’ to ‘Santa Street’. Really kick of the festivity by grabbing a hot chocolate at the start of the experience, too.
When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 2901 E Hastings Street
Cost: $37+ per car
VanDusen Festival of Lights
Well well well, if it isn’t our most consistent pick for things to do this month. What can we say? If we had to pick one holiday experience to check out in Vancouver, this would be it. The price is right, the setting is nice, and the lights are stunning!
When: Open throughout the week
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Tickets: $17.50
Do some holiday shopping
Still searching for the perfect gift for that special someone? We recently rounded up some of our favourite places to shop for Christmas gifts in Vancouver, from the dog lover in your family to the aspiring mixologist friend.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Vancouver Christmas Market
An absolutely classic holiday option, the Vancouver Christmas Market has got something for just about everyone. Enjoy some seasonal treats and drinks, browse the local vendors, and enjoy free live entertainment while you’re at it!
When: Open until Friday, December 24th
Where: Jack Poole Plaza
Tickets: $12.99+
Lights to the Lodge
Feel like the outdoors are calling you this week? One great option is the Lights to the Lodge, a snowshoe light walk that will have you exploring Cypress Mountain’s nordic area, their historic Hollyburn Lodge, and more!
When: Open throughout the week
Where: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver
Cost: $28.80+
Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain
Lights to the Lodge isn’t the only option on the North Shore this week, not by a long shot. The upper area at Grouse Mountain has transformed into a veritable winter wonderland, complete with a mountaintop skating pond, illuminated light walks, and even reindeer!
When: Open throughout the week
Where: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Cost: $61 for GA (or $109 for a family of 4)
Bright Nights Christmas Train
All aboard! If The Polar Express is your favourite movie (good on you for overcoming the CGI), then this Christmas train option is sure to be a hit. Winding through the already beautiful Stanley Park, you’ll get to see a variety of different light displays while you leisurely cruise along.
When: Open throughout the week
Where: Stanley Park
Cost: $6+ for GA
Holiday Splash
Speaking of The Polar Express, the Vancouver Aquarium is actually showing it as part of its holiday programming this year! But honestly, we’re recommending this for one reason alone- the daily dives featuring Santa in full scuba gear. If that doesn’t scream memorable holiday sight, we don’t know what does.
When: Open throughout the week
Where: 845 Avison Way
Cost: $42 for GA
Find a NYE party to go to
We know, we know, this isn’t strictly Christmas-related. But, by the time you finish your turkey, you’ll be grateful that you’ve already worked out your NYE plans, and won’t be scrambling to find something to do on the big night.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Alright folks, that’s what we’ve got in mind for this week! Now get out there and spread some holiday cheer!
