Brrr… we’re already preparing mentally for a very cold weekend. But at the same time, we’re also excited to spread some holiday spirit! And besides, we’re just feeling lucky that we aren’t in the same spot as our neighbours to the east, so let’s make the most of it!
Here are the 10 best things to do in Vancouver this weekend.
Watch a Christmas movie
Want to watch a Christmas classic and support a local business while you do it? The Rio Theatre is your answer, because it’s showing The Nightmare Before Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life, and Die Hard in one whirlwind day! Don’t really feel like leaving the house? We did also write a roundup of some Christmas movies that were filmed in Canada.
When: Friday, December 24th
Where: 1660 East Broadway
Cost: $13 for GA
Or see an iconic play on the big screen
Meanwhile, Vancity Theatre is putting on a few screenings of The Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker. And while it’s not as fun as seeing it live, we will say that we will probably never see The Royal Ballet’s version, and this is a massive improvement over streaming it at home.
When: Friday, December 24th and Sunday, December 26th
Where: 1181 Seymour Street
Cost: $15
Go Ice Skating
We’re pleased as punch that both of Metro Vancouver’s ice skating areas have reopened for the winter! Head down to the Shipyards Skate Plaza and Robson Square Ice Rink for some hot laps with family or friends. Plus, if you bring your own skates, both of these options are free!
When: Shipyards open Friday, December 24th and Sunday, December 25th, Robson open throughout the weekend
Where: 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver and 800 Robson Street
Cost: Free to access
Tinseltown
Swap out the eggnog at home for some more, uh, ornate options. Celebrate the season in a very devoted fashion with a trip to this fully decked-out Christmas bar, complete with seasonal drinks and an absolute boatload of decorations.
When: Open Friday, December 24th and Sunday, December 26th
Where: 908 Granville Street
Tickets: $10+
Vancouver Art Gallery
Want to take a break from holiday-specific options? We’ve got a couple of ideas. The Vancouver Art Gallery has a ton of limited exhibitions to check out this month, ranging from Vancouver-specific artists to a major exhibition from Yoko Ono.
When: Open Friday, December 24th and Sunday, December 26th
Where: 750 Hornby Street
Cost: Varies
Bloedel Conservatory
On the flipside, why not enjoy a little natural wonder? Your best bet is the Bloedel Conservatory, which houses hundreds of tropical plants and birds. That’s right, this is your own local oasis, and it’s sure to help you overcome those rainy (or snowy) day blues.
When: Open Friday, December 24th and Sunday, December 26th
Where: 4600 Cambie Street
Cost: $7.05
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 Friday, December 24th and Sunday, December 26th
Where: 3735 Capilano Road
Tickets: $54.95
PNE WinterLights
The PNE’s drive-through holiday experience is wrapping up soon! 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 off the festivity by grabbing a hot chocolate at the start of the experience, too.
When: Open Sunday, December 26th
Where: 2901 E Hastings Street
Cost: $37+ per car
Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain
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 weekend
Where: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Cost: $61 for GA (or $109 for a family of 4)
Cross-Country Skiing at Cypress
Cypress Mountain boasts some of the best, and most popular, cross-country trails in all of Canada. Head out during the day for a fun expedition, or, enjoy the 7.5km of lit trails at night!
When: Open throughout the weekend
Where: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver
Cost: $25+ for GA
Alright Vancouver, that’s what we’ve got in mind for this weekend! Have fun out there, stay safe, and happy holidays!
