Can you feel it in the air? With December around the corner, a number of holiday experiences and events in Vancouver have already kicked off, and more are on the way! If you’re trying to plan the next few weeks of festive fun, look no further, because we’ve rounded up the best options in the city.

Here are the best holiday experiences and events around Vancouver this year.

Canyon Lights

Of course, we have to kick off with maybe the most well-known holiday experience of them all- Canyon Lights. Transforming the Capilano Suspension Bridge into a winter wonderland, Canyon Lights is a must for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit in a uniquely Vancouver way.

When: Open until January 23rd, 2022
Where: 3735 Capilano Road
Tickets: $54.95

VanDusen Festival of Lights

While you won’t be walking across a river, VanDusen’s Festival of Lights is just as worthwhile. Already a beautiful destination any time of year, this garden is maybe at its best when illuminated by over a million twinkling lights. Perfect for a leisurely holiday stroll, if we say so ourselves.

When: Open until January 3rd, 2022
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Tickets: $17.50

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PNE WinterLights

 

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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: Starts Friday, December 3rd
Where: 2901 E Hastings Street
Cost: $37+ per car

Peak of Christmas at Grouse Mountain

For those looking for something a little more active during the holidays, we’ve got the Peak of Christmas. The upper area at Grouse Mountain transforms into a veritable winter wonderland, complete with a mountaintop skating pond, illuminated light walks, and even reindeer!

When: November 25th to January 3rd, 2022
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: November 26th to January 2nd, 2022
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: On until January 3rd, 2022
Where: 845 Avison Way
Cost: $42 for GA

Vancouver Christmas Market

While it’s not the only holiday market in Vancouver, it’s definitely got one of the most impressive setups. Do some shopping, enjoy live entertainment, and of course, dive into a variety of festive eats and drinks.

When: Open until November 24th
Where: Jack Poole Plaza
Tickets: $7.99+

Soar with Santa

Were you one of the kids that would check in with the (very weird, in hindsight) NORAD Santa Tracker throughout the night? Take that feeling to a completely new level thanks to FlyOver Canada’s holiday experience, which will have you flying with the big man himself around the arctic.

When: December 9th to January 3rd, 2022
Where: 999 Canada Place
Cost: TBA

Tinseltown

Can’t wait to dive into the eggnog? You’ll be happy to know that a Christmas-themed pop-up bar lands in Vancouver this month. The folks at Hidden Events are hosting a downright devoted bar, which will be packed to the gills with Christmas cheer (and drinks).

When: Open until December 31st
Where: 904 Granville Street
Tickets: $17

Heritage Christmas

If you’re willing to drive a little bit, then the Heritage Village Museum in Burnaby is a great choice. Not only is this already impressive heritage village worth a trip in and of itself, but it’s going to be transformed for the holiday season with light installations. The best part? It’s free!

When: November 27th to January 3rd, 2022
Where: 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby
Cost: Free to attend!

CandyTown

 

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Speaking of free options, we’re capping off this list with another one! CandyTown will be taking over Yaletown this weekend for one day only, offering holiday activities, a market, and even a self-guided cocktail tour for the of-age revellers.

When: Saturday, November 27th
Where: Mainland, Hamilton, and parts of Davie Street
Cost: Free to attend!

Well folks, that’s our roundup of the best holiday experiences and activities in Vancouver this year! Hopefully this list inspires you to get out there and make the most of the next few weeks!

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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