If you’re looking forward to all things Christmas, this holiday market by the beach should be on your radar. For one day only, the Vancouver Maritime Museum, Museum of Vancouver, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, and Vancouver Academy of Music are all coming together to throw a winter market for the books, and it’s completely free to check out!

Guests will be able to peruse a wide array of locally-made goods, feast on seasonal bites, and enjoy live entertainment and lively, family-friendly programming.

And it’s not just an opportunity to sip and shop (though we’ll be doing our fair share of that too); it’s a chance to visit these museums for pay-what-you-can admission.

Whether it’s stargazing at the Planetarium Star Theatre, exploring one of the world’s great Arctic vessels, or checking out the wide array of feature exhibits at the Museum of Vancouver, you’ll have no shortage of fascinating local and natural history to explore.

These cultural venues are a must-visit any time of year, but museum hopping is definitely the perfect cold or rainy-weather activity.

What to expect at this year’s winter market

Some fun live entertainment and activities to look forward to this year include the return of False Creek Ferries’ popular Boat Ballet, a festive photo opportunity aboard the Great Canadian Trolley, performances from Vancouver Academy of Music students, and a little mischief from the Grinch.

Browse local makers for the perfect gifts, treat the family to a day out at the museum, or simply enjoy the festive vibes in one of the city’s most scenic waterfront spots.

This year’s Winter Market takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2026.

Mark your calendars!

Winter Market at Vanier Park 

When: Sunday, Dec. 6, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 1000 Chestnut St. 
Cost: Pay-what-you-can admission to museums, free admission to market

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Isabelle Vauclair

Staff Writer, Vancouver – Isabelle is a West Coast native with an appreciation for Vancouver’s natural landscape, patio scene, and community spaces. She loves to discover new hidden gems in her neighbourhood and share them with readers across the city.

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