Vancouver is a beauty come wintertime, but there’s something magical about a smaller town during the holiday season. The historical buildings, mom-and-pop shops, and Christmas decor make for a picturesque season straight out of a storybook, with plenty of memories to be made. So with that in mind, here are 8 festive towns to visit in BC over the holidays.
Langley
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We’ll start with one of the closest options to Vancouver, and home of Canada’s largest Christmas celebration. Langley Township’s quaint boutique-lined streets and village-like atmosphere make for a charming holiday experience, complete with pop-up markets and holiday events galore. From Christmas in the Village to free holiday movie nights and Christmas tree lighting at the Fort Langley Community Hall, there is plenty for folks to choose from this season.
Looking for even more holiday magic? Head to Martini Film Studios’ “Martini Town,” a charming winter wonderland set on the filming site of over 12 Hallmark movies.
Harrison Hot Springs
Every year, Lights by the Lake transforms 2 km of waterfront at Harrison Lake into an illuminated wonderland. As for holiday lights, guests can expect to see some pretty magical displays this year between now and January 7th. This includes weeping Christmas trees, old-fashioned lamps, and custom-built displays of various animals and whimsical creatures.
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Nelson
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From amazing skiing options to cozy winter getaways on the lake, Nelson and Kootenay Lake have an undeniable draw during the wintertime. Catch a movie at the iconic Capitol Theatre, peruse the local shops, and warm up with some brews from Angry Hen Brewing. And while you’re at it, you can make holiday cards at the Nelson Museum on December 7th, and check out the 17th annual BC/DC Christmas Crank-Off on December 16th.
You can stay up to date with the town’s holiday calendar here.
Ladysmith
From now until the second Sunday in January, the town of Ladysmith will be alight with thousands of twinkling Christmas lights every night. Visitors can walk or drive down First Avenue to take it all in, and peruse the town’s quaint downtown shops, with a hot cocoa in hand.
Osoyoos
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Although a popular destination in the warmer months, Osoyoos has many winter experiences and events to offer residents & visitors every year, and this year is no exception. Hit the slopes at Mount Baldy, visit the Art Gallery, or peruse the cute cafes and specialty shops on Main Street.
Steveston Village
This spot has the small-town vibe down to a science. In fact, we often forget it’s just a stone’s throw away in Richmond. In addition to all the history buff faves like the Britannia Shipyards and Steveston Tram, the fishing village offers visitors an array of holiday-themed fun to take part in this month. Take your pick from the Festival of Lights, Polar Express Tram, Boat Holiday Light Contest, and much more. Or simply add them all to your weekend itinerary and hit as many as possible!
Fernie
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With a name like Fernie, you better believe that this spot lives and breathes small-town charm. And nothing, not “fires, floods, mine disasters, or even a curse” has brought the town down. The resilient, albeit quirky spot may be home to many myths and legends, but it has plenty of holiday cheer to go around every year. From seasonal fireworks and carolling to the Light Up The Arts exhibition at the Fernie Arts Station, Fernie has it all!
Tofino
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We know what you’re thinking. The surf capital of Canada on a list of festive towns almost sounds like a paradox. Well, as it turns out, Tofino happens to boast all kinds of family-friendly fun over the holidays. Join their annual Sea of Lights tradition at the Tofino Resort + Marina or go on a Holiday Light Tour at the Wickanninish Inn.
And that’s a wrap on some festive towns around BC to visit this season. Happy holidays!
