When it comes to dazzling residents and visitors alike with magical holiday light displays, Vancouver never disappoints. From annual light festivals to new illuminated experiences, to every tree lighting in between, here are 15 festive light displays to check out in and around Vancouver this year.

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge

We’re starting off this list with one of the most celebrated holiday events of the year. The Capilano Suspension Bridge transforms into an illuminated winter wonderland every year, complete with changing multi-colour displays, a sparkling rainforest below, and a transformed Cliffwalk.

When: Friday, November 17th to Sunday, January 21st
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Cost: $49.95 to $66.95 per adult

PNE Winter Fair

The annual PNE Winter Fair is back with 12 nights of Christmas-themed concerts and theatrical shows, indoor skating, and winter light displays. And of course, enough mini donuts and holiday treats to go around!

When: December 8th and 9th, and 14th to 23rd
Where: 2901 East Hastings
Cost: $25-$30 per adult, $7 for ice skate rentals

Bright Nights at Stanley Park

 

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Who’s ready for the return of a beloved Vancouver holiday tradition? Stanley Park’s Bright Nights is back at the end of the month, as is its popular holiday train ride, which means passengers can once again wind through the Stanley Park forest surrounded by thousands of Christmas lights.

When: Thursday, November 30th to Monday, January 1st
Where: Pipeline Road in Stanley Park
Cost: $15 per adult, $11 per child

Lights by the Lake – 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. This includes weeping Christmas trees, old-fashioned lamps, and custom-built displays of various animals and whimsical creatures.

When: Saturday, November 18th to Sunday, January 7th
Where: Harrison Hot Springs

Glow Langley 

Canada’s largest Christmas celebration is back in Langley with over one million twinkling lights. This year, Glow Langley’s theme is “Carnival Christmas,” which means the (mostly) outdoor festival is bringing some exciting new features to the table.

For starters, the holiday festival will feature new and improved heated and covered spaces, allowing guests to enjoy the festivities no matter the weather. Also new this year are carnival-themed lights, a new craft corner in a “tent of makers,” and free carnival-themed mini-games!

When: November 23rd to December 30th
Where: 6690 216 Street, Langley
Cost: $15-$70

Squamish At Dusk 

While not the smallest of towns on this list, Squamish does have an exciting new festival of lights to note. Rose Park will soon transform into the ultimate winter wonderland as part of a new experience “Squamish at Dusk,” which is equal parts festival of lights and art exhibition.

Guests can expect to enter a magical tunnel of lights, surrounded by glowing trees and a deep, sparkling grotto. There will also be a mesmerizing ‘under-the-water-themed installation, which promises to be immersive.

When: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from November 23rd to December 10th
Where: 38550 Loggers Lane, Squamish
Cost: $10-$15 per adult, $7 to $10 per child

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Festival of Lights at VanDusen

In less than a month’s time, VanDusen Botanical Garden will once again transform into the ultimate holiday-themed destination, complete with over one million twinkling lights.

This year, the massive light displays will pay homage to the vibrant flora and fauna from BC’s endangered Garry Oak meadows, according to the City of Vancouver. Guests can also enjoy the garden’s famed Dancing Lights, an immersive show full of spectacular lights in motion as they beam across the pond and treetops.

When: November 24th to January 7th
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: Tickets available November 1st

Vancouver Christmas Market

Sooner than you may think, Jack Poole Plaza will transform into the ultimate winter wonderland for this year’s Vancouver Christmas Market, complete with mulled wine, freshly made pretzels, and bratwurst – to name just a few tempting treats. Oh, and a decorated “Lover’s Lane,” holiday carousel, and a dazzling light tunnel!

When: November 16th to December 24th
Where: 1055 Canada Place
Cost: $14 for advanced bookings, $32.33 for early bird season passes

Surrey Santa Parade of Lights

Looking for a festive Santa parade to check out now that Vancouver’s has been cancelled for 2023? The 16th annual Surrey Santa Parade of Lights is on this year, bringing a mix of decorated antique cars, trucks, and floats to the historic town centre of Cloverdale.

The parade will start at 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 3rd. Note that there will be several groups along the parade route selling food and novelties as well, with proceeds going to charity.

When: Sunday, December 3rd
Where: Cloverdale, BC

Vancouver Christmas Tree Lighting

If what you’re after is a giant Christmas tree lighting instead, we’ve got some good news. This year’s Vancouver Tree Lighting has been confirmed for Friday, December 1st, and will take place outside of the Vancouver Art Gallery ( šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square) at 6 pm.

When: Friday, December 1st
Where: 750 Hornby Street

McArthurGlen Vancouver Tree Lighting

Speaking of tree lightings, the McArthurGlen Designer Outlets are bringing back their annual Sparkle Brighter event on Thursday, November 16th, with a lineup of events from 4 to 7 p.m. This includes the lighting of its iconic 52-foot Christmas tree.

Other event highlights this year include holiday stilt-walkers on Thursday, Frosty’s Hideaway champagne bar & wreath-making workshop (4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 17th), and various live performances across the three days.

When: Thursday, November 16th to Saturday, November 18th
Where: 1000-7899 Templeton Station Road Richmond

The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens

While this one requires a ferry ride over to the Island, The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens is well worth the trip. From December 1st to January 6th, the famous garden will shine with thousands of holiday lights, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the season.

Sing along to classic carols, indulge in tasty eats at Dining Room Restaurant or Blue Poppy, and take in the festive scenes of The Twelve Days of Christmas.

When: December 1st to January 6th
Where: 800 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay
Cost: $35 per adult, $3 to $17.50 per child

Reflections Winter Terrace at Rosewood Hotel Georgia 

This one might require a couple of beverage purchases, but the rooftop winter terrace at Rosewood Hotel Georgia is no less magical to experience.

Starting in early November, guests can once again indulge in creative, festive cocktails and light tapas in a comfortable lounge setting, all the while surrounded by twinkling fairy lights to set the scene. If you’re looking for a solid date idea for the colder months, you’ve just found one.

When: Opens November 1st
Where: 801 West Georgia Street

Dundarave Festival of Lights

While details are still a little scarce for this year’s event, the Dundarave Festival of Lights is currently putting together its “Forest of Miracles” and preparing for its festival of lights, which will take place from December 3rd to January 8th.

When: December 3rd to January 8th
Where: Dundarave Beach, Millennium Park, Grosvenor Ambleside Galleria

Light Walk at Grouse Mountain 

While a date has not yet been set for this year’s Light Walk at Grouse Mountain, every year, the ski resort creates an enchanting experience for visitors of the mountain to enjoy. The entrance to the display is marked by a magical light tunnel, which leads snow-shoers and skiers to a glimmering path of lights just off of the mountaintop skating pond.

When: TBA this November
Where: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver

So there you have it, Vancouver! You’ve got plenty of festive options in and around the city to check out this year. Happy holidays!

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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