Photo via Tofino Resort & Marina
We’ve looked far and wide for the most beloved holiday traditions and Christmas festivals across British Columbia, and we think this list is a great jumping-off point for your next holiday adventure. From strolling through small-town light displays to perusing major Christmas markets, here are some small-town festivities in BC that will make you feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie.
Every year, Lights by the Lake transforms two kilometres of illuminated waterfront in Harrison Hot Springs, allowing visitors to step into their very own winter wonderland. Peruse the charming village square, stroll the lakeside Christmas lights, and enjoy warm cups of cocoa.
When: Saturday, November 23rd to Sunday, January 12th
Where: Harrison Hot Springs
Cost: Free to enjoy
“Frostival” is a new Christmas tradition in Vernon involving twinkling holiday lights lining the streets and buildings of four blocks of 30th Avenue, from The Kal to Scattered Goods. On Friday, November 29th, the downtown will come to life, with live music, entertainers, food trucks, and Christmas card photo ops, all free to enjoy!
When: Friday, November 29th
Where: Downtown Vernon
Cost: Free to enjoy
While not the smallest of towns on this list, Squamish does have an exciting festival of lights that has once again transformed Rose Park into a whimsical winter wonderland. Squamish at Dusk is equal parts a festival of lights and an art exhibition, and you can soon check it out until December 14th.
When: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from November 28th to December 14th
Where: 38550 Loggers Lane, Squamish
Cost: $10-$15 per adult, $7 to $10 per child
Fernie is kicking off the season with a ton of festive events on Friday, November 29th, which include pictures with Santa at its historic downtown, carolling, an artisan fair and mug gallery show, and a holiday window decorating contest.
When: Friday, November 29th
Where: Station Square, Fernie
Cost: Free
The annual Downtown Kelowna Light Up is a free community-wide celebration ringing in the holidays at Stuart Park. Here, guests will find live entertainment, family-friendly activities, ice skating, tasty eats, and visits from Santa!
When: Saturday, November 30th
Where: Downtown Kelowna
Cost: Free
The 5th annual Sea of Lights festival is coming to Tofino in early December, illuminating its charming marina with twinkling lights and decorated vessels galore.
In addition to floating lights and seasonal displays, there will be a towering outdoor Christmas tree to check out, as well as a holiday craft market and carolling, according to the event’s website.
When: Saturday, December 7th
Where: 634 Campbell Street, Tofino
Cost: Free admission
Finally, we come to this Old-Fashioned Christmas village at Barkerville – a two-day festival turning the massive living history museum into a holiday movie. On December 14th and 15th, Barkerville will have a range of holiday activities to enjoy, from carolling on main street to horse-drawn sleigh rides, to the telling of “A Sherlock Holmes Christmas Tale.”
When: Saturday, December 14th and Sunday, December 15th
Where: Barkerville Historic Town
Cost: $8 to $12 per person
And that’s a wrap on some adorable small-town Christmas festivals to check out in BC this year. Happy holidays!
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