Welcome to the first week of 2024, Vancouver! Whether you’re looking to extend the holiday festivities into January or check out a wrestling match, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (January 2-5).
The Polygon Gallery’s Annual Holiday Shop
If you’re looking for a holiday market with multiple dates to shop, you’ll have plenty of time to check out this year’s Polygon Gallery Annual Holiday Shop, which runs until January 7th. So if you haven’t yet checked out the gallery’s transformed main floor, now’s your chance. And who knows, maybe you’ll be inspired to celebrate the holidays all over again!
When: November 15th to January 7th
Where: 101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission
Festival of Lights at VanDusen
VanDusen Botanical Garden has once again transformed into the ultimate holiday-themed destination, complete with over one million twinkling lights.
This year, the massive light displays 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: Now until January 7th
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: Tickets available November 1st
Women In Business Networking Event
If you’re looking for a new job in the new year and want to meet like-minded individuals, there’s a Women in Business networking event hosted by Resilient Women in Business that you can check out that’s designed for those with side gigs hoping to take them to the next level.
When: Tuesday, January 2nd
Where: 75 Athletes Way
Cost: $18.18
Vancouver Giants
The Vancouver Giants are facing off against the Hitmen at the Arena Bowl at the Langley Events Centre on Wednesday, January 3rd. With plenty of home games to choose from (and $20 tickets), why not go and support our team & make some great memories in the process?
When: Wednesday, January 3rd
Where: 7888 200 Street Langley
Cost: $20
WWE: Friday Night Smackdown
Ready to really get 2024 off to a memorable start? If you’re a wrestling fan, consider checking out the WWE Friday Night Smackdown at Rogers Arena. Oh, and prepare for next-level crowd energy!
When: Friday, January 5th
Where: Rogers Arena
Cost: $138+
Holiday History & Hot Chocolate
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours has introduced an exciting new guided tour just in time for the holidays, aptly named Holiday History & Hot Chocolate.
On the tour, participants will be guided through multiple light displays at the city’s finest hotel lobbies, see historic heritage buildings, and hear tales of intrigue, jealousy, and murder, according to the tour’s website.
When: Saturday, December 2nd to Sunday, January 7th (except for December 25th and 26th and January 1st)
Where: Meet at the corner of Robson and Granville Streets
Cost: $49 per adult, $45 for youth and seniors
Art Tours by Shirley Jade at Pacific Arts Market
With multiple dates coming up in January, Pacific Arts Market offers visitors regular free tours, led by resident artist Shirley Jade. The market is full of locally-made treasures made by over 100 local artists, so you’ll have plenty to see no matter which day you go.
Plus, all participants receive a free souvenir!
When: Multiple dates in January
Where: 1448 West Broadway
Cost: Free
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.
Where: 801 West Georgia Street
See an improv show
From Date Night improv to monthly standup sessions, House Team showcases, and more – there’s always something exciting going on at The Improv Centre on Granville Island. And why not start off the year with a couple of laughs and libations with your loved ones?
Where: 1515 Anderson Street
Go for a swim
That’s right, it doesn’t need to be summer to dive into a pool or get some laps in. Vancouver’s indoor swimming pools are open all month long, and it won’t hurt your wallet to go for a swim. Note that the Lord Byng Pool will reopen on January 3rd.
When: Open throughout January
Where: Locations around Vancouver
Cost: $6.66 for GA
And that’s a wrap on the first week of the year!
