Categories: Things To Do

10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (Dec. 15-19)

Whether you’re up for something festive, casual, or a little bit of both, there’s something on this list with your name on it this week. From a paint and sip night to a holiday pop-up bar, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this week (Dec. 15-19).

Paint and Sip at Howe Sound Brewing 

This sip and paint night is currently offering a two-for-one deal at Howe Sound Brewing, and you need only bring yourself. No experience or art supplies are required, as everything you need to create your own masterpiece will be provided, in addition to drinks and snacks that are available at the brewery.

When: Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025
Time: 7 p.m.
Where: 1489 East Hastings St. 
Cost: $17.83 for two

Festive Village at Burnaby Village Museum

Burnaby Village Museum has officially transformed into its annual Festive Village experience, which is sure to put you and your loved ones in the holiday spirit. The quaint holiday town transforms the museum’s 10 acres into a magical, family-friendly attraction, complete with live carolling and music, interactive exhibits, and glimmering lights that illuminate the night.

When: Until Jan. 2, 2026
Time: 1 to 5:30 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, 1 to 9 p.m. on weekends (and daily starting Dec. 16, 2025)
Where: 6501 Deer Lake Ave., Burnaby
Cost: Free admission

Made in the 604 Holiday Night Markets 

Imagine perusing dozens of locally-made goodies and treasures at a festive night market. That’s exactly what you’ll find at this Made in the 604 series at The Pipe Shop, and the next holiday night market is coming up this Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.

When: Friday, Dec. 19, 2025
Time: 5 to 10 p.m.
Where: 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge

Canyon Lights is a quintessential holiday experience in the Vancouver area for a reason. Millions of glowing holiday lights illuminate your way as you explore the iconic suspension bridge and suspended paths.

When: Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, to Jan. 18, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 3735 Capilano Rd., North Vancouver
Cost: $78 per adult

Kringle’s 

The ultimate holiday pop-up bar is back at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Kringle’s will bring twinkling lights and cozy, decorated corners to the forefront, where guests are beckoned in by Christmas spirit and Christmas spirits.

When: Until Dec. 31, 2025
Time: 5 p.m. to midnight
Where: 900 West Georgia St. 
Cost: Book a table online

Shipyards Christmas Market

Now in its second year, the Shipyards Christmas Market is a European-inspired holiday market that’s completely free to attend, and it’s transforming North Vancouver into a jolly winter wonderland.

When: Until Dec. 24, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
Where: 125 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
Cost: Free admission

Merry & Bright at Martini Town

Merry & Bright at Martini Town has transformed the backlot of Martini Film Studios in Langley, and it has everything you need to feel the holiday magic. Nostalgic window displays, festive lights, carolling, nightly visits from Santa, and sweet treats galore. Plus, a portion of all proceeds from the experience will be donated to the Langley Food Bank.

When: Until Dec. 31, 2025
Time: 3 to 10 p.m.
Where: 1123 272nd St., Langley
Cost: $24 per adult, $20 per senior, $18 for youth (ages 13 to 17), and $12 for children (ages 6 to 12)

Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden 

VanDusen’s stunning Festival of Lights has transformed the garden’s 55 acres into a magical network of illuminated pathways. Highlights include themed displays and interactive exhibits like the mycelium installation, the new Great Bear Rainforest Exhibit, and, of course, the Dancing Lights, which come to life every 20 minutes from the top of the hour.

When: Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, to Jan. 4, 2025
Time: 4 to 10 p.m.
Where: 5251 Oak St. 
Cost: $29 per adult, $19 for youth and seniors, and $12 per child

‘Tis the Sitcom

It’s time for some holiday laughs at The Improv Centre on Granville Island. This new improv show follows a classic sitcom style, with “commercial breaks,” drama, and plenty of festive jokes — and no night is the same.

When: Until Dec. 30, 2025
Time: Showtimes at 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Where: 1502 Duranleau St. 
Cost: $25+

Harry Potter™ A Forbidden Forest Experience

Harry Potter fans of all ages can still visit the “Forbidden Forest” at Stanley Park. Visitors follow an illuminated path filled with magical creatures like unicorns and hippogriffs to a themed village, where they’ll find nostalgic bites and sips, souvenirs, and bespoke Harry Potter merch.

When: Until February 2026
Time: Slots available between 5:30 and 10:15 p.m.
Where: 690 Pipeline Rd. 
Cost: $43+

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