We’re getting closer and closer to the holidays, Vancouver, which means there’s only so much time left to enjoy the holiday markets, light festivals, and live events that come with the season. So lace up your skates, strap on your skis, and get ready to enjoy some mulled wine and holiday treats. Here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (December 16-18).

Santa’s Brunch Series at Paradox Hotel Vancouver

If you haven’t checked out downtown Vancouver’s newest luxury-lifestyle hotel, there’s no time like the present. Over the holiday season at Paradox Hotel, you can get into the festive spirit with their Santa’s Brunch Christmas Buffet set in a Winter Wonderland theme.

With 3 buffet-style festive brunches set for December 11, December 18 and December 24, this is your chance to indulge in a special Christmas spread. From freshly sourced seafood to turkey & fixings all the way to tasty holiday treats, Santa’s Brunch Series at the Paradox Hotel Vancouver will be a culinary experience you don’t want to skip this holiday season.

When: From 10 am or 1 pm on Sunday, December 11, Sunday, December 18, & Saturday, December 24
Where: Paradox Hotel Ballroom, 1161 West Georgia Street
Cost: $118+

Lover’s Tempo pop-up on Granville Island

things to do vancouver december 16-18
Photo via Lover’s Tempo

The Vancouver-based jewelry brand is back on Granville Island this weekend just in time for some last-minute holiday shopping. Open now until Sunday, December 18th, the pop-up shop will debut its first-ever Fine Collection of delicate and romantic necklaces and earrings in 10-14K gold, as well as their popular Stellar collection. Plus, visitors can even preview their Demi Fine selections, which will launch in spring 2023.

The pop-up will be open from 10 am to 6 pm every day until Sunday, December 18th.

Where: 110-1666 Johnston Street (Net Loft Building)

Eastside Flea Holiday Market

And speaking of holiday shopping, this weekend is the last instalment of the Eastside Flea Holiday Market, with over 50 local vendors selling a diverse selection of goods at Eastside Studios. Shoppers can expect to find everything from handmade jewelry, pottery, art, home decor, etc to vintage clothing, collectibles, and more.

When: Saturday, December 17th and Sunday, December 18th
Where: 550 Malkin Avenue
Cost: $10 for admission to all three winter markets

Enjoy a festive holiday shopping experience at CF Shopping Centres  

With Christmas quickly approaching, Cadillac Fairview (CF) is continuing its holiday magic across its 18 shopping centres so you can enjoy joyful activities that extend into the New Year. Don’t miss the holiday musical performances, festive and picturesque decor, a wondrous indoor snowfall, fun outdoor events, extended holiday shopping hours and much more.

To see a full listing of events in your area, visit CF’s holiday hub

When: Now until January 8, 2022 
Where: Cadillac Fairview Shopping Centres across Canada

Yung Gravy and bbno$

All aboard the Gravy train – because Yung Gravy (Matthew Raymond Hauri) and Vancouver native bbno$ (Alexander Leon Gumuchian) are coming to the PNE this Friday, December 16th. The pair is known for collaborating on hit singles like “Wussup,” “Welcome to Chili’s,” “Whip A Tesla,” and “Rotisserie,” and most recently – on their new respective albums: Marvelous and Bag or Die.

When: Friday, December 16th
Where: 2901 East Hastings, PNE Forum
Cost: $49.50+

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Christmas with Chor Leoni

things to do vancouver december 16-18
Photo via David Cooper

Chor Leoni presents its seasonal celebration of light, hope, and connection, with performances ranging from holy to hilarious. The annual tradition will share an inspiring repertoire of timeless holiday classics and winter harmonies, including two world premiere commissions from Canadian composers and three-holiday treasures newly arranged for Chor Leoni.

When: December 16th, 17th, and 19th
Where: 1022 Nelson Street
Cost: $20

Vancouver Christmas Market

Check out one of the most celebrated events of the year – if you haven’t already. This year’s annual Vancouver Christmas Market is now in full swing, with freshly-baked pretzels, mulled wine, bratwurst, and much more.

When: Opens Saturday, November 12th
Where: 1055 Canada Place, Jack Poole Plaza
Cost: $18 for GA

Glow Gardens Langley

ICYMI, Glow Langley is a beloved annual event that brings over one million cascading lights to Langley. This year’s theme? “The Jolly Jumble,” which features a scavenger hunt, a holiday train ride, pictures with Santa, and much more.

When: Wednesday, November 23rd to December 31st
Where: 6690 216 Street, Langley
Cost: $20-$70+

See a holiday-themed improv show

 

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A post shared by The Improv Centre (@theimprovcentre)

If you’re ready for some extra fun this season, you’ll definitely want to check out The Improv Centre’s Happy Hectic Holidays show from December 17th to December 24th, or their “NYE at TIC” show or the “Year in Review.” Because what better way to look back on 2022 than with laughter and libations?

Where: 1515 Anderson Street

Grab drinks at Reflections: The Winter Terrace

When it comes to amazing holiday-themed cocktails, The Winter Terrace at Rosewood Hotel Georgia is a must-visit this season. Enjoy some classic mules, Baileys drinks, and more under cozy lights and festive holiday decor.

Where: 801 West Georgia Street

Save it for a rainy (or snowy) day

Since this weekend is shaping up to be pretty flurry-filled, we thought we’d sendoff this list of things to do with a list reserved just for the snow (and rain). Have some fun indoors and make some amazing wintertime memories in the process.

Where: See our picks above

And that’s all for this weekend, Vancouver. We hope it’s a great one!