We don’t mean to interrupt the eggnog-drinking, mulled wine-sipping, or holiday festivities, but we’ve got some more exciting things to do around Vancouver to toss your way. So whether you’re looking to fill up your itinerary with some more plans, or want to be more spontaneous this season, here are 10 things to do around the city this week (December 26-30).

Contact Winter Music Festival

If hearing dubstep makes you nostalgic for the 2010s or gets you on your feet, this is the festival for you. Contact Winter Music Festival is returning to Vancouver for two days of high-energy music and high-energy performances. This year, guests can expect to see Chart-topping, Grammy-winning artists like The Chainsmokers, UK electronic group Above & Beyond, Canadian duo Loud Luxury, and much more.

When: December 29th and December 30th
Where: 777 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: $140.75 per day or $204.40 for a 2-day pass

Ride the Santa Express 

Love holiday-themed train rides? Bear Creek Park in Surrey is hosting two festive train rides this holiday season: A Christmas Night Train and the Daytime Santa Express. Tickets are available in person for $12.60 each, and children under two ride for free. The Santa Express will run seven days a week from 10 am to 4:30 pm until December 31st, with the exception of Christmas Day.

When: Until December 31st
Where: Where: 13750 – 88th Avenue at King George Blvd. Surrey
Cost: $12.60 per person

Sponsored Pick: Get all your last-minute NYE party supplies

The countdown to 2023 is starting soon, and it’s time to get ready for NYE! Party City Canada is your one-stop-shop for all the goodies you’ll need for an unreal party: decor, balloons tableware, wearables, noisemakers, even piñatas!

When: Open Monday-Friday 10AM to 6PM, Saturdays 9AM-6PM. Holiday hours may vary. Please call ahead to confirm.
Where: Click here to search for the closest store to you
Cost: Check out Party City Canada’s website for all deets!

Beyond King Tut

This immersive experience commemorates the one-hundred-year-old discovery of King Tut’s tomb by archaeologists in Egypt. And what’s more, you don’t need to be a history buff to meet the Egyptian Gods of the Underworld or travel with King Tut in his quest for immortality. Explore a photo-realistic recreation of his tomb and treasures, and get ready to learn more about ancient Egypt through nine total galleries.

When: On until Sunday, January 8th
Where: 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver Convention Centre East
Cost: $23.99 to $83.99

Stiles & Drewe’s The 3 Little Pigs

If you’re looking for a fun family-friendly pick, this is a great option. Carousel Theatre for Young People (CYTP) presents the Canadian premiere of a classic tale with a musical twist with Stiles & Drewe’s The 3 Little Pigs, at Granville Island’s Waterfront Theatre (1412 Cartwright St), and the last day to check out is December 30th.

When: November 30th to December 30th
Where: 1412 Cartwright Street
Cost: $35 for adults, $18 for children

Tinseltown Bar

holiday pop up bars vancouver
Photo via Hidden Media

On the flip side, the Vancouver Alpen Club is extending the Christmas mood with a holiday pop-up bar, Tinseltown. Enjoy a merry cocktail or two and a chat with Santa and his elves. Tickets to the pop-up event are $19 a pop, and include one holiday-themed drink upon arrival.

When: Open until Friday, December 30th
Where: 4875 Victoria Drive
Cost: $19

See a holiday-themed improv show

If you’re a fan of improv and comedy shows, you’ll definitely want to check out the Improv Centre’s Happy Hectic Holidays show (lasts until December 24th), their “NYE at TIC” show, or the “Year in Review.” Because what better way to look back on 2022 than with free-flowing laughter and libations?

Where: 1515 Anderson Street

Indulge in some holiday eats & drinks 

Whether you’re still in the Christmasy mood or looking ahead to New Year’s Eve, these are some festive spots around town where you can enjoy delicious holiday specials, from hearty surf and turf meals to insane charcuterie board offerings.

Where: See our picks above

Go on a cozy winter getaway 

It doesn’t get much cozier than a winter cabin or Airbnb rental with a hot tub, which is why we’re sharing this list of spots for the perfect winter getaway. Book soon and make the turning of the new year an extra memorable (and relaxing) one!

Where: see our picks above

Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge

And now, for another classic holiday tradition in Vancouver. The Capilano Suspension Bridge transforms into an illuminated winter wonderland every year, complete with multi-colour displays, a ‘Snow Owl Prowl’ scavenger hunt, and cocoa & live music at the Trading Post Gift Store.

When: Saturday, November 19th to Sunday, January 22nd
Where: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Cost: $62.95 GA for a day pass

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+

And that’s a wrap on the week, folks. We hope you make the most of it!

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.
Read articles