Well, everyone, it’s the last few days of 2022 – which means it’s time to gear up for all the NYE festivities taking place around the city. From holiday lights in Stanley Park to boat parties and covered patios, here are 10 of the best things to do in and around Vancouver this weekend (December 30-January 1).
Check out a glamourous NYE party
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We couldn’t not start off this list with our roundup of some exciting NYE parties around the city. While most of these range from $50 to $150 for tickets, it’s definitely worth the splurge for a fun night out with your friends or a hearty, multi-course meal. From luxurious boat parties to fun hidden spots around town, here are some great options to consider.
Where: See our picks above
Bright Nights at Stanley Park
While the event will look a little different without their iconic vintage trains, the organizers of Bright Nights at Stanley Park are making up for it with an antique fire truck, a giant red reindeer, and a sparkling tunnel of holiday lights in the plaza. And in terms of food & drink, there will be plenty of churros, pretzels, popcorn, and chimney cakes from the Praguery to munch on.
Bright Nights takes place from 4 to 10 pm every day until January 1st, with the exception of Sunday, December 25th.
When: Until January 1st
Where: Stanley Park
Cost: By donation
Dundarave Festival of Lights
While details are still a little scarce for this year’s event, the Dundarave Festival of Lights is putting together their “Forest of Miracles” and setting the scene for their festival of lights, which is on until Sunday, January 8th.
When: Saturday, December 3rd to Sunday, January 8th
Where: Dundarave Beach, Millennium Park, Grosvenor Ambleside Galleria
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
Lumagica in Surrey
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This weekend is your last chance to enjoy Surrey’s most magical holiday experience: Lumagica. The festival has completely transformed the Cloverdale Fairgrounds into a winter wonderland, complete with light displays, great food options, and a host of live entertainment (including Santa himself!)
When: Until December 30th
Where: 6050 176 Street, Surrey
Cost: $18
VanDusen Festival of Lights
The holiday season at VanDusen Botanical Garden is marked by festive light displays and scenic walks through the illuminated lakeside path, surrounded by over one million Dancing Lights across the garden’s 15 acres. And luckily for Vancouverites, the garden is open on Saturday, December 24th from 4 to 10 pm. Just note that they are closed on Sunday, December 25th.
When: Until January 2nd
Where: 5251 Oak Street
Cost: $21
Robson Square Ice Rink
Luckily for ice skating enthusiasts, the rink at Robson Square is open all weekend long, even on NYE and New Year’s Day. On Saturday, December 31st, the rink is open from 9 am to 9 pm. And on Sunday, January 1st, the rink is open from 9 am to 9 pm. For just $5 per skate rental, you can skate right into the new year.
When: Friday, December 2nd to February 28th, 2023
Where: 800 Robson Street
Cost: $5 for skate rentals
BC Culture Days
Why not start off the year with a bit of learning and enrichment? From uncovering Vancouver’s lost architectural legacy to exploring the politics of the body, BC Culture Days always has an array of free (and by-donation) offerings. Check out some live events going on this month, or tune in at home digitally.
Where: See locations at the link above
Enjoy some covered patios
Whether it’s just drizzly or full-out storming, there are (thankfully) plenty of covered patios in Vancouver to choose from. Why not make the most of them and sip on a couple of happy hour bevies this month?
Where: See our picks above
Go on a winter stroll
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While it might make getting around a little (or a lot) more difficult, there’s no denying that our city transforms into a winter wonderland when it snows. If you’re looking to enjoy a nice stroll this season, here are some great options to start with – from mountain climbs to inner-city parks.
Where: See our picks above
And that’s a wrap on the last few days of the year, Vancouver. Happy New Year!
